Dear Editor,

While the events of September 11 have moved the United States to become more

belligerent and militant globally, they have simultaneously moved us to

become a more forgiving nation domestically. Divorce rates and other

indicators of adversarial consciousness declined in the aftermath of 911.

In contrast to the monstrous acts of global terrorists, our perpetuation of

grievances and holding of grudges against family members, friends,

associates and neighbors feels more petty than it did before.

Forgiveness of one another within family, workplace and community is no less

worthy or possible today, just because it has become more difficult

internationally. In the same way that one begins to participate in

athletics locally rather than in the international Olympic games, so may we

all learn to heal our non-forgiveness locally as those who are more seasoned

in the practice of forgiveness endeavor its broader application.

I feel certain that our government will succeed in disarming global

terrorists. In the meantime, I am committed to disarming the terrorists

that are most immediately dangerous to the well-being of every American

citizen. I am referring to our inner terrorists - grievances, fearfulness, anxiety,

self-doubt, shame, guilt, anger, future dread, depression, unforgiveness -

the shadowy impulses that tend to make us feel like we are life's victims

when we could instead be enjoying a positive life experience. Collectively,

these shadows tend to become our identity: "I dread, therefore I am."

"Disarming Our Inner Terrorists" is the title of a workshop that I offer

throughout North America in support of those who are now choosing to live in

greater peace with themselves and with the others in their immediate life

experience. This choice is made as workshop participants learn how to

reclaim the energy they presently dissipate in negative and hurtful

feelings, and to make this energy productive of greater personal well being,

fulfilling relationships and vocational satisfaction.

Locally, I am offering the workshop on Sunday, May 5th, from 1:00 to 3:30 p.m.

at the Center for Spiritual Living, 1119 Ellen Ave., Medford. For

further information call 734-8581 in Medford.

Sincerely,

Rev. Noel Frederick McInnis

noelmcinnis@choosingforgiveness.org