Haile Selassie: 'Peace is a day-to-day problem, the product of a multitude of events and judgments. Peace is not an 'is,' it is a 'becoming.''

Peace is a day-to-day problem, the product of a multitude of events and judgments. Peace is not an 'is,' it is a 'becoming.'

In his insightful quote, Haile Selassie, the former Emperor of Ethiopia, eloquently captures the essence of peace as a dynamic process rather than a fixed state of being. He asserts that peace is not simply an "is," but rather a continuous "becoming" that is shaped by an array of events and judgments experienced on a day-to-day basis. Selassie's words convey the idea that peace is not a stagnant concept but a complex and evolving phenomenon that requires constant nurturing and cultivation.The significance of this quote lies in its ability to challenge our conventional understanding of peace. Often, we view peace as an abstract concept characterized by the absence of conflict or war. However, Selassie's words encourage us to engage in a deeper contemplation of peace by recognizing its multidimensional nature. Peace is not solely determined by external factors such as the absence of violence; rather, it is a deeply personal and introspective journey that each individual must embark upon.To further explore the concept of peace as a becoming, let us delve into the realm of philosophy. One philosophical concept that complements Selassie's ideas is that of process philosophy. Process philosophy, often associated with philosophers like Alfred North Whitehead and Charles Hartshorne, argues that reality is not composed of fixed, unchanging entities but is rather a continuous flow of events and processes. This aligns beautifully with Selassie's notion of peace as a becoming, as it posits that peace, like all things in existence, is in a state of constant flux and transformation.By introducing this unexpected philosophical concept, we can broaden our understanding of peace beyond the limitations of traditional viewpoints and explore its deeper meaning. Process philosophy encourages us to embrace the idea that peace is not a destination that can be reached and then passively maintained. Instead, it invites us to actively engage in the process of fostering peace in our everyday lives.When we examine peace through the lens of becoming, we become more aware of the interconnectedness of our actions and their impact on the world around us. Each decision we make, every judgment we pass, and every interaction we have contributes to the ongoing creation of our individual and collective realities. In this context, cultivating inner peace becomes not only a personal endeavor but also a means to influence the world positively.Selassie's quote prompts us to reflect on the practical implications of peace as a becoming. It reminds us that peace cannot be achieved solely through grand gestures or temporary resolutions of conflicts but instead necessitates a commitment to conscious and mindful living. The path to peace lies in our ability to recognize the power of our daily choices, no matter how small they may seem, and the profound effect they can have on the world.In conclusion, Haile Selassie's quote encapsulates the idea that peace is a process, not a static state. His words urge us to go beyond a simplistic understanding of peace and embrace the concept of becoming. When we approach peace as a continuous journey of personal and collective transformation, we are empowered to actively contribute to its realization in our lives and the world. Selassie's wisdom invites us to reflect on our roles as individuals and ponder the profound impact we can make by cultivating peace in our thoughts, words, and actions. As we embark on this transformative journey, let us remember that peace is not an end goal but a beautiful and fulfilling process of becoming.