A study of the recorded history of the world gives conclusive evidence that there has constantly been a bloody strife over the last two and a half millennia. Recent UN estimates indicate that today millions of displaced people are living as refugees because of ongoing conflict between two neighbouring nations that were once a single entity, making this the fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War II.
This makes one wonder why, in spite of living in an era of highly intellectual, exceedingly accomplished and influential people more than ever before, are we a generation at war with ourselves and the world? Why are we hungrier than ever before for peace? Why has peace eluded us despite our material and intellectual enrichment? It’s a fact that peace in our individual lives is inseparable from peace in the world. However, the world is moving farther away from ‘living’ peace and being pushed towards peace in the graveyard. Growing conflicts, wars, crimes, violence, environmental degradation and, above all, moral degeneration—all are clear indicators of this unfortunate reality. What’s most surprising is that even peace-loving nations are joining the arms race today.
Since all efforts made so far for establishing peace have failed, humans are fast losing hope of a peaceful and harmonious existence on earth. For millions of underprivileged people, even thinking about peace is a luxury, as their lives are consumed by the daily struggle for survival in the face of poverty or violence.
History tells us that every dark chapter was eventually followed by a dawn—driven not by weapons, but by wisdom. It should, thus, be understood that true peace does not arise from political treaties or temporary ceasefires but from a profound inner transformation in individuals. So, if we wish to create a peaceful world, the journey must begin within each one of us. Only when hearts are at peace can nations coexist in harmony. So, instead of only changing policies, we must begin by changing our consciousness. That alone holds the key to the lasting peace the world longs for.
(nikunjji@gmail.com --- www.brahmakumaris.com)
(Writer is a spiritual educator and popular columnist for publications across India,Nepal & UK. To Date 9000+ Published Columns have been written by Him.)
