Angeles Arrien

Three Essential Practices for Decreasing Violence

Identifying Three Essential Strengthening Practices for Decreasing Violence Toward Ourselves and Others

0. Where we are critical, judgmental, or hold harsh assessments of self, others, and circumstances, signals where we have compassion work or heart work to do. The Dalai Lama reminds us, “Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive.” Karen Armstrong’s launching of the Charter for Compassion is an effort to promote the principles of the Golden Rule across the religious and global spectrums. Archbishop Tutu in his book, No Future Without Forgiveness, says that wherever our heart or mind is closed is where we have forgiveness work to do. (See more resources on Love & Forgiveness-www.fetzer.org)

   Reflection:

   • What or who elicits your compassionate nature? How can you cultivate and extend more compassion and love into your life? Review at the end of the day where you extended compassion towards yourself and others.
   • What forgiveness work do you have to do with yourself and others? Extend at least one act of forgiveness to yourself and others this month.

0. Where we experience jealousy, envy or are constantly comparing ourselves to others, signals where we have strengthening work regarding our self-respect, self-trust, and self-value; or a need to maintain our self-esteem where we no longer need to inflate or deflate our nature.

   Reflection:

   • What gifts, strengths, skills and character qualities do you have that consistently inspire you? When jealousy, envy, or comparison is ignited, give gratitude for the gifts, blessings and opportunities in your life.
   • Where do you trust and respect your self? These are the areas of your life, both internally and externally, where you experience confidence and self-sufficiency. Charting these areas for yourself will show you where jealousy, envy, and comparison cannot enter.

0. Where we experience free-floating anxiety or stay in states of fear, signals where we need to expand, or go deeper in order to access our courage and curiosity. Fear and anxiety constricts our nature. It paralyzes our ability to see new possibilities or respond creatively to circumstances.

   Reflection:

   • All of the Spiritual Traditions of the world have singing or chanting in their liturgical music...an ancient recognition that you cannot sing or chant and be afraid or anxious at the same time. Sing or chant everyday to alleviate fear and anxiety in your life.
   • During the month of October, track daily your acts of courage; and where you stayed more curious than fearful.

When we demonstrate more compassion than judgment; more self-respect and trust than envy or comparison; more courage than fear; then we will contribute to significantly decreasing violence toward ourselves and others in the world.

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