Thursday, December 17, 2009

The Peace on Earth Challenge



This is one of my favorite times of the year since most people seem to be kinder than usual. Of course there are a few Grinches and Scrooges among us, but for the most part I notice most people seem to go out of their way to be kind and helpful.

It almost seems like people give themselves permission to look beyond their gripes and grievances and allow their best or true selves to shine through. Maybe they're trusting more or paying attention to the Christmas message about peace on earth and goodwill toward men. Perhaps they let down their guard and release their fears so they could actually see themselves and others as connected.

Whatever it is, I like it. I believe we are all naturally kind and are wanting connection. We want to know we're not alone and that others care about us. Naturally, when we let down our guard and our fears, the best parts of us can be seen. Those parts that feel good, like being kind, gentle, understanding, patient, joyful and generous then spread to others and on it goes, at least until January 2nd. Once the new year rings in, it seems that many people re-erect their walls to hide behind and resume gathering evidence why it is not safe to trust.

Imagine what our world would be like if we all practiced putting our fears aside all year long and actually showed we cared about each other on a regular basis.

Without question, there would surely be peace on earth. Anyone willing to give it a shot?




1 comment:

Kate Sholonski (moderator) said...

I appreciate your perspective and agree the world is filled with daily acts of violence in many forms. You obviously feel strongly about protecting animals from violence and I respect your commitment to your cause.

If we focus only on the things that anger and offend us, our own inner peace will be disturbed. When we are not at peace, we will In turn strike out at someone else.

On the contrary, if we all spoke positively about what we want in the world, rather than angrily fight against something, I believe there would be a greater chance of peaceful solutions and resolutions to the issues of the world.

It seems as long as we are at odds, at war and in conflicts (personal and global) our personal peace cannot manifest into something bigger that could create a lasting positive change.

Cynicism does not create peace. War (in any form) does not create peace. Arguing does not create peace.

My challenge stands for each of us to be aware if our thoughts, words and actions create peace or hinder it.

Although you may not agree, I believe that any act of kindness, understanding, patience, compassion and love can indeed bring us a bit closer to peace on earth.