“The Paradox of Peace and Violence” In the quiet chambers of our hearts, where the echoes of our experiences resonate, lies a paradox: the interplay between peace and violence. It is here that we grapple with the delicate balance, seeking to understand what it truly means to be peaceful. The Stillness of Peace Peace is not mere absence; it is the presence of something profound. It is the tranquil lake reflecting the sky, undisturbed by ripples. It is the gentle breeze that whispers through ancient trees, carrying secrets of serenity. Peace is the refuge we seek when the world’s storms rage around us. But can one truly claim peace without acknowledging its counterpart? Is it enough to be harmless, like a lamb grazing in a meadow, unaware of the wolf’s shadow? Perhaps not. The Hidden Fire of Violence Violence, too, has its facets. It is not solely the brute force that shatters bones or tears apart cities. Violence can be subtle, a word laced with venom, a glance that wounds deeper than any blade. It resides within us, dormant yet potent, waiting for the right spark. To be capable of violence is to recognize our humanity, the raw, unfiltered essence that pulses through our veins. It is the same force that fuels creation, for every birth carries the echo of cosmic explosions. Violence is the shadow cast by our potential, the yin to peace’s yang. The Dance of Duality So, we find ourselves in this dance of duality. To be peaceful is not to deny our capacity for violence; it is to wield it consciously. Like a skilled swordsman who knows the blade’s weight and edge, we must understand our own darkness. True peace emerges when we integrate these seemingly opposing forces. It is the lotus blooming in the murky waters, a symbol of enlightenment rising from the mud. We become peaceful warriors, not denying our strength but channeling it toward compassion, justice, and healing. A Veteran’s Path As a veteran, I have walked the razor’s edge, the battlefield where violence and peace collide. My service dog, Ruger, loyal and steadfast, provides tactile solace, grounding me in moments of turmoil. In my writings, I have woven threads of vulnerability and resilience, bridging the gap between heartache and hope. Remember, that peace is not passivity; it is the courage to transform violence into understanding. As Tyler Childers sings, “I swear I’ve seen the devil in my daddy’s eyes, but I’ve also seen an angel in the light.” Both exist within us, the devil and the angel, the violence, and the peace. Concluding Thoughts I have learned, I must embrace my capacity for both. Be the calm before the storm and the storm itself. For in this delicate balance, I find the essence of being truly peaceful, a beacon of light in a world that often confuses harmlessness with harmony.