Conflict Resolution, Carlo Furlan (Matt. 5:9)

Blessed are the peacemakers -
those who point
their steps
towards conflict -
for they are named:
"children of God."

Warning: safety glasses required!

God's glory must
be the primary aim,
keep before you ever
this one flame.
Turn the glasses inward
and ask
what you really want the most:
to be right
or to be close?
what is your aim?
to bring peace
or to maim?

Then choose the tool
that will reach that end -
measure with the Golden Rule(r); 
a mallet 
or 
sledge-hammer?

Speak tentatively:
"I wonder if..."
"I feel..."
"In my opinion..."

Do your part
to seek peace
in safety and wisdom.

Respect, like breath
is crucial,
once gone, peace chokes,
and cannot thrive.

The status of peacemaker
is earned through trial
and error -
no one reaches perfection
every time.
Follow in the steps
of the God-given
Prince of Peace
Himself.

Walk on.