In our lives we come across many types of people with different upbringings and life situations. We come across those who have gone through pain and suffering, and those who think that they are above all. Ask yourself this question, have you come across those people who – just out of the blue – stir up trouble everywhere they go? I am sure that you have and it is not a pleasant place to be when you’re around that person. On the other hand, have you been around someone who can be in the middle of an argument and seem to de-escalate it with just a few kind words? I am sure you have as well.
In this new year, we must all try to resemble the latter. Bring peace not only in your life, but in the lives of the plenty. Where there is unrest, try to bring rest. Build your inner peace and spread it to all around you. Times will be tough, but if you have the love of Christ in you, you may become the beacon of joy to the plenty. Therefore, next time you find yourself in a bad or uncomfortable situation, choose not to join in and make it worse. Choose instead to ask God to help you make and keep the peace.
Rev. Fr. Movses Shannakian