As the nurse attempted to find my vein to draw my blood, she asked, most likely in an effort to distract me, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” This was a question I’m sure everyone has been asked, especially when it comes to being a junior in high school, and everyone’s expectation is that you have a plan of what you will be doing in the next 50 years of your life. I’ve answered this question with variations of: I’d like to be an astronaut, a DJ, a host of a radio show, the owner of a vineyard (I’m very serious about this). However, seriously considering her question, I answered quite eloquently, “Something in diplomacy would be pretty cool.” She responded, “Well, we need diplomats, now more than ever.”

Those words stuck with me the next few days as world events continued to escalate for the worse. Going to Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School, with a focus on history and civic engagement, I had a vague idea of how my future will turn out. However, it was not only the emphasis on government and international studies that allowed for our student body to become change makers, but our community service, contributions to various clubs and activities, and eagerness to learn not just new languages, but also about new cultures. Utilizing the skills that we have been given in our educational environment, all of us have the ability to foster diplomacy now, in moments where it is most needed. However, it is not necessary to want to become a liaison for a government to facilitate communication or foster diplomacy. 

Diplomacy, as per the National Museum of American Diplomacy, is defined as “the art and practice of building and maintaining relationships and conducting negotiations with people using tact and mutual respect.” It is a skill set that transcends borders and can be harnessed by individuals from all walks of life, regardless of their career aspirations.

While not everyone may have the desire to become a diplomat or work in a government-oriented field, the ability to foster diplomacy is crucial in various aspects of our daily lives. This skill becomes particularly relevant in moments where understanding, empathy, and effective communication are most needed. Consider the diverse fabric of our society, where individuals from different backgrounds coexist. The power to build and maintain relationships and navigate negotiations with tact and respect is an invaluable asset. Community service, involvement in various clubs and activities, and an eagerness to learn about new languages and cultures are all avenues through which individuals can contribute to fostering diplomacy. The experiences gained through engagement in such activities provide a practical foundation for diplomatic skills. 

Whether it's collaborating on community projects, resolving conflicts within a team, or bridging cultural gaps, these actions contribute to the larger tapestry of diplomacy at the grassroots level. It is crucial to note that the ability to foster diplomacy doesn't solely lie in formal structures or designated roles. It is a mindset that individuals can adopt in their interactions with others. It involves actively seeking common ground, listening with empathy, and approaching disagreements with a commitment to finding mutually beneficial solutions.

The ongoing conflicts between Russia and Ukraine, as well as Israel and Palestine, underscore the critical importance of diplomacy in addressing complex geopolitical issues and fostering peaceful resolutions. The principles of diplomacy become essential in navigating the inherent complexities in these disputes. The international community must remain committed to fostering diplomatic solutions that prioritize dialogue over conflict, understanding over hostility, and cooperation over confrontation. Diplomacy is an indispensable tool for addressing the root causes of conflicts, promoting understanding, and establishing the foundations for long-term stability and cooperation in regions facing geopolitical challenges.

The nurse's words, "We need diplomats, now more than ever," resonate not only on the international stage but also within our communities. Diplomacy begins at home, in schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods. So, whether one aspires to be an astronaut, a DJ, or the owner of a vineyard, or pursue any other passion, the underlying thread of diplomacy can be woven into their journey. It is a tool for creating positive change, fostering understanding, and building bridges between individuals and communities. Every individual has the capacity to be a diplomat in their own right, contributing to a more harmonious and interconnected world.