As it is Christmastime, it seems fit that my first post should reflect on the spirit of which Christianity is all about; Peace. In fact all religions emphasize the importance and beauty of Peace and teach all of their followers to lead peaceful lives. I would think even atheists agree this should be norm. But this is not the world we live in today. 

For some reason anger, violence and hate has taken over. Crime, corruption and lies seem to be at an all time high. Degradation of others, disrespect for the law and grifting appears to be becoming acceptable. Intimidation meant to invoke fear in others in an effort to control them and have power over them is now admired. These things are not values that Christianity, or any other religions, are based on or support. These things are not peaceful. And I would think even atheists would agree this should not be the norm.

Having Peace is not hard. All’s it takes is the will to do so. Even during the first World War, a temporary Christmas Truce was observed in 1914 to lay down the fighting between the British and the Germans as they associated observing Peace with honoring their faiths on the most sacrosanct day. The only true obstacle to Peace is the interference by those with selfish and/or nefarious goals. 

Inner peace within one’s self brings the contentment and tranquility that the fence of mental health balances on. Peaceful people are happy people, kind people, confident people that care about the world and those in it. They are the ones that make the world a better place to live in. Unfortunately, though, they are the first to become distressed and depressed when Peace comes under attack. 

It is just as easy, if not easier, to be peaceful, kind and good as it is to be angry, mean and hateful. One thing is obvious; those who are angry and mean are unhappy people and many of them want to make everyone else unhappy too. This includes those who have a desire to terrorize mankind for whatever reason. Maybe they think this is a show of strength or a path to power. It actually is a testament to how weak and insecure they think they really are. It is a defensive mechanism. They are not at peace with themselves.

One of the keys to finding inner peace within one’s self is to practice tolerance. Tolerance is not only necessary in getting along with people of different religions and different cultures, but tolerance is needed with each other as well. We all are imperfect human beings. And that’s okay. Really, it is. As my mother, and my Bible, would say: “May he (or she) without sin cast the first stone”. In other words, unless and until you are perfect in every way, reserve your contempt for others and work on your own misgivings. Its also a good thing to let go of blaming others for various things. 

Another key to Peace is Freedom. More specifically, the lack of oppression. As long as we are not threatening to others, we should have the civil right to move through our existence without exclusion, victimization, or fear of retribution. 

So is it okay to fight for Peace? Absolutely, in a non-violent fashion. In fact, it is one of the very few things worth fighting for. 

I asked Google Bard AI to define Peace, and this is what generated:

Peace, like many profound concepts, carries a multifaceted meaning that evolves depending on context and perspective. Here are some ways to understand it:

Absence of conflict: At its most basic, peace signifies the absence of war, violence, and open hostility. This definition focuses on external, observable realities, with peace indicating a state of tranquility where individuals and communities can function safely and securely.

Inner calm: Beyond the external, peace can also mean a state of inner calm and harmony. This refers to a mind free from agitation, anxiety, or negativity, where one experiences contentment and acceptance. This internal peace is often seen as a foundation for external peace, as calm individuals are less likely to resort to violence or conflict.

Harmony and understanding: Peace can also encompass a sense of mutual respect and understanding between individuals, groups, or nations. This goes beyond merely not fighting and seeks to build bridges of empathy and cooperation. This involves valuing differences, resolving conflicts peacefully, and working towards shared goals.

Justice and equality: True peace, some argue, cannot exist without justice and equality. This means addressing root causes of conflict, such as poverty, discrimination, and oppression. Only when everyone has a fair chance to thrive can there be lasting peace.

Ultimately, the meaning of peace is deeply personal and depends on individual values and experiences. It’s a continuous journey, not a fixed destination, requiring active effort and dedication from individuals and communities.

                        [Google Bard]

Too many of us take Peace for granted, waiting until a loved one dies to chisel “Rest in Peace”, or RIP, on their headstone. Shouldn’t we be encouraging them to live in Peace as well? 

My Christmas wish to you is may you find Peace and Happiness your whole life through.