Patty Mayeux Blog

Peace is elusive, an intangible concept, yet it needs space. It can’t reside in a heart that holds anger, resentment, fear, judgement and misunderstanding; things that lead to hatred even when disguised as witty sarcasm. I struggle with all of the above. Peace inward first, then peace outward. They both elude my crowded, weary heart. I push peace away whenever I slap labels of racist or hateful upon anyone who supports policies that deny rights or safety to groups or individuals for the mere reason that they are “other.” My fighting words add to the war and choke out the possibility of peace. Can I cast off my hatred of the haters to make room? Perhaps that’s the way to peace; to stand for instead of against by seeking understanding and commonality; to be an example of acceptance toward all. It’s an impossible challenge, but it may be the only way to calm the dark clouds threatening to cast storms more powerful than any tornado, tsumani or hurricane. Imagine a day, one day, when sharpened swords and poisoned pens are set aside to make room for peace. I’m willing to give it a try.