Since its founding a little over six months ago, People for a Peaceable Planet has become a visible voice for peace and justice in the Skagit Valley. The initial focus was to speak out against an invasion of Iraq, which was done openly and effectively with vigils, marches, demonstrations. Nevertheless, the invasion is on, and, according to the managed reports from the US corporate media, nearing "success".

This should not be construed as a failure on our part, or on the part of the millions around the world who are frightened and angry about the imperial plans of the US government.

We should, rather, focus on our success: we have gathered together a group of people locally who are committed to promoting peace and justice. Now that we have found one another, it is time to move on our commitments; or, rather, to continue that movement.

It is unlikely that we can - or should - agree on all aspects of the work ahead of us. It is important that as individuals we find the place(s) where we can work effectively and feel comfortable. Following are some areas of work on which we can focus.

Solidarity: True peace and freedom from the threat of terrorism cannot/will not exist unless there is true justice. Groups exist here and abroad that are uniting to work for human rights; we can find ways to work in solidarity with them.

Education: Many are unaware of the impact our decisions and actions, as individuals, community and nation, have on our neighbors near and far. We must seek out information and share it.

Politics: Many of the actions which we abhor are made for political reasons - one way to change that is to become actively involved in the political process.

Direct action: Corporations, the media, the government wield immense influence on our lives. Actions confronting that influence and power are possibilities.

These areas of focus are too broad, of course. It is time to settle in for the hard work of a long term commitment to peace and justice. It is important to spell out the specifics of how we will do this. We must not let the momentum die. The retreat on May 3 will be the beginning of the next stage of our work.

Some words from the Talmud: Do not be daunted by the enormity of the world's grief. Act justly, now. Love mercy, now. Walk humbly, now. You are not obligated to complete the work, but neither are you free to abandon it.

"If you want to see the brave,
look at those who can forgive.
If you want to see the heroic,
look at those who can love in return for hatred."
The Bhagavad-Gita

Dave McConnell can be reached at [email protected]

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