Peace isn’t just a lofty ideal or a distant dream—it’s a gift. It’s the first gift Christ offers: “My peace I give to you” (John 14:27). But it’s not a passive gift we receive. It’s active, challenging, and deeply personal. There are words of our day we can hang onto and peace is one of those words. In fact, Pope Leo has spoken about peace, 100 days, every day he’s been in office.
Peace begins with each one of us: in the way we look at others, listen to others and speak about others. In this sense, the way we communicate is of fundamental importance: We must say “no” to the war of words and images, we must reject the paradigm of war.
Pope Leo IV
Peace asks something of us. It nudges us to look inward—to check our pride, let go of grudges, and think twice before we speak. Because let’s be honest: words can hurt just as much as actions. Who hasn’t said something in anger and regretted it later?
Building peace starts in the heart. It’s in the quiet decision to forgive, the choice to listen instead of lash out, the moment we pause before hitting “send” on that heated message. These small shifts matter.
And here’s where faith and dialogue come in. When we truly respect each other’s beliefs and create space for honest conversation, we lay the groundwork for peace. But that only works if everyone’s free to live their faith openly—because spirituality isn’t just a private thing. It shapes how we treat others, how we heal, and how we grow.
So what can we do? Start small. Choose peace in one moment today. Speak with kindness. Let go of the need to be right. That’s how peace begins—not in headlines, but in hearts.
Smitten With Goodness 