Pamper Guests - The Parklander Magazine

ONE PLANET UNITEDA Teen’sProfound PoemA Call for Positive Actiontoday’s column takes a little turn from the ordinary. I wantmy readers to experience the words of a teenage poetwhose passion for peace brings me inspiration and greathope for future generations. His name is Ari Gross andhe delivered his spoken word poem to an audience atour recent celebration of the International Day of Peaceand then again a few weeks later at a community celebration called“Coffee Cake and Conversation,” which was sponsored by theMuslim community of Northern Broward County. Sometimes thosewho are young, passionate and aware can teach us all the directionwe should be looking in.Thank you, Ari, for teaching us all that peace truly begins withinour own hearts and that soon, in time, peace will be achieved. If youwish to share your comments with Ari, email him atari.gross89@aol.com. Peace out.One Planet United’s mission statement is: “To bring unity andunderstanding to all people through experiential and educationalprograms, projects and resources.”Jack Bloomfield is a member of the Coral Springs Interfaith Committee, adivision of the Multi-Cultural Committee, and the executive director ofOne Planet United, a non-profit 501(c) 3 organization dedicated tobringing unity and understanding to all people. You can email Jack atjack@opunited.org or visit www.opunited.orgBY JACK BLOOMFIELDMESSAGE OF HOPEHow do we explain war to our children?How do we explain anthrax and blown-up buildings?Radical cults and suicide missionsFamily members with arms and legs missing.How do we describe the fear in our eyesWhen the plane hit the tower on TV live?Now I was only 12 when the tower fell downBut I still remember thinking what do I do now?How am I supposed to feel?Even today I still get the bluesWhen I sit back and watch the evening newsBut it ain’t because of what I’m seeing, it’s because of what I’m not.You see, I think this is something most people forgot.Most people are good, and live good lives,They’re peaceful because they’re peaceful inside.To love another you must first love yourself.You must love you before anyone else.But people are kind; just give them a try,Jump into conversation, the water’s just fine.Say hey to your neighbors and hold doors open,Take positive action instead of just hoping.Remember your heart and do a couple of good deeds,And soon, in time, peace will be achieved.So everyone focus, concentrate, believe.And soon, in time, peace will be achieved.42 DECEMBER 2010