Recently, I asked my grade 6 composition class at the Layou Government School to tell me what they thought about peace. I asked them to describe what it is, what it looks like and how we, the world, can get more of it. I wanted to take this opportunity to share some of their responses.
To the question, what is Peace?
- Peace is the ability to do anything.
- Peace describes a society or relationship that is operating harmoniously and without violent conflict.
- Peace is freedom.
- Peace is togetherness.
To the question, what does peace look like?
- Peace looks like a community coming together to build a house.
- Peace is when people can see a big smile on your face.
- Peace looks like love, happiness and communication.
To the question, how do we get more peace?
- Admit when we are wrong
- Train our families to love.
- Show kindness.
- Have love and trust.
- We get peace when someone else shows it.
Overall, I believe all of the students would appreciate Beco’s closing statement, “Peace is a nice thing for people. If you do not have anything; people will give you peace.”
Bright students, they are so bright. For me, I find a certain kind of peace knowing that these are the minds that will be leading the future.
In addition to writing about peace, they were given the opportunity to create a picture. I was surprised by the number of swords that appeared and finally I asked a student, “Why the sword?” and she looked back at me like I had just asked her the most ridiculous question, “Miss Smith, ahwee gohalfoo fight for werle peace, ya know.” (rough translation- All of us are going to have to fight for world peace)
And you know what, I think she is right. I think the world is at a place where people who truly believe that peace is possible should join together, rise up and fight against the chaos that plagues our world daily. Of course, the other thing I noticed was that all of the swords had hearts on them. And that leads me to believe that I am surrounded by the most brilliant group of students out there because they know, without a doubt, that the only way to fight chaos is by love. Love will set us free. And when we are all free, there will be peace.
In closing, I would like to reiterate our most sincere and humble gratitude for hosting Peace Corps around the world for the last 50 years and in St. Vincent for the last 44. As we move forward in the next 50 years, I have only one request; that you will continue to join us in this mission of world harmony and friendship. Together, I believe, we can fight injustice with compassion and let peace prevail.
All ahwee ah peace core. (rough translation- All of us are Peace Corps)
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