Today is the Blogblast for Peace, where bloggers from around the world write about topics pertaining to peace.
When I heard the Dalai Lama speak in Birmingham recently, he said something I found particularly profound, and chose to hold back for this post. He said, and I’m paraphrasing:
There are 7 billion of us humans on this earth, and each one of us wants peace in our lives. None of us want problems. And yet, every one of us does things to invite struggle and strife into our lives.
It reminded me of this passage from the AA Big Book:
“Selfishness, self-centeredness! That, we think, is the root of our troubles. Driven by a hundred forms of fear, self-delusion, self-seeking, and self-pity, we step on the toes of our fellows and they retaliate. Sometimes they hurt us, seemingly without provocation, but we invariably find that at some time in the past we have made decisions based on self which later placed us in a position to be hurt. So our troubles, we think, are basically of our own making.” ― Alcoholics Anonymous, Alcoholics Anonymous – Big Book
It’s not something I like to think about when I ponder the way to a peaceful heart. I want to wear the peaceful glow, along with the peacenik clothes, and admonish others that all would be well if only they would change.
But the truth is, the only way I’ll ever find peace within is for ME to change.
The older I get, and the longer I walk this path, the more I realize that many of my troubles have indeed been of my own making.
Have others wronged me? Certainly. Have I suffered as a result? You betcha.
But the things that trouble my heart today have little to do with past injustices.
For me, what I must do to maintain a peaceful heart is love others- and myself. Forgive them- and me. Give up the judicial robes. No path to peace allows me to judge anyone, including myself.
Sounds simple, doesn’t it? But it certainly isn’t easy.
Dogpaddling Through Life 
‘ Love others- and myself. Forgive them- and me. Give up the judicial robes. No path to peace allows me to judge anyone, including myself. ‘ I very much agree to it. 🙂
Thanks Eripanwkevin. I am my own worst enemy at times.
Dona nobis pacem.
Walking that path to peace. No, it isn’t easy, but it is right and I believe everyone can do it.
xxxx
Not easy, but made easier for others when we lead by example. 😃
My mom-person agree´s with you too , especially on that part that it isn´t easy 🙂
My mom-person heard Dalai Lama speak in 2011 in Sweden.
He is amazing and inspiring to me.
Easier said than done but very,very true.
If it were easy, we’d all do it! LOL
What a beautiful thought. We purr for peace…today and everyday.
Purrs bring great peace to me.
Well said. Love the quote!
Happy Peace pay to you.
Peace to you as well my friend!
In recent years I’ve become interested in compassion meditation:
May you be safe
May you be happy
May you be healthy
May you live with ease
Now scientists are looking at the brains of people who do regular compassion meditation. Interestingly, they have found it is a good preventative for compassion burnout. Which, of course, helps us continue working for peace.
The Dalai Lama’s sister monastery is in my town. And I’ve met many Tibetan refugees who are among the most centered and peaceful people I have ever met–despite having experienced terrible suffering.
So yes, peace begins from within. Thanks for the beautiful reminder.
It’s the only thing I really have the power to change, and yet, though making the change within, I facilitate change throughout the world.
Reblogged this on cgw629 and commented:
Very thought provoking. I am certainly lacking in this ability.
Powerful post! Happy Peace Day 🙂
Peace to you and Yours,xx Speedy
The Dalai Lama is always life changing – even at a distance.
You are so right. As profound and true as it is, it sure is difficult to put into action, isn’t it? Wishing you peace today, and always, dear friends.
No, it isn’t easy. And I suppose being honest is a step on that path. Thank you. ❤
Sending peace to you today!
Jeanne, Chloe and LadyBug
Sounds like it should be the easiest thing in the world. If only…!
Our person tries to walk in peace through the world.
Sometimes that means coming home and getting lots of dog cuddles so she can keep going though!
It should be simple, but no, it’s not easy…
Peace to you ☮