What if we embraced the great power of our religions and harnessed that energy for good and for healing our broken world? Can you imagine the world if we succeeded? Matt Loper, of Kids4Peace Boston, shares the story of how kids hold the key to peace—and tells us how they helped him heal.

Matthew is the Executive Director of Kids4Peace Boston and has worked in the field of Experiential Education in a variety of capacities for nearly ten years. He enjoys connecting with those who value vulnerability over bravado and desire to make the world a kinder place. Prior to his work in the outdoor and inter-religious fields, Matthew received a BS in Education and Social Policy from Northwestern University.

Scarred at a young age by an intolerant religious community but deeply drawn to the ways in which we understand our purpose, Matthew has flirted with, rejected, and embraced religion more times than he can count. His commitment to the inter-religious community of Kids4Peace stems from the profound healing he has felt and witnessed by those willing to know and respect the most sacred parts of another's identity. When not on the TEDx stage, you can usually find Matthew running, dancing, or day-dreaming. He is honored by this first opportunity to engage with the TEDx community.

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx