peace

People have been writing, painting and talking about Peace for hundreds of years. Unfortunately, in contrast to this much has also been spoken, written and painted glorifying war. We all know it can be very lonely speaking up for Peace and at times we may feel that no one is listening to us. Some years ago the PPSEAWA International Council decided to set aside a day each year as the PPSEAWA Day of Peace. Following much discussion it was agreed to support the UN International Day of Peace on 21st September each year.

This report is long overdue. In March of 2007, in Auckland, New Zealand, at its first Board Meeting, the newly elected PPSEAWA International Council agreed to accept PPSEAWA Hawaii's invitation to hold the MIDTERM COUNCIL MEETING, in Honolulu, leaving open the date.

The invitations for May of 2008, went out early October 2007. The International Executive Council worked hard to prepare the Agenda, related documents and to set the format for the Council Sessions.

Around the beginning of 1940’s, our food and life essentials became scarce, because they were sent to military and we were forced to be patient for the tense social condition. At night it was dark in the city as well as at home by military control. Any war news of the battlefield were controlled and we were told only the Japanese Navy, Army and Air Force soldiers were bravely fighting. Later we gradually learned of their defeat of and loss of many battleships and aircraft.

The idea of Platters came from the need to respond financially following the devastating tsunami some years ago. A discussion took place at the interim council meeting in Samoa and it was suggested that a recipe book be produced. As Peace Ambassador I took the idea on board and on my return to Australia put into train requests to national member associations for poetry, prose, photos, paintings and platters (recipes) from PPSEAWA members and their friends.