Breaking the Cycle Blog

Everyone has their own story. Did the Assembly help you understand forgiveness? Do you have questions or comments? Feel free to email us or post a blog comment.

The questions were also very good. Don’t hesitate to leave a comment or another question on our blog.

It is well known how a group of rowdy people can easily be swept into a reckless spirit that results in rioting and belligerent behaviour that they would not individually stoop to. This week we have also seen the power of consumerism and selfishness which may be connected to the way our society views success through the media, in materialistic terms that are completely unrealistic for most young people. Whatever the cause, each individual must ultimately be held responsible for their own actions, but the tragedy of this week of violence is that many lives are being set in a downward spiral of chaos and destruction. Where will it end? I know some of these London neighbourhoods and it is likely that I have met many of the young people who are now living through this. With Breaking the Cycle I have spoken in many schools throughout the London boroughs that are now being swept up in violence. I have told the students real stories of people who overcame violence or tragedy through forgiveness. Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King responded to injustice by organising peaceful protests and even when these were attacked, they held to non-violence and forgiveness. Both men understood that there is a power in forgiving; it’s not an easy choice to make and it takes courage and strength. Indeed, both were willing to die for the cause of peace, and that’s why – at a time when people are dying in shoplifting sprees – their lives have great potential meaning. May it not be forgotten during these difficult days. Each young person is special and has a purpose to fulfil with their lives. If we really believe this, we will pass it on to our children and young people, and teach them self-respect and respect for others. I hope this shocking violence will at least start a public debate about how we can do better to pass this on to the next generation. We, as parents and teachers need to be examples and role models to show with our lives that breaking the cycle of violence can only really happen when we begin to care about the needs of others more than our own entitlements or selfish wishes. When we work for peace, it will bring people together and strengthen the communities that are currently being torn apart with violence and fear. And we can’t simply wait for one group to take the first step. Truly rebuilding and rehabilitating Britain will take much longer than sweeping up the broken glass and locking away the looters (which won’t solve anything in the long run). It won’t succeed in an atmosphere of finger-pointing and scapegoating. It will take the combined efforts of everyone from the police to parents, shopkeepers and customers, teachers and students, pastors and politicians. Constructive solidarity is the only real antidote to fear.

They would love to hear how their stories affected you or answer any questions you still have. Post a comment here and they will be happy to respond. All the best as you finish of the school year, and have a great summer.

Thank you for your attention and questions. As Kim mentioned, you can leave comments or messages for Glenn. We hope this day is an important part of your life, and helps you to make the right choices.