Conversations of Peace
Trust
A Son says to his Mother: "Mother, today I fought with my friend."
His Mother says: "Why did you fight with your friend?"
"Because he demanded something from me, and I would not give it to him."
"Why did you not give it to him?"
"Because it was mine."
"My son, you now have your possessions, but you do not have your friend. Which would you rather have?"
"My friend."
"Then give freely, trusting that you will also be given what you need."
Self-Sufficiency
A Daughter says to her Father: "Father, today I fought with my friend."
Her Father says: "Why did you fight with your friend?"
"Because she insulted me, and I was angry."
"Why were you angry?"
"Because she lied about me." (In some versions, "Because I was hurt by her words.")
"My daughter, did your friend's words change who you are?"
"No."
"Then do not be angry. The opinions of others cannot damage you."
Forgiveness
A Husband says to his Wife: "Wife, today I fought with my enemy."
His Wife says: "Why did you fight with your enemy?"
"Because I hate him."
"My husband, why do you hate him?"
"Because he wronged me."
"The wrong is past. You must let it rest where it lies."
Kindness
A Wife says to her Husband: "Husband, today I fought with my enemy."
Her Husband says: "Why did you fight with your enemy?"
"Because I spoke cruel words to her."
"My wife, why did you speak cruel words to her?"
"Because I believed them to be true."
"Then you must no longer think cruel thoughts. Cruel thoughts lead to cruel words, and hurt you as much as they hurt their target."
(The following section was part of the original manifesto, but was later removed)Involvement
One Friend says to Another: "Friend, today I fought with my enemy."
The Other Friend says: "Why did you fight with you enemy?"
"Because they were about to hurt you."
"Friend, why did you defend me?"
"Because I love you."
"Then I am grateful."