Inspiring the greatness in us all
How complex is this world in which we live. Today 50 people of the LGBQT community in Orlando, Florida lost their lives at the hand of one gunman. Just in this month of June the global community has experienced 68 attacks in Israel, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Iraq, Libya, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Somalia and Syria. Six hundred and seventy two terrorist attacks have been experienced this year. Our hearts weep for victims of each of these attacks and our condolences sent to each of their families. We must stay united in grief and committed to working for peace.
Just two days ago, we also witnessed a celebration of the life of Muhammad Ali. Charter Arts Partner, Harry Pickens, wrote an article on his reflection on Ali’s message. Please read it. In Harry’s words we need to “CHOSE to open our minds and hearts today in a spirit of kindness, tolerance, connection, compassion,” and he asks “what if we INTENTIONALLY CHOOSE to do the same tomorrow?”
Also, in a way to promote peace the Charter for Compassion together with the Community Tool Box have published a practical guide to "Promoting Peace," written by Terry Greene, a member of September 11th Families for Peaceful Tomorrows. With moving personal stories from its members and partners, it urges each of us to listen to voices of peace and to recognize that working towards peace is not a singular effort, but a movement that we all can and must contribute towards. CLICK HERE to view the article.
Finally, in another response to peace building we want to refer you to the work that is occurring with the Compassionate Belfast campaign. Read about how the local Charter for Compassion team is translating a tangible compassionate action plan to bring about dialogue in a unique city that has experinced years of terror and now years of healing and reconcilation.
Despite everything we have reason to hope and to act in compassion.
New Charter Compassionate City Initiatives, Charter Partners and Compassionate Schools
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Fernandina Beach, FL
Thanks-Giving Square (Dallas, TX, USA)
Equality Heals Africa (Kampala, Uganda)
Busoga Junior School (Kamuli, Uganda)
Child Wisdom Spirit Institute (Oxnard, CA, USA)
Soldan International Studies High School (St Louis, MO, USA)
New Resources on Charter Website
A Teacher's Guide on the Prevention of Violent Extremism
Twelve Steps Compassion Guide by The St. William Mandala of Justice with Compassion (Louisville, KY, USA)
Support the Charter
Please help us power compassion in your communities, in your lives, at your workplace, and in our schools. Read suggestions of how action changes things. If you have the ability to donate financially to the Charter, please consider it. We need you to join us on this compassion journey.
