A culture of peace

YES, YOU CAN DO IT!

On the 42nd anniversary of the UN International Day of Peace, DAAJI explains how we can bring peace into our own lives, our families, and our communities, so that it radiates into the universe.

Dear friends,

The International Day of Peace (IDP) was established in 1981 by a unanimous UN resolution, and in 2001 the UN chose a set day of September 21 for 24 hours of nonviolence and ceasefire,1 thanks to the tireless work of British NGO Peace One Day and the UK delegation to the UN. This year, the theme is “Cultivating a Culture of Peace.”

A culture of peace is defined by the UN as a set of values, attitudes, modes of behavior, and ways of life that reject violence and prevent conflicts by tackling their root causes to solve problems through dialogue and negotiation among individuals, groups, and nations.

The 6 values that correspond to the UN culture of peace are: Spirituality,  Justice, Compassion, Dialogue, Active nonviolence, and Stewardship of/sense of kinship with the Earth.

That is, we are invited to treat others as we wish to be treated. This ethical principle applies at all levels-personal, family, community, and national. When honored, dignity and stability follow. When violated, instability results.

Can we change the global situation?

We may wonder what we can do to change things at the global level. Bringing peace to the various violent conflicts in the world is a big challenge and overwhelming. However, I am reminded of the song, “Let there be peace on Earth, and let it begin with me.” We can make a difference in our own lives. Peace is our true nature, so when we nurture and connect to the peace at the Center of our being by practicing meditation, it will naturally radiate out to others and to our environment. The intention, attention, and awareness with which we live our lives will filter out to our neighbors, communities, countries, and the planet.

Peace is our true nature, so when 
we nurture and connect to the
peace at the Center of our
being, by practicing
meditation, it will naturally radiate
out to others and to our environment.

How to lay a foundation for Peace

Studies have shown that many people creating a vision can manifest it. Imagine joining millions around the world to create a vision of peace. What a world that would create!

To contribute to a more peaceful world, try using these three intentions for peace as you go about your daily activities.

These intentions will contribute to your peace of mind, as well as create harmony within your family, friends, and communities. Almost everything starts with thought, and a thought with a purpose is an intention. The energy of an intention has a ripple effect when it goes out into the world, and it can become a reality.

First, choose one of the Peacefulness intentions. Then, take a moment to center yourself in the present moment. Think of the intention, connect with its meaning and imagine its effect spreading to everyone and everything around you. Most importantly, put your heart into it!

By uniting our intentions in a collective adventure, we will catalyze a wave of change that will resonate across borders and generations.

“First, it is an intention.
Then a behavior.
Then a habit.
Then a practice.
Then a second nature.
Then it is simply who you are.”
—Brendon Burchard

Go to the Peacefulness website to become a peace partner and to find further activities for all age groups to promote peace.

I wish you all the best in your efforts to bring peace to the world,
Daaji

1 Between 1982 and 2001, IDP was observed on the day of the opening of the annual sessions of the UN General Assembly on the third Tuesday of September every year.