Wednesday, December 2, 2009

What Is Peace?

My concept of peace is broader than an absence of war or conflict.  Although I grew up Catholic and am not particularly religious, the following description of the Hebrew word "shalom" gets very close to what I think of as peace.

“The general meaning behind the root sh-l-m is of completion & fulfillment & thus of entering into a state of wholeness & unity (oneness) signified by a restored relationship, especially wholeness of the relationship between a person and God.  Shalom signifies a sense of well-being & harmony both within and without, health, happiness, quietness of soul, preservation, prosperity, tranquility, security, safety and includes all that makes life worthwhile. ” 

I feel called to begin to promote peace in the world, in my communities, in my relationships, and within myself.  This blog concentrates on relationships, because I'm passionate about creating happy, healthy, nurturing homes and families.  Removing the conflicts that religion introduces then . . . in the context of relationships . . . imagine . . .

completion
fulfillment
wholeness
unity
restored relationship
well-being
harmony
health
happiness
quietness of soul
prosperity
tranquility
security
safety
all that makes life worthwhile

Indeed.

What kind of peace are you hoping for in your relationships?

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