Making a Difference with Author and Peace Advocate, Dr. Joyce Penfield

In this lifetime, how can you make a difference?

You can probably think of many ways you could make a difference in the world, but for Dr. Joyce Penfield, the most meaningful way is to plant a tree—literally and metaphorically. Trees symbolize more than roots, trunks, branches, and leaves. They symbolize leaving behind something that will bring life to generations of the future. The roots of the trees symbolize a deep foundation of connection with other trees that gives strength for survival. The branches and leaves provide shelter for living creatures, especially birds who are drawn to trees and bring their own gifts. Shade gives life to people and creatures below to assure their health and survival. All of these aspects of trees also apply to our work in building a culture of peaceful living together in hard times and easy times among human beings. A tree is a gift of life for the next generations, as is how we build relationships in our family, community, town, and nation on a road to building a culture of nonviolence and peace.

“Before You Die, Plant a Tree: Practical Lessons for Peace Building from Cambodia” is a book that not only addresses a literal meaning, but also environmental and spiritual. It shows us down to earth initiatives to secure a better world for future generations.

In 2017, Dr. Penfield went on a two-week vacation in Cambodia. She knew so little about the place and amidst her exploration, she accidentally discovered Peace Bridges Organization, a faith-rooted NGO led by Cambodians dedicated to a grassroots approach to long-term peacebuilding. The training and extensive, non-violent education curriculum which the Peace Bridges’ staff used inspired Dr. Penfield to join the staff in Cambodia and volunteer for a year.

In her book, she highlights the model of change which they developed as well as resources for conflict transformation and community engagement. Peace Bridges has received support and funding from several international organizations such as Danmission in Denmark, Norwegian Mission Alliance, Mennonite Central Committee, Transform Aid International, and many others that have the same ambitions as they have.

This descriptive study of peacebuilding by Dr. Penfield contains wisdom and implications for many other parts of the world no matter which religious beliefs obtain. As you read its entirety, you will find practical lessons about peace, compassion, forgiveness, nonviolence, and healing— things that we ought to restore and preserve for all humankind.

Ready to make a difference? Perhaps you can start with planting a tree, and the rest mentioned above will follow.

Get your copy at https://amz.run/6MjI

Before You Die, Plant a Tree: Practical Lessons for Peace Building from Cambodia
Author: Joyce Penfield
Publisher: Stillwater River Publications
Publication date: 04/02/2021
Pages: 328
ISBN-13: 9781952521836

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