"But while we all pray for peace, we do not always, as free citizens, support the policies that make for peace or reject those which do not. We want our own kind of peace, brought about in our own way"

Lester B. Pearson's quote encapsulates a complex and often contradictory element of humanity and political behavior concerning the pursuit of peace. At its core, the statement highlights the dichotomy in between the universal desire for peace and the diverse methods people and societies embrace in attaining it. This variation can cause support for policies that align with personal or nationwide interests rather than those that objectively promote peace.

Pearson acknowledges a common prayer or desire for peace, which is a universal aspiration shared by individuals across cultures and countries. Nevertheless, he explains a substantial disparity: in spite of this shared aspiration, there is frequently an absence of cohesive action to support policies that really cultivate peace. As "free people", people in democratic societies have the duty and freedom to affect governmental policies. Yet, Pearson recommends that this flexibility is often exercised not in positioning with the wider objective of peace however rather in accordance with individual or ideological choices.

This propensity is further intensified by the idea of desiring "our own sort of peace, caused in our own way". Here, Pearson delves into the subjective nature of peace; different cultures and political groups might have divergent views on what peace looks like and how it ought to be achieved. This subjectivity can lead to partisan support for policies that might contribute to conflict or instability, under the belief that such policies are steps towards a specific variation of peace.

Pearson's declaration advises reflection on the specific and cumulative duties in supporting policies that further peace. It acts as a call to transcend personal biases and consider the more comprehensive implications of policy options. In essence, it challenges residents to reconcile their desire for peace with consistent actions and support for policies that tangibly contribute to a tranquil world.