A New Year's Commitment to Non-Violence

[NathanATX]

As we begin thinking about our New Year's resolutions, I would like to ask each of you to think about your commitment to non-violence.

In the context of...
...seeking social justice and an end to religiously-acceptable homophobia,

...promoting the end of racism and discrimination,

... ending poverty,

... ending war,

... dealing with interpersonal conflict, etc.,

what are you going to do, to commit to non-violence, as a way of life, for 2007?

[Vanessa White]

Nate: I have been thinking about this so much lately, because Mia and I are making plans to bring Soulforce and its principles into our local community in some type of active way. I do need to study the principles of Soulforce more closely, and of Dr. King, so that is my commitment for 2007. I also want to continue to live my life in a nonviolent way, which for me, means not thinking verbally violent thoughts. I hardly ever speak in a violent way, but I sometimes think in that way out of frustration. Spreading the word is my biggest resolution.

[Joe Brummer]

You should add "other" to the list since so many people learn in so many different ways. For me, I identify more with Gandhi than I do King's principles and steps. While I do like the Steps and Principles from KIngs, I think that I have learned more from reading Gandhi and Thich Nhat Hanh than I learned from King about nonviolence.

I have found that living by the statement "BE the CHANGE you wish to see on the world" has changed me. I was in line at Macy's the other day and the cashier seemed so frustrated and nervous. I smiled at her and told her to take a breathe. SHe replied that long lines made her nervous, but she was so nervous and overlwhelmed she could barely work. I again smiled at her and said their was still a week till Christmas and I was in no rush.

Suddenly, the other people in the line went from being impatent, grumpy and demanding became understanding, compassionate and supportive to this cashier's suffering. They all told her to take her time. She calmed and began to easily check people through the line, smiling instead of sighing. Laughing intead of looking so frustrated.

I have learned that when I am compassionate and open to suffering with others, other are willing to take on the burderns so none of us suffer.

I wish all of you happy holidays, whatever you celebrate!

[Dash]

I wish I had been there to see that Joe.

I've begun my studies of Gandhi. In the middle of his Autobiography at present. I checked out a selection of books from the library, but would entertain suggestions as to the "best" biography or study of his methods. There was so much to choose from that I was a bit overwhelmed.

King will come next.

[Joe Brummer]

The best books I have ever read on nonviolence so far....(in order of how much I learned)

Creating True Peace, by Thich Nhat Hanh

Engage: Exploring nonviolent living

Gandhi's autobiography

The Freedom Writers

King's autobiography

Thich Nhat Hanh: The Essential Writings