Peace, derived through self-love, is a much misunderstood and underrated brand of activism. This idea has really been on my mind lately; specifically the effects of inner peace in regard to interactions with others and the broader world.
We all must begin with loving ourselves if we want to be part of a bigger peaceful solution. Our strivings are too great otherwise to be kept up with any kind of continuity. When peace is an outside job, it becomes something we do, instead of being something we are. Don’t we all eventually burn out from doing? Don’t we all thrive and shine bright from being?
Self-development isn’t self-indulgent. Self-love isn’t narcissism which is rooted in fear. Starting where you are is the only place anyone can begin.
Listen to the persistent call inside your own heart – that is an act of love. Keep listening. Keep answering. Keep loving yourself as a practice so you ready your heart to love others and the planet. It is the truest way to be part of a lasting peaceful solution for the world. Self-love is the greatest act of love and the only true gift to the world you can ever give; the one gift that allows all others to be authentic. To be peace, you must love yourself.
As poet, Mary Oliver expresses so beautifully, “Love yourself. Then forget it. Then, love the world.”
