Creating Peace Project

By: Debbie Milam

www.bestyoucanbe.org

Every day, media headlines broadcast examples of mankind's inhumanity to others. Violence, war, crime, terrorism—enough to make one wonder if there's cause for hope. Although we live in a safe community many of our neighbors and their children face conflict in their daily lives. Problems with rage and aggressiveness are being seen in all age groups. Time magazine recently reported that 93% of the schools surveyed said kindergartners are showing significantly more emotional and behavioral problems than in the past five years. This conflict is evident in our schools, our homes and in our families. The time is now for each of us to take personal responsibility for creating peace within ourselves, our homes, and our neighborhoods. Although conflict is a normal part of the human experience, with the proper tools people in our community can learn to eliminate the negative effects in their lives.

In early 2003, peace activist, workshop leader, and pediatric occupational therapist Debbie Milam hosted a gathering of 500 children—from almost every race, religion, academic ability, and socioeconomic background—to experience, discuss, and define peace . . . in their own words.

Imagine seeing children with Down's Syndrome seated next to intellectually gifted children. Hispanic, Asian, Native American, Caucasian, and African American children sat side by side. Young people of Jewish, Buddhist, Muslim, Christian, and Islamic faiths assembled as an ethnic rainbow, a miniature UN, a microcosm of society.

Their innocent faces, nervous energy, and unbridled enthusiasm filled the room. A noisy school cafeteria transformed, by candlelight and intention, into a haven of peace and possibility.

With the beautiful melodies of Pachel Bell Canon as background music, Debbie led the children through a magical relaxation exercise to help them discover peace within their hearts. The imagery encouraged them to envision that same peace within the hearts of children around the world.

She then asked the children to write their answers to the following questions:

What is peace?

What does it feel like?

What does it look like?

Why do we need peace?

What keeps you from feeling peaceful?

What can you do to create more peace in your home?

How can I create peace with your friends?

If children ran the world, how would it be different?

Who creates peace?

Why do you think people fight?

How does it make you feel when they do?

What can our world leaders do to create peace?


What a difference we can all make if we find peace within our own hearts and minds.