Dear Editor – As the Solomon Islands prepares to celebrate its 38th Anniversary of Independence, Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, I believe from a government press statement, has chosen the theme, ‘Embracing Peace for Nation Building’ for this year’s celebration which all citizens’ should reflect upon to move the country forward.
Nation building and the theme of peace are subjects that I have regularly written about in the local media and given coverage on my website www.solomonislandsinfocus.com as both matters are intrinsically intertwined when related to the ongoing process of national reconciliation and the full unification of all Solomon Islands people within the state to maintain political stability and economic viability.
It has long been my desire to see the Solomon Islands become, once more, the ‘Happy Isles’ and for a return to the culture which, as in the past, recognized peaceful co-existence and respect for the needs of others, but now especially to work towards the development of human rights, gender equality, political, civil, economic and social development with the guidance of a caring government and a compassionate Christian community.
I am mindful of the words of Martin Luther King Jr who once said, “Peace is not merely a distant goal we seek, but a means by which we arrive at that goal.”
I would encourage all in the Solomon Islands to take the way of peace and, as a nation built on its Christian principles, to heed the words.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14.27
Frank Short
Former police commissioner
Bangkok, Thailand
