Finding Peace Inside & Out

Often times, when we contemplate "world peace," we think about beauty queens attempting to articulate their deepest hopes and dreams for a live audience and panel of judges; we think of a cessation of war; we think of justice and equality; we think of quiet leisure and stillness. Though peace comes up around holiday times, in religious ceremonies, it doesn't seem to be present, or even discussed, in our daily lives. Even worse, most people do not realistically think that peace is possible in today's world. Because of this notion, we do not give much time or energy to the idea of peace. We tolerate chaos in our world, our politics, our schools, and even our own lives. Peace, the answer to our problems, seems too unrealistic or even naïve. (Image Source: United Nations)

Political and religious leaders around the world disagree.  (And so do I!)  Peace is possible and it's our best answer to our worst problems. Through love, communication, and understanding, we can come together in peace.

Consider for a moment: If we all agreed to be more peaceful in our own minds, our own homes, and our daily lives, peace could actually begin to dominate our world.  The remainder of this post speaks to this possibility and how we can start this revolution in our own minds and hearts.

The following quote is by the Dalai Lama XIV:


In this Huffington Post article, Matthieu Ricard, a humanitarian/photographer/ scientist/ Buddhist monk, also called "The Happiest Man in the World," explains how altruism can change the world for the better.

Or, if you don't feel like reading an article right now, watch the following video clips; they contain similar messages.

John F. Kennedy's "Peace Speech" (about 27 minutes):

Source: YouTube

Thich Nhat Hanh Deep Listening (about 3 1/2 minutes):

Source: YouTube

Or, if you have time, take a look at the full interview (about 22 minutes):

Source: YouTube

International Day of Peace or World Peace Day:

International Day of Peace or World Peace Day is coming up this month--on September 21 (with some events spanning that whole weekend, beginning on the 19th).  If you're interested in learning more, check out Peace One Day or the UN website, 

If you're interested in participating in an event, a global prayer, or global meditation, beginning September 19, take a look at Unify, BethePeace, International Day of Prayer for Peace, or WorldPeaceMeditation.

I hope you consider joining in one of these powerful and meaningful practices this month, to bring peace to yourself, your family, and our world.

Labels: , , , , , , , , ,