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Exploring Peace
“Together we can gently remind the world
– the leaders and the children –
that peace is possible,
because peace is a choice.”
– Mattie J.T. Stepanek
Mattie had a way of talking about peace in ways that made it believable, desirable, and achievable.
His written and spoken words moved peace from a challenging and abstract concept to a personal and embraceable reality.
Mattie reminds us that peace is not a destination, but a journey –
that unfolds with our choices in attitudes and actions.
The Pathways2Peace™ program offered by Mattie’s Foundation supports diverse youth and adults in personal and community peace journeys.
Our resources follow Mattie’s “Three Choices for Peace” concept for understanding, practicing, and role modeling peace.
Each activity or event explores some element of the messages of hope and peace that Mattie’s shaped and shared for our world.
Whether choosing a self-guided activity or a Foundation-mentored program, let us help you “reflect on, respond to, and reach out with” peace – in purposeful (and fun!) ways.
“Peace is for all people.”
- Mattie
“Peace is for all people.”
- Mattie
Understanding Peace
Reflecting on peace —
what it is, and what it is not — is essential for understanding peace in a meaningful way.
We are here to guide you in exploring Mattie’s messages about peace and purpose and play.
Whether you are finding your Heartsong and inner okay’ness, or considering how to balance personal and global needs and rights, or growing in the important matter of peacefully being with others even when we disagree with them – our thought-provoking programs and materials help raise awareness for any peace seeker.
Practicing Peace
Responding to peace —
moving from attitude to action with purposeful habits that demonstrate peace – involves practice.
Our tips and tools for conversations and activities help children and adults connect with peace.
From self-care, mindful positivity, and resilience, to kindness, compassion, and acceptance, to mediation, forgiveness, service, and so much more – we support you with creative ways to embrace key characteristics and elements that are practical foundations for peace makers.
Role Modeling Peace
Reaching out with peace —
and intentionally demonstrating behaviors and approaches that cultivate and role model peace matters.
Our programs and resources encourage individuals and groups as they embrace peace within and with familiar others – like family and friends and classmates and colleagues.
We also empower you in sharing your journey, and engaging local and global neighbors in peace – which are exemplary and role model choices for peace bringers.
Choosing Peace
Can peace be taught and learned?
Yes! Peace can be taught and learned by people of diverse ages and abilities, and diverse cultures and faiths.
Peace can be introduced and explored through both formal and informal lessons. It can be nurtured through play and everyday activities and interactions.
Peace can be practiced in schools and homes, offices and places of worship, and playgrounds and businesses.
Teaching and role modeling peace goes beyond a lesson plan or service project or doing a good deed – it is about a way of “being.”
What is the impact of studying peace?
Teaching peace alone does not create change – reflecting on, responding to, and reaching out with what we learn does cultivate peace.
When we role model or teach peace, we help others better understand the importance of tending to basic needs, we counter bullying and cultivate compassion, and we foster resilience in a challenging world.
Peace starts with “inner okay’ness” and grows outward and forthward when we learn strategies to thoughtfully respond to challenges, rather than react.
No one person can end war, but each of us and all of us can learn to practice peace – with gentle and just attitudes, with helpful habits, and with words and actions that build rather than burden. The impact of studying peace is the amplified capability of promoting peace.
Why use Mattie’s messages to explore peace?
Mattie’s messages move peace from an abstract concept to personal and community choices.
Children, teens, and adults all relate to Mattie because he was a real person, who faced real challenges. Mattie witnessed and experienced tragedy and triumph and bullying and blessings – and yet, he loved and celebrated life.
Mattie reminds us that peace is not about having to agree with others – but about learning to be with others in respectful, compassionate, and supportive ways.
His inspirational and informational messages are about being “okay” with who and how we are as individuals and communities, and about resolving conflicts without assumptions and judgement or resorting to violence.
The “pathways to peace” and “three choices for peace” that Mattie offered are easy to follow, and enjoyable ways to move peace from possible to a growing reality.
Who are Mattie’s message and our materials for?
Peace is for all people, and Mattie shared messages of peace for people of all ages, abilities, and aspirations. His poetry, essays, and words of wisdom are timeless and universal.
Younger children are drawn to his messages that explore senses, seasons, and so many reasons for celebrating life.
Teens and adults appreciate his insights on finding inner purpose (our Heartsongs), and his clarity of how to consider and choose peace – even amid challenges and conflicts.
Our Foundation programs and resources are carefully created to be enjoyed by anyone who chooses to seek, make, or bring peace – for our world.
“Peace matters, and so do you.”
- Mama Peace
“Peace matters, and so do you.”
- Mama Peace
