Kofi Annan Rings The Peace Bell This Morning

To cultivate and foster a Culture of Peace, the General Assembly of the UN, in 1981, initiated the annual observance of an International Day of Peace. This year is highlighted today by a 24-hour "worldwide spiritual vigil for peace and non-violence" by everyone who seeks peace in this world.

"Peace begins with ourselves, living in harmony with one another and with the earth. Let us all do our share in making war obsolete and peace a reality. This will help create a better future for our children - the people of tomorrow." ~ Manila Bulletin Online

Kofi Annan said, "...Nothing can be more dangerous to our efforts to build peace and development than a world divided along religious, ethnic or cultural lines. In each nation, and among all nations, we must work to promote unity based on our shared humanity."

We desperately need to realize how important our ethnic, cultural and religious diversity is when it comes to preserving the history of the world and building world peace. There is so much we have to share with each other...in our arts, our music, our traditions...that can enrich all on this planet. May this day be a day of thoughtfulness and reverence for you.

Patty Ann Smith