Mo's Manic Monday - Peace
Posted: Monday, June 04, 2007 by Travis Cody in
Welcome to another Manic Monday with Mo. Don't forget to cruise by MM HQ at It's A Blog Eat Blog World. Today's theme is Peace. I borrowed the banner from Morgen.
Do you listen?
When someone speaks to you, do you stop and hear what they are saying?
Are you open to the words of another person?
Can you understand that someone who thinks and feels differently than you isn't stupid or evil or uninformed or somehow less important?
Can you remember a time when you spoke, and someone ignored what you had to say or shouted you down or made you feel like you were stupid or evil or uninformed or somehow less important?
There are a multitude of points of view and opinions. Until we stop and listen, truly listen, how can there be peace?
We've got one world. There is room for us all. We don't all have to think alike. We don't have to force others to think as we do. We shouldn't be forced to think like someone else.
Human history is war separated by moments of peace. Consider your initial response to being attacked. Don't you want to strike back? Don't you want to inflict pain back on the person who harmed you? There is a moment when you are prepared to hit. Do you follow through on it?
I'm not a pacifist. I never tolerated a bully. I learned how to defend myself physically. I've come to the aid of others who were over-matched or otherwise unable to defend themselves.
I haven't always been on the right side of a conflict.
What's the point of this post?
Peace is a struggle. Peace is a process. Peace is a goal. We can't have peace until all parties want it. And when all parties want it, they'll still fight against man's baser nature to defend what is his and perhaps grab a little more for himself.
But the point? The point is that peace is worth the effort.
Don't forget to fly your peace globes on Wednesday. If you don't have one, visit Mimi and she'll get you set up.
Powerful words, my friend.
Peace be with you and your lovely lady.