Finding Peace in Words, Within Ourselves, and With Each Other This Buwan ng Wika 2024

 

Every August, we celebrate Buwan ng Wika, a time to honor the Filipino language and its richness. This year’s theme, “Ang Wika at Kapayapaan” (Literature and Peace), invites us to reflect on how language can bridge gaps, cultivate understanding, and nurture peace within ourselves and our communities.

 

What is Peace, Anyway?

 

Before we dive into how communication promotes peace, let’s define what peace means. Is it simply the absence of conflict? Or is it something deeper? For some, peace might be a feeling of harmony, a sense of calm in their hearts and minds. For others, it’s about respecting differences, finding common ground, and choosing kindness over anger. It can also be about accepting ourselves, flaws and all, and being at peace with who we are.

 

Using Communication to Bridging Peace

 

Communication, in all its forms, is the cornerstone of peace. It’s not just about the words we speak, but also how we listen, how we interpret what we hear, and how we respond. Effective communication allows us to express our thoughts and feelings honestly, understand others’ perspectives, and resolve conflicts peacefully.

 

But communication goes beyond just conversations with others. It’s also about the dialogue we have with ourselves. Our inner thoughts and beliefs shape how we perceive the world and interact with others. When we practice being kind to ourselves and get rid of negative self-talk, we cultivate inner peace that is visible and felt by others.

 

Promoting Peace: Practical Tips for Students

 

In School:

• • Compliment a Classmate: Instead of gossiping about someone’s outfit, find something genuine to compliment, like their artwork or presentation skills.
    • Example: “Uy, ang ganda ng drawing mo! I like how you put your ideas together!
  • Include Everyone: If you see someone sitting alone at lunch, invite them to join your group.
    • Example: “Tara, sabay ka na sa amin mag-lunch!” (Come on, join us for lunch!)
  • Mediate Conflicts: If you see friends arguing, try to help them find a peaceful resolution.
    • Example: “Alam kong galit kayo pareho, pero baka pwede nating pag-usapan ito nang mahinahon.” (I know you’re both angry, but maybe we can talk about this calmly.)
  • Speak Up for Yourself: If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed, talk to a teacher or counselor.
    • Example: “Ma’am/Sir, pwede po ba tayong mag-usap? Medyo nahihirapan po kasi ako.” (Ma’am/Sir, can we talk? I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed.)
  • Be a Leader: Initiate an activity focused on promoting peace or volunteer in your club to help with conflict resolution programs.

 

At Home:

• • Family Game Night: Instead of spending the evening on individual devices, organize a family game night. Playing games together can create laughter and bonding.
  • Share a Meal Together: Make time for family dinners where everyone can share their day and connect. Put away phones and other distractions.
  • Active Listening: When a family member is talking, put away distractions and give them your full attention. Show them you care by asking questions and offering support.
    • Example: “Kwento mo naman kung ano ang pinaka-nagustuhan mo sa araw mo.” (Tell me about your most favorite part of your day.)
  • Practice Forgiveness: If there’s a disagreement, be willing to forgive and apologize. Holding onto grudges only creates more conflict.
    • Example: “Sorry po kung nasigawan ko kayo. Hindi ko po sinasadya.” (I’m sorry for shouting at you. I didn’t mean it.)
  • Family Volunteer Day: Spend a day together volunteering for a project in the community or join a fun run event as a family.

 

In Your Community:

• • Volunteer: Be involved in activities initiated by your SK leaders, tutor younger students, or join a community clean-up effort.
  • Be an Upstander: If you see someone being discriminated against, speak out. Educate others about the importance of acceptance and respect.
    • Example: “Uy, hindi naman tama na pagsalitaan siya ng ganyan dahil lang sa kakaiba siya.” (Hey, that’s not right. It’s not okay to talk to them like that just because they’re different.)

 

Peace Begins Within… And Continues Beyond Buwan ng Wika

As we celebrate Buwan ng Wika and reflect on the theme of peace, let’s remember that true peace begins within ourselves. When we cultivate inner peace through self-compassion, mindfulness, and positive self-talk, we become better equipped to create peace in our relationships, communities, and the world at large. 

 

This is not just a lesson for Buwan ng Wika, but a way of life.

 

So, what does peace mean to you? How will you show it in your everyday life, not just this month, but in the days, weeks, and months to come? 

 

Just don’t forget, every small act of kindness, empathy, and understanding can make a big difference.