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Happening ... in the Local Church
Our high school class graduation song was “Let There Be Peace On Earth” by Miller and Jill Jackson. The first stanza of that song read: “Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me.” I often pondered those words and wondered what they really meant.
How does peace begin with me? For it to begin with me, I need to begin my day in a peaceful manner.
When I can, I wake up slowly, and begin my day by praying the Native American Prayer of the four directions. That prayer is followed by 20 minutes of Centering Prayer, which gives me my focus for the day. Then I can carry the peace within me to those that I meet throughout the day.
I may not have the opportunity to go to Iraq, Afghanistan or another war-torn country, but I am “being peace” by offering it each day to those I live with — my neighbors, co-workers and all who cross my path each day.
Peacemaking begins with each person, so if I can offer it on a one-to-one basis, then I will be able to offer it when a greater crisis comes my way.
When we attend Mass, we also offer each other “the kiss of peace.” Have you ever given any thought to what you are really offering to the person next to you, in front of you or behind you in the pew?
Peace is something I believe everyone is looking for. A mother with a crabby baby or active children might say, “I wish I had some peace and quiet.” Some days are harder than others to find that peace. But if we allow ourselves a little bit of quiet each day to reflect on all the blessings God does offer us, we can get in touch with that peace that is already within us.
My peaceful spirit can encourage others to share their peaceful spirit and one by one we will begin that journey to peacemaking.
If this were to happen, there would be no need for wars. So many of our great modern-day prophets did a peaceful action in their own corner of the world that made a difference. Some that I admire are Dorothy Day, Gandhi, Martin Luther King and Sojourner Truth.
Maybe someday each of us will be known not for the great things that we have done, but for the peaceful presence that we have offered to others, that has made a difference in their lives.
Who can you offer that peaceful presence to today?
This guest editorial was written by Sister Joetta Huelsmann, PHJC, director of John XXIII Retreat Center in Hartford City.