In mid-April, I received a phone call inviting me to MED 26, which was due to take place in Barcelona at the beginning of June. My first reaction was to say no because I had exams, but after a little persuasion and some rearranging, I accepted. I did not really know what to expect. I went into the experience with an attitude of taking things as they came, but as soon as we arrived in Spain and were welcomed by the team, I immediately felt that there was something greater and deeper happening than simply a conference for young people.
Between us lies this Mediterranean Sea, so small compared with other seas, yet it connects our stories and cultures and gave rise to new friendships.
During the week we spent together, we sat down and discussed what was in our hearts and how we could work towards peace within our own communities. We spoke about the wounds we carry and the things that trouble us, but we also spoke about our dreams for the Mediterranean: that all of us might enjoy the same rights, without distinctions between one country and another or between one political conflict and another. If we can find this common ground and equality, then we will truly be living the Mediterranean spirit.
Without a doubt, one memory I will always treasure is having had the opportunity to meet Pope Leo XIV in a private audience. No matter how many months or years pass, the wise and gentle words with which he shared his message with us will continue to echo in my ears:
“Once you go back, do something!”
At MED 26, I had the opportunity to stop for a while and rediscover a renewed enthusiasm for working towards peace and, more especially, for promoting dialogue. Without dialogue and patience, peace will always be difficult to achieve.
Maria Emma Buhagiar
