The desire to be a spiritual catalyst for love and peace is not for the faint-hearted. It takes unwavering focus, self-belief, faith, trust, persistence and courage. There are moments when my heart breaks as I witness a world heavy with the negative energy of violence, discrimination, political polarization, complicit silence, inhumanity, inequality, and a general lack of human decency.

I find myself thinking, “Wait a minute. Loving consciousness? Peace? I wonder if peace is even possible.” If you have moments of doubt, please know in your heart that even optimists, idealists and changemakers become discouraged. It’s normal. We’re human.

Acknowledge your feelings, shake them off, take long, slow and deep breaths, order the voice of self-doubt to fly far away, and give yourself an inspirational pep talk. Continue to work tirelessly towards a world in which we can all be proud. Never give up. Stay the course. Focus on core values that elevate and uplift the human soul and embody the essence of love.

When I think of all the millions of people around the globe who believe in peace, diversity celebration and love, I am inspired beyond all adequate words. They are ordinary people who are also extraordinary. They embody what it means to be a peace dreamer, and most of all, they remind me that I am not alone in my own dream for a world of peace.

Think of all the peace dreamers in history who have inspired you with their courage, vision and actions. Think of all the peace dreamers who are actively working towards a humanity of loving consciousness.

Who are your mentors and role models? Breathe in their energy, passion, hope, determined actions and courage and let them inspire you.

Let’s celebrate the diversity of all our global citizens and see everyone through the heart of love. Commit to spreading love wherever you go, and until the last breath, become unstoppable towards this quest.

Join me in being the love, compassion and kindness our one humanity needs. Join me in being a light that shines towards peace. Never give up on our collective dream. Step by step, resolve to do the inner work needed to heal yourself, and breath by breath, visualize a world of loving consciousness that stands tall for peace.

This article is a revised and expanded excerpt from my award-winning book, “Peace Dreamer: A Journey of Hope in Bad Times and Good.” ©2021