Peace is something we all strive to achieve, especially in our everyday lives. International Day of Peace, recognized on September 21 every year, is the perfect opportunity to promote peace in the world around us. While you may not hold the keys to tackle international peace on your own, there are plenty of ways to participate in the day that can help promote peace and unity. Find out more about the holiday below, along with ways you can celebrate this year.
Background on the Holiday
The United Nations General Assembly established International Day of Peace in 1981. Since then, the day has moved on to mean a cease-fire and day of nonviolence. It has also come to be a time where people can educate themselves and others on international peace and a day to create public awareness.
How You Can Participate in International Day of Peace
Participating in International Day of Peace comes in many ways, both large and small. Check out some ideas to get you started below.
- Let Go of Grudges
Take this time to evaluate the relationships in your life. While it’s important to set boundaries and every situation is unique, use this day as an opportunity to let go of a silly grudge or disagreement in your life. That could mean simply moving on and choosing to forget about the experience since it doesn’t serve you, or it could mean making amends with a friend or loved one. Use this as an opportunity to evaluate the relationships in your life.
- Educate Yourself and Others
Part of International Day of Peace is education. World peace may not exist because of differences in how we think, act or believe. Take the time to educate yourself on another culture or way of life that you may not understand or want to learn more about. Research organizations working toward peace and find out how you can lend your time and talents to their cause.
- Do a Random Act of Kindness
If we all did a simple random act of kindness each day, the world would be a whole lot brighter. Take this day as an opportunity to do something nice for a stranger or loved one. This could be as simple as buying somebody a cup of coffee or as large as spending the entire day devoted to helping a neighbor in need. Random acts of kindness, both large and small, go a long way in promoting unity.
- Give Globally
Since this is about international peace, consider donating or volunteering with an organization that helps provide relief internationally. Look at the issues and causes globally and determine what you’re most passionate about. Then, step up to help!
- Volunteer Locally
While you may think of International Day of Peace as helping others around the world, remember that it can start in your community. After all, you’re part of this earth! Start locally and see how you can make a difference. Volunteer at an organization that promotes positivity or discover a new cause locally that can further promote peace year-round.
While September 21 is a day to recognize International Day of Peace, don’t forget that you can extend these ways to celebrate throughout the year. Set a small recurring goal for yourself throughout the year. Before you know it, these acts of kindness will spread and make a huge difference in the world we call home.
