“It isn’t enough to talk about peace. One must believe in it. And it isn’t enough to believe in it. One must work at it.” — Eleanor Roosevelt
Today is International Peace Day. A day that should be celebrated and recognized more than it is. It was first established in 1981 by the United Nations General Assembly. And
designated as a period of global non-violence and cease-fire in 2001. This year the theme is, “Invest in Peace – For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day”.
It feels like, today, this day, this idea of peace has been canceled, swept aside and drowned out with the escalation in violence around the world, but especially here in the US. It has become disgusting how we have devolved here to aggression and violence toward citizens, non-citizens and countries around the world.
More authoritarian regimes are poised to try to take over more countries. This is a tough fight, but one that must be fought. Fought in the name of nonviolence and peace. We are hoping, here, to keep making inroads with this through our upcoming elections.
But it will take time. And it begins with us being invested in creating an atmosphere of peace. Small gestures. Strong boundaries. And as Eleanor Roosevelt said we must work at it constantly, consistently. I don’t have the answers, but I am starting this process, this journey again. Back to peace. Believing in peace and working to make it possible in my life, in my country and around the world.
I have chosen this vase of wine-colored coleus and the beautiful lavender colored flowers the hummingbirds love. It is cut from the pot growing outside my door. Coleus symbolizes transformation, personal growth and positive energy. Wine tones convey introspection, stability and a quiet, grounded, and confident inner strength. Perfect for this Peace Day.
With this vase, I am linking in with the wonderful meme, In A Vase On Monday, from Cathy at Rambling in the Garden.
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I couldn’t agree more. It seems that we forget how short our lifespans are … and we waste each precious day fighting for greed driven reasons. The lives of poor marginalized people are tossed aside as if they didn’t exist, they just don’t count. Nonviolence is not even a discussion point. And in the end “he who dies with all the toys” doesn’t win, they just wasted their life on war and suffering. Peace is the only way to really win.
Beautifully said Joyce. Thank you.
This is a beautiful post, Donna–both your Coleus collection and your thoughts about world peace. Your ceramic vase is an exquisite vessel, too.
Thanks dear Beth. The vase is an anniversary Belleek vase. A favorite.
Mother Teresa said it best: “If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.”
“What can you do to promote world peace? Go home and love your family.”
“We do not need guns and bombs to bring peace, we need love and compassion.”
“Peace and war begin at home. If we truly want peace in the world, let us begin by loving one another in our own families.”
Perfect sentiments to follow. Thank you.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts about Peace Day, Donna – I hadn’t heard of the day before, which sadly says such a lot So interesting to read about the symbolism of coleus I imagine all those who read your blog will share similar views…
Thanks Cathy. Glad I could bring this to you.
Beautifully stated, Donna. I can but echo your sentiments. It’s hard to believe, much less understand, how far our nation has drifted from its goals of peace and humanity.
I think that is what I wrestle with the most. How we have fallen so far is so perplexing.
We have a tough road ahead here in Texas.
Indeed you do my friend.
A very pretty Coleus, and perfect for peace day Donna. ️
Thanks Cathy!!