The International Day of Peace, sometimes unofficially known as World Peace Day, is observed annually on 21 September. It is dedicated to peace, and specifically the absence of war and violence, such as might be occasioned by a temporary ceasefire in a combat zone for humanitarian aid access. The day was first celebrated in 1982, and is kept by many nations, political groups, military groups, and people.
To inaugurate the day, the “Peace Bell” is rung at UN Headquarters (in New York City). The bell is cast from coins donated by children from all continents except Africa, and was a gift from the United Nations Association of Japan, as “a reminder of the human cost of war”; the inscription on its side reads, “Long live absolute world peace“.
Individuals can also wear White Peace Doves to commemorate the International Day of Peace, which are badges in the shape of a dove produced by a non-profit organisation in Canada.
Some of the favorite quotes ~
“If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.” ~ Mother Theresa
“Be the change that you want to see in the world.” ~ Mohandas Gandhi
“Peace cannot be kept by force. It can only be achieved by understanding.” ~ Albert Einstein.
“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 for it.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt
Love is the way to peace,
for love is the
greatest power on earth.
ADDENDUM : Thinking ahead to next year’s International Day of Peace, I would like to invite all of our readers to submit to me their thoughts, quotes, images, music, short videos, etc. telling me which country you live in and I will use your information to create our collective contribution to next year’s International Day of Peace.
I think it would be great fun to hear from as many countries as possible.
I will send my e-mail address to anyone who wishes to contribute – just mention this in a comment reply on this blog.
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