Fasting for Peace in Iraq
56 days on the steps of the Oregon State Capitol
March 17, 2003 to May 11, 2003 
updated 02/09/04 at 13:44 PST

peacepost.jpg (624379 bytes)
Peace monument on the capitol grounds. "May Peace Prevail on Earth" is printed in four languages, including Arabic.
Photo by Michael Heggen.

Day 10

27 March 2003

Today I changed fasting techniques: I am now on a Ramadan-style fast: I take no food or water from sunrise to sunset to preserve my energy for the days to come. I have so much vital work to engage in. I've decided to focus on equally proactive means to achieve the ultimate end we all strive for: peace on earth. 

Times are tough for many; people are grieving and scared. I spoke with the sister of a young man who is stationed in Iraq, and he pain was so palpable that it took my breath away. She asked for button that will reflect her desire for peace and for her beloved brother's safe return. She spoke quietly with her young daughter who asked why her mommy wanted her to wear a button. Her mother replied that they were speaking out for "Uncle Chris". My prayers go out to "Uncle Chris" and all those whose innocence and dreams have been buried beneath the waste of greed and empire.

I pray for love and light and goodness to prevail. I pray for healing and justice. I will continue to use my voice, small as it may be, to sign my truth and bear witness to the world around me and the people that I share and cross paths with. I will continue to walk in the beauty that the spirit of life has bestowed upon me. 

My most heartfelt love and thank-yous go out to all who are struggling and sacrificing for peace and justice in their own ways and in their own times. 

We shall overcome some day.

Peace,

--Michele

 
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Fasting for Peace in Iraq
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