I joined the peace bloggers in 2012. And every November 4th since then, I have blogged for — and about — peace.
This year’s theme is “Peace in the time of quarantine.” Although I do not believe in the possibility of world peace (because war and other international conflicts are never our personal choice but are fostered by others or foisted on us by circumstances), I do believe in personal peace, in finding peace within ourselves no matter what happens to provoke us into chaos.
We tend to think of peace as a passive thing. An absence of strife. Effortless calm. Yet, when we talk of unrest and chaos (or whatever is the opposite of peace), it’s always about action, doing something, committing something — committing acts of terrorism, declaring war, fighting, rioting, tormenting, bullying.
Maybe peace is also about action, about committing acts of peace. We as individuals can’t arrange truces between warring factions, whether global or familial. We can’t bring peace to chaotic countries — ours or anyone else’s. Often the best we can do is bring peace to our own lives, arrange a truce between our inner and outer selves, find a way to ease our anger, create art (because people who are involved in creating a piece of art are also creating a space for peace), meditate or take a walk. Commit acts of peace.
It’s odd to think that this time of quarantine, which because of enforced isolation and orders to stay at home should have been a time of peace, has been one of the most violent times in recent years. But the country at large, especially the bigger cities have been ablaze with chaos.
Of course, being forced into isolation — any sort of force, actually — can’t bring about peace. It’s no wonder people were so ready to erupt into violence — isn’t that some sort of law of physics? Equal and opposite reaction and all that? On a smaller scale, victims of abuse were forced into situations where they had no escape, so for these people, instead of bringing about peace, the quarantine brought about more horror.
Apparently, I have nothing positive to say about peace in the time of quarantine, even though my own life during this time has been quiet and contemplative. I’ve managed to stay away from strife — except for occasionally getting riled up by all the lies and idiocies going on. I’ve even managed to commit acts of peace — if only by taking solitary walks, blogging, reading, enjoying a rare visit with friends.
If you don’t have a blog or think this a hopeless cause, you can still participate in this event by committing an act of peace. I hope you will.
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Bertram's Blog 
November 4, 2020 at 12:04 pm
You’re right… We have to actively work on peace. Peace is not being passive.
Thanks, this is food for thought. I wish you peace!
November 4, 2020 at 12:05 pm
Your quiet and wise call to action is just what the world needs to hear. So many are turning inward to renew their strength and purpose during this time of solitude. Thank you for your words. Congratulations on your newest book publication! Widely sharing.
Peace to you and yours,
Mimi
November 4, 2020 at 12:18 pm
Thank you! If you share on FB, be sure to use the following link, otherwise it won’t post: https://dragonmyfeet.wordpress.com/2020/11/04/dona-nobis-pacem-bertrams-blog/
November 4, 2020 at 12:19 pm
OK. I will correct that link!
November 4, 2020 at 12:31 pm
Thank you. I’m working on my inner peace treaty. I needed your encouragement.
November 4, 2020 at 1:41 pm
An inner peace treaty is important. Best of luck!
November 4, 2020 at 12:59 pm
I love “Commit acts of peace.” We need all of those we can get! Love your peace globe.
November 4, 2020 at 1:42 pm
Thank you.
November 4, 2020 at 2:55 pm
Indeed, it is sad that peace may always have to be an internal thing. There are so many factors that are beyond individual control. Frustration to the young and resignation to the old.
November 4, 2020 at 5:49 pm
Exactly. So much of what is happening these days is truly beyond our individual control. I don’t like it, and it’s frustrating, but it is what it is.