“Hatred does not cease by hatred, but by love alone”. These immortal words of the Buddha ring true today more than ever, at a time when our Nation has been literally engulfed in flames as a result of recent socio-economic and political upheavals. As the Buddha often advised, violence is never the answer to conflict. Hence, on this Vesak Poya Day, it is important for all to remember these timeless words and heal ourselves through compassion. It is only then that we can go forward as a Nation.