Create Space for the Sacredness

We cannot speak of peace unless we first cultivate it within ourselves. True nonviolence begins with an inner transformation. It is not enough to practice external actions that resist harm; we must also confront the violent tendencies within our own hearts. Often, we judge others, dividing the world into “us” and “them,” projecting our unresolved conflicts onto others. Nonviolence calls us to resist these tendencies and love all beings as kin, even in moments of conflict. This practice requires deep commitment, but it is the only path to genuine peace. The greatest work of nonviolence is to create situations which free the sacredness of ourselves and our opponent. When we embrace this, we not only resist violence but create space for the sacredness of all beings to emerge, including our so-called enemies.

May we create spaces where the sacredness in ourselves and others is freed, bringing peace to all we encounter.

(inspired by Mohandas Gandhi: Essential Writings; Richard Rohr, Essential Teachings on Love; Ken Butigan with Patricia Bruno, From Violence to Wholeness)