Let there be peace on Earth

This is the season when everyone says "Peace on Earth and goodwill to mankind."

Often the same people who say this will, at other times of the year, say stuff like, "Nuke em all and let Allah sort em out."

I was originally going to write about how peace is not politically correct nowadays. But then I realized that peace is rarely politically correct. Peace takes discipline. It takes mental fortitude. Sometimes it means sacrificing your pride and your ego for a greater good.

War and other forms of violence (physical or verbal) are the opposite. They are easy. They are self-indulgent. You can just lash out. You just let your rage take over.

Think about it. If someone calls you a mean name, which is harder: ignoring the guy or punching him in the face.

Of course, self-restraint is precisely what is (supposed to be) the difference between children and adults. When children see their adult role models so painfully lacking in self-discipline, it's not shocking that they act the same way.

I thought about all this for two reasons. I think about such things during the holiday season when everyone wishes their neighbors peace and the like. It's one of those things in society that people say a few weeks out of the year to assuage their conscience but they ignore their own advice most of the rest of the year.

The other reason is because I heard a documentary on the song "Let There Be Peace on Earth," which is song at a lot of churches and other places.

It's a great song. Simple, but pointed.

Let there be peace on earth
And let it begin with me


This is simple: peace is not something that occurs with peace treaties signed by presidents. Peace can only truly occur if individuals buy into it.

Let There Be Peace on Earth
The peace that was meant to be


Peace should be the default state of being. Any other state is because humans screw it up.


With God as our Father
Brothers all are we
Let me walk with my brother
In perfect harmony.


If you believe in Christianity, then we are all children of God. All brothers. It's a lot harder to wish violence on someone when you consider them your brother.

Let peace begin with me
Let this be the moment now.


Not when you get around to it. Not from time to time. Not only during the Christmas season.


With ev'ry step I take
Let this be my solemn vow;
To take each moment and live
Each moment in peace eternally


It's not a situational decision. It's a lifestyle. It's a fundamental belief.


Let there be peace on earth
And let it begin with me

Enough said.