RC Part 5 - Peace is Every Step
Categories: uncategorized
Date: 25 January 2008 18:39:43
Along with all the novels I have read this month I have been reading Peace is Every Step by Thich Nhat Hanh. The author is a Vietnamese Zen master, poet and peace activist. In Vietnam he founded a movement which helped with the rebuilding of villages that were destroyed by the bombs and for helping to resettle the refugees from the war zones.
The book addresses the struggles of life and the things that frustrate and antagonise us and encourages the reader to deal with these things head on, but with compassion and integrity. Initially I really struggled with the first half of the book as it seemed a bit ‘fluffy' but the second half was much easier to understand. His take on suffering is fascinating as he encourages the reader to spend time with people who are suffering as this is what nourishes compassion and understanding. His writings remind me very much of the Catholic priest Henri Nouwen's writings, in particular his take on compassion and suffering. It seems to me that Henri Nouwen and Thich Nhat Hanh would have found much common ground, despite their different religious affiliations.
Here is one of my favourite quotes from the book...
“The source of love is deep within us, and we can help others realise a lot of happiness. One word, one action, or one thought can reduce another person's suffering and bring him joy. One word can find comfort and confidence, destroy doubt, help someone avoid a mistake, reconcile a conflict, or open the door to liberation. One action can save a person's life or help him take advantage of a rare opportunity. One thought can do the same, because thoughts always lead to words and actions. If love is in our heart, every thought, word and deed can bring about a miracle. Because understanding is the very foundation of love, words and actions that emerge from out love are always helpful.”