Peace in Oneself, Peace in the World
Thich Nhat Hanh
I cannot imagine that the Connecticut school shooter felt peace in himself. And the shooter in Oregon. And the shooter in Denver. And the shooter outside of Milwaukee, Wis.
Although the above were also mentally ill, it feels like there are more people in this world lacking inner peace than those that do. And, I think it’s obvious that living without inner peace can lead to a life filled with turmoil.
So, what is inner peace? How can we understand this notion? How do we get to its very core? Here are some of my thoughts (the first one is the most critical).
- Value who we are and our contribution to this world. The alternative is a path of needless suffering. We all have a choice on how we live our lives – it may not be easy, but it is a choice. (I can testify to the not easy part – I can also testify that this work has helped in giving me a life worth living)
- Take responsibility for every moment in our lives – actions and thoughts. Be conscious and aware of our behavior both internally and externally.
- Understand that, as humans, we are more alike than we are different.
- Feed your inner soul/heart/spirit with what brings you joy.
- Share that joy with others.
My big question right now: is there an opportunity to teach self value in a more formal way to today’s kids? To hopefully help avoid more turmoil and tragedy?
Peace in Oneself, Peace in the World
Thich Nhat Hanh
Posted by Missy Baker, a long-time student of Elesa Commerse.
To contact Missy, email missylbbaker@gmail.com.
Posted Dec. 16, 2012