What Is Peace-making and Why Does It Matter?

by Carl Moyler

Peace is the opposite of war, and yet it means so much more than that. It is not merely the absence of war. Making peace is not a passive act. We do not sit around and wait for it to happen.

If our society has conflict or violence, we must take an active role to end it. But let's face it. It takes an enormous amount of energy and immense sacrifice to be a peacemaker.

A wise man once said, "It is better to have peace than to be right." A difference in opinion is usually what starts an argument.

Being unique individuals with various backgrounds and experiences, we cannot help but see the world and its situations with different feelings.

So, it is no surprise that conflicts arise and misunderstandings ensue.

The important thing is to recognize that if there is someone who opposes us, it does not mean that he is wrong and we are right or vice versa. We all just think differently.

Our way of thinking results from our past relationships which can never be duplicated by another individual.

However, we do have something in common with everyone, and that is an inner longing for peace.

Deep inside, we desire reconciliation - not the polite smile just to mask our resentment,

but the sincere effort to want to get rid of all hatred -- so that this world will have a better chance at happily surviving without war or animosity.