This Peace Council discussed embodying the change we seek in the world. With attention to breath and through movement, we can slow the body rhythms and pace, increase awareness, and find peace within. Through connecting with nature, walking with bare feet on the earth, clowning, and other practices, we can re-center ourselves in peace which allows others to resonate with us in that vibration. We need to develop leaders who can embody the qualities of peace they are trying to convey.

The Council also considered the role of art and ritual. Art is a universal language that, cutting across cultures, allows us to connect both to inner peace and to share that with others. It is a powerful vehicle for transformation and healing. Art is to be used for the greater good, with creative projects for social activism. The artist can be a conduit for peace through creative expression, and can ground inspiration in physical form. Art can be a personal path of awakening and also be used to create sacred space for spontaneity and self-expression.

This Council created the Seeds of Peace ritual, using movement, poetry and music to symbolize the planting seeds which grow into mature trees and blossom and spread on the wind to grow ever more seeds of peace. This ritual ultimately became the concluding metaphor for the entire conference.

On the subject of inner peace, the Council discussed the need to balance masculine and feminine energies, as well as activism and inner peace. We need to be rooted in inner peace so that we add not one single spark of additional violence to the world. The higher the vibration we send into the world, the more impact we make. Inner peace leads to joy. In fact, one goal is to make the journey so happy that others get happy when they see you. Trust life, and feel that the starts are kissing our faces. Meditation is a useful practice for all of this.

Regarding relationships, the Council discussed the need to notice and allow feelings and needs, of ourselves and others. We need to acknowledge our interconnectedness and especially practice compassion, as we are all suffering. When we embrace the feminine, we bring more compassion, loving, and nurturing into our lives. In this regard, we must engage with people whether we agree with them or not, and practice forgiveness. Kindness is something we can give and receive every day.

The Council spoke of spiritual agriculture and Mother Earth changes, connecting with the plants and herbs for healing, and for detoxification of self and planet in these challenging times. It is important to be partners with nature. In this and all things we must act with regard to future generations.

Resources from this Council include:

Vessels of Peace - www.vesselsofpeace.org

Our Earth Connection - www.ConsciousLifeQuest.com

Joseph's blog - www.explorelifeblog.com