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The Evolving Peacemaker: A Commitment to Nonviolence

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Amazon #1 Best Seller and award-winning book that recently received the 2017 Living Now Evergreen Medal for World Peace and 2018 Gold Medals from the Beverly Hills Book Awards and the eLit Book Awards!

What does our future hold? Is it possible for humanity to exist indefinitely in a world overrun with wars, intolerance, and terrorism? Will our civilization that is steeped in centuries of violence eventually learn how to interact with one another in respectful and compassionate ways?

The Evolving A Commitment to Nonviolence seeks to address these issues by taking a compelling look at the timeless teachings of Mahatma Gandhi, one of the most respected and influential figures of the twentieth century.

Beginning with a foreword by Arun Gandhi, celebrated peace activist and grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, The Evolving Peacemaker takes the reader on a compelling journey of self-discovery.

This volume weaves Gandhis philosophy of nonviolence with author Leona Evanss personal journey toward inner peace.

Evans We are frightened for the future and helpless because we dont know how to make a difference in the world. It is time now to see that our only alternative lies in making a difference within ourselves.

The Evolving Peacemaker is a thought-provoking and inspiring guide to becoming the change we wish to see in the world.

252 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 2, 2016

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9 people want to read

About the author

Leona Evans

5 books1 follower
Leona Evans is the author of The Evolving Peacemaker: A Commitment to Nonviolence. She holds a Master of Arts in Religious Studies and is an international speaker, life coach, and former Chair of the Metaphysics Department at Unity School for Religious Studies. She is the co-author, with Carol Keefer, of two books: Nothing Is Too Good to Be True! which was also translated and published in Russia, and Spirituality & Self-Esteem.
Ordained in 1985, Evans has been the minister at Unity of San Luis Obispo, California, for the past twenty-two years, during which time she has taught numerous classes on the power of the mind to shape our destiny. Leona has traveled extensively as a motivational speaker, and her compelling messages have been heard on radio and television stations throughout the world.
Evans is a former Broadway actress, recording artist, and cabaret performer, whose theatrical career of more than thirty years began when she was a small child. Eventually she was guided to study world religions and chose the ministry as a way of helping people understand that nonviolence among religions begins with the realization that the same God of love indwells all people.
Evans is the proud mother of musician, filmmaker, and actor Matthew J. Evans, whose rich contributions to this volume have added “author” to his considerable list of accomplishments.
Leona is available to present her workshops and seminars at business conferences, spiritual centers, and educational venues.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
Profile Image for Denise Lucas.
116 reviews10 followers
February 27, 2017
The Evolving Peacemaker: A Commitment to Nonviolence written by Leona Evans with contributions from her son, Matthew J. Evans, is a wonderful read. I am very passionate about nonviolence movements and have read a lot about the effects of war and how we, as the human race, can put a stop to war and come together in peace. This book was well thought out and was a real joy to read. I loved how in depth the authors were in their views, and the views of those they were writing about, such as Mahatma Ghandi. I love that the authors really developed the main theme, of how to evolve as a peacemaker, and what each person can do to enlighten themselves. We must be the change we wish to see in the world. I already knew quite a bit about Ghandi’s teachings and his struggles following his beliefs, but I did learn a few new things throughout this book. I highly recommend this book to all, whether you know nothing about the nonviolence movement, or if you are well versed, you as the reader will take something away with you from reading this book.
Profile Image for Payal Sinha.
Author 7 books23 followers
March 26, 2019
The Evolving Peacemaker is a book definitely worth reading. The book is meant for self-analysis and to act as a mirror to show how violent are you. Through the book, the author tells us that instead of finding non-violence at an external level, we should seek it within ourselves and practice at a personal level. Non-violence does not mean only physical harm, but it also means an emotional injury which we could often do through our words and actions. Moreover, instead of looking for a big hero at a global level, we could see many small heroes at the local level- these heroes make a difference in people's lives by their small thoughts and gestures. According to the author, we could try to be a small hero by implementing small changes in our lives and instead of seeking non-violence as the ultimate goal, we could use it as a continuous journey and practice it throughout our lives. The book is made particularly insightful by the words of Arun Gandhi, the grandson of Mahatma Gandhi. There are many personal experiences by the author accompanied by pictures, that makes for an engaging read.
Profile Image for Ann.
Author 13 books7 followers
March 25, 2019
An award-winning book (2017 Living Now Evergreen Medal for World Peace) The Evolving Peacemaker: A Commitment to Non-Violence, by Leona and Matthew Evans (mother and son) is based on the teachings of Mahatma Ghandi, and inspired by Matthew’s video interview of Ghandi’s grandson Arun.
Ghandi taught that all relationships can be improved by using the concepts of acceptance, respect, understanding and appreciation. Along with becoming familiar with Ghandi’s teachings, the book explores methods to “awaken us to the possibilities of embracing a culture of peace.”
Leona Evans sees our mission as evolving peacemakers as doing “all we can to help shift the consciousness of our planet from a culture of violence to a culture of peace.” She continues, “It is a process that requires patience, persistence, and the willingness to see ourselves and all of humanity as a sacred work in process. This involves learning to focus our energies on the journey rather than the destination.”
She describes our quest for peace as “an abstract, spiritual process of discovering who we are, why we are here, and how we can honor our relationship with all creation.”
A beautiful, soulful, book that everyone on the planet should read.
Profile Image for Lupita Ebovure.
31 reviews5 followers
May 18, 2019
This book is a bestseller and also has multiple awards and all are fully deserved. After reading it, I confirmed that it is a book that we should ALL read, because, in times where violence seems to be money, language and refuge, finding peace and transmitting it seems a utopian task, however, Leona Evans explains us in this precious and necessary text, as agents of change in this troubled world.
It is an indispensable book in any library.
Profile Image for Celeste.
36 reviews
April 29, 2019
The Evolving Peacemaker: A Commitment to Nonviolence by Leona Evans is listed as one of Amazon’s #1 Best Sellers. This book has received multiple awards, and I definitely do agree with all of this. I did think it was a great book. One thing I loved most about it was the way it made me really think deeply about some things. The issues that the author touch on in this book are important but often ones that are superficially dismissed. This book was very thought provoking, and it was great to think deeper about these issues and how to evolve and use nonviolence to find peace about it all. It was a very inspirational book overall. The author knows how to connect with her readers to make them feel comfortable in subjects that may not be the most comfortable to think and talk about. Overall, I would recommend this book to any person interested in inspirational and thought provoking stories.
Profile Image for Grady.
Author 51 books1,823 followers
September 11, 2018
‘Nonviolence is more than just a strategy—it has to be a way of life.’

Author Leona Evans is a former Broadway actress, recording artist, and cabaret performer who changed her direction, earning a Master’s degree in Religious Studies, becoming a Unity Minister and motivational speaker help people understand that nonviolence among religions begins with the realization that the same God of love indwells all people. Her books include ‘Nothing Is Too Good to Be True!’, ‘Spirituality & Self- Esteem, and now ‘The Evolving Peacemaker: A Commitment to Nonviolence’ in which she is joined by her musician, filmmaker, and actor son, Matthew J. Evans, whose film on Gandhi began an overture to this book.

Leona opens her book with a Preface from Arun Gandhi and then adds her own distilled précis Introduction about her chosen subject of nonviolence. ‘Our mission as evolving peacemakers is to do all we can to help shift the consciousness of our planet from a culture of violence to a culture of peace. It is a process that requires patience, persistence, and the willingness to see ourselves and all of humanity as a sacred work in progress. This involves learning to focus our energies on the journey rather than the destination. We live in a world of beginnings and endings. When one project is finished, we move on to another. We are constantly encouraged to be goal oriented and to finish our tasks in a punctual manner. We are accustomed to feeling a sense of satisfaction when we contribute our time and energy to a project that comes to fruition. On the other hand, when things seem to be taking too long, we can find ourselves becoming anxious and frustrated because we want to see the finished product. We turn to those around us and ask, “Who is responsible for getting this done?” or “Why isn’t this happening faster?” These are appropriate questions to ask when we know what the finished product is supposed to look like. Our quest for peace, however, is much more than a task with a beginning and an end. It is an abstract, spiritual process of discovering who we are, why we are here, and how we can honor our relationship with all creation. It involves an ongoing series of trials and errors, growth and overcoming, and awakening to new insights only to forget them until we learn again and again. It is figuring out how to use words instead of weapons, developing an intimate relationship with our spiritual powers, and finding ways to use them wisely. Peace in our world involves learning to have respectful and ethical relations with those of other countries, interacting wisely with one another in business, respecting each other’s cultures and unique ways of living, and realizing that in a win-lose system everyone loses. It is learning to make wise choices and coming to see that just because we are able to do something doesn’t necessarily mean we should. Peace is a process of learning to reach out to all people as equals, emphasizing our commonalities and honoring our differences, developing the ability to agree to disagree, finding ways to forgive, and helping to alleviate suffering. It is looking for new ways to feed the hungry and working diligently to replenish our natural resources. We ask, “Who is responsible for getting this done?” The answer is inescapable: “It begins with me.” “Why isn’t this happening faster?” Creating a culture of peace is an enormous undertaking, which involves doing everything we can to remember our purpose and stay centered on our goals. Spending too much time and energy finding fault with others for not making it happen faster only creates more chaos in our environment and takes us further away from the peace we are seeking. Our real works lies in shifting our attention from fear and frustration to finding practical solutions to our problems and respecting the process itself. This is how we can nurture and support the sacred ideal of peace. By embracing these values and incorporating them into our daily lives, we become evolving peacemakers.’

This is a book of challenge and inspiration – one desperately needed at this moment on our globe. Read and grow, be humbled by Leona’s words and evolve.







July 18, 2017
“Our quest for peace: It is an abstract, spiritual process of discovering who we are, why we are here, and how we can honor our quest for peace”
This statement underlies all the principles delivered in this book which deals with violence and nonviolence a la Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King . Violence is defined as any physical and emotional hurt done to people and to the physical environment. There is much to think about as the author includes exploitative actions (people or resources); wasting food; tolerating poverty; and violence to self. She offers that if we as individuals wish to spread Peace in all the turmoil, wars; destruction in the world today, we should become an “Evolving Peacemaker”.
I had two questions - How? and “How long?”. Both Gandhi and Martin Luther King had a ‘cause celebre” to which they tied their message of nonviolence. What would I have on which to hang my peacemaker hat? I recalled a saying: “You can’t give (share) what you don’t have” and anticipated that I could not be a peacemaker to others without being knowledgeable of, and at peace with myself. I confirmed that there was much that I needed to know about myself and violence active or passive.
For this the author offers: “Self-knowledge deals with the process of awakening to deeper levels of our own consciousness, transforming our character weaknesses, and discovering more of our spiritual strengths and creative potential. It is not something we master in a day, a week, or even a year. However, the more we strive for deeper self-awareness, the better able we are to uncover deeply buried emotional issues that have clouded our self-perception and caused us to act out in defensive or angry ways. The book indicates that our quest for peace is an abstract, spiritual process of discovering who we are, why we are here, and how we can honor our relationship with all creation……. ‘ Focusing on becoming a peacemaker with us and with others is a process which may take even more than one lifetime.” While we grow, the book suggests a number of worldly activities that we may use to spread the idea of Peace, for which Education plays a huge role.
It is not surprising then that that the book is called the “Evolving” Peacemaker.
The book is well written and the issues deftly handled. The author uses a mix of Mahatma’s Gandhi’s teaching, along with teachings of his grandson, Arun Gandhi, and her own and her son’s experiences in principles underlying nonviolence and passive violence. I found that I tended to miss jewels floating just under the top of the stream and had to re-read. But the reading is easy. I found great insights in her discussions on Anger, and the role it plays in passive –aggressive violence we do to ourselves and to others. It’s for me a new perspective of seeing Anger as energy and that attempts to bury it just pushes it further down within ourselves from which it will at some tine explode. Anger seems to underlie most of our other actions/behavior and passive actions of violence to ourselves and to others.
I recommend that book be read more than once, but definitely against the background of all the carnage taking place in the world today. It would be an added task to ignore the impact this may have on the quest.
Profile Image for Jo Bass.
77 reviews6 followers
April 19, 2019
The Evolving Peacemaker is truly an amazing book. It is loosely based the principles of non-violence as presented by Mahatma Gandhi and reiterated by his grandson, Arun Gandhi. The chapters are written and related by L. Evans and her son, Mathew J. Evans, as they explain their reasons for writing the book, and take you through their personal life struggles, with both highs and lows of their careers. The primary premise of the book is that in order to change the world, we must begin by changes ourselves – a deep reflection of the Buddhist principle that none are enlightened until all are enlightened. It is also highly biographical. L. Evans hold a Master of Arts in Religious Studies and is a minister of Unity Church and had a thirty year career as a performer. It should be noted here that the Unity Church is not the same as the Unitarian Church, although it holds many similar principles. Matthew is a child actor and director. Mother and son relate life experiences, refer to their acting and performing careers, and their various personal struggles with prejudice, anger, and other very human emotions. The book relates Matthew’s valuable experience in meeting and working with Arun Gandhi, which resulted in an award-winning film, “A Quest for Peace: Non-violence Among Religions.” Arun is fifth grandson to the famous Gandhi, through his second son, Manilal. Arun Gandhi is the founder of the M.K. Gandhi Institute for Nonviolence, in Rochester, New York. The
The book is an easy, quick read. It is also available as an audio book, read by L.Evans and her son, Matthew. The audio production adds another element of personality to the book. Self-study questions for your own journey toward non-violence are included at the end of the book. Even though L. Evans ministerial experience is clear and her delivery is influenced by the spiritual perspective of Unity, the ideals are easily applicable to any religion or even to a non-religious approach. If you are looking for a positive, up-beat approach to self-improvement and perhaps even improvement of your relationships, your community and the world, this little book is an excellent place to begin. In fact, it is likely that you will return to it from time to time to refresh your journey.
Profile Image for Emilie Sovis.
36 reviews2 followers
August 4, 2017
“The Evolving Peacemaker” is a delve into a very personal journey of living peacefully. Maintaining a theme of personal responsibility and attention to the people who have achieved great acts through non-violent means, author Leona Evans walks readers through her own road to increasing enlightenment. The early chapters are centered around Evans’ experiences with her own family and with the grandson of Gandhi, who, following in his grandfather’s footsteps, advocates learning to live peacefully. These chapters set the stage for a later exploration of what makes a peaceful life and what can threaten or corrupt such a life.

What I found most personally enjoyable about “The Evolving Peacemaker” was Evans’ steadfast focus on the importance of “being the change” one wishes to see in the world. Combining this focus with an exploration of the idea that peace is an ever-changing pursuit that demands personal growth and evolution, Evans makes a strong case for her beliefs. Additionally laudable, Evans avoids focusing on religion itself, instead opting to explore the commonalities between all religions and all humans of all nationalities. Her retelling of her involvement in the creation of her son’s award-winning documentary shows that she herself practices what she teaches; the two visit, interview, and learn from leaders of all religions in their quest to document lifestyles of peace.

Evans explores specific techniques for achieving a more peaceful style of engagement with the world. The techniques explored tend to focus on wholesome understanding of self, including the idea that loving acceptance of self, including one’s flaws, is more effective at inducing personal growth than denying one’s flaws or attempting to force them out of oneself. Evans urges readers to explore feelings like anger with care, empathy, and caution instead of repression.

All in all, “The Evolving Peacemaker” is an enjoyable, heartfelt exploration of a family’s personal growth that any reader interested in learning peaceful living will appreciate
Profile Image for Nikki wolters.
12 reviews2 followers
September 4, 2018
Whenever I read a good book there is nothing I love more than passing it on to others to read and enjoy, I'm not stingy lol. If you're contemplating getting this book, go ahead it's a really good book which everyone should read at least once in their lifetime. It tackles one of the most important problems facing mankind. If we can coexist in peace and harmony then this world will be so much better.
About the book - What does our future hold? Is it possible for humanity to exist indefinitely in a world overrun with wars, intolerance, and terrorism? Will our civilization that is steeped in centuries of violence eventually learn how to interact with one another in respectful and compassionate ways?

The Evolving Peacemaker: A Commitment to Nonviolence seeks to address these issues by taking a compelling look at the timeless teachings of Mahatma Gandhi, one of the most respected and influential figures of the twentieth century.

Beginning with a foreword by Arun Gandhi, celebrated peace activist and grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, The Evolving Peacemaker takes the reader on a compelling journey of self-discovery.

This volume weaves Gandhis philosophy of nonviolence with author Leona Evanss personal journey toward inner peace.

Evans states: We are frightened for the future and helpless because we dont know how to make a difference in the world. It is time now to see that our only alternative lies in making a difference within ourselves.

The Evolving Peacemaker is a thought-provoking and inspiring guide to becoming the change we wish to see in the world.
The author did a fantastic job on this book, the writing was of a high literary quality which is one of the reasons I really enjoyed reading this book, right from the first page the pace of the book was steadily built and the pace and tempo increased as it went on, it got to a point I was so hooked I couldn't stop till I finished reading it. An all round complete and interesting book filled with lots of lessons to be learnt which I strongly recommend and I'll proudly give five out of five stars.
Profile Image for Xuan Lee.
24 reviews
September 3, 2018
"The Evolving Peacemaker" is a book emphasizing the efforts of each individual effecting a difference in the world by first making changes within oneself. My favorite quote from the book is "A culture of peace is more than the absence of conflict; it is a way of life that includes multiple levels of participation.". Many times when we experience discrimination from the people around us or conflict within our community, we tend to blame the others for their lack of tolerance and understanding. We hold other people responsible for creating conflict that negatively affects us emotionally or physically within our school, community or at work. Yet the author propagates that we ought to first make changes within ourselves to contribute to peace around us.

The author shares her journey of growth, coming from her experiences from being bullied as a young child because of her religious beliefs. She also includes principals propagated by Gandhi, a giant in history advocating nonviolence. What makes the content of this book even more precious is the involvement of Arun Gandhi, a celebrated peace activist and grandson of Mahatma Gandhi.

The author comes across as down-to-earth and absolutely sincere in using her best efforts as an individual to contribute to peace in the greater society. This book is thought-provoking and inspiring, encouraging the reader to ponder about our own actions and thoughts as an individual, and what we can do to change ourselves so that our world can be a better place for our children. A wonderful and refreshing read that brings much-needed hope to mankind, especially in our current world so full of civil wars, terrorism, and international conflict.
Profile Image for Jonah Erickson.
4 reviews
December 16, 2017
The title of this book really suits the material inside. I appreciated that Evans' approach towards peace was not one of complacency or passivity. Seeking peace in the world is a commitment to oneself to continually do away with the internal conflicts, insecurities, and fears that come out in our day to day lives. I found myself reflecting on current events and the times as I was reading this, and wondering how much of the pain and suffering caused in the world was really just the result of one person, or a very small group of people. It takes one person to set a fire that burns down hundreds of homes. The concept of nonviolence was something that I was familiar with; in many ways this book is simply a combination of the author's personal experiences and the narrative of nonviolence. The book really excels in motivating the reader to take pragmatic steps towards nonviolence in their own lives, at least I found it to be the case as I read. The foreword was a sort of bonus commentary from the grandson of Mahatma Ghandi, who sets the tone for the book by establishing that without effort and personal growth, mankind is naturally violent and chaotic. Since the teachings of Ghandi recur throughout the book, I found this forward helpful, and all in all I think that this would serve as an excellent foundational read for people seeking to confront the harsh and grim world as it is represented on the news. It is a good reminder that the world doesn't have to be this way, and that each person has a role to play in making peace.
Profile Image for Ivory R.
144 reviews3 followers
July 18, 2017
The Evolving Peacemaker is an interesting guide to changing a mindset. I liked that she explained that nonviolence is not being a doormat but choosing to respond peacefully and being unconfrontational. I think that is important in developing self-worth. I was truly inspired by the insight and thoughtfulness. I didn't know Gandhi had a grandson and thought it was pretty cool to meet someone related to such a popular and well known person. The author provides antecedotes from experiences in her own life and the stories of real people like her son and Willie Bermudez. Her son even wrote a few chapters as well.

The author caused me to truly think about my interactions with others and my own role in violence. I have always thought of violence as the physical things not considering the nonphysical/passive violence that include sarcastic remarks, gossip, insults and even self condemnation. There were so many nuggets of wisdom that I felt were valuable and astute. Self-acceptance is an ongoing battle because it is more than just acknowledge faults, its also realizing unrealistic self expectations. I wish more people were not so quick to anger and hold grudges. Every day, we hear of terrible tragedies where someone went off the edge on some small incident like being cut of on the road. Overall, good read for anyone who wants to become more self-aware and make positive changes in their lives.
Profile Image for Christa.
4 reviews1 follower
December 9, 2017
Let's face it. We don't live in a very peaceful world right now. Families are torn apart by political beliefs, hatred is flowing through our schools, and the days of walking in a public place without the fear of gunfire blazing is a thing of the past. If ever there was a book that everyone should read, process, and understand, it's this one.

Basically, this book starts with talking about the ultimate personification of peace, Mahatma Gandhi, and continues with the authors personal experience with violence. I really could relate with this book because I could certainly see my own thoughts about violence and peace being echoed in the writings of the author, Leona Evans. I also like that she intertwines faith and religious beliefs into this book. People, at least some people, are so passionate about their own religious beliefs, that they actually get violent because of it, and no great religion in the world promotes violent acts. Yet, we see violence in the name of religion almost every day.

The concept of passive violence was covered in the book, as well as other concepts that I hadn't necessarily thought about, so this book was eye opening, too. Because of this book, I now see myself as an evolving peacemaker. As is said in front of every new chapter, "As an evolving peacemaker, I walk the path of...________" (you can fill in the blank after reading this amazing book!)
Profile Image for Romuald Dzemo.
154 reviews11 followers
July 19, 2017
The Evolving Peacemaker: A Commitment to Nonviolence by Leona Evans is a timely message for a world that is crippled by war and hatred. Watching today’s political landscape, one is forced to wonder where our world is heading to. The author understands that the journey towards peace in our world starts with our battle to conquer our conflicting emotions.

It’s a powerful reflection that combines the philosophy of Mahatma Ghandi and the author’s personal journey towards peace to deliver a message that everyone needs to hear: If you want to live in a peaceful world, you should learn to be a peacemaker. One can’t make peace with the world if one hasn’t conquered it for one’s self. The author understands that violence never solves a problem and having been a victim of violence, the message of this book comes across powerfully.

Apart from the message of this book, readers will enjoy the clear and clean prose. The writing is very accessible and it helps to carry the message eloquently to the heart of the reader. This is a book that everyone living in this time and space ought to read, because it addresses the universal call to create a convivial environment where others can live in peace.
Profile Image for Angela.
38 reviews1 follower
July 3, 2017
I’m so blown away that this book found ME when I most needed it. I obviously am familiar with Ghandi, but the author truly showcases his spirit and his philosophies. I absolutely love the four concepts: Respect, Understanding, Acceptance, Appreciation.

The author had my attention right away in Chapter 1 when she shared details about her first violent attack. I couldn’t help but cry! But, it was all for a greater purpose in the end, if that makes sense to anyone else. I think some are immune to seeing violence, hearing about it, and even experiencing it. And I agree that we’re often cruel to our own selves with “negative self-talk”. I believe that when we stifle our anger, grievances, even childhood trauma, it can lead to so many issues, including tending to react with violence. Physically and emotionally.

I agree 150% that it does start within each of us. Finding our own inner peace is critical and it’s not easy or quick. I’m still learning, growing and working on it so this book was such a gift in that it gave me an even clearer perspective on my own life and those around me.
Profile Image for Karyn H.
568 reviews10 followers
April 25, 2019
The Evolving Peacemaker: A Commitment to Nonviolence

Nonviolence is not just a mother and son affair. It is indeed a course everybody should be actively engaged in. Leona and her son Mathew Evans has put in a lot of time and energy to put this work together. Evolving peacemaker is a book derived from the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. Mathew took his time to gather first-hand information from Gandhi's grandson Anu.
It was very easy for me to accept this book because I have a lot of views in common with the authors of this great work. First I love the points that were raised in this book about acceptance. We should learn to accept people the way they are. There are bound to be better results with dialogue rather than violence. Violence has never gotten us anything than more pain. The also talked of respect, understanding and most of all appreciation. Instead of violence, we can learn to ask questions about people’s culture – why they do what they do. Doing this can help improve understanding and respect for each other’s beliefs and values.
This book is very hand and must have for those advocating for nonviolence. Literally, it’s a book everyone should have.
Profile Image for Amanda.
329 reviews
January 16, 2019
Considering the current political climate worldwide, The Evolving Peacemaker carries a message we could all use for perspective. When it feels like we are cocooned in war, terrorism, and seemingly random, senseless violence, the idea of a peaceful existence can seem like an untouchable fantasy. And perhaps it is on a global scale but what about within yourself? Leona Evans explores the idea that before there can be universal peace there must first be tranquility within ourselves. We've all heard "Be the change you wish to see in the world" - the idea being that a nonviolent world cannot be populated with violent people.

Centered around the teachings of Ghandi, the author lays out ways in which we can make positive changes now that will help future generations. This book will make you think hard and dig deep without being judgemental or accusatory.

The chapters that Evens' son, Matthew, authored are a testament to the idea that peace breeds more peace. Imagine if we all began to live peacefully, what sort of future might follow.
Profile Image for Heidi Hecht.
4 reviews
December 4, 2017
The author didn't say anything that I haven't thought at one time or another, but it's nice to see it laid out in plain English. When you want to make the world peaceful, you take the Ghandi approach of looking at your life and what you could improve on first. This style turns peace into more than a movement. It's a lifestyle. Then you'll have an easier job reaching others when they see that you practice what you preach. Nonviolence doesn't just mean that you don't go around picking fights (and taking the risk of picking a fight with the wrong guy). It also means recognizing and discouraging "passive" violence that can hurt people in the "death by a thousand cuts" style. Diversity is seen as a good thing because truly peaceful people recognize that they are unlikely to agree with everybody 100% of the time. I especially like that the author doesn't use flowery language to lay out a pipe dream. I probably wouldn't have finished the book if she had, but I like that she lays out practical things that people can do to increase the amount of peace in the world.
Profile Image for Sabine Bellerose.
4 reviews
September 27, 2018
The thing I loved most about this book was that it wasn't strictly a treatise on non-violence. The author takes you by the hand and leads you through her own journey. It's not simply for the sake of story telling, but a way to demonstrate how personal choices and personal responsibility can impact your own individual perspective.

The concept of "world peace" and the concept of "pacifism" are often difficult to grasp from the individual level because our minds automatically go to "but what will other people do?" and assume our tiny, personal efforts are worthless. This read helps to change that focus in a way that's difficult to articulate. While the end-goal of peace is a thread that runs through the book., focusing on the goal isn't the main theme. Instead, it's understanding that these individual efforts (even if they don't seem to have immediate success) are never, ever "worthless."

This is definitely a book I'll return to again and again. Also, the foreword by Mahatma Gandhi's grandson is a delight!
Profile Image for Ashley.
150 reviews
July 17, 2017
This book takes an interesting approach when discussing nonviolence, which ties in with the teachings of Gandhi. If you don’t know what his teachings are, they are explained in an easy to digest way. It is also sprinkled throughout with his words, as well as the words of his grandson, the latter of whom the authors have garnered a friendship with. It also describes violence as something that is a far broader concept than what you would traditionally think of, even discussing things like bullies and anger problems. The lessons are simple to take in and are thoughtful, especially since they are coming from people from various generations. I liked seeing the pictures and reading about young Matthew’s accomplishments. There is a lot to be said about someone that will be an example to their peers, especially when it isn’t an easy thing to do. Overall, this is an inspiring story that may evoke some hope in your life.
172 reviews3 followers
July 18, 2017
Leons Evans’, “The Evolving Peacemaker: A Commitment to Nonviolence,” is a book that many individuals in this world need to read and take in to account due to this society’s interactions. Evans uses Gandhi’s teachings as a basis for how individuals should act, using peaceful and nonviolent interactions to further push their agendas as something that needs to be at the forefront of society’s thoughts. I enjoyed the philosophy that Evan’s portrays because I think the best way to get a point out to mass audiences is that there is no anger or malice, only true commitment to a purpose, no matter what is thrown at you, even though I think it is horrible that if one were to fight back for their cause, the perception of that individual would be significantly changed. There were many thought provoking ideologies and I do question many of the ideals that I held previously, so if anything, at least this book will help you be able to question where you stand.
Profile Image for Shanell Meek.
582 reviews6 followers
November 17, 2017
As an evolving peacemaker, I walk the path of.....

The Evolving Peacemaker is an interesting take on an ideal life living in a peaceful world, no war, anger, violence or abuse. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this, there is a lot of insight into Ghandisims as well as personal perspectives of the authors. It covers self discovery, courage, hope, love, self acceptance, nonviolent action just to name a few! It may seem a bit idealistic but maybe if everyone in the world was able to read and practice the teachings in this book then we’ d all be in a happier place! I would recommend this book to anyone, it is well written and has tons of wonderful information regarding living a peaceful life, and finding inner peace, and happiness. “It is the duty of every human being to look carefully within and see himself as he is and spare no pains to improve himself in body, mind and soul.” Gandhi
Profile Image for Valery.
1,501 reviews57 followers
September 10, 2018
The Evolving Peacemaker: A Commitment to Nonviolence by Leona Evans is a heartfelt book that focuses on the teachings of Gandhi. Inspired by a short film with Arun Gandhi made by her teenage son Matthew, Leona Evans has felt compelled to share her learning and wisdom when it comes to living and promoting a life of peace. After a brutal attack during her childhood, she has embarked on living a life of peace, and encourages others to do the same. This is a quite revealing book, one that lays bare emotion, as well as the struggle to survive in today's brutal world, and how concerning oneself with peace and living in a peaceful way can manifest great change. The teachings of Gandhi are explored and extolled, setting a beautiful example that most could benefit from. In order to change the world, we must first change ourselves. Intuitive, thoughtful, and inspiring, this book is strongly recommended.
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1,824 reviews9 followers
September 11, 2018
In a time when ill-temper and aggressive behavior is flaunted all over the internet, The Evolving Peacemaker is a refreshing outlook on personal conduct and how to achieve a greater peace. Leona Evans uses experiences in her own life to show how she chooses to act in difficult situations. The key is evolving, ever changing, and growing to improve where you are at in life. Evans hits some difficult topics live forgiveness, peace, and acceptance of not only others but yourself also.

The fact that her own child wishes to promote Leona Evans, and the cause she teaches others, says volumes about her as a person. Matthew sees what she is really like behind doors and still wishes to follow her example. This shows not only the greatness of the author, but also the power of the message she emulates. The Evolving Peacemaker is an excellent tool to use as a guide to help oneself find the joy for which they have been searching.
2 reviews
May 4, 2019
What future is in store for humanity? Is it possible to continue to live in a world filled with raging wars, sweeping intolerance, and continuously feared terrorism? Have centuries of nothing but violence, will we be able to find our way to compassion and respect for one another?
These are just a few of the questions that the author broaches in this novel. Through the process of analyzing the many teaching of Mahatma Ghandi, one of the most highly respected and massively influential individuals of the 20th Century, we try to find out way towards a more civilized, tolerant society. The author weaves her own personal journey towards inner peace, with the teachings and philosophy of nonviolence and tolerance of Ghandi. Evans states in her book: “We are frightened for the future and helpless because we don’t know how to make a difference in the world. It is time now to see that our only alternative lies in making a difference within ourselves.”
255 reviews2 followers
July 17, 2017
The Evolving Peacekeeper is a thoughtful, inspirational book. It combines the teachings of Mahatma Ghandi, the lessons learned by his grandson Arun, and the reflections of Leona and Matthew Evans who apply them in these contemporary times. It points out how peace is a journey, not a destination. It also demonstrates many areas in how nonviolence is a commitment that starts with you. It has opened my eyes even more to how nonviolence affects my relationships with others even if I never act out with aggression. The book followed themes each chapter, but I also appreciated how it followed most events in chronological order with some flashbacks. It helps to see her progression. The format allows you to read through or focus on applying one new concept or personal revelation at a time. With the contributions by her son Matthew, I will likely share this book with my teenage son first.
Profile Image for Robin Surface.
31 reviews1 follower
July 17, 2017
A Call for Peace...This book is interesting in that it’s part memoir and part instruction manual for establishing a better world based upon the teachings of Gandhi.

As our world becomes more violent, it would seem this book’s philosophy is greatly needed and the authors show that the process begins with the individual. They also include a guide to show you how to attain this through the art of self-acceptance.

Another interesting concept explored is the various faces of violence, including passive violence, which can manifest as concealed anger at society, wasting food, tolerating poverty, etc.

The message throughout this book seems to be that change has to happen one person at a time, and that message is especially relevant today. It’s definitely a book you should check out if you’re traveling a path toward personal peace and joy.
Profile Image for Chelseyam.
198 reviews
July 18, 2017
I think books like this will quickly become a trend for me this year. The book is based on the teaching of Ghandi, who has been a constant inspiration in life, especially when I feel like I am powerless in the world. I really enjoyed the way the author took these teachings and added insight and perspective that really brought new light to the whole message.
While I was reading the book, I couldn’t help but feel a huge burden lift off of my shoulders. I prolonged the reading process because it was very relaxing and actually made me feel good about the day ahead of me.
Personally, I feel messages like this should be taught in schools because it helps cultivate joy and peace in a world of mayhem. Perhaps, spreading the message will bring peace to the future generation. All the same, I’d recommend this book for anyone looking to find calm in the midst of the storm.
Profile Image for Kristen.
223 reviews5 followers
July 21, 2017
What a beautiful book. I deeply enjoyed reading Evans writing style and outlook on the world. I especially enjoyed her insights into Ghandi. Unfortunately for me, prior to reading this book I did not know much about Ghandi and his teachings but Evans has ignited a new spark and interest in me! While I would start my day with a few pages from her book, so many of her lines would become mantras for my day ahead.

I think this is a book that the world desperately needs right now. When it seems like there is always something terrible on the news it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Personally, I often feel lost and unsure how to make a difference amongst all the chaos. Even if we think of ourselves as not contributing to the violence, reading this book will help you understand how to become a steward of peace in the world.
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