Yesterday, I came across this poem while taking a break from reading the most recent dire warnings on climate warming, the latest news on the conflicts tearing our world apart, and the endless political rhetoric.
This beautiful passage emphasizes the interconnectedness of peace at different levels from the individual to the global. It highlights the power of our actions and attitudes to shape the world. The poem shows us we are more powerful than we think, underscoring the importance of personal responsibility in fostering harmony and understanding. Small actions and minor acts of kindness, much like the flutter of a butterfly’s wings, can set off a chain reaction of events that can promote peace in your heart, your home, across your neighborhood, in your city, and into the greater world.
This made me wonder, what have I done today to promote peace? Very little. I get angry, resentful, and impatient. I’m probably a lot like you. But still, I wondered what can I do. I am not Malala Yousafzai, who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014, as an advocate for girls’ education. I am not Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2011 for her non-violent efforts on behalf of women’s right to participate in peace-building work in Liberia. Or even Mother Theresa, who vowed to give service to the poorest of power. But I can try for harmony in my home and my heart. And I can connect with organizations in my city that mirror my beliefs. There are many. Go to Peace Week Delaware’s website and browse events https://www.peaceweekdelaware.org/attend-events/. These are organizations that support peace at all levels. They are organizations like Delaware Pacem in Terris, Moms Demand Action, Nami Delaware, and The Warehouse. There are churches, synagogues, and Islamic societies listed. Find your cause. Volunteer and become a peace advocate.
And if you are an individual or belong to an organization that promotes peace at any level plan on joining Peace Week Delaware for their annual celebration of peace October 19- 27.
