We live in uncertain times. No matter how you voted, it’s likely that recent events of intolerance and violence have upset you…it has us! While it can be easy to get caught up in the negativity and anger (it’s hard not to be angry!), it’s always best to practice peace. But how do you do that when emotions run high and fear appears to be in the driver’s seat? We ask you to consider taking on our Practice Peace Challenge to help you and those around you better cope with the chaos.
The challenge is simple: every day for the next seven days spend at least five minutes either before you go to bed or when you first wake in the morning doing one or more of these things:
- Think peaceful thoughts. Sit quietly, breathing easily with your focus on your heart. Silently repeat the words peace, calm, and love.
- Pray for peace. Again, sitting quietly and breathing normally silently repeat this prayer or something similar: “My wish is that all beings feel peace, love and happiness.”
- Silence the critic. This one should be done first thing in the morning. We’d like you to state this intention for the day: “Today I will help create happiness and peace in myself and others by refraining from complaints and criticism.”
- Express gratitude. The antidote to fear and the fertilizer of peace is gratitude. During your five-minute morning or evening contemplation, identify what you are thankful for. With each blessing mentioned both big and small, take a deep breath and really feel the gratitude deep within your being.
- Share the love. Tell someone you know about this practice peace challenge and ask them to participate as well.
During this practice peace challenge, we’d also like you to remember Michelle Obama’s inspiring motto: “When they go low, we go high.” So when you are exposed to hate and fear, take the high road and respond with peace and love.