Non violence is the best possible way to resolve issues and conflicts. Even more so, when religious beliefs and misunderstandings raise their ugly heads leading to lot of unhealthy tensions within communities. In such circumstances we need a philosophy that achieves amicable resolutions without causing harm to others and not ‘eye for an eye’ that leaves the world blind. When violence is the answer, the people involved quickly reach a point where they are only interested in defeating their opponents and more often than not forgetting the original issue. The main goal or the objective of the initial movement and struggle is sadly lost in the process. Many a times religious fanatics and rumour mongers, play a dirty role in adding fuel to the fires and inciting trouble in tense situations.
Non violence has but one prescription for all social diseases effecting the entire world. We all know the amount of destruction and loss of lives and property the past world wars caused. The after effects were horrible, sad and devastating to say the least. There is no doubt that social issues are complex and not simple in nature calling for different approach and appropriate solutions. Non-violence has the great power on the world to be more successful than if one were to use violence.
Mahatma Gandhi, the father of our nation, attained freedom for India from the British Raj, through this great power. He said, “Non – violence is the greatest force at the disposal of mankind. It is mightier than the mightiest weapon of destruction devised by the ingenuity of man”. He was a leader who had promoted and inspired people across the world to continue the acts of AHIMSA(non violence).We remember and bow our heads to this great leader, on his Birth anniversary on 2nd October. Bappu, as he is popularly called, worked as a civil rights activist and fought against racial discrimination. Believing in Ahimsa, he always followed the path of ‘Satya Vachan ‘.. meaning being truthful. He was a strong and true leader of India ‘s freedom struggle which finally achieved victory in 1947.His non-violent approach has been appreciated throughout history and is a role model globally. I am pretty sure he will continue to inspire people around the world to build a better and a more just world for generations to come. Let us rejoice on this happy occasion and always follow the beliefs endeared by Gandhiji, who incidentally acknowledged that he liked Christ, our Saviour. There can be no issues that cannot be resolved through dialogue. Let us take a pledge that violence will play NO role in our lives. The after effects will be wonderful!!
Till we meet again, take care and stay blessed..
Felix Dias
Editor