The Association for Conflict Resolution is a group committed to ending all the destructive conflict in our world and has declared October 20, 2005, as Conflict Resolution Day across the United States. Many states have planned special events on this day to raise awareness and develop greater skill in resolving conflict. John D. Willis PhD, and Director of Graduate Studies in Dispute Resolution in Kentucky makes the following suggestions to celebrate this day, but they are great guidelines for each day of our lives:
- apologize for what you did
- forgive, accept an apology and move on
- stop negativity or gossip all day
- cancel a debt for someone who can't pay
- analyze why you are angry and get control of it
- tell the truth all day
- send an email of appreciation to someone who will be surprised
- lead your group in the right direction, all day
- present a workable solution to the group that shows goodwill
- sit with a lonely person and listen carefully to them
Think of the impact that forgiveness alone could have on conflict world-wide. Peace can only begin with each of us as individuals. Our world cannot be at peace if we cannot first cultivate peace between oursleves and those closest to us. "Let peace begin with me, let this be the moment now...."
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