Could You Do It?

 

  John watched his daughter, Kendra, sitting at the kitchen table, staring at her homework assignment. John asked his daughter, "So, is this an assignment on staring, or does your teacher expect you to write something?"

 "Hilarious, Dad." Kendra let out a big sigh before answering. "I'm supposed to write a paper on how to obtain world peace. But I have no idea how that could ever happen. There is conflict everywhere. I want to write that I think world peace is a myth. It is unattainable. People talk about world peace to have hope for a future that will never exist. But I'm sure I would flunk the assignment if I wrote that."

 "I agree with you on that. That you would flunk the assignment, that is. But, hey, I know a famous historical figure that would disagree with you. I'll be right back. " Five minutes later, Tom returned with a book in hand.

 "Seriously, Dad, the Bible? I go to public school, remember?"

 "Just hear me out. Read this line right here." John set the Bible on the table while holding his finger on Mark 10:34.

 Kendra began reading, "But they remained silent. They had been discussing among themselves in the way who was the greatest. Then he sat down, called the twelve, and said to them, "If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and servant to all." So what am I supposed to do with that, Dad?

 "You said you had no idea how peace could come to this world. Jesus gave us the answer some two thousand years ago. We have to care more about others than ourselves. He said we had to be servants to all, not just to whatever group we feel affiliated with."

 "So you want me to suggest that society has to become more humble and caring before we will know peace? Do you have any idea of how social media works? No one is following the humble, do-gooder. No political leader is going to rule because their greatest attribute is humility. You really don't get this at all, Dad."

 "I didn't say I had all the answers. You said it yourself there is conflict everywhere. The conflict must be answered on a personal level first before it can spread worldwide. Are you strong enough to put the needs of others before your own? It takes work to do that. But I like to imagine a world like this. It sounds very peaceful to me. It's worth considering."

 "It's definitely not the answer I was looking for, but it may be something to consider."

-Susan