Students at Miriam’s Lower/Middle School celebrated International Peace Day on Wednesday, learning how the goal of creating a more peaceful world often starts with ourselves.
For many adults, the idea of working toward peace may conjure images of the ongoing war in Europe and recent conflicts in the Middle East, and perhaps the feeling of “what can I possibly do to bring peace” – burdens much too big for children’s shoulders.
The educators at Miriam instead brought the idea of finding peace down to a more personal and approachable level for our students.
Mary Cognata, Head of School for the Lower/Middle School, spoke to the students about mindfulness, kindness and creating peace in their day-to-day life. She read a book from the school’s library titled “I Am Peace: A Book of Mindfulness.” The book explores ways children can practice being present, regulate their emotions, and find empathy for those around them.
Sara Barnes, Division Head of grades K-8, led the students in a few mindfulness and breathing exercises, tools they could take back to their classrooms – and homes – to help with self-regulation. Then as one student body, students recited the Peace Day Pledge, which you can find at the bottom of this post.
Following the assembly, the students planted pinwheels hey had decorated along the front driveway of Miriam School. These small decorations are recognized as a childhood symbol, and represent the joy, innocence, and peace of childhood. Thousands are planted around the globe each Peace Day.
The lessons of International Peace Day go far beyond a single date at Miriam. Teaching peace and empowering students with self-regulating skills they can use every day is an important part of our mission to create a safe, supportive educational environment for unique learners.
International Peace Day (sometimes referred to as the International Day of Peace or Peace Day) is celebrated each year on Sept. 21, devoting a day to “strengthening the ideals of peace.” The United Nations General Assembly first established the day in 1981, and to this day encourages a full 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire.
The official theme of this year’s International Day of Peace is “End Racism. Build Peace.”
PEACE DAY PLEDGE:
I pledge respect to everyone
Not just to those I know.
Family, friends, and neighbors
All need my help to grow.
I will listen when you speak
Although I disagree.
If I have nothing kind to say
I’ll keep my words to me.
I will apologize when I cause hurt
Forgive when I hurt others.
Though different skin or hair or eyes
We are all sisters and brothers.
I will be kind to living things,
Take care of the world around me.
Play safely, kindly with my friends
And make my choices wisely.
I’ll be a peacemaker day and night
And act in a caring way.
If each of us believes we can,
Real peace can begin today.
