The Peacemaker's Code

Every hero follows a code—a promise to themselves and others to stand strong, act with kindness, and never let fear silence what is right. You don’t need a sword or magic to be brave. True courage comes from within.

If you choose to walk the path of a Peacemaker, remember these guiding principles. A peacemaker is not someone who keeps peace at the cost of themselves or others, a peacemaker is someone who is willing to stand for what is right, and willing to disrupt the peace today, to bring peace in the future. Here are just some codes, us peacemakers, live by:

1. Speak Up, Even When It’s Hard

Your voice matters. Whether you stand up for yourself or someone else, words have power—use them to defend, protect, and inspire. Maybe it is just a short, "that wasn't very nice," to a friend who insulted you or someone else, or a clear "Stop!" 

2. Defend Those Who Need It

A true hero never stands by while someone else is hurting. Step in, stand beside, and show kindness to those who feel alone. This may be stepping in and speaking up, or it may also be stepping in and reminding the person they are worthy of love and respect. 

3. Kindness is Strength, Not Weakness

Being kind doesn’t mean being silent. True strength is choosing to be compassionate, even when others are not. This may look like asking someone to sit next to you who is sitting by themselves, or asking someone how their day is. 

4. Face Fear with Courage, Not Anger

Fear can make us lash out or shrink away. Instead, choose courage. Breathe, think, and respond with wisdom. Sometimes we may find that we act the bully when we are scared or feel threatened. When we feel that anger or fear rising in us, take three big breaths before responding. 

5. Mistakes Happen—Learn, Grow, and Take Accountability

No one is perfect. Even heroes make mistakes. What matters is that you learn, grow, and keep moving forward. A big part of that is recognizing that you sometimes talk inappropriately to others. Own it. Apologize. Move on. I know there have been times I have spoken in a way that I am not proud of, I cannot take those words back, I can't go back and soften my tone. But I can apologize and remind myself next time to take three big breaths before acting. 

6. Peace is Worth Fighting For

Sometimes, making peace means standing your ground and standing up for what’s right—even when it’s uncomfortable. Too many of us would rather keep the peace, because peace now feels comfortable. We choose to stay quiet, we don't want to stir the pot. But sometimes, the pot needs stirred, and we need to act. 

Every day brings a chance to show courage. Will you choose to speak up? To help a friend? To be the voice of kindness?

The world needs Peacemakers. And it starts with you. With your parents permission, feel free to click below if you have a story when you were brave and stood up for others or yourself, and your story might show up in our  Secret Scrolls.