This is the season more than any other time of year where we talk about having peace on earth and spreading goodwill towards men. However, when we look at the climate today can we really say there is peace and do we really try hard to spread goodwill to others? All around us there is havoc and unrest. Many fear what will happen next. What can we do to encourage peace in a world filled with conflict? Whether we are talking about our nation, our communities or even our families it begins with us.
I am of the opinion that peace is a choice and an option. Peace starts with each and every one of us. We cannot expect from others what we are not willing to give of ourselves. Even in challenging times peace can be achieved. We must ask ourselves are we willing to compromise for the greater good in order to achieve peace and goodwill towards mankind. The question is do we desire to be a peacemaker? Seeking peace has a cost. Oftentimes it requires serving others. Society belittles those who have a servant heart. They are thought of as weak and we underestimate their value until survival does not look achievable without them.
When I consider history I remember names like Jesus, Mother Teresa, Ghandi, Martin Luther King, Jr., Nelson Mandela, Princess Diana, Bob Marley and John Lennon. These are all individuals (among others) that tried to live their lives in such a way that would promote peace. Although there are many other names that will go down in the chronicles of history, many of them will never have the impact as those that desire to help make the world a better place by promoting peace and spreading goodwill wherever they go.
Gandhi reminded us that an eye for an eye will only make the world blind. Mother Teresa shared that peace begins with a smile. In his music Jimi Hendrix said that when the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace. In order to share peace with others we must first have peace with ourselves. We must do inventory on our own lives and make sure we have forgiven ourselves and others. Speak only that which is good and uplifts. Do your best to build and not destroy. Give grace to others whenever it is in your power to do so. Showing love and forgiveness helps in building reconciliation. Always remember you can’t control the actions of others, but you can control how you choose to deal with the actions of others.
According to Henri Nouwen we should ask ourselves did I offer peace today? Did I bring a smile to someone’s face? Did I say words of healing? Did I let go of my anger and resentment? Did I forgive? Did I love? These are the real questions. I must trust that the little bit of love that I sow now will bear many fruits, here in this world and the life to come. When we can truly answer these questions, I believe we will be on the path to promoting peace on earth and goodwill towards our fellow man.
Healing Without Hate: It’s a choice. It’s a lifestyle. Pass it on!
Visit www.WendyEnterprises.com and www.forgivingforliving.org. Wendy is a coach, consultant and speaker. You may email her at [email protected].
