Thich Nhat Hanh: Roots of Peace

Chantal Westerman

This interview with Thich Nhat Hanh begins with a brief biography of his life including his movements between Vietnam and the United States during the Vietnam War. Joined by such forces as Martin Luther King, Jr and Thomas Merton, Thich Nhat Hanh spoke openly about the harm caused to innocent people in his home country and the need to end war, which ultimately led to his exile from Vietnam.

He settled in France and established Plum Village where he continues to teach the practices of mindfulness to bring peace to our hearts and the world. Chantal Westerman interviews Thich Nhat Hanh who shares his insight on mindful walking, mindful eating, and mindful breathing. His core teaching is that all human beings can find peace and joy by living more mindfully.

Sister Annabel of Green Mountain Dharma Center says although the teachings are simple and our intellect wants to reject them, they are effective. She says to start with loving, knowing and understanding yourself. From there you will embrace your darkness and move to a place of joy and peace, like the lotus that grows out of the mud.