Matterofprayer: A Year of Everyday Prayers – Thursday, March 24, 2016
Definitions of PEACE, Anonymously
Continuing on my Pursuing PEACE Project, I noticed that several people did not want to give me their names. They were quite willing to give me their personal definitions of PEACE, but no names. They wished to remain anonymous.
(And, thanks, Oakton Community College, for allowing me to come in to the space next to the cafeteria and set up a table. I appreciate members of the Oakton Christian Fellowship for sitting by me and providing a welcome, too.)
Today, I will feature two anonymous people and their personal definitions.
The first definition was: “PEACE is a brownie cupcake for all to share.”
I was intrigued at this definition! I followed up with a question: “could you tell me more about that fascinating statement?” The response made so much sense. “Food brings everyone together. People would be much more likely to get along much better if they could sit down and eat together.”
As we talked further, I could tell this was not the only thing on the student’s mind. “An awful lot of people don’t have enough to eat. Some people barely have enough for one meal a day. I think if we make a real effort to feed people, that will help to bring about PEACE, too.”
A second anonymous student wrote: “PEACE is harmony.”
This older person (older than the typical college student) was thoughtful, even pensive, before writing this brief definition. When I asked the student whether there was anything further to say about that brief statement, the student said gently but firmly, “No. That’s all.” Looking at the sheet of paper and deciding that was exactly what they wanted to say, the student nodded slightly at the written definition. And, walked quietly away.
Again, I am absolutely intrigued by the sheer variety and colorfulness of the personal definitions of PEACE. I wonder what stories people will have for me tomorrow?
Gracious God, thank You so much for these brief encounters I have with people. Help me to be genuine and loving as I talk with them. Thank You for Your PEACE that passes human understanding, dear Lord. Thank You for reconciling us to You and making PEACE a possibility. Amen.
(Reminder: I will be posting more from the young people at St. Viator’s High School next week, after Easter. Have a great Spring Break and a joyful Holy Week and Easter celebration!)
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