Bartek Adobe Stock 742635218

IN THIS MOMENT
Continuing to Observe
The International Day of Peace
by Thomas P. Bonacci, C.P.

July 21, 2024

When the language of hate and violence becomes normative in the political speech of a Nation, hate and violence will ensue in the streets of that Nation and tempt its citizens to act accordingly.

The Interfaith Peace Project has long advocated for speech and behavior befitting the dignity of the human person regardless of their religious or political persuasion. How we speak about an issue is as important as the issue about which we speak. Extremists waste no time in blaming others for what they themselves do, say, and think.

In this time of extremism, fair-minded people must stop and consider what is at stake. Violence begets violence. Those concerned with decency and justice must engage family, friends, and associates in peaceful dialogue influencing others by the sincere example of their patience, honesty, courage, and humility.

Governmental, political, religious, and civil leaders of all persuasions must set an example for anyone concerned about the common good of the Nation and the World. Several elements come to mind:

1.      Challenge your own way of thinking and speaking committing yourself to fair-mindedness about the issues of the day with a deep love for others who may see things differently,

2.     Realize we are suspectable to extremist perspectives and ideas. A healthy person explores their conscience to ensure their thinking and acting are based on enhancing the rights and dignity of all people,

3.     Read, study, and explore the News of the day from multiple perspectives dedicated to conveying truth, facts, and opinions with openness and concern for the common good,

4.     Finally, America is an armed Nation. The combination of intolerance and bullets endangers not only the safety of the Nation and its people but also the very Institutions upon which the progressive and dynamic vision of the Nation was established with liberty and justice for all. Violence and the temptation to demean others must have no place in our hearts.

The Interfaith Peace Project pledges anew to continue to do all we can to foster and promote understanding, peace, and respect among people. We are proud to stand in solidarity with you as we pursue what is right, just, true, good, and beautiful. Gratitude to you for witnessing to the peace born of justice and for practicing the speech born of respect.