WFWP and Me – Katarina Connery
Editor’s note: The article was originally written for WFWP’s 30th Anniversary Commemorative Book and shared in the newsletter to highlight this important milestone.
It has been nearly seven years since I first became involved in the Women's Federation for World Peace (WFWP) as the WFWP USA Vice President. Prior to being appointed to this role, I had very little knowledge about the organization. My mom was involved briefly when I was younger, and I had participated in a handful of Bridge of Peace ceremonies in my community.
When I started working with WFWP, I gradually learned how much this organization was an answer to my prayers at the time. I had recently completed graduate school, and I wasn’t really sure what to do next. In my academic career, I had learned about various peace initiatives and efforts to make life around the globe more equitable and fulfilling for many of the most underprivileged. However, I felt that pursuing a career in many of the nonprofits or international organizations out there wasn’t quite the right fit for me. I felt there is so much pain and suffering in the world and people are trying their best to alleviate it, but as long as humanity is generally self-motivated, those laudable efforts are not enough. It will always feel like two steps forward, one step back, or maybe even three steps back. But how to inspire and re-educate enough people to genuinely think beyond themselves and sincerely care for others, to the point that we are willing to sacrifice our own comfort? How can we reach a tipping point in humanity so that this kind of mindset becomes more and more common and our self-gratification culture becomes less and less common? Imagine my surprise when in WFWP, I found a group of women who thought of these questions and sought to answer them.
It has been a wonderful experience these past few years. What I appreciate most about WFWP is that it is an organization of genuinely caring women who are working to live for others in reality and in their daily lives. And indeed, as our Founder teaches, it is women’s natural inclination to think about how others are thinking and feeling, that compassionate heart, is what can bring that tipping point. During my time at WFWP, I had the opportunity to help develop many different programs, both large and small, all with the aim of bringing that internal transformation, a revolution of heart among the lives we touch. I have also developed my professional skills, especially in public speaking! What has made this learning experience especially phenomenal has been all the many women I’ve interacted with throughout the past year. From Mother Moon, I have learned poise, grace, and strength while remaining true to a woman’s divine feminine character and qualities. From the women of WFWP USA, Canada, and beyond, I have been connected to a true sisterhood, women who will cheer you on and support you through thick and thin. As I reflect on my past seven years with WFWP and the 30 year history of this organization, I am filled with gratitude. I know there are many more amazing years ahead.