International Day of Peace: Inspirational leaders and their words that inspire peace

Lately, it feels like the news we watch is filled with stories of chaos, political unrest and conflict. These headlines are often overwhelming, making the world seem like a very turbulent place. During such challenging times, it’s important to remember the powerful voices of inspiring leaders who have dedicated their lives to promoting peace and harmony around the world. Their words offer us hope and remind us that even in the darkest moments, peace is possible.

Reflecting on the teachings of these leaders can provide us with perspective as well as direction. By focusing on the message they convey and integrating their lessons into our lives, we can find solace and inspiration.

The International Day of Peace is celebrated annually on September 21st. This day is dedicated to promoting and strengthening the ideals of peace among nations. It showcases the importance of global harmony and the urgent need to address conflicts and challenges that threaten world peace. On this special day, join us as we explore quotes by inspiring world leaders on the subject of peace.

“Peace comes from within. Do not seek it without.” — Gautam Buddha

Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, reminds us that true peace starts from within. Instead of looking for peace in external things or situations, we should focus on finding it within our hearts and minds. By cultivating inner calm, we can create a sense of peace that isn’t dependent on external circumstances or people.

“We seek peace, knowing that peace is the climate of freedom.” — Dwight D Eisenhower

Dwight D Eisenhower, former President of the United States, points out that peace is essentially the freedom to thrive. When we have a peaceful environment, it creates a foundation where freedom and personal growth can flourish. Peaceful conditions allow us to live, work and progress as an individual and community, without fear.

“If you want peace, you don’t talk to your friends. You talk to your enemies.” — Desmond Tutu

Desmond Tutu, the legendary South African social rights activist tells us that achieving peace requires engaging with those we have conflicts with. It’s not enough to seek harmony among friends; true peace involves addressing and resolving disputes with those who oppose us. This approach can lead to establishing a lasting peace.

“Peace is not the absence of conflict but the presence of creative alternatives for responding to conflict, alternatives to violence.” — Dorothy Thompson

Dorothy Thompson, an American journalist and radio broadcaster, argues that peace isn’t about avoiding conflict altogether. It is actually about finding new and non-violent ways to address and resolve disagreements. By choosing alternative methods, we can handle conflicts and maintain peace in our surroundings.

“Respect for the rights of others means peace.” — Benito Juárez

In what can be seen as the message of all times, respecting others’ rights is fundamental to achieving peace. Benito Juárez, a former President of Mexico, states that when we honour the rights of those around us, we create a fair and just environment where everyone can coexist peacefully. Mutual respect is the foundation of a stable society.

“Peace as a positive condition of society, not merely as an interim between wars, is something so unknown that it casts no images on the mind’s screen.” — Denise Levertov

British-American poet Denise Levertov gives a very uncommon picture on the nature of peace. Levertov says that many see peace only as a temporary pause between conflicts, rather than a continuous and positive state of society. And in this manner, peace is often misunderstood. The poet states that true peace involves creating lasting conditions for harmony, which is not always well-represented in our societies.

“It is not enough to win a war; it is more important to organize the peace.” — Aristotle

Merely winning a conflict is neither sufficient nor the definition of success. Aristotle, the ancient Greek philosopher, emphasises on how the real challenge and importance lie in establishing and maintaining peace after a war is won. Organising peace involves creating systems that support stability for one and all thereafter.

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

Thich Nhat Hanh, a Vietnamese Thiền Buddhist monk, points out the subtle difference between excitement and true happiness. He shares that while excitement can be thrilling, it doesn’t equate to genuine happiness. True happiness comes from a state of inner peace, which is calm and not fleeting or wavering.

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.” — Martin Luther King Jr.

Martin Luther King Jr., an American activist known for his tireless work worldwide, explains that negative forces like hate and darkness can only be countered by positive forces like love and light. So, in order to overcome hatred, we must respond with compassion and understanding. These have the power to heal and bring about peace.

“Peace cannot be achieved through violence, it can only be attained through understanding.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

Ralph Waldo Emerson, an American essayist and philosopher, argues that violence is not the path to lasting peace. One can win a battle or two with strength or violence. But when it comes to  peace, the everlasting kind is achieved only through mutual understanding and empathy.

“An eye for an eye will only make the whole world blind.” — Mahatma Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi, an Indian freedom fighter who tirelessly fought the colonial Raj of the British, highlights the futility of revenge. He states that seeking revenge starts a cycle of violence and suffering for all involved. However, to achieve peace, we must move beyond revenge and pursue forgiveness instead.

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

Albert Einstein, the German-born theoretical physicist tells us that peace is not something that can be enforced through power. Instead, lasting peace can only be built through mutual understanding and cooperation. Through empathy and compassion, we can create a more harmonious world.

“Peace is a daily, a weekly, a monthly process, gradually changing opinions, slowly eroding old barriers, quietly building new structures. And however undramatic the pursuit of peace, that pursuit must go on.” — John F Kennedy

In this quote, John F Kennedy, the former President of the United States, underscores that peace is a continuous and gradual process. It involves consistent efforts to shift perspectives, break down barriers and build new frameworks with cooperation. Even though the process may seem slow or uneventful, it is crucial for building, achieving and maintaining everlasting peace.

These leaders, through their profound insight, remind us that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a positive, active pursuit involving understanding, respect and love. By applying their principles to our daily lives, we can contribute to a more peaceful and compassionate society.