Deep within the still centers of our beings, may we find peace.
Silently within the quiet of our groves, may we share peace.
Gently, within the greater circle of humankind, we will radiate peace.
Many of my childhood summers were spent in France, Paris in particular. My father was a history professor, and while he did research in les archives, my mother and I would explore the city. Playgrounds, museums, cathedrals…we walked Paris and I loved it. It is indisputably a city of beauty, of light, and of love.
Today I’m afraid. I’m desperately afraid that today’s attacks in Paris are a tipping point. Like the Archduke’s assassination. Like Pearl Harbor. I’m afraid the world is going to burn, falling like ashes from the the slavering mouths of nationalism, racism, hatred, and fear.
I desperately want to be wrong. I’ve never wanted to be wrong so badly before in my life. And it’s up to each and every one of us who would claim the descriptor of “druid” to make sure that I am wrong. After the shock of tragedy passes don’t fall prey to the divisive sectarianism that will inevitably follow. Remember that peace is the purview of the druid. We may not be able to stand between armies as the druids of old did, but we can remind our friends and neighbors and family of their own humanity when media and politicians would whip them into a hateful frenzy. Pray for peace and make it manifest in your words, your conduct.
Prayers are verbs. So speak peace. Craft peace. Do peace. Throughout your communities and throughout the whole world.
Please.
The Druid's Well 
So right Catriona. So sad. Poor beautiful Parisand all within her bounds. Meditations, rituals, prayers for peace and healing, and thoughtful, peaceful actions and communications to encourage and nurture peace in our communities online and in person may be of help to combat the almost inevitable, surely self-destructive tsunami of backlash that will surely follow this violent earthquake. So sad. I too grieve tonight, and feel frightened for the world. Peace, and healing.
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Exactly right, Nancy. Sadly if Twitter is any indication, we’re going to have our work cut out for us.
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Thank you, Cat. Hope you saw my post from the Grandmothers Council. This is a wonderful way to start a world wide network of peace. love, see you Wednesday, Sarah >
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I did see the post about the Grandmothers Council–I’ll likely be participating from afar tonight. See you soon!
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I too lived in Paris for a while a long time back now, and I feel the sadness you express and share your fear of destructive reprisals. The plea for peace resonates with me too. May it touch the hearts of enough people to make a difference.
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It’s nice to hear that there are others out there of similar hearts and minds. Thank you.
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