Every December, we wish one another "Peace on Earth." We write it on Christmas cards. We sing about it in carols. We see it on signs, ornaments, and decorations.
Then January arrives. The decorations come down. Life settles back into its familiar rhythm. And somewhere along the way, those words quietly get packed away with the Christmas lights, stockings, and tree.
Several years ago, I found myself needing a reminder that there is still goodness in the world. In the middle of July, I turned on a Hallmark Christmas movie. As I watched, I realized something. For a few weeks every December, we intentionally focus on peace, love, kindness, and hope. Then we pack those beautiful reminders away with the decorations.
That day in July, an idea took root.
"What if I sent Christmas cards in July?"
The idea stayed with me for years. Every summer, it would come back to me. I loved the idea. I wasn't sure everyone else would.
This year, something changed. I trusted the intention behind it. I didn't need everyone else to think it was a good idea. I knew why it mattered, and that was enough.
As I addressed each envelope, I found myself smiling, knowing each one represented something much bigger than a Christmas card. It represented a promise I had made to myself. For years, I had wanted to remind people that Peace on Earth is not simply a December wish. It is a 365-day intention.
Following through on something meaningful changes us.
Peace on Earth isn't simply something to hope for once a year. Kindness isn't something to practice only during the holidays or when it is convenient.
It is a choice. A choice as simple as sending a card. A choice to offer grace. A choice to choose patience when frustration would be easier. A choice to tell someone they matter.
I don't believe the world changes only through grand gestures. I believe it changes one thoughtful choice at a time. One kind word. One encouraging conversation. One act of generosity. One decision to be kinder than necessary.
That's why BKTN365™ means so much to me.
It's more than a phrase I sign at the end of an email or wear on a T-shirt. It's a reminder of the kind of person I want to be every single day of the year.
Peace on Earth is a daily practice. One that begins with each of us.
Be Kinder Than Necessary (BKTN365™),
Jerilyn Brown
An Invitation
Find one simple way to BE "Peace on Earth" today.
3 comments
The holidays always bring a special feeling. One of joy, compassion, and love. Can you imagine how every day of the year would be in the world? If we all could feel the same spirit we do during the holiday seasons? Why not, I have a new intention to wake up every day and promote that feeling to others. 🎄🌷🌞🍁❄️
I often want to leave Christmas up all year until the baby takes ornaments off the tree. Christmas is so much more than the decoration and traditions it is peace on earth and showing love to each other like God did for us by sending Jesus. So I love this sharing of love and reminding us to keep it going all year. Thank you!!!
I love this thought if Peace on Earth all year long!! Thanks for sharing😍