Mike L.

Ponte Mindanao State University

ABSOC 33.1 General Santos City
Fundamentals of Peace Education (2:30-4:00 PM) September 30, 2019

Appreciating Cultural Differences: Achieving Peace

A reflection paper

Mindanao State University is indeed the melting pot of diverse culture. Rooting
from its mission and vision, the institution has the eagerness to pursue the peace in
order to develop harmony among diverse culture.
It was just how many months since I became a part of the Mindanao State
University- General Santos City but I already felt that I am more than welcome. Last
September 25, 2019, I was amazed and inspired to see the students of different tribes
wearing their traditional clothing walked under the blazing heat of the sun celebrating
peace and harmony that once dominated the islands of Mindanao. I myself questioned
my perspective about accepting others’ culture but as I witness how they showcase
their rich culture in restoring the peace here in Mindanao I am now convinced that it
really has the greatest contribution why we enjoy peace.
The festive and rich celebration was never made possible without the persons
behind. I salute you all for initiating the program that I never experienced before. It’s
been a privileged to see and hear Sec. Galves from the Office of the Presidential
Adviser for Peace Process. I am glad to hear that I belong to the Mindanao State
University- the future of Mindanao. And it is indeed true, because the institution never
lacks on discover or find ways how to teach its students how to value peace, appreciate
culture and strive for excellence with discipline and family spirit.
I know that the quest for peace is just starting its new road to success but
inviting him as a speaker really inspires me to be one of those who will construct and
will strengthen that road for peace to take place. Hearing his plan to put a Harmony
Center in MSU-GSC put a big smile on my face for it is the true symbol of peace and
appreciation. Creating a center like that might also be the inspiration of some to build
their own too that will also pave the way to end the war in the different parts of the
Mindanao islands.
Peace is a daily, a weekly, a monthly process, gradually changing opinions,
slowly eroding old barriers, quietly building new structures”- John F. Kennedy. It goes
with some process just like the paper folding in the country of Japan. Anyone can make
but not anyone can fold a piece of paper into perfection. Origami does not require
higher educational attainment, high social status or even highest monthly rate because
folding a paper requires patience, time and sincere heart with dedicated mind. It is not
just a simple process of folding a paper but in every fold, there is a meaning in it. Just
like achieving peace, anyone can achieve as long as we have patience, use time to
strengthen our goals, sincere heart to uplift others and dedicated mind to put an arrow
to our target- and that is peace. It might be difficult form the start but if we come
together, held hands and do the process we can truly live in peace.