Dear Readers,

Unexpected results. Cracking through the hard, rough shell of a geode is difficult, but it reveals a beautiful treasure. Even the challenge of forgiveness can lead to unexpected and precious results.

Reports of world and local events always seem focused on conflicts that exist among various populations, individuals or groups. Recently I’ve been struck by the tension between negative press reports and the many positive endeavors that quietly yet persistently affirm a trend toward reconciliation, justice, peace and mutual concern.

In his message for the New Year, Pope Benedict XVI outlined essential elements to promote justice and peace. He advocated using our freedom, respecting ourselves and others, in a way that engenders mutual trust, constructive dialogue, forgiveness, mutual charity, compassion toward the weakest and readiness to make sacrifices.

For Christians, this month marks the beginning of Lent. It is a season that speaks of redeeming life’s most difficult moments through forgiveness and change.

Religious leaders and government officials in many parts of the world are seeking paths that lead to reconciliation and peace. The South Korean Conference of Religion for Peace, for example, is working to build relationships of trust between religious leaders of the North and South. In Myanmar violence against the mostly Christian Kachin ethnic group has ceased, a diplomatic initiative is seeking dialogue with minorities, and a national conference for reconciliation is planned. In Colombia civil and church leaders established a national agreement for reconciliation and peace, supporting many local peace-building projects.

These and other initiatives lead to a universal sense of brotherhood. Yet before this can happen in our neighborhoods and nations, individuals like you and me need to take the first step.

If this issue proves anything, it is that it is possible to contribute to world peace one person at a time. May the many experiences of forgiveness and reconciliation published here motivate us all.