Rays of Sunshine Through the Clouds

By Myrna Krehbiel

 

Living in a nation at war, in the midst of violence and obsession with security, where freedom seems to be something one "wins" by force, how does one create more peace?  By marching, protesting, mediating, confronting, loving, sacrificing?  What really works to connect people across differences?

 

These were some of the questions I was thinking about in April this year.  I was extremely sad about the loss of life, property and sense of safety in Iraq, to which "my country" contributed in the name of freedom.  Also, I was disappointed in the lack of interest shown in the ten war-related discussion events scheduled that month at Peace Connections.  It seemed to me that many people were apathetic.  I felt like I was alone in the midst of a long, dark night and considered taking some extended time off from my work as director of Peace Connections.

 

Fortunately, when I voiced my concerns, the listening hearts and generous spirits of my husband, Randy, and the Peace Connections "staff," Cathy, Marilyn, Mary and Marlene, helped me create some time and space to heal.  I was reminded that those who work for peace must care for themselves as well as each other, and that there can be strength in allowing oneself to be vulnerable enough to ask for help.

 

In the last several weeks, I have released some expectations of myself and have discovered ways to embrace the pain and powerlessness in peacemaking.  I am thankful for new rays of light in the long dark night, including:

§         Forty-eight LatchKey Kids and staff at Peace Connections these past weeks, learning how to treat each other with love and respect.

§         Staff and volunteers of Peace Connections who have shown great devotion and dedication.

§         Five outstanding new board members!  One of the most exciting and hopeful signs that Peace Connections will be moving toward creating more peace is the "YES" to become board members of five gifted persons who are passionate about peace.

§         Contributions from individuals in May ($1,875) that more than doubled contributions in April ($819.50).  With help from churches, we came within $80 of meeting expenses for May.  [Our year-to-date shortage, however, is $3,479.51.]

 

As I reflect on this experience, I realize again that, much as I would like to, I can't create a garden of peace overnight.  But, even though I don't always recognize the seeds I've planted, I will continue to nurture their growth with faith, love, and the help of people around me.