How can we move beyond the "enemy-focused" mind set? The first step is to "humanize" the "enemy," to perceive the "alien" as another human being who is a necessary partner in the "peaceable kingdom." Using tools developed in anti-racism work, it might be helpful to look further at our own perceptions of "the other" and "the enemy." (See also our Resources section.)

Prayer is another place to begin. In a Christian context, when we are at a point when we cannot do more than identify our enemies, we might use this simple prayer:

O God, the Father of all, whose Son commanded us to love our enemies: Lead them and us from prejudice to truth; deliver them and us from hatred, cruelty, and revenge; and in your good time enable us all to stand reconciled before you, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

We might add to this prayer, "I especially hold in prayer all those I have hurt, and all those who have hurt me, including....(name specific persons or groups). May we forgive each other, may we be reconciled before you, may we stand in the light of your love."