Repaying force with counter-force,

Can this deliver peace?

Revenge for death, revenge for loss

Is this how wars will cease?

If this grim cycle can be stopped

Forgiveness can begin

And we can build a world of peace

Where everyone can win.

Our violent acts take many forms,

Our words tear lives apart;

Our greed can leave the poor to starve;

Our power destroy the heart;

Our weapons kill or maim our foes;

Our bombs extend our wars;

All these arise from minds inflamed

By just or unjust cause.

Through empathy with angry hearts

We start to feel their pain,

Discerning ways we all support

The power of terror’s reign.

Devoid of justice peace will die

For peace depends on love

And love is sharing based on need,

The bread that gifts the dove.

O God of peace, you bless us all,

Both friend and foe alike.

Help us to bless both weak and strong

And all whom we dislike.

Then Muslims, Christians, Hindus, Jews

And all who share love’s call

Shall sing one joyful, peaceful song,

Salaam, Shalom for all!

Alternative Tune: KINGSFOLD

Text and Music © William Livingstone Wallace.

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