—

Today’s post is by Nic Cable, a senior at Depaul, pursuing a double major in Religious Studies and Peac, Justice, and Conflict Studies. He is serving his second year as an Interfaith Scholar at DePaul University and is the Director of the Better Together Campaign at this institution.

—

Last night a group of 22 people gathered from diverse religious, spiritual, and ethical backgrounds. We discussed ideas of silence, about both times we have remained silent and wish we hadn’t, as well as times we spoke up and acted out regarding things we cared for. The responses were rich and varied from person to person. Below, are two student reflections about the experience of this cafe.

I have also shared a brief reflection by the Interfaith Cafe Coordinator, Bridget Liddell, to preface these reflections:

“Silence can bring the deepest reveries, when we have the opportunity to turn within and feel the most connected and alive. Thrown out of balance, it harbors violence, creating the space where anger and hate can rage unchecked. It takes courage to speak, and wisdom to know when to hold back. Words weave through our days, slip by unnoticed, but their expression or lack thereof can be the greatest act of defiance. Merely (can I even call it that?) being ourselves despite pressure to conform can be a silent, powerful protest. When we unleash our words in defense of what we believe, when we choose to voice our thoughts, we force what has cowered in darkness into the light of accountability.”

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xfWKq4ugLjs]

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZiL7XJs_rA8]

I hope you enjoyed these reflections from students at DePaul who believe in the importance of interfaith cooperation and community building. This story, however, is not complete without YOU adding your voice to the discussion. Whether you wish to do so with words or video, please feel welcome to post them in a comment below. It is great when we can continue this powerful discussion with everyone, not just students, not just DePaul students, but with all people of faith and value and a desire to build healthy communities of peace and justice.