District Governor Roxie Orr reminded us of this song this past week, that we used to sing at meetings. Rotary has long promoted World Peace and is one of the areas of focus for Global Grants.  Most of us would agree, we want peace, less conflict and division in our country. 

Nevertheless, it is easier said than done.  It’s hard to believe that the world is actually a better place than ever before as documented by Hans Rosling in his book Factfulness.  People are living longer, fewer children are dying, more folks have water, more girls are being educated, etc.

This year has made us recognize that we still have more work to do.  In other words, “it ain’t over till it’s over.”  We have seen protests that have gotten out of hand and wonder why.  Black folks cry that Black Lives matter and some White folks tell us we need to take back our country.  Few people support violence and destruction of property, but the Constitution absolutely allows protest and we never want to eliminate freedom of speech. 

However, this past week’s protest and riots are especially alarming, because they threatened our democracy.  Fortunately, it was terminated before it caused any more death or damage that it did.  This leads me to ask why are folks so upset and what does it take to bring peace and harmony.  It is not enough to wish for peace.  It surely takes hard work.

I believe we need to understand the roots of discontent.  First of all, when people of different groups are competing for the same resources, major conflict results.  In addition, minority groups often feel looked down upon and not given a fair shake.  The protestors in Washington, last week on TV complained that their views were not being heard.  Politicians have ignored them and that is why they are so up in arms.  African-Americans in person and on social media have related that a dialogue is needed in order for us to understand their plight.

It is my opinion; we need to listen to the cries of all groups that are hurting.  A dialogue is needed.  How we do this is the hard part.  Rotary could be a forum for such discussion.  We purposely avoid political discussions, but listening to different points of view is within our purview.  Next year’s District Governor mission is to make Rotary open to all groups regardless of culture, religion, ethic group or sexual orientation.   This is a start. What do you think?