To attain peace (especially in circumstances where conflict is particularly deep rooted) may seem like a difficult and daunting task. I would suggest, however, that it is actually easier than we think. It is only that we seldom learn or properly apply the strategies that inspire peace within ourselves and others. 

​

     I will admit that I do not have all of the solutions. The Quest for Peace is an open source project that invites each participant to contribute their own ideas and strategies. There are many ways to approach the problem of conflict, and what is most important is that we gauge the effectiveness of our strategies honestly and remain willing to shift course if our attempts prove unfruitful. 

​

      What I offer here in terms of strategy will be a basic outline on which I intend for all of us to build upon and refine as we go. One of our greatest strengths in this quest will be to exemplify the power of unified intellect and harmonious cooperation. 

​

       Additionally, I encourage everyone invested in this effort to digest some of the Resources for Peacemaking and to read and abide by the Peacemaker's Rules of Engagement. If you would like to submit some of your own favorite resources on this subject, we would be more than glad to include them among the list.

​

      Our Peaceful Strategies can be categorized in 3 steps which should be followed consecutively for maximum effectiveness:

​

       1. Make peace within - This first step involves dealing only with your own inner world. We will address the conflict within our own minds and hearts, learning to quell and release our own anger, pride, judgment, and negative thinking. We will learn to navigate and master all of the inner workings which steal away from our sense of calmness, confidence, and peace of mind. Exercises, practices, wisdom, and inspiration will be provided to aid you in this personal transformation process, though every one is more than welcome to take this idea and work through it on their own terms, using their own guides and resources independently toward this end.

​

      2. Make peace privately - This second step involves your personal relationships and your immediate community. Wherever there is conflict between you and someone you personally know, you are encouraged to address this and seek to reconcile with them in order to put an end to that conflict. For the purpose of building momentum it is suggested you work on this in order of magnitude. Begin with the smallest possible conflicts in your relationships. Anywhere there is a mild tension or unresolved grudge, we encourage you to send out an olive branch and implement peacemaking strategies with that person. (Note that not everyone may be ready to receive your peace offering, and it is important that you remain unattached to the outcome. It is enough that you make the effort of releasing all judgments, grudges, and tensions you hold against these people. You should not enable them back into your life if they remain a toxic influence, simply wish them the best from afar and relinquish any anger or bitterness you hold from your own end.)

​

       3. Offer peace to all- After you have quelled the storms within yourself and your immediate connections you are ready for the final task: give peace to the world. This may take many forms, such as mediating between other friends, offering kindness to distraught strangers, de-escalating an ongoing conflict happening in a public place--or simply leaving notes, creating art, or giving speeches to inspire peace in others. Sometimes it is enough to hold your peace strongly and confidently in the face of conflict or to simply remain non-reactive to another's insults or attacks.