“One has to speak out and stand up for one’s convictions. Inaction at a time of conflagration is inexcusable.”―Mahatma Gandhi
In his challenging Introduction, “Gandhi and the One-Eyed Giant,” Merton emphasizes the importance of action rather than mere pacifism as a central component of non-violence, and illustrates how the foundations of Gandhi’s universal truths are linked to traditional Hindu Dharma, the Greek philosophers, and the teachings of Christ and Thomas Aquinas.
Educated as a Westerner in South Africa, it was Gandhi’s desire to set aside the caste system as well as his political struggles in India which led him to discover the dynamic power of non-cooperation. But, non-violence for Gandhi “was not simply a political tactic,” as Merton observes: “the spirit of non-violence sprang from an inner realization of spiritual unity in himself.”
Gandhi’s politics of spiritual integrity have influenced generations of people around the world, as well as civil rights leaders including Martin Luther King, Jr.
We continue to turn to Gandhi for guidance to find peace through turbulent times and do it mindfully. #thisispeace
Learn more at THE COMPLETE SITE ON MAHATMA GANDHI