"Think globally. Act locally."
It's a slogan that activists have been using for years. Let's help the environment by recycling our paper and cans. Let's contribute against global warming by riding our bikes or taking the bus more often.
But how can this same concept be applied to peace making?
Violence can exist in our everyday lives as easily as it can in wars fought in foreign nations. Insulting words, schoolyard brawls, marital arguments -- these are things that take place every day and yet we don't seem to think of them as violence on the same level as a war fought with guns and grenades.
However, violence can involve emotional and verbal abuse, as well as physical and sexual assaults. If we can't stop violence in our own back yards, we can't be expected to have much effect on a larger scale.
So what can be done to bring more peace in our everyday lives? Change can start with us. We should watch our language and tone when we are in conflict with others. Fists should not be raised. We should teach values of kindness and gentleness to our children. When there is conflict, we must not resort to accusations and name-calling. Speak out against domestic abuse and other forms of abuse.
Encouraging peaceful resolutions to problems that occur in day to day life is one of the most influential things you can do as a peace maker. The reason is that not only are you doing something positive for society, but setting an example that others may follow. Takin part in peace marches and rallies is not enough. We have to live what we believe.
There is another slant on the slogan that began this article. A friend of a friend likes to say that you may not be able to change the world, but you can change the world around you.
Let's try to change the world around us each and every day.
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