We never seem to learn.

During our nation’s history, there have been quite a few times when war was chosen over peace. Of course, there are those wars that were needed to preserve the overall peace of the world, and to not allow one nation or one man to cover the world with revenge or hatred. World Wars 1 and 2 along with the American Civil War are examples of needed warfare. Naturally, they led to inhuman killings and untold trauma.

What have we learned from those awful historical events? Looking at what’s happening today in the Near East, I would say we still haven’t learned to fight for peace over wars. One man’s ego ruins untold number of lives.

Please, let there be peace in the world.

At a recent street protest, I held up a sign extolling the need for law and order. As the cars drove by me honking their horns in support, I began to wave my hand in the sign of peace — two fingers forming the letter V. I was amazed how many drivers responded with the same sign.

Let there be peace.

At a recent rum tasting event, I was reminded how laughter could give birth to peace. We tasted five different rums, and talked about the tastes of each of them. At time, the room was peacefully quiet while sipping, and then the words and laughter enlivened the area. The history of rum was concisely discussed along with the origin of each rum. It was pleasant to see so much joyful peace.

Let us be peace.

As a youngster, I took peace for granted. Our farm was peaceful and a mentally nourishing place for me. It was only when I looked beyond our county and state that I noticed peace was lacking. I am glad my youth was fed by the peace of my family and friends. The question I kept asking myself was: “Why can’t we all get along?”

As I delved into that academic field known as history, it became apparent why thee were always wars. It would take a book length column to fully discuss the whys of war, and I’m going to just say that we must work for peace. Across the centuries, there always seemed to be egotistical men — yes, usually men-who started wars.

Why can’t we just live together in peace? Why can’t we live together in harmony? No matter our religious/political/national differences, why can’t we live together in peace?

Why?

Perhaps we need more laughter and friendly co-mingling — just like at the before mentioned rum tasting event. If only it could be that simple.

May we all one day live together in peace.

As always, eat and drink in moderation, but laugh with reckless abandon!

Cheers!