Peace can easily be recognized as the absence of conflict. It can also
be viewed as the absence of challenge, in which case it is the cause of
stagnation. Peace can be seen as a personal choice. It can be seen as a
way of life. It can be seen as a societal goal or reality. It can be
seen as a hollow word used merely for political gain. It can be seen as
one's philosophy regarding others.
I can talk about my desire for
peace because I can define it. I cannot be at peace if I know there are
others who desire its destruction. I cannot be at peace when I know
there are others who desire this state, but cannot attain it. It should
be mentioned that the state of peace is not the absence of physical,
mental or spiritual challenges. It should also be stated that there are
two versions of peace: outer and inner.
Inner peace comes from
seeing order and direction in one's life, as well as knowing why one
exists and why he or she holds value. Inner peace can only exist when there is
mental clarity, sane reasoning, emotional intelligence, cosmic insight
and love.
Outer peace is the state of love between all peoples.
Peace comes from the very Brotherhood of Man spoken of by Christ, and
the idea has yet to take root in any large society. When you accept
everyone and love all unconditionally, then you are outwardly peaceful.
It is when all groups understand the fundamental connection they have
with all others.
In my opinion, a true pacifist does not act out
of the fear of causing harm, but out of the love they hold for all
others. Causing harm, even in self-defense, would harm the individual
inside and disrupt their inner peace. With this, I say that neither
inner nor outer peace can exist alone.
“Returning violence for violence multiplies violence, adding deeper
darkness to a night already devoid of stars... Hate cannot drive out
hate: only love can do that.” - MLK Jr.
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