Re: Practical Peace
When I was younger (I'm really not that old now), in my teens and early twenties, I was highly competitive and kinda violent. I wouldn't normally pick a fight, but I certainly wouldn't avoid it either. I studied Muay Thai, Kyokushin, Kendo, Naginata (and a few other arts that I'm sure none of you have ever heard of), from the age of ten. I fought in school, I fought in competition, I fought anywhere and everywhere, against girls, boys, it didn't matter. I had an unquiet, angry mind. I took that mind into the service with me, and fought for my country.
It took a trip to the sandbox to make me appreciate how valuable peace and life are. Of course, if I have to use force to stop myself or others from being killed, I will. But, I'm tired of fighting, and now I'd rather just try to diffuse a situation than go and harm another living being.
The thing about violence is that it not only damages the other person, it damages a part of you, too. It eats away at your soul, keeping you from being completely happy and untroubled. So why not try to avoid it at all costs? It might be necessary, at times, to protect yourself or others, but it is still an awful thing, and a punch, once thrown, or a bullet, once fired, are irrevocable. You will remember that act of violence, and it will weigh on you like a bag of lead. You will become angry and frustrated and ashamed at the memory, and that anger and frustration can lead to more acts of violence. It's an ugly thing, so why not promote peace, joy, and balance in everything you do? To walk in beauty and balance, and to set a good example for others to follow is not a bad way to live, and lets you sleep better at night. A truly strong person will use force only as a last resort, and with an apology.
Last edited by Keoma : 06-01-2009 at 05:17 PM.
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