Sunday Reflection - Pledge of Nonviolence

Pledging to become nonviolent in our actions -

Yesterday an Interfaith service was held at the Bisonette House in Buffalo, NY

People from several faith backgrounds gathered together, with families and friends, to remember those

who have been murdered in the community.

The Peace and Nonviolence March travelled along Grider Street and

finished in the Peace Park. Small white crosses had been

carefully placed to represent those who have died.

A name was written on each white dove in memory of

the death of a loved one.

Memorial candles were lit. The names were called out: women who had died from acts of domestic violence and young men and women from

street and gang violence.

People of different cultures, ages, and faiths took part in the service.

Family members and friends of the deceased.

Those in attendance were asked to think about what they had

witnessed today and asked to take the following

"Pledge of Nonviolence"

Making peace must start within ourselves, in our families, and in our community. Each of us, members of the greater Buffalo Community , commit ourselves as best we can to become nonviolent and peaceable people.

To Respect Self and Others.

To respect myself, to affirm others and to avoid uncaring criticism, hateful words, physical attacks and self-destructive behavior.

To Communicate Better

To share feelings honestly, to look for safe ways to express my anger and to work

at solving problems peacefully.

To Listen

To listen carefully to one another, especially those who disagree with me, and to consider others feelings and needs rather than insisting on having my way.

To Forgive

To apologize and make amends when I have hurt another,

to forgive others and to keep from holding grudges.

To Respect Nature

To treat the environment and all living things with respect and care.

To Play Sports Nonviolently

To promote athletic and recreational activities that encourage cooperation and to avoid social activities that make violence look exciting, funny or acceptable.

To Be Courageous

To challenge violence in all its forms whenever I encounter it and to

stand with others who are treated unfairly.

This is our pledge. These are our goals.

We will help each other become more peaceable people.

*****

This type of service has taken place in many communities

around the nation and the world.

It is important for people to take a stand and say

'enough is enough!'

*****

Blessed are those who work for peace; God will call them his children.

Matthew 5: 9

photos by peacesojourner