Abe F. March

There are various forms of peace.  Peace instead of war is perhaps the most publicized, however maintaining the peace in a family setting is more common.

Controversy over a multitude of issues can lead to estrangement unless there is a medium for reconciliation.  The role of peacemaker is difficult and often overlooked.

Throughout my life I have found myself by default in the role of peacemaker.  Trying to diffuse tensions between two or more parties caused sleepless nights and turmoil trying to find a solution. Often the antagonism of the opponents would be turned against me as common ground to vent frustrations.  They reconciled and I became the Fall Guy or Scapegoat. 

As a father it was my role to resolve problems between siblings.  As a manager it was my duty to resolve issues between employees.  As an international entrepreneur it was important to see both sides of political issues without taking sides.  Not taking sides left me open to criticism and supposition by perception. Taking a stand requires lots of courage especially when that stand goes against strong opposition. 

I have found that there are always two sides to a story and that the truth lies somewhere in the middle.  The peacemaker tries to understand both sides of the issue and bring the sides together.  That is most difficult when one side is dominant or more powerful and their views forced on their opponent.  When peace is achieved by force it is temporary.  Peace with justice survives. 

My experience in the Middle East changed my views dramatically with learning. To keep the peace, I could not share my views openly. When I decided to speak out against injustice, I was severely criticized and my patriotism questioned.  My inner peace was shattered.  Patience and understanding was required to heal the wounds and restore inner peace. 

In my view, Jimmy Carter is a good example of a peacemaker.  His work at the Carter Center in Georgia is devoted to world peace.  He has no political agenda and his courage to stand up for peace with justice makes him the target of criticism by powerful opposition groups. 

Many seek peace only on their terms.  That is not a Win-Win strategy and bound to fail. Peace requires compromise. 

Blessed are those who work for peace.