In a world that continues to be divided by hate, disrespect and intolerance it is now more than ever needed to embrace co-existence as our weapon for survival.

Every faith and religion speaks of peace and tolerance of one another yet religion itself is being misused to spread hate amongst fellow humans. We are now not seen as a fellow human deserving of respect, someone who has their own dignities, someone with rights to live life as they please but we are now seen merely as designated labels that are placed on us. Within those labels you’ll find more labels to further divide the people. In Pakistan, we’re first divided by religion, are you Muslim, Hindu, or Christian? , then comes region, are you Sindhi, Balochi, Punjabi, Pathan? Why can’t it just be I am a Pakistan? Label division creates separation between the people of a country because of which the country suffers. For prosperity peaceful coexistence is a fundamental component that leads to community development, personal growth, and sustainable society.

The intolerance and hate for other religions could be considered the roots of an array of crimes such a terrorism which has resulted in catastrophic loss of property and human life. The crimes against religious sects of Shia and Sunni further the development of Pakistani society and Pakistan in entirety. We aren’t born with hate, but are brought up to hate others based on their religious practices and believe. These hateful thoughts are taught and spread by extremists using violent narratives to corrupt the minds of others and instill in them extreme and violent views. The increased level of religious intolerance increases the need for genuine interfaith dialogue, tolerance and harmony that will lead to a deeper understanding of, and relationship building with other faiths and beliefs. Peace and tolerance itself can bring each person closer to their respective religious as each religion preaches harmony. 

Additionally the separation between people has also been enhanced by the constant emphasis on our differences. Often times our differences can be and are being used as a means to narrow the mind and cut off our willingness to embrace those who appear different to us. This narrow-mindedness blinds us to our common humanity and we fail to see that there is so much more that unites us than divides us.  By respecting each person’s difference as their uniqueness that adds beauty to society we can learn to be tolerant of one another. In valuing the importance of our coexistence, we become better placed to generate kindness and compassion towards other people.  

In conclusion for a better tomorrow it is crucial that the youth understand the importance of coexistence and how it benefits the growth and prosperity of not just one nation but the entire possibly the entire world. Youths are an essential part of advancing the culture of peace.