Friedensmal of Change Shaping Community and Peace

The Friedensmal is devoted to the journey within, leading to inner peace and liberation. Through our essence, we project our values outward, living and acting upon them. We transform the world within ourselves.

The vision of the Friedensmal embodies the principle that external conflicts are often mere reflections of our inner states. Therefore, lasting outer peace can only be achieved through the attainment of inner peace. The Friedensmal invites us on a transformative journey where the inner healing of the individual brings peace to the outer world. This monument, representing the sacred journey to oneself, is encircled by a "Threshold of Humility." Inscribed with the words "Recognize the Holy in your midst," it symbolizes the threshold one willingly crosses to reach their inner sanctuary. Here begins the journey.

At the center of the Friedensmal rests a marble stone inscribed with the word "Chai" (living). It symbolizes the "Turning Point towards Life." By acknowledging death in our cultures, we turn towards life – a connection to God as the source of all life.

German memorial culture has long been marked by death, suffering, and guilt. This "culture of death" overshadowed German culture, the public perception of Judaism, interpersonal relationships, and self-awareness. Even spirituality seems to have been affected and become stagnant. With the central "Turning Point towards Life" in the Friedensmal, a counterpoint is meant to be set. Engaging with the past is intended to shift the focus towards life and the connection to God. Only by integrating death without getting lost in it can we truly turn towards life.

The Friedensmal invites us to a cultural renewal that acknowledges the painful history yet releases us from its grip. It seeks to draw courage and confidence from our relationship with God. In doing so, a new, life-affirming spirituality can arise, bringing peace into the hearts of people and society. This requires us to heal our traumas, engage in shadow work, forgive, and transform our beliefs. This peace demands deep inner clarity and the healing of old wounds. It enables us to engage with the world around us with greater compassion. In this way, we not only transform our own lives but also contribute to a culture of peace.

In a world rife with conflicts, reconciliation among people and nations holds immense significance. It is crucial to engage in a reconciliatory dialogue before mutual aversion or hatred can undermine such efforts. This dialogue should address not only acute issues but also explore the historical contexts and underlying systemic structures that influence these conflicts.

Only through the combination of inner peace and reconciliatory dialogue can we achieve lasting healing and renewal in society. True reconciliation emerges from genuine and compassionate encounters with others and ourselves.

The following sections offer profound insights into the philosophy and spiritual significance of the Friedensmal. Each section provides a thematic introduction to subsequent chapters, illuminating the path to inner peace, healing, and cultural spiritual renewal.

The Friedensmal stands as a beacon of inner healing and spiritual renewal. In a time of social tensions and mistrust, it opens a place of silence and contemplation. It inspires individuals to reflect on their role in the world and the profound significance of peace and freedom. Only when we dwell in peace within ourselves can we carry blessings to the world and construct bridges of understanding, allowing old wounds to heal. - Delve into the thoughts and spirituality behind the Friedensmal in the subchapter 'The Philosophy'.

The path to inner peace is a spiritual voyage of self-discovery, where we recognize and transcend our ego. This leads to freedom for healthy relationships and a life aligned with values like love and peace. By embracing humility and broadening our perspectives, we open ourselves to the universal truths present in all spiritual paths. Ultimately, we are bound by a deeper spiritual unity that transcends religious dogmas and ideological divides. - Read in the subchapter 'Building Bridges' how the monument's name gained its universal significance.

By fostering comprehensive understanding and mutual respect, we can pave the way for peace and collaboration. The Friedensmal serves as a bridge across diverse spiritual paths, enhances interreligious dialogue, and helps dismantle entrenched enemy images and ideological biases. As the ideal core of the 'Circle of Peace for Change,' it unites communities committed to a shared vision of peace and freedom. Through its symbolic presence, the monument acts as a constant point of reference. It inspires a network of exchange and collaboration by embodying shared values and objectives, thus eliminating the need for a central figure of authority. - Learn more about the 'Circle of Peace' in the subchapter 'we-Networking'.