Peace amidst Pluralism

History proves that man greatly desires the attainment of Peace. He knows that in the absence of it, liberty means vain, abundance remains wanting, and success becomes failure.

However, he seems to be misled. He believed that weapons can prevent pandemonium; wars can ascertain World Security; and, retaliation can provide hope. He deemed it needed to end a war with a war; hence,  he failed to realize that conflict is being slashed by means in which it grows.

Our hearts beat the desire for tranquility. But, our deeds prove otherwise. We allow our differences to create barriers in achieving harmonious relationship with each other. Our pluralism fuels indifference and disunity. A number of opinions build walls barring understanding and cooperation.

Truly, Peace is more than the absence of wars, more than the existence of progress, and, more than the advancement of technology. Because, the way to Peace is being ushered by the understanding of ourselves and respect for others.

If we could be taught to live life in accord with others despite the variation of political views, the differences in culture, and the multiple convictions, we could attain Peace. If we could gain the knowledge of letting our diversity strengthen us and not weaken us, there could be Peace. If we could learn to regard life as the highest blessing and esteem its essence, we could attain Peace. If we could recognize the truth that None is over than the other, and No race is more than the rest, there could be Peace.

We have lived in the house of conflict and misunderstanding and found defeat. We did walk the path of cultural imperialism and found disheartenment. Much destruction has been made; many lives have been lost, countless futures have been made dimmed. When will we change the course of our ways? Would we wait for irreparable destructions before seeking Peace? Would we wait for the hopeless case before working for Peace? The time for our collaborative action has come. The time for us to cling to ways of Peace has long over due.

The foundation of lasting Peace should be laid in every person’s life. Because, for us to attain that which we much desire, we must make ourselves worthy of it. Peace, could not dwell in our hearts if there live the unholy spirits of anger, false pride, materialism, greed, and egocentrism. Therefore, we must uproot all of these weeds that kill the seed of Peace which we hope to harvest.

Having done these things, we shall find individuals who will not only wish for Peace but more greatly work for it. Let these individuals constitute the families we have. Let these families compose the communities in every nation. Let these nations make up the world today.

Indeed, an individual could not carry on the cause of humanity; but, the cause of humanity will also begin in every individual. Thus, let peace begin in us as it is the only way towards lasting joy and true success.

Contributed by: Noscire Oteila