People are torn by conflict in their nations and communities as well as within their own life. Is this the natural, inevitable state of human beings, or the result of some disastrous false step, as many religions suggest? This presentation examines the root of conflict. UPF advocates drawing on universal principles as a way to resolve conflict. The peacebuilding process begins with self-reflection and reorientation, taking responsibility for one’s own role in the conflict. Then steps need to be taken to reverse wrongs and restore relationships. Ultimately, reconciliation and renewal should result.

1. Principles of Restoration and Conflict Resolution

2. Where Does Peace Begin? Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed. UNESCO Constitution Preamble

3. We Need Spiritual Renewal. I see no hope for permanent world peace. We have tried and failed miserably. Unless the world has a spiritual rebirth, civilization is doomed. Dag Hammarskjold Second UN Secretary-General

4. The Reality of Human Nature Original Nature Undeveloped Selfish Nature Well-developed

9. God’s Word Learn, believe and practice God’s Word. Practice God’s Word in relationship with others. Honor God Love each other + Success in both areas is needed to move closer to the goal of peace. +

10. Importance of Reconciliation Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates his brother is still in the darkness. Whoever loves his brother lives in the light. Christianity I John 2.9

11. Importance of a Good Example Let there arise out of you a group of people, inviting to all that is good, enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong; they are the ones to attain happiness and prosperity. Islam Qur’an 3.104

12. Importance of Unity Let your aims be common, And your hearts of one accord, And all of you be of one mind, So you may live well together. Hinduism Rig Veda 10.191.4

13. Importance of Each Person When the personal life is cultivated, the family will be regulated; when the family is regulated, the state will be in order; when the state is in order, there will be peace throughout the world. Confucianism: The Great Learning

14. Archetypes of Conflict ABEL Abel loved God, but could not win the heart of his brother who was consumed with resentment. Abel had God’s blessing and would not share it. CAIN Cain was consumed with resentment over perceived injustice, not seeing his brother from God’s point of view. Unable to control his anger, he killed his brother.

17. Path of Resolution Jacob said, “If I have found favor in your sight, then accept my present from my hand, for truly to see your face is like seeing the face of God.” Judaism: Genesis 33.10

18. Implications for Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution

20. We never get rid of an enemy by meeting hate with hate; we get rid of an enemy by getting rid of enmity. Martin Luther King, Jr. Loving Enemies

21. Jesus did not condemn any of his enemies. His power was the power of love Sun Myung Moon Loving Enemies

22. When I despair, I remember that all through history the ways of truth and love have always won. Mahatma Gandhi Loving Enemies

23. The C h oice We All Face: Resolve or Repeat Past Conflicts? Past Future Unresolved problems will be passed on to future generations, and in most cases be bigger and more difficult to solve.

30. Implications for Ambassadors for Peace