A TIME TO GIVE THANKS

September 28, 2017

               Another International Day of Peace has passed and once again we hope and pray the wisdom and challenge of that observance is becoming more and more our daily practice and awareness. The International Day of Peace (September 21) challenges us to practice peace in all the affairs of our lives. Peace is born of gratitude. Think of all the people who are rededicating to the cause of peace in the midst of the threat of nuclear war. How could we not give thanks for their courage and witness? Here is a short list of reasons to be grateful. May we be inspired to add to the list as we encourage one another to work in the cause of peace and justice.

We give thanks for all the men who recognize the dignity and full humanity of women treating them with the respect all human beings deserve.

We give thanks for all the women who claim their dignity, find their voice and stand up for what is right, just, true and beautiful.

We give thanks for all those governmental leaders throughout the World who recognize the rights of Refugees and Immigrants to journey in peace and find a safe haven in a new homeland.

We give thanks for all those who risk their lives protesting the powers of oppression and injustice.

We give thanks for those who care for the Earth by respecting her resources and citizens, animal, mineral, human, and vegetative.

We give thanks for all those who rescue the victims of hurricanes, earthquakes and all types of disasters.

We give thanks for all those who speak in the manner they would be spoken to and about.

We give thanks for all those whose language is a source of blessing and encouragement.

We give thanks for all those who see political and governmental office as a vocation of service to the people of the land.

We give thanks for all those who “take the knee” as they cry out for justice and an end to violence in the streets by those charged to protect.

We give thanks for all those who refuse to be mastered by the violence of physical assault or verbal abuse.

We give thanks for all those who “lock arms” as they stand in solidarity with those who have no voice, no power.

Peacefully,

Thomas P. Bonacci, C.P. with the Board of Directors of
The Interfaith Peace Project