A.J. Muste, a leading exponent of Christian nonviolence in the 20th century, d. Feb 11 1967. In a career spanning resistance to both WWI and Vietnam he stood by his convictions, in season and out. "I don't do this to change the world. I do it to keep the world from changing me."
Conversation
In 1966, at 81, he was arrested in Saigon after demonstrating in front of the US embassy. "Joy and growth come from following our deepest impulses, however foolish they may seem to some, or dangerous, and even though the apparent outcome may be defeat."
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His belief in the identify of means and ends encouraged his persistent witness in the face of all discouragement and implacable odds. As he noted, "There is no way to peace, peace itself being the way."
I am deeply moved and challenged by this quote. I know it to be true in my life and yet it is difficult to live a life of peace, personally and politically.
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