A dove. People of different colors holding hands. The United Nations. These are just some of the symbols of peace.

Peace according to Wikipedia is, "a state of harmony characterized by the lack of violent conflict. Commonly understood as the absence of hostility, peace also suggests the existence of healthy or newly healed interpersonal or international relationships, prosperity in matters of social or economic welfare, the establishment of equality, and a working political order that serves the true interests of all. In international relations, peacetime is not only the absence of war or conflict, but also the presence of cultural and economic understanding and unity". When our countries and the world in general is at peace, things get better in our communities and opportunities are endless for each individual.

As we watch news on TV or read magazines and news as we surf the internet, we get to know about conflicts between and among countries or within their territorial jurisdiction that lead to chaos, misunderstanding, war, injuries, deaths and economic failures. The wars and riots in Europe, The Afghanistan War and the political instability in the Middle East are just some of the few examples of such. These are the so called man made calamities and crisis. Me and many of my friends that I have talked to about such feel and think that there are so much problems and concerns happening around the world and the victims are usually the innocent civilians and the families.

As I was blessed to have visited Ho Chi Minh City courtesy of my wife, I saw and understood more about war and its consequences. It does not only involve those who do not understand each other and get their way which are usually those in top management or top offices but it affects the country in general and most especially the women and children not only during the time of war but even after decades or generations thereafter.

A war definitely destroys the economy, the social order, the systems already in place, homes, infrastructure, lives, families and the like. One party claims to be the victor and the other talks about its downfall. What it does not consider is its long time effects to the people and the country. I was shocked to see the pictures of innocent women and children who fell victim to the war and more disturbing are the children who after decades and decades of war were born and are living in a not so normal state or situation due to certain mutations and effects of the chemicals used during the war. I salute their parents who stay strong despite these tests and trials.

So many picture images and real life images have made me appreciate peace more and would want to stay and keep harmony, diplomacy, respect and tolerance with other nations and with other cultures within our nation and even our own communities. As far as I am concerned, war does not do any good. If there are conflicts or misunderstandings, the best way to handle it is through dialogue that deserves patience, commitment and understanding with the best interest of the people most especially their safety and well being as priority. As what is said, "Wala sang indi masturyahan", anything can be resolved by a good conversation. What is important is to go to the table open minded and with an aim to fix things and make things better.

Even in our everyday lives and our own circles, let us retain harmony and be the peacekeepers. In peace, good things happen and we assure a good future for our children and strengthen families.