Thinking of Boston

The events of this last week are so heavy on my heart. I was practically glued to the television images and the stories; I could not stop watching. I stayed continually tuned to the news as I drove in my car. And as much as I was grieved to see and hear such pain and tragedy (and hate and violence), I was also touched by the outpouring of LOVE and courage and selflessness by ordinary people. The juxtaposition of the best of and the worst of humanity. 

I believe in people. I really do. And in the power of LOVE. But why ... is it so hard for us to get along? I am reminded of the words of John Lennon, "Imagine all the people living life in peace.... I hope someday you'll join us, and the world will be as one." 

What if we all just made amends with one person this week? Or forgave someone we are holding a grudge with? What if we tried to combat anger with love? What if the horrible violence in Boston sparked a revolution of love and peace in all of our communities and in our families and was the catalyst to heal our broken relationships? Can you imagine?

If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten

 that we belong to each other.
-Mother Teresa

"I refuse to accept the view that mankind is so tragically bound to the starless midnight of racism and war that the bright daybreak of peace and brotherhood can never become a reality...I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word.

-Martin Luther King, Jr.

It isn't enough to talk about peace, one must believe it.

And it isn't enough to believe in it, one must work for it.

-Eleanor Roosevelt

Love your enemies. Pray for them. (Matthew 5:44)

-Jesus

"The most valuable possession you can own is an open heart. The most powerful weapon you can be is an instrument of peace." 

- Carlos Santana

"Dear God, Please send to me the spirit of Your peace. Then send, dear Lord, the spirit of peace from me to all the world. Amen" 

- Marianne Williamson

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