“The science of Peace, were it to become a special discipline, would be the most noble of all, for the very life of humanity depends on it. So, also perhaps, does the question of whether our entire civilization evolves or disappears.” Dr. Maria Montessori
Having lived through two world wars, Dr. Montessori was a strong advocate for peace. She firmly believed that the education of children was the key to future peace. “Avoiding war is the work of politics, establishing peace is the work of education” is one of the basic tenets of Maria Montessori. Her vision was the reconstruction of society and the establishment of world peace through education. She believed that world peace could be attained if we teach peace to our students and children. We all have the same fundamental needs (food, clothing, shelter…..) but we as people obtain them differently according to our environments, not the color of our skin. Montessori education teaches peace as tolerance of other races, religions, and cultures.
Maria Montessori recognized that children are the redeeming factor in the evolution of human kind. In order to bring about a world of peace and tolerance, where war is an absurdity, it is important to focus on and teach peace early. Having a peace curriculum in our classrooms is a sure way to prepare our children to be peace-keepers. As we teach peace in our classrooms, we must strive for peace in our lives, in our homes, and in our workplace. Together we are all the models of peace. We are all teaching and nourishing the peace-keepers of the future.
In the spirit of peace and harmony we wish everyone joyous celebrations during this holiday season.