On this Feast Day of Saint Francis I imagine Francis would be most pleased with efforts that continue his peacemaking work.
Thus I am releasing a preview, a first draft, of a peacemaking pledge Taming the Wolf Institute will publish before the end of 2011.
The Pledge is a reminder of the steps we can take to resolve conflicts on a daily basis.
The Pledge
Lord, in order that I might be an instrument of your peace, I pledge…
I will seek to resolve conflict whenever possible.
I will seek to discover the divine, the image of God, in others.
I will attempt mediation or conciliation before taking an adversarial approach, such as filing a lawsuit.
I will seek to understand the needs others are trying to satisfy.
I will assess my true interests so that I may express them with clarity.
I will become aware of my biases and prejudices and work to diminish their effects.
I will use prayer in resolving conflict.
I will seek to see the other party as my brother or sister.
I will take a “time out” if my emotions are no longer under my control.
I will resist the urge to threaten the Face, the self-image, of others.
I will protect or restore the Face of others when necessary.
I will communicate my needs and expectations clearly and thus prevent misunderstanding.
I will detect and identify destructive hidden influences who use gossip, character assassination, or deception to fuel conflict.
I will seek to understand the role my behavior has played in conflict.
I will offer apologies for transgressions when appropriate.
I will seek to understand the way in which You have forgiven me.
I will examine my conscience and consider the way in which I need forgiveness.
I will seek to set aside the need for revenge.
I will seek to forgive others.
I will seek to help others forgive others.
I will seek to understand and have empathy for those who oppose me.
I will seek to be alert to false attributions of evil and correct the record.
I will seek to be aware of those situations in which evil that will cause harm to others is intended and I will go to the aid of those targeted.
I will seek to assist others achieve spiritual transformation.
I will help others draw upon the resources of faith to overcome their challenges.
I will seek to acknowledge others’ kindness, concessions, and apologies.
I will respect those who express desire to make reparations.
I will seek to be fair in my dealings and my negotiations.
I will seek the best way to satisfy my interests and while satisfying the interests of others.
I will be mindful of the habitual way I responding to conflict and will endeavor to collaborate in the search for a resolution.
I will commit agreements to writing in order to clarify my relationship with others and eliminate potential of confusion.
I will ask, “How does God see this conflict?”
I will seek to eliminate adverse consequences caused by clinging to pride, possessions, prestige, and position.
I will seek to assist others resolve conflicts ruining their life.
I will celebrate reconciliation when it takes place.
I will make others aware of Your love.
