Obviously the conflict exists “outside” of us. In this case, the Mideast. But in another very real sense, what philosophers and religious and spiritual teachers have taught us throughout history is also true: The “outer world” is a reflection of the “inner world.” The conflict we see in the world around us reflects our inner conflict. We are conflicted and violent towards ourselves. We contain, constrict, and brutalize ourselves over any aspect of ourselves or the world we find displeasing. Furthermore, the reasons for the persistence of violence can also be found in the persistent themes in how we relate to ourselves: “It will never change,” “There’s nothing I can do,” “I’ll just ignore it,” “I’m too busy to focus on this.” When we accept these thoughts as part of us and our environment, we are more able to peacefully “move forward” in our lives. As we move forward, so does the world.
What We Will Learn
Peace from within creates peace in the world.
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