My Personal Commitment to World Peace

My time studying yoga has lent a rather Buddhist slant to my thinking in recent years. I’ve invested time reading the wisdom of the Mahatma Gandhi and the Dalai Lama. I believe that global peace (or harmony, or acceptance, or any other subjective collective term) begins and ultimately ends with the individual.

I believe:: I cannot ever have peace with another person until I have peace within myself...; I cannot ever change another person, I can only change myself...; The world changes one person at a time, and it's got to begin with me...; Whatever I become as a person becomes part of the world...; If I become more loving, peaceful, and wise, then I am part of the solution, and no longer part of the problem...

My children didn't learn kindness because I told them about it. They learned kindness by observing my interactions with them on a daily basis over the course of years. That kind of change happens on a personal level first.

Sure, it's not a simple solution to world peace. There isn't one. The human race changes slowly, but it does change. Historical perspective shows us gradual changes in global thinking. I believe peace is possible. One person at a time. It requires you to be totally connected to your own truths and values.

This was an empowering notion for me. I like to think that my work on my own personal growth is not a selfish waste of time, but can actually make a difference in the long run. My spiritual commitment to personal truth has led to my political action in the world around me. I pay attention to what is happening in my community, and let my voice be heard. I may only be one voice among many, but I am one more voice speaking out for a saner world.

I strive for peace within my own heart and spirit. I've got it most days. Some days my groove is disrupted. But I'm patient with myself, and recommit to the process. Can we strive for anything less?

~Flame RavenHawk
June 19, 2002