Does the war in Ukraine mean that in order to live with more joy and grace and less fear and anger we need to run out and take up arms or develop aggressiveness and a warlike stance? Not at all. What we want to do is embody the spirit of a warrior and bring that to function in our daily lives. “Spirit” refers to that which gives life. “Warriors” live a life of action and clear direction. We can bring warrior-spirit to the cause of peace and harmonious connection because it is about life and living, not power and aggression. Warrior-spirit is a frame of mind that lets us make a habit of cultivating the qualities and skills that are already available to all of us.
Such a warrior stance, of course, implies a warrior tradition through a nonviolent lens that asks: “Who will you fight for?” on behalf of justice and peace. What does it mean to be a warrior-sage for these times such as ours? Who will you fight for?
What will you risk? It begins with honoring the fight impulse in you. Think about what breaks your heart. Notice what it feels like to have your fists clench, your jaw close, your pulse quicken. Notice what it feels like to want to fight back. Honor that in yourself. You are alive and have something worth fighting for.
But it is a fight for life not death, love not hate, equality not division, for others not yourself. Now comes the second moment: How will you channel that into something that delivers life instead of death? Breathe. Think. Pray. Then choose your sword and shield. You don’t have to know the answers. You just have to be ready for the moment when the world says: Fight for this!
Consider who Jesus fought for. Make that your prayer as you enter into 2023.
Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, have mercy on me a sinner.
From the Bible:
“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” John 16:33.
“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all” 2 Thessalonians 3:16.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid” John 14:27.
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