February 11, 2003
Dear Friends –
A month ago I began to get messages about an international prayer for peace to be shared by millions of people simultaneously February 9. I deleted every message without really reading it – until yesterday. Then I read it. Sunday, February 9, I observed a moment of focused intention.
I have received countless messages regarding the “Rice for Peace” action. I deleted each message with a smile. Not my thing, I said to myself. I have just put a half cup of rice in a bubble pack to send to President Bush.
I guess I’m feeling desperate. At the same time, I am aware that these actions are sparks of hope. Each email that came into my home was a spark sent by someone who felt hopeful enough to make the effort.
It’s time to honor these sparks of hope and share them with others.
For example yesterday afternoon I was in Twain-Harte, a small town in Northeast California- population100. Down the street came a crowd of 20 people, old and young, with peace signs, passing out flyers for the February 15-16 peace marches. We honked and waved which gave the marchers a noticeable lift in energy.
Here are a few websites which represent many groups who are generating significant sparks of hope by their efforts and activities.
United for Peace & Justice – This site has international and national listings for the February 15-16 peace demonstrations as well as other related activities.
Cities for Peace – 72 cites and counties (as well as the Maine Sentate and Hawaii House of Representatives) have passed resolutions against U.S. war on Iraq. See the list!
Code Pink – This site describes actions and events created by women.
Move On – Over 750,000 people have joined this on-line network to participate in one of the most effective and responsive outlets for democratic participation available today.
Jewish Voice for Peace – The Not In Our Name Project is working with other anti-war organizations to form an Emergency Response Network. This network will call for a day of protest and non-compliance with the war when it becomes clear that war is imminent.
Please take your belief in peace and justice into the street where people can see it. I hope to see some of you among the hundreds of thousands of people who will be creating sparks of hope February 16 in San Francisco.
On the path –
