Today i.e. 21st Day of September, world is observing it as the ‘International Day of Peace’. The ‘Peace’ does not mean ‘world peace’ but completeness, soundness, prosperity at all levels in our lives. World peace can be defined as an idea of freedom, peace and happiness among nations and between people.
Every morning, when we wake up, we confront with the sad news of violence, crime, wars and disasters. Today, peace has predominantly become political work towards settlement between the nations through military involvement, cessation of arms and dialogue. Peace has also included some humanitarian efforts that stretch its helping hands to the calamity-hit regions in the world. Mahatma Gandhi – the father of nation is not seen in this platform of world peace. His ideologies remain neglected at the global forum and are considered as a tonic for social and cultural development only. As he is known as the Father of the nation, politically and economically his dictum stands as a medicine merely for building local economy. He said, “If we have no charity, and no tolerance, we shall never settle our differences amicably and must therefore submit to the arbitration of a third party.” His perception of bringing peace and resolving conflict had such a diversified point of interest that whenever he insisted on taking fast the situation become hostile and come under control.
Today, we are craving for peace. The leaders and politicians across the globe are trying to achieve world peace. However, there are hurdles which block them. There are fear and suspicion among nations. Russia suspects the motives of USA and USA likewise does not trust Russia. Pakistan says, it is afraid of India.
It is said that voice of the people is the voice of God. No one wants war. They are fed up of it. The desire for peace is supreme in their hearts. Powerful countries should give up the race of arming themselves and their friendly countries to the teeth. Peace and prosperity can be achieved through the realization of five basic fundamental freedoms for all. They are: freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom from desire, freedom for the environment and freedom from fear.
Poverty, hunger, diminishing natural resources, water scarcity, social inequality, environmental degradation, diseases, corruption, racism and xenophobia, among others are posing challenges for peace and create grounds for conflict.
Peace is the mother of all progress. Without calmness, a nation cannot make any progress. So, it is ever desirable.
World-peace is absolutely necessary. The public opinion is in favour of lasting harmony. It is said “Peace begins with a smile.” A smile can light up a room, so imagine what a world of smiles can do. If someone does some kind thing for someone, then it will create a ripple effect.
Focusing on peace is an imperative thing for our future. There is power when people unite for the betterment of the people and the planet. Peace and harmony are certainly we must seek. Wars should be a history now. Peace is still what we dream about. People talk of peace but prepare for war. Almost all the countries have been raising their defense budgets. There are a few people who have come to learn that the solutions to the challenges of life are not necessarily found on the outside, but need to come from within. Increasing our love and connection in day-to-day interactions can be the missing piece in the peace equation.
Vinod Chandrashekhar Dixit
(The views expressed by the author in the article are his/her own.)
