Answer:
Peace is a state of nonsuffering as well as a celebration of life. We now know from many spiritual teachers that we can make a choice to live in peace within our own hearts, that we can actually choose not to suffer and choose instead to live in gratitude and love. Not only that, but we are also learning that finding and claiming that peace within us is essential to creating a world at peace. Because all of life is interconnected, our fear, hatred and anger decreases the peace in the world, whereas our love, joy and gratitude increases the peace.
Why is peace important? Without it, the destructive tendencies of our species will continue to inch us closer to catastrophe. The Gulf oil spill is but one example. But we human beings, in our true essence, are capable of the most glorious and uplifting actions. We have the potential to create a world at peace and become what I like to call “Homo Ahimsa” — the nonviolent human.
But is peace only important to human beings? And can we end wars and human suffering without ending the suffering of billions of animals who die daily at the hands of people for food, skins, useless experiments, entertainment and other forms of domination? These violent and brutal actions must stop if we are to create a nonviolent world. As Albert Schweitzer said, “Until man extends his circle of compassion to include all living things, man will not himself find peace.” We are connected, not just to each other, but to all of life. The animals and the natural world have much to teach us about peace, silence, being and celebrating life. We are immensely capable of creating a new, beautiful and nonviolent world for all who live here. May peace reign in our hearts and in our world for all beings everywhere.
