Reading it made me smile. And although I drive by the sign at least 4 or 5 times a day, I smile every time. At the simplicity and profound truth. It is really hard to be antagonistic toward someone who is genuinely smiling at you. Think about it. We return smiles of complete strangers who smile at us in passing, and sometimes a simple smile can change our entire day. There is even some research that indicates smiling has positive effects on our health. So why not peace.
I often say that kindness is the birthplace of peace. And there are many instances when a smile can and should be considered an act of kindness. How do you fight against kindness? Historically the word peace meant 'absence of war or disorder', but it also came from an Old English word that meant happiness! So consider this: Happiness starts with a smile. That makes sense doesn't it?
We have a school in Houston Texas, Hunters Creek Elementary School, that is celebrating their 8th annual Peace Week. The dakbands are being used a tool to help encourage and promote peace amongst the student body. I am hardly a skeptic when it comes to understanding the relationship between peace and the dakbands, and how they encourage people to reach out and touch the humanity that unites us all, but even I have been amazed at the stories coming from these students. I encourage you to go to the website and choose Hunters Creek Elementary School from the Organization drop down list and read some of the stories!!
I am going to leave you with the stories from one band # 47544 that now has 6 stories attached to it. These stories epitomize the efforts of peace.
March 25, 2009 15:41 - Houston, TX, United States of America
I helped a girl at recess. The other girls said that she could not play. I noticed that she was sad. I went over to her and asked her to play with me. That made her happy and we had a fun time.
March 12, 2009 18:40 - Houston, TX, United States of America
helped a friend with a presentation
March 24, 2009 13:24 - Houston, TX, United States of America
I saw a kid being bullied at recess. i stood up for him and ask them to stop. It really helped my friend and made him feel better.
March 26, 2009 13:32 - Houston, TX, United States of America
I received this DAK band because I am always thinking of my friend and bringing her treats that she likes. I know it makes her happy!
March 26, 2009 13:29 - Houston, TX, United States of America
I received this DAK band because I am always thinking of my friend and bringing her treats that she likes. I know it makes her happy!
March 25, 2009 12:36 - Houston, TX, United States of America
I helped stop a fight and helped make new friends.
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