If we watch the news broadcasts regularly we may be inclined to see the world in a very negative light. It would appear there are not very many good people in the world; that there are only corrupt politicians. With a steady diet of this type of reporting indeed a negative image is formed in much of the world – of the world.

Think of the images that come to mind when thinking of places like the Middle East, Africa or parts of Asia. All of these are prejudiced by a received knowledge either through society or the media. Our perception is conditioned on this and the formation is learned not innate. There are times of course when there are incidents and these are accurate when properly reported with supporting information and a continued updated report that indicates the current reality. The problem with information reporting today is the constant need for “new” news so the older stories are not reviewed with an update. Have things remained the same? Is the war or famine over?

Just as these perceptions are learned so too hate and prejudice in general. It is up to each of us to confront these issues and to make changes. It begins with each of us. What we replace it with should be love and understanding. If we remove hate and fear we do not, should not, remain neutral but be more inclined to seek an answer before judging anything or anyone.

Love should reign in the world so long filled with rage and war. Love will triumph, but only if we let it.