Aim for a better world: 13 quotes that define peace and urge action

When we flip through our newspaper each morning or tune into the news each evening, we’re more often than not bombarded with reports of wars and conflicts from across the globe. It is a reminder of the many challenges humanity faces on a daily basis. It also calls for an immediate need for peace and understanding.

Amidst all the chaos wreaked by challenges like these, the pursuit of peace remains a universal aspiration. On a more personal level, on the days that things look bleak, quotes about peace remind us to be kind, understand each other and work together for everyone’s good. Such quotes inspire us to reflect on the importance of harmony, compassion and cooperation in creating a better world for all.

Here, we explore some profound quotes that inspire us to cultivate peace within ourselves and foster a better world for generations to come.

“Peace begins with a smile.” — Mother Teresa

These words by Mother Teresa remind us that peace is not just an external state but is about how we feel within. That a simple smile has the power to break down barriers, resolve tensions and foster connections between individuals. By embracing kindness and compassion, we can lay the foundation for a more peaceful world.

“Peace is not absence of conflict, it is the ability to handle conflict by peaceful means.” — Ronald Reagan

Former American President Ronald Reagan’s quote offers a beautiful perspective on peace. His words emphasise on the importance of conflict resolution. He says that true peace does not mean the absence of disagreements or challenges but rather, the skilful navigation of conflicts through dialogue, diplomacy and non-violent means. This quote underscores the value of communication and cooperation in resolving disputes and building peace within our homes, communities and even in the larger scheme of things.

“An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind.” — Mahatma Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi’s profound words highlight the futility of retaliation and revenge in the pursuit of peace. As many world wars have shown, responding to violence with more violence only creates a cycle of harm and suffering, ultimately leading to destruction. Instead, Gandhi advocates for forgiveness, reconciliation and non-violent resistance as the truest and most effective paths to peace and justice.

“Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding.” — Albert Einstein

Albert Einstein’s quote highlights the importance of empathy, tolerance and mutual respect in building peaceful societies. While showing force may suppress conflicts temporarily, lasting peace can only be achieved through genuine understanding and dialogue between individuals and communities. By understanding and appreciating diverse perspectives, we can lay the groundwork for lasting peace and cooperation.

“If you want to make peace with your enemy, you have to work with your enemy. Then he becomes your partner.” — Nelson Mandela

South African anti-apartheid activist Nelson Mandela’s words talk about the transformative power of collaboration in resolving conflicts and building peace. He states that when we forgive people and work together with them, we can make peace. By recognising our shared humanity and finding common ground for cooperation and coexistence, even former foes can become allies. And by doing so, we can make the world a better and fairer place for everyone.

“We can never obtain peace in the outer world until we make peace with ourselves.” — Dalai Lama

In this quote, the Dalai Lama emphasises on the connection between inner peace and the external world. He states that peace in the world can be achieved when we are at peace with ourselves. By addressing our inner conflicts, fears and insecurities, we become better equipped to navigate the challenges and strife of the external world. Dalai Lama’s quote reminds us that peace begins from within and radiates outward.

“Many people think excitement is happiness…. But when you are excited you are not peaceful. True happiness is based on peace.”― Thich Nhat Hanh

Vietnamese monk and peace activist Thich Nhat Hanh’s quote talks about the difference between excitement and true happiness. Although excitement may initially appear to be happiness, Nhat Hanh explains that it brings a sense of restlessness with it. According to him, true happiness arises from a state of inner peace. He urges that by prioritising inner peace over external thrills, we can have a fulfilling sense of happiness in life.

“Those who have destroyed the roots of jealousy have peace of mind always.” ― Buddha

In this quote, Buddha talks about the destructive nature of jealousy and its impact on our mental health. Jealousy often stems from feelings of inadequacy, insecurity and the desire to have what others possess. When we address these root causes and cultivate self-acceptance instead, we experience actual peace.

“If you are depressed you are living in the past if you are anxious you are living in the future, if you are at peace, you are living in the present.” — Lao Tzu

Ancient Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu’s quote tells us that when we experience depression, it is often because we dwell on past events and replay memories or regrets in our minds. He further adds that anxiety arises when we worry about the future. However, by living in the present moment, we can find contentment and a sense of inner peace. Lao Tzu’s wisdom talks about the power of mindfulness in helping us let go of past and future concerns and find peace in the present.

Not one of us can rest, be happy, be at home, be at peace with ourselves, until we end hatred and division.” — John Lewis

Here, American civil rights leader and politician John Lewis suggests that true happiness and peace can only be achieved when we collectively work to end hatred and division. He states that our wellbeing is linked to the wellbeing of society. That is why creating a world free from hatred is essential to experiencing happiness and harmony.

“Peace is a journey of a thousand miles and it must be taken one step at a time.” — Lyndon B. Johnson

Former American president Lyndon B. Johnson’s words advocate that achieving peace is a gradual and continuous process that requires patience. Peace cannot be rushed, just as a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, so does the journey towards peace.

“It isn’t enough to talk about peace. One must believe in it. And it isn’t enough to believe in it. One must work at it.” — Eleanor Roosevelt

American political figure and activist Eleanor Roosevelt’s quote talks about the importance of taking action to achieve peace. Mere discussions about peace are not sufficient; they require engagement and effort. By emphasising the need for both belief and action, Roosevelt highlights the role of individuals in building a more peaceful world.

“Make peace with the universe. Take joy in it. It will turn to gold. Resurrection will be now. Every moment, a new beauty.” — Rumi

Here, Sufi mystic Rumi advises us to find peace and joy in life and in the act of living. He tells us that by embracing the world as it is and finding happiness in every moment, we can turn our lives into something precious. By learning to appreciate each moment, we are offered a chance for renewal and beauty by the universe.

While these quotes offer profound insights into the nature of peace, some also show us the path to achieving it. These lines remind us that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but an endeavour that requires empathy, understanding and collaboration among individuals. As we reflect on these timeless words, may they inspire us to become agents of peace in our own lives and communities.