We enter the Season for Non-violence by honoring the legacy passed down by the great leaders Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King, Jr. Influenced by the passionate civil disobedience of Henry David Thoreau, they both were able to effect great change through non-violent methods.
Thoreau went to jail rather than compromise his beliefs. He stood on principle and resisted what he considered oppressive laws. There was no bloodshed in his actions yet the message was conveyed loud and clear. Through his example others were ignited in their own paths toward freedom.
Gandhi may have been the first one to free a nation not by raising an army but by holding to an intention. "God hath made the mind of man free." wrote Jefferson. Gandhi took that pearl and others to heart as he lived his life in service to the "idea" of a "free India". He achieved his goal in non-violent ways.
It is no wonder that Martin Luther King, Jr. would look to this great man as an example of one who was able to manifest freedom through peaceful tactics.
Following the teachings of Jesus, Dr. King would pray for his enemies. Freedom was born in both cases through a transcended consciousness that came from the heart.
We honor this time as a Season for Non-Violence as we remember these two great leaders, Gandhi and King and their inspired dreams. As we cultivate peace in our hearts and move through our lives in non-violent ways we pass on their legacy.
Our new Peace Pole is a first step. May those who read it take it to heart. Expressed in many languages, the message is a clarion call to inner and outer action. Let us shout it from the highest rooftops, "LET PEACE PREVAIL ON EARTH!"
We know that it has to begin with us. Isn't that perfectly wonderful. Touch your hearts as you breathe in Peace and exhale as you smile.
Affirm with me: "Peace flows like a river in my heart. Established in this calm serenity I contagion the world with Living Peace. This inner tranquility manifests all around me as a deep Peace that passes all understanding is right now established on earth as it is in heaven. In gratitude for Gandhi and King we honor their efforts. We embody their message and accept the blessing of Peace on earth, good will among all."

Namasté

David