As we confront our own suffering and work toward inner peace, we also become more sensitive to the suffering of other people. Our hardened hearts begin to soften and open. We no longer need to project our despised qualities onto others, because we have acknowledged and made peace with them in ourselves. One, who is different from us, now simply becomes a fellow member of the human family. Fear gives way to understanding and we recognize our shared essence and destiny as "one people of the earth." It is then that we realize that our best guarantee of safety is to live in a just world that values the worth and dignity of all people.

The Waking Planet image is a joyful symbol of the peace that is possible within you and in our world. I dedicate it to the courageous and loving spirit of all who, moment by moment, choose love over fear and consciousness over denial. May it remind you of your inherent wholeness, strength and goodness and the unique role you have to play in contributing to a saner, healthier and more loving world.

All acts of self-healing heal the world!