Peace is the word. There's a new organization in town and if representatives have their way, residents in Yorkton will learn to cultivate an atmosphere where peace can thrive and discussions are plenty.
The Living Peace Association is a new, non-profit organization based in Yorkton.
"Our vision is "a culture of peace." Our mission is to "promote non-violent, peaceful and loving ways of living," and "to support initiatives for a more peaceful world." The peace dove is our symbol," says President Warren Crossman.
"We're brand new... we have a vision, we have a mission and we have some things we're considering doing."
Crossman says the concept came from three people who are now the founding members. Turning on the news, one can see a definite lack of peace both abroad and at home he says, thus the inspiration.
"A lot of times it's within themselves (people) directly. So we thought there is an opportunity here to raise awareness about peace and to engage in a conversation with people in whatever way we can."
The organization is incorporated and taking things one day at a time with an eye to the future. Members - there are currently three - kicked off their intentions with a presentation to Yorkton City Council where council proclaimed September 21 as International Peace Day in the city.
"We believe this will serve as an ideal opportunity to increase awareness and the need for peace in our homes, our community, our nation and around the world.
"Certainly it's always in the back of our minds what is going on globally... we're confronted with it daily, 24/7... we can't solve those problems as an organization here but what we can do is look at raising the awareness in our own communities and in our own lives... Where peace actually starts is from within, so by trying to live more peaceful lives ourselves, it will spread to our families, our communities and so on...
"Directly can we solve crises and wars around the world? No, but we can do our part to make where we live a little more peaceful."
There has been violence in the world since humans have existed says Crossman. "Humans are the most unpredictable species there is... we need more dialogue... wherever there is a difference of opinion and there isn't the will to talk about our commonality as humans, there is the potential for violence..."
The inaugural community activity of the Peace Association has been slated for September 21 in the form of a "Peace Walk."
"It's not a long walk, it's very short, but we want to encourage people to engage in a conversation along the walk about what peace means to them and from that, gather some ideas..."
The goal is to gather input and to create an atmosphere conducive to open discussion.
"We're hoping to gather a lot of great ideas..."
The walk takes place at the Western Development Museum beginning at 1:30 p.m.
"Anyone of any mobility is very welcome." People are also welcome to bring along their own symbols of peace to either carry along, display and/or discuss.
Those who are interested in taking ideas further following the walk, are welcome to get more involved. While there is no set growth plan for the group Crossman says there is room for more people regardless if they want to become a member or maybe just volunteer. If you can build a website, or have any other idea of how you might help out your input is welcome.
Crossman says he is also open to working with schools or any other local organizations interested in the same goals. "In an ideal world, we would like to see that there would be a culture of peace on earth, so what we're trying to do is embrace people in a dialogue of understanding... we want to promote peaceful and non-violent ways of living..."
Anyone wanting to learn more or get involved can do so by calling Crossman at 1-306-782-3249 or email: living [email protected]
