As a student of world history, I鈥檓 fascinated by the World War I Christmas Truce of 1914. Along a great stretch of the Western Front, opposing soldiers from the Allied Powers and Central Powers鈥攎uch to the dismay of their commanders鈥攑articipated in an unofficial ceasefire. They left their trenches to exchange greetings, sing carols, and play soccer. This pause of hostilities amid the carnage of battle is one of the finest examples of humanity鈥攁 time when a spirit of peace, however brief, prevailed. In our time, too, we could use some more peace.
The world is a complicated place, full of beauty and wonder and still imperfect and unsettling. From geo-political conflicts to ideological clashes closer to home, there are troubling circumstances seemingly everywhere that bear no semblance of peace. I鈥檓 not na茂ve. There鈥檚 no magic wand to wave to bring harmony about. I understand that as long as flawed people and systems exist, there will always be various forms of suffering and injustice. We can, though, shine light in the darkest places that need it most.
Making peace with those in our immediate proximity should be high on our priority list. Personal relationships can be very challenging to navigate from family members, co-workers, and neighbors. What begins as a minor offense can sometimes bring about a rift which can grow deeper and wider if left unresolved. Then, feelings are hurt, and our pride divides us. My advice is, if it鈥檚 within your power, let go of a grudge. Mend a fence if you can. I鈥檝e learned that peace doesn鈥檛 require perfect agreement, but an openness to understanding and mutual respect.
If we鈥檙e honest, though, the first place to seek peace is within ourselves. As individuals, we should be our own toughest critic, seeking avenues for improvement. Inevitably we all wrestle with all sorts of self-doubt鈥攊nsecurities, regrets, mistakes, and frustrations. Charity begins at home, so don鈥檛 forget to forgive yourself. Don鈥檛 allow your faults to dominate your personality. Admit your shortcomings but resolve to never be overwhelmed by them. Yes, peace begins inwardly.
The soldiers that fostered the Christmas Truce all those years ago had an instinct
for peace. I believe that we, too, have an inclination for peace. And while a truce
is a temporary stoppage of fighting, let鈥檚 hope for peace that lasts. 鈥淏lessed are
the peacemakers鈥� is a maxim of my faith tradition and one that鈥檚 served as a guide
throughout my life. May we all become peacemakers in our own capable ways. 鈥楾is the
season to spread a little more goodwill.
Merry Christmas! Happy holidays!