Today amazon.com sent me “The Gulag Archipelago” by Alexander Solzhenitsyn. He’s the man who wrote,
“Gradually it was disclosed to me that the line separating good and evil passes not through states, nor between classes, nor between political parties either, but right through every human heart, and through all human hearts.”
I believe this is true. Nearly twenty years ago I first pondered Solzhenitsyn’s insight. Again and again I need to revisit how I live, what I believe, how I speak.
The instigation for reading “The Gulag Archipelago” comes from the recent shooting in Arizona. I am aware that this is a lie: “Sticks and stones may break my bones but names will never hurt me.” Words–and names–do hurt, or heal. Words console, uplift, and inspire. Words instigate condemnation, contempt, and violence. Physical violence always begins with words, first. So I ask:
- What words do you choose to use?
- How do your actions amplify your thoughts?
- You are powerful–how can your personal power be life-giving?
- Where is the line between good and evil drawn in your heart?
These are questions worth pondering. Please join me in asking them. Seek healing and wholeness, dignity and integrity. Right now, today.
Please offer a prayer for all victims of violence in our world–and all perpetrators. “May there be peace on earth, and may it begin with me.”