There is a difference between peacekeeping and peacemaking.

In a troubled emotional environment peacekeeping saps energy and can be a never-ending task. 

Peacemaking lays groundwork for authentic peace to prevail. 

Peacekeepers work hard to keep the tensions from rising and work at pretending that nothing is amiss.

Peacekeepers avoid conflict. Their reward is the semblance of tranquility, the demise of integrity and escalation of anxiety.

Peacemakers invite necessary conflict knowing there is no other pathway toward understanding between warring people and groups. 

Peacekeepers can endure fake “peace” leading to feelings of being called or anointed while they tiptoe through minefields they pretend don’t exist.

Peacekeepers apparently “enjoy” feelings of martyrdom. How else would they rationalize the accompanying stress of trying to hide or tame the proverbial elephant in the room? 

Peacekeepers often see their role as “spiritual” and “humble” because they endure without “saying anything.”

Peacemakers value authentic peace more than its distorted parody. The peace that exists between people who possess the courage to endure conflict, for the sake of lasting peace, is like pure gold when compared with its counterfeit cousin. 

Move with courage toward lasting peace. 

Assume your legitimate role as a peacemaker rather than avoid conflict in order to keep a semblance of peace that is not worth having.