Peace is something WE create or not. We have the power to choose peace and experience it.Today as i sit to write i have just returned from the silken beach shores of Mauritius- an island of Peace. this tiny island is a place where there is an unbelievable blending of cultural richness- all living together with deep respect.
No its not a lie- here in the middle of the Indian Ocean, between India and Africa lies an island that has embraced a cultural diversity in the most peaceful way i have ever seen. In fact i am now imbued with a renewed sense of trust that Hindu, Muslim, catholic, can all co-exist not in tolerance but actual respect.
The Mauritians are a culture of warmth, generosity, grace and charm- Since gaining independence in 1968 - they have a Democratic elected government which represents fairly the interests of all different denominations on the island. most impressive is the education system- one where all faiths and languages are taught- where every kid learns of all the cultures on the island.
In my conversations with Mauritians i was surprised to learn of this peaceful life- where the quality of life is measured in relaxation- in kindness- and in a sense of well being- of course it helps that it is tropical paradise- that the immense physical beauty of the land holds each person with a breath of beauty- But it is not just that - there are many beautiful places on the planet - the Congo is one of them- but certainly not inherently home to a culture of peace.
After talking to Kavi our taxi driver about his thoughts he said- "its quiet here- we have a culture of being open and warm of talking with one another- of opening up our houses- we like to see happiness- its just the way we are" he went on to say " we are taught very early to be able to understand our differences and to make space for all beliefs. When the white South Africans first came here- they bought with them the mentality of Apartheid- but now it has been all but eradicated because of our education system and the way the island is governed-"
Peace is something we create- it is something we choose each one of us - with in ourselves. After just one week on this magical island i saw more peace in peoples hearts and souls- i saw more genuine kindness and concern-not our of obligation- but out of walking a path of peace and respect for the other. My intention- is to embrace this peace from within- if my cells are at peace then so is my energy- i then can create waves of peace around me as i move through the world- this is the way one peaceful step at a time.....this week i practice breathing peace-
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