Introduction
The world has been going through various crises (wars, terrorism, etc.) for decades. This reminds us of our finiteness. Covid-19 has further demonstrated man’s vulnerability, reminding us that life is fleeting. Yet we continue to wage war against each other, hating each other instead of taking life in its stride. We will show on a triple level (religious, social and psycho-sanitary) why we must always do good and make peaceno matter the situation.
1- On the Religious Aspect
For Christians, kindness and love of neighbour is a divine prescription. It’s the very essence of Christianity, which recommends that we love one another, love our neighbours as ourselves, pray for our enemies and help those in need. Besides, if you love your neighbour, you love God. Did he not love us so much that he sent his only son to die for our sins? Far from religion, African traditions share this worldview, with an emphasis on solidarity, for example.
2- On the psycho-sanitary level
Goodness and peace towards others are real therapies on both the psychological and health levels. With cardiovascular disease on the rise, it’s in our interest to keep our hearts healthy. We must, as someone once said, “empty the dustbin regularly”. In other words, our heart mustn’t be a dumping ground for resentment, backbiting, anger and everything else that’s harmful to it; otherwise, it’ll give way. By the same token, a mind free of malice, sprinkled with the fragrance of peace and kindness, is fertile with positive reflections useful for our socio-economic development, attracts positive vibes and flourishes in many ways.
3- On the social level
The permanent quest for the collective good and peace is what’s missing from our society’s equilibrium. Being in harmony with everyone is a guarantee of security. This attitude reduces evil and suffering, making our world a better place to live in; the evidence being that no one can truly flourish in an environment dominated by evil and suffering, whatever their status. The well-being of others also contributes to our well-being.
Conclusion
All in all, it’s true that “man is evil”, as we often hear people say, but that shouldn’t stop us from acting peacefully and with kindness. This attitude benefits us first and foremost, even if it benefits others. We must therefore love ourselves, always doing good, despite everything, without expecting anything in return, because the quid pro quo, though sometimes invisible, is greater than we can imagine.
