TOMORROW’S SUNDAY

As we say goodbye to another challenging year, we might stop to wonder what we can resolve to do better.

But in an unstable world of conflict it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the task ahead.

How can one person make a difference?

Quakers strive to live by the testimonies of Peace, Equality, Simplicity and Truth but whatever your faith or none, we can actively support organisations that strive to maintain peace, justice and equality – we can join social justice groups that challenge decision makers and those who strive to protect our environment.

Working together we can make a difference.

But perhaps there is something more we can do closer to home?

Something that needs no commitment to religion or politics and costs us nothing.

To do this we need to look into our hearts and examine our own lives.

Do you ever find yourself saying, ‘I don’t deserve this – it’s not my fault – it’s their fault and someone will have to pay!’

We spend time and energy justifying our actions and blaming others and even better if the blame lands on nameless people who have no voice.

So, perhaps now is the time to let go of all anger, fear and bitterness.

If you do not wish for conflict in the world then begin by removing it from your own life.

Forgive those who have upset you.

Do not let others poke and prompt you or their actions define who you are.

Free yourself from anger and live in a way that demonstrates your care, compassion and love.

As George Fox asked of us, ‘Be patterns, be examples to all peoples, places, islands and nations wherever you may come.’

Let your life speak for a peaceful and harmonious world.

It isn’t going to be easy but we can all give it a go.