Celebrate Peace in Your Community

November is often seen as a month of reflection and gratitude. The sight of poppies and wreaths serve as a reminder of the brave men and women who fought for peace and freedom. The month of November also plays host to a nationwide YMCA initiative called Peace Week. From November 13-20, the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka encourages members of the community to celebrate the presence of peace in their local and global communities.

Peace means more than the absence of violence and conflict. Peace is an ongoing process of building fairness, equality, security and respect for diversity. Simple actions like sharing, being patient or smiling and saying hello can have a far greater impact than we think. How can you act for peace daily? Here are 10 ways to get you started:

• Help an elderly neighbour
• Organize a peace-themed event at your school
• Add your voice to important issues facing the world
• Volunteer at the YMCA or another peace-focused organization
• Treat others the way you want to be treated
• Learn about other cultures through books or films
• Keep an open mind
• Ask questions rather than make assumptions
• Be the change you want to see in the world
• Share your commitment to peace with others

As part of the Peace Week celebrations, the YMCA invites everyone to be part of the conversation. Share on social media something you do to foster peace in your home, school, workplace or community, or join one of the many YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka Yoga for Peace classes. Sessions are free and open to the community. Click here to view our Yoga for Peace schedule.

When we act for peace together, we build stronger and healthier communities. Join the #ymcapeaceweek social media discussion and add your own #actforpeace ideas. For more information, visit www.ymcaofsimcoemuskoka.ca/peace-week.