Peace begins with me

We want to change the world. We want to change others. We want to make a difference, but we have to remember it all starts within us first. Sometimes we forget that peace and happiness depends on our own personal growth. We have everything we need within us, here and now. As I became skillful at recognizing my old programming (childhood scars) I became aware of my behavior.  I asked myself, "How long do I want my emotional wounds (upbringing pain) to control my life. Do I really want to keep judging, criticizing, analyzing and hurting people I love and myself." The answer was, No. "I want to live my life from a place of compassion and love." As I grew in awareness I was able to catch my negative behavior. I knew it was all triggered by my past, and I knew I didn't want my old programming to run my life any longer. It was time to reprogram myself. From working on me, I was able to open my heart and change my dysfunctional programming. Today I'm making a difference - by increasing the level of harmony and love in my heart, I'm creating the best life possible for myself and for everyone around me. 
This is my first contribution of peace to the world. I can just imagine what I can do now!