American Gandhi Returns From India

author : Daisy Ouye topic : Gandhi

by Daisy Ouye

Bernie Meyer portrays Gandhi to audiences the world over. First called the “American Gandhi” in 2005 by media in India, he stood up to their scrutiny. In traditional dhoti as the father of their country, he was relieved to receive their endorsement. Not only did they approve of Bernie’s interpretation of Gandhi’s teachings as applied to today's world, they seemed to understand the value, if not the necessity, of an “American Gandhi.”

Bernie’s work as Gandhi began with portrayals, but it didn’t end there. Attending his second Round Table Conference at the World Peace Centre on August 1 and 2, Bernie spoke along with other learned and honorable guests from across the globe on the subjecst of science and spirituality in promotion of a culture of peace. Bernie called the convergence of the two “of critical importance to the world today.” Decades of experience as a nonviolent activist combined with intense study have informed his view. His message is an urgent one.

Now back in Olympia he described to me (as he did to a full auditorium of scholars, students and spiritual leaders in India) that humanity is at a crossroads because of the effects of man’s own scientific inventiveness. Life destructive weapons and industrial “inventiveness” (as he diplomatically puts it), truly threaten all life on earth.

He went on to describe the simple reality that whoever has the technological advantages, “wins” in war. With so-called advantages like nuclear and chemical weaponry in WWII, Agent Orange in Vietnam, and Radioactive DU weaponry used by the US today, people continue to suffer, as the wars go on. Bernie calls these methods “dysfunctional” and a waste of resources.

There were a lot of view points expressed at the conference. “Everyone comes from their own enlightenment. Some focused on the epitome of human development , meditation , body and mind in sync.” While Bernie says personal development is fundamental; with industry and weaponry that threaten global destruction, along with global warming and depleting resources of water and fossil fuel, we must do more.

If we are it to build a culture of peace, one that cares about poverty, disease and hunger, we need to put Gandhi’s words to action. To “be the change we want to see in the world” is more than an internal effort.

Join the American Gandhi for “A Courageous Conversation” on Oct. 13 at Traditions Fair Trade Cafe. You can also learn more about Bernie, his new book, and his upcoming events/travel : oly-wa.us/berniemeyer/ or theamercangandhi.blogspot.com