Calm after the storm

That is a question that has probably been voiced in some form, usually with a combination of exasperation and naivety, by many well-meaning people throughout history.

From petty domestic squabbles to political clashes to full-blown wars, discord and division seems to be part and parcel of human nature.

Even those things which sometimes unite us, such as loyalty to a country, sports team or social ‘tribe’, also divide us, pitting us against a competing ‘side’.

There is, no doubt, an evolutionary explanation behind it.

But if war and conflict is an inevitable part of human nature, so too is love, hope and compassion. The peaceful demonstration planned by Guernsey For Gaza this weekend is an example.

And, as Colin Vaudin says in his column today, ‘no matter how bitter the hatred and no matter how great the sacrifice, all wars must end’.

All conflicts, no matter how major or minor, must reach some sort of resolution eventually.

Peace, however temporary, will be restored.

Here in Guernsey, States members are enjoying a brief break from their battle over power, having adjourned debate on the future of the Policy & Resources Committee until 13 December.

At the other end of the scale, the current Israel-Gaza truce has provided much-needed relief from the relentless violence seen since 7 October.

But, unfortunately, such peace is merely temporary and the fighting will be back before too long.

Here's hoping a more permanent solution can be found in the near future.