Note: Originally published as “’Peace for a Palestinian’ tells story of Latter-day Saint woman’s faith amid war” on November 2, 2018, by Kelsey Schwab Adams, for the Deseret News.
“I think the world struggles with treating others equally. We often judge too fast, when peace is possible with anyone. As we obtain that personal peace that comes from the Savior, even if you live in a state of war, having that relationship with your Heavenly Father and your Savior is the first step to have physical peace with others.”
Despite being raised during a time of war and oppression, Sahar Qumsiyeh, a Palestinian Arab woman, was able to find joy and peace
Qumsiyeh, a member of the Rexburg Idaho North Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was born in Jerusalem and raised in Beit Sahour, near Bethlehem.
In her new book, “Peace for a Palestinian” (Deseret Book, $15.99, 168 pages), Qumsiyeh shares her experience growing up in a country “torn apart by political upheaval.” She writes about her feelings of hopelessness as she witnessed the persecution of her people. She dives deep into her search for peace, concluding that true faith “can only come from within.”
“As we love and look at everyone as a child of God, that’s when we start to be able to establish peace with one another,” Qumsiyeh said.
Featured Image: Sahar Qumsiyeh is the author of “Peace for a Palestinian: One Woman’s Story of Faith amidst War in the Holy Land.” Provided by Deseret Book
Sunshine in the Soul 