The Courage for Peace: Daring to Create Harmony in Ourselves and the World

Even during so-called "times of peace," there always seems to be an enemy to fight in the United States, notes author and peace activist Louise Diamond. "Whether the 'they' are immigrants, those who disagree with our views on abortion or environmental matters, members of another political party... a combative approach has become our social norm." And then there's the material greed that leads us to become viciously protective of self-interests and personal property.

Of course it's easy to feel defeated and powerless in the face of these overwhelming cultural norms. Fortunately, it is also easy to feel inspired and hopeful after reading Louise Diamond's excellent discussion on how one person, one soul, can help create national and even global peace. Like Jane Goodall's bestselling memoir, A Reason for Hope, Diamond shows us how spiritual commitment and an unwillingness to succumb to despair can lead to global change. Peace is not so much an outcome--such as no war--it is a daily choice that has a ripple effect. For those who crave more overt activism she includes a lengthy "Peace Resource Guide," with numerous global programs for peacemaking. --Gail Hudson