Today is World Peace Day

 LETTER TO THE EDITOR
 
Sir – Today the International Day of Peace, also known as World Peace Day, is observed around the world. This is an occasion to recognise the efforts of those who have worked hard to end conflict and promote peace.
 
The theme of this year’s International Day of Peace is the “Right of Peoples to Peace”. Peace is a fundamental right of all citizens and essential for co-existence, well-being and happiness.
 
A major project of the Rotary Global History Fellowship is the list of articles about Rotary’s effort for world peace. This can be found at www.peacehistory.org
 
The need for peace is often thought of in terms of world peace and there is an immediate need for conflict resolution in many parts of the world today. Iraq and Syria immediately come to mind as places where shocking atrocities towards men, women and children are occurring.
 
But there is also a need for peace locally – for example  in  Yuendumu and Willowra, where Richard Bentley, one of the Rotarians from our club, has informed me that the Central Desert Regional Council has established two mediation groups to work for peace in these communities. They are to be lauded for this as too are the people in these communities working for peace.
 
Ultimately, peace starts in our thoughts, words and actions towards each other.
 
At each Rotary Club meeting, members recite the four way test:
Of the things we think, say or do
Is it the TRUTH?
Is it FAIR to all concerned?
Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
 
The Four-Way Test is a nonpartisan and nonsectarian ethical guide for Rotarians to use for their personal and professional relationships. Perhaps on this International Peace Day, you might consider  using the Four-Way Test as your personal mantra. Peace starts with you and me.
Paul Della
President
Rotary Club of Stuart
Interested in joining Rotary?
The Rotary Club of Stuart meets at the Todd Tavern Tuesday nights at 6.30pm.