Compassionate Peace and Non-Violence

Peace and non-violence both flow from the spring of compassion. Without the foundation of compassion, interest in and desire for peace are based only on self-interest, and when self-interest wanes, there is seldom any pressing reason to pursue peace. Without compassion, there is no practical will for exercising non-violence as a means of resolving conflict. Within my own religious tradition, peace (shalom in Hebrew, irenay in Greek) does not refer to the cessation of warfare, but to the well-being of human beings and other parts of the creation. Not surprisingly, compassionate action—coming alongside other human beings in suffering and in joy—often takes the form of peace and non-violence.

Compassionate Peace and Non-Violence in DFW

The opportunities for demonstrating peace and non-violence are all-too-evident throughout our country—and the Metroplex is certainly no exception. The Dallas Peace and Justice Center addresses some of the issues related to peace and non-violence, and we hope to be able to partner with them in various ways. Because our approach is intentionally premised on compassion, we will be engaged in actions whose purpose is to preempt disruption and violence. In particular, the often unacknowledged issues of privilege and unconscious racism are all-too-real in our communities and present occasions for honest discussion, thoughtful reflection, and genuine compassion.

Opportunities and Goals for Peace and Non-Violence

1. To encourage greater awareness of the lifestyles that impede peace and non- violence.

2. To strengthen our commitment to the Charter for Compassion, knowing that compassion is the wellspring for peace and non-violence.

3. To establish partner relationships with various organizations/agencies which are committed to the Charter for Compassion.

4. To invite and encourage other local organizations to adopt the Charter for Compassion and to invite and encourage them to participate in the work of Compassionate DFW and join in the International Global Unity Games held annually from September 11th – September 21st, the International Day of Peace.