Dear editor,

ON September 21st, the United Nations General Assembly observed “The International Day of Peace.” Mankind was asked to lay down their arms and observe 24 hours of peace and non-violence and instead, focus on harnessing each other in unity and build a bridge of friendship. Given international instability, national tension, and economic uncertainty, it may be hard to envision a peaceful world. We cannot all be government officials or world leaders who can take consequential actions to remedy complex challenges. However, as individuals, we can take various actions so that the seeds of peace can blossom around us. But we have to act today, for, as Gandhi rightfully pointed out, “There are two days in the year we cannot do anything, yesterday and tomorrow.” As individuals, we all desire a piece of peace. The absence of peace in the world is a universal cry that daily usurps the smooth flow of all rationalisations. From time immemorial, it has been man’s quest to live and die in peace. Unfortunately, very few have enjoyed this wish and it continues to dissipate from our grasp as we advance in a modern world of high technology. Probably, it is doubtful if there is any concise or precise cure that can remedy this illness and allow peace and tranquility to prevail permanently.

Around the globe, there is gross international instability, deep national tension and unlimited economic uncertainty that have presidents and prime ministers of countries, government officials and leaders of organisations, diplomats and ambassadors, all grappling with this question and trying to work around a solution by taking consequential actions in order to remedy the complex challenges. So many wars mankind has endured, be it physical, the Cold War, economic, social, political or personal, they all vary in diversity and carry serious consequences that remain catastrophic. The root cause, perhaps, is this crave for power and control. Caught in the middle are the innocent ones, be they young or old, gender and status of all kinds. So many suffer, some paying the price with their lives. Should we assume that this is the norm of the day and accept conflict and not peace as a way of life? Or should we propagate a war against all foreign agents and factors that contribute to disrupting a smooth lifestyle? As individuals, there are many avenues we can traverse in order to achieve this goal, none of which are military programmed or involve the path of violence.

There is an old adage which reminds us that “charity begins at home,” and “what we preach, we should practise.” The point is, if we are of a peaceful nature, only then can we expect others to be peaceful. Peace should germinate from within and then it will blossom to produce peaceful fruition. Within this framework, love, compassion, humility and empathy lay the foundation for any individual to effectively communicate with the outer world to influence others to spread this message, so that we can share and care for each other, more so, for the less fortunate. It is so easy and important for any individual to emulate the likes of Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King, Mother Theresa, Bill Gates and so many others who have championed the cause of giving selflessly and not selfishly. Service to mankind and not worrying about the rewards can manifest a change in others who are greedy, selfish and lustful. Edith Cavell, who held no bitterness or hatred for friend or foe during the war days and, Florence Nightingale, who untiringly nursed the wounded are reputable examples for individuals to follow to extend a helping hand and to show mercy for the deprived ones.

Any individual without egotistic quality will find the comfort of being easily accepted by others. Upholding honour and dignity, giving respect to others, recognising others for their true values, cooperating, instead of obstructing, these are all qualities that are conducive to diffusing an environment armed with hate, anger, jealousy and passion. When we place the interest of others before oneself, this paves the way towards a serene and friendly atmosphere. Right here in Guyana, the pain and agony from the gruesome deaths in Berbice produced a man of peace, Mr. Gladston Henry. Guyanese should adopt his principle and abide with his advice. Analyzing and differentiating the significance between want versus need, makes it possible and simpler for the individual to survive within his or her limitations. This dictates the practice of spending, saving and being thrifty. A curfew is placed on dependency, economic situation is harnessed and harmony prevails domestically.

Trying to understand oneself should be the primary goal for any one before we try to comprehend how and why another society functions and behaves. A person’s basic concern should be to attain a sound education; this will enable us to make proper judgements and know what is right from wrong. This can assist us to vote for the right candidates in any electoral process, hoping that they will champion the cause of the poor and deprived and to unite mankind peacefully. Practising high moral values can mold us to be good law-abiding citizens. Interacting with respectful social activities, participating in competitive sports and engaging in community issues, all these are critical factors that can contribute to us being true ambassadors of the world. “We must learn to live together as brothers or perish as fools,” said Martin Luther King JR.

It doesn’t hurt to understand, accept and practise a philosophy that embraces the oneness of mankind and a pathway that unfolds blissful divinity. When we consciously become aware of our true purpose on earth, we will tend to adopt a lifestyle to synchronize accordingly. An attempt to attach oneself to happiness through knowledge provides a person with a peaceful personality. One of the mediums through which this can be realised is with the help of meditation and yoga, a disciplined exercise for concentration, control of the mind and to explore peace within. Experiencing peace satiates the body to function efficiently and effectively. When this is materialised, individuals can blossom the seeds of peace for a harmonious surrounding. H. G. Wells reminds us, “Our true nationality is mankind.” May peace be unto you.

Respectfully,
Jai Lall