As much as we say we want peace and to live with the absence of bitterness, resentment, and judgment, how many of us are able to walk our talk?

Mahatma Gandhi was approached one day by a reporter who yelled out, "What do you think of Western civilization?" It was a defining moment, and Gandhi's reply instantly transformed him from an object of curiosity into a celebrity. In his heavy Indian accent, he answered: "I think it would be a good idea."

The Season for Nonviolence, January 30 - April 4, is an international 64-day educational, media, and grassroots campaign dedicated to demonstrating that nonviolence is a powerful way to heal, transform, and empower our lives and our communities. It has been inspired by the 50th and 30th memorial anniversaries of Mahatma Gandhi (January 30), and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (April 4).

Here at the Center for Spiritual Living in Santa Rosa our team of volunteers has published a booklet with 64 Ways in 64 Days that offers us 64 daily affirmations as a way to create an awareness of nonviolent principles and to practice a powerful way to heal, transform, and empower our lives and communities by using them. Our kickoff event is scheduled for Thursday, February 2, at 6:30 pm. Our featured speaker is Kenny Johnson, a spiritual teacher and consultant to families and to released and incarcerated men and women.