Peace. Such a controversial word if you ask me. First of all, I believe we should understand that there are different types of peace. Peace of mind, international peace, structural peace and so many more. A lot right? 

Let’s start with the peace of mind. According to the dictionary, peace is the state where a person is not interrupted or annoyed by worry. Please remember that. 

I do believe that peace has a strong connection with worry. The key to the relief of worry, stress and anxiety, even for a brief moment is gratitude. I invite all of the stressed and worried faculty and students to think of something they feel grateful for and analyze how their mood has changed. The feeling of gratitude is the peace of mind, and the worry that disturbs the tranquility can be settled down with gratitude. 

Then we have International peace. We live at a time where multiple countries are at war, basic human rights are being interdicted yet some people fight. The diplomats are the warriors of our nations. The people who carry formal debate for a living to ensure the best of their countries are the reason why so many of us have the privileges we have today.

Last but certainly not least, the structural peace. It is the peace that talks about equality. Equality between politics, economics and judgment, equality between people. It is the peace that ensures that people have the same opportunities and rights. Unfortunately, this type of peace has never really worked out for all. Working on this type of peace starts with us. It starts with us respecting each other’s rights and integrity. 

I dare believe that every person in this room is an advocate for peace. The simple fact that you are here today could make a possible future difference.