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virtual travel

We’ve Only Just Begun to Bridge Digital Dreams and Authentic Journeys

Virtual travel is redefining how we explore the world, breaking down long-standing barriers for individuals facing physical, financial, or health-related limitations. Thanks to advancements in virtual reality and interactive online platforms, people can now journey across continents, visit iconic landmarks, and immerse themselves in nature’s wonders all without leaving their homes. For many, this digital passport is more than just entertainment; it’s a transformative tool for education, cultural discovery, and human connection for those otherwise confined by circumstance. At the core of this evolution lies a powerful union of technology and empathy. On our Destination Peace Blog, I’ve observed how virtual initiatives foster community across borders. One poignant example is our “Hour of World Peace Livestream”, which has become a digital gathering space. Musical performances and heartfelt messages from global leaders light a spark of hope, igniting meaningful dialogue and shared vision. This virtual travel experience is not just about viewing places, but about nurturing global community and promoting peace a concept that resonates with both tech lovers and hesitant adopters alike. However, for all their innovation, these digital adventures cannot fully replicate the multisensory depth of real-world travel. I’ve stood within lush rainforests where raindrops gently played a rhythm on the leaves, and soared in a helicopter over glaciers, where nature’s vastness was both humbling and electrifying. Witnessing the erupting fury of Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano was an experience that even the most advanced VR setup could not match. Moments like whispering a prayer at the Kotel in Jerusalem or marveling at the Sistine Chapel’s breathtaking ceiling deliver a resonance that remains exclusive to physical presence. My path has led me around the globe from singing in the Mormon Tabernacle to standing in awe before the Taj Mahal, and further still to places like Guatemala, Costa Rica, Cuba, Denmark, Nicaragua, Haiti, Turkey, Russia, Estonia, and Germany. Each of these journeys taught me that virtual travel can complement, but never completely replace, the tactile sensations, sounds, and atmospheres that define in-person experiences. Ultimately, we don’t have to choose between the digital and the real. Virtual travel invites broader inclusion, extending experiences to those previously left behind, while traditional exploration feeds the soul through irreplaceable encounters. Together, they create a more connected and compassionate world. Music remains a foundational thread of Destination Peace, and I leave you with these lyrics from The Carpenters: “Before the rising sun, we fly. So many roads to choose. We’ll start out walking and learn to run. And yes, we’ve only just begun.” However you travel virtually or physically may your journey be filled with peace.

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Mass Hysteria

Embracing Peace Amid Hysteria: Lessons from History and Today

Mass hysteria, where collective fear spirals into chaos, has disrupted societies throughout history. Destination Peace International champions dialogue, cultural understanding, and peaceful conflict resolution as antidotes to such turmoil. By examining past examples alongside a current global situation, we see how these principles help foster stability and rational responses. Historical Chaos from Mass Hysteria The Salem Witch Trials of 1692 exemplify hysteria’s destructive power. Unfounded accusations of witchcraft in colonial Massachusetts led to 20 executions and numerous imprisonments, fracturing the community. In 1637, the Dutch Tulip Mania saw speculative frenzy inflate tulip bulb prices, only to crash, causing economic chaos. In 1938, Orson Welles’ War of the Worlds radio broadcast sparked panic across the United States, as listeners mistook fiction for a Martian invasion. These events highlight how mass hysteria can distort reality and destabilize societies. A Modern Echo: Australia’s Pandemic Panic Today, similar dynamics unfold beyond U.S. borders. In Australia during the early COVID-19 pandemic, misinformation triggered widespread panic buying. Fearful citizens hoarded toilet paper and sanitizers, leading to shortages and rising social tension. This reaction, disproportionate to the actual threat at the time, mirrored earlier instances of mass hysteria, showing how even advanced societies remain susceptible to fear-driven behavior. Destination Peace International’s Role Destination Peace International offers an approach rooted in communication and understanding. Dialogue encourages open discussion that dispels rumors and addresses fears before they escalate. Cultural understanding fosters empathy and undermines divisive narratives. Peaceful conflict resolution helps manage tensions constructively, reducing the likelihood of panic. Applied to Australia’s pandemic response, these strategies could have transformed fear into readiness through calm, coordinated messaging and community support. A Path to Stability Both historical and modern events, like Australia’s experience, reveal that mass hysteria thrives in uncertainty. Destination Peace International’s proactive model—built on dialogue and empathy—helps societies respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. By learning from past crises and facing present challenges with clarity and compassion, we can replace fear with rational action and ensure a more peaceful future.

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Destination Peace International one true voice

Uniting Communities: Baltimore and Nigeria’s Champions of Peace and Progress

Empowering Baltimore Through Faith and Action Father Al Scharbach and Rev. Dr. Al Hathaway are cornerstones of Baltimore’s transformation, embodying our principles at Destination Peace International, shifting narratives from fear and division to peace, love, justice, and security. Father Scharbach’s community projects, from revitalizing neighborhoods to amplifying marginalized voices through teaching and exchanges that inspire hope and resilience. Rev. Dr. Hathaway’s mentorship programs in schools foster empathy and leadership, equipping youth with tools to drive grassroots change. Their initiatives, rooted in Baltimore’s social justice legacy, leverage media to share powerful stories and nurture informed, courageous leaders for a brighter future. Chukwuma’s Rising Influence in Nigeria In Nigeria, Chukwuma Ephraim Okenwa, CEO and Founder of LEAD (Leadership, Education, Advocacy, Development), mirrors these efforts with a bold vision. His growing presence in media, education, and leadership aligns with Destination Peace promoting peace and justice. Chukwuma’s creative media projects amplify authentic Nigerian stories, challenging stereotypes and inspiring change. In schools, his holistic programs emphasize critical thinking, civic duty, and leadership, empowering youth to shape their communities. By adapting global social justice ideals to Nigeria’s context, Chukwuma is transforming education and fostering a generation of change-makers. A Shared Vision for Global Progress On April 27, 2025, Father Scharbach, Rev. Dr. Hathaway, and Mr. Okenwa, will unite at the American premiere of One True Voice at Baltimore’s Thurgood Marshall Amenity Center. This event will showcase their collective commitment to media, education, and leadership as tools for peace and progress. Their work transcends borders, proving that empowering communities begins with recognizing and nurturing local talent. By championing Destination Peace’s motto of love, justice, and security, they pave the way for a compassionate, equitable future. Inspiring a Legacy of Change From Baltimore’s revitalized streets to Nigeria’s empowered classrooms, these leaders demonstrate that transformative change is possible. Their alignment with mission of Destination Peace International inspires a global movement toward hope and unity, one story, one student, one community at a time.

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Naila Chowdhury

From Rural Empowerment to Global Innovation: Naila H. Chowdhury’s Appearance at the Thurgood Marshall Amenity Center

Naila H. Chowdhury is a globally recognized management professional, motivational speaker, philanthropist, and peacebuilder from Bangladesh. With over 25 years of experience, she has dedicated her career to empowering girls, youth, and women through innovative, self-sustaining programs. Naila is an international advisor for the G20 on Women Empowerment  As a global telecom expert, and transformational leader, Chowdhury’s contributions span human rights, poverty reduction, gender equity, and peacebuilding. Her journey reflects an unrelenting determination to create a world where no one is left behind. This article explores her remarkable contributions, key roles, and steadfast commitment to social impact, including her position as a Destination Peace Board of Director and her upcoming speaking engagement at the Thurgood Marshall Amenity Center. Contributions to Women Empowerment and Social Impact Naila H. Chowdhury has built a legacy rooted in empowering underprivileged women economically and socially. One of her most notable contributions came through her work on the GrameenPhone Village Phone Project, in collaboration with Nobel Peace Prize laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus. This initiative provided mobile phones to women in remote Bangladeshi villages, enabling them to start small businesses and achieve financial independence. As the first woman director of GrameenPhone Ltd., she played a pivotal role in transforming it into Bangladesh’s largest mobile operator, revolutionizing telecommunications and connectivity in the region. Beyond telecom, Chowdhury founded and chairs Women4Empowerment, an organization that has impacted over one million women worldwide through economic empowerment projects. Her efforts emphasize dignity, self-reliance, and sustainable growth, aligning with her broader mission to address poverty and inequity. She has also contributed to global initiatives like Fashion4Development, and the Joyful Women Foundation, amplifying her influence in gender equality and social entrepreneurship. Key Jobs and Leadership Roles Chowdhury’s career is marked by a series of high-impact roles that showcase her expertise in leadership, peacebuilding, and global connectivity. Below are some of her most prominent positions: Her past roles include serving as CEO of Pillars4Dignity and The Engineers Ltd., as well as the Founding Director of Social Impact and Innovation at the University of California, San Diego. She has also advised organizations like the San Diego International Film Festival and Impact Leadership 21, reinforcing her influence across industries and continents. Determination to Drive Change Naila H. Chowdhury’s determination is the cornerstone of her success. As an SDG Ambassador, she champions the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those tied to gender equality (SDG 5), poverty reduction (SDG 1), and inclusive growth (SDG 8). Her advocacy for public-private partnerships (PPPs) highlights her belief in collaborative solutions to global challenges. Whether addressing human rights, education access, or equity, she remains steadfast in her vision of a more just world. Her role as a Destination Peace Board of Director exemplifies this resolve. Her involvement aligns with her broader work in peacebuilding. She tackles the root causes of conflict and inequality, promoting sustainable peace initiatives worldwide. Speaking Role at the Thurgood Marshall Amenity Center Chowdhury’s upcoming speaking engagement at the Thurgood Marshall Amenity Center in Baltimore, Maryland, underscores her commitment to community development and social justice. This historic site—once a segregated school attended by U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall—is being transformed into a cultural hub and community resource in the Upton neighborhood. Her participation in this event aligns with her expertise in empowerment and equity, themes central to Justice Marshall’s legacy.  The Thurgood Marshall Amenity Center aims to serve as both a tourism destination and a beacon of hope for West Baltimore, making her presence a powerful addition to its mission.

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justice thurgood marshall

What Happened at Thurgood Marshall’s Elementary Will Move You: The One True Voice Event

A Historic Premiere in Baltimore, Maryland Destination Peace International, in collaboration with Beloved Community Services Corporation and the Thurgood Marshall Amenity Center, proudly presents the American premiere of the documentary One True Voice. This exclusive screening will take place on April 27th at 2 PM, in Baltimore, at the former elementary school of Justice Thurgood Marshall — a site that holds deep historical and cultural resonance. The Legacy of a Landmark Venue The choice of venue is no coincidence. Hosting the One True Voice documentary at the elementary school where a young Thurgood Marshall began his educational journey is a powerful statement. It offers more than just a film screening — it invites audiences to stand where a civil rights giant once walked. The school’s historical significance creates a tangible link between past and present struggles for justice, reinforcing the film’s core message of unity and social change. Film as a Catalyst for Peace and Connection One True Voice is a poignant testament to how music, storytelling, and cultural expression can become tools for healing and collective empowerment. The documentary blends stirring music with personal testimonies, capturing the power of creativity to foster dialogue and promote peace. In a world often marked by division, the film seeks to remind viewers — especially youth — of the importance of art in bridging societal gaps. The film’s narrative serves as both a call to reflection and a celebration of resilience. It echoes across generational lines, urging communities to use creativity not just for expression, but for transformation. Honoring the Legacy of Justice Thurgood Marshall At the core of this event lies the enduring legacy of Justice Thurgood Marshall. His path from a segregated and under-resourced elementary school to the Supreme Court is a powerful reminder of the impact of education, determination, and vision. His life’s work advanced the legal and moral framework for equality in America. His legacy continues to inspire, teaching us that justice begins with recognizing the humanity in every person. This documentary event serves as both a tribute to his journey and an opportunity to continue that work through innovative mediums like film and music. Advocating Peace through New Channels The mission of Destination Peace International aligns seamlessly with Marshall’s ideals. Instead of legal arguments, they use the universal language of music to build bridges, challenge societal norms, and foster global conversations. Alongside Beloved Community Services Corporation, the organization promotes empathy and unity through creative advocacy, drawing on cultural legacy to inform modern efforts toward peace. A Moment for Reflection, Celebration, and Progress This special event is more than just a film debut. It marks a moment of convergence — where history, art, activism, and education meet. The One True Voice documentary reminds us that progress requires passion, and that when individuals unite around shared values, they can amplify their message into a collective anthem for justice and peace. As audiences gather at Thurgood Marshall’s childhood school, they do more than watch a film — they step into a legacy. One that teaches us to listen, to rise, and to speak together as one true voice. Picture Credits: African American Literature Book Club

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Hiroshima survivor Kajiya Fumiaki

The Enduring Legacy of Kajiya Fumiaki

In 2023, I had the privilege of attending a session at the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons during an intensive week in Geneva, hosted by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research. Tasked with enforcing the Chemical Weapons Convention of 1993, this organization actively works to eliminate chemical weapons, prevent their production, and ensure compliance through inspections. Witnessing this unwavering dedication to global security left an indelible mark on me, reinforcing the crucial role vigilance plays in preventing future tragedies. This commitment took on even greater significance when, while flipping through television channels one evening, I stumbled upon “A Final Lesson: Atomic Bomb Survivor Kajiya Fumiaki – HELLO! NHK WORLD-JAPAN.” That unexpected moment bridged the stark realities of history with the proactive spirit I had witnessed in Geneva. In a world that constantly oscillates between destruction and reconciliation, Kajiya Fumiaki’s life serves as a profound testament to what’s at stake. Born in Hiroshima in 1939, he endured the catastrophic atomic bombing as a young child. The memories of that fateful day, filled with both devastation and resilience, shaped his lifelong message: “The Atomic Bomb Must Never Be Used for a Third Time on the World’s Cities.” His words are not just a recollection of past horrors but a plea to safeguard our collective future. Fumiaki’s survival is more than just a story of enduring suffering—it’s a lesson in the power of peace. His experiences underscore the irreversible cost of war, urging us to prioritize dialogue over conflict. For younger generations poised to shape the world, his story is a powerful call to embrace empathy and diplomacy rather than retaliation. His journey compels us to transform pain into purpose and history into a guiding force for peace. Over the decades, Fumiaki dedicated himself to educating future generations, sharing his harrowing experiences to ensure history does not repeat itself. Whether speaking to students or addressing communities, his mission was clear: to use the past as a stepping stone toward a more compassionate world. His vision aligns seamlessly with Destination Peace’s vision—resolving conflicts through understanding rather than violence. His legacy serves as a beacon, urging us to take preemptive action before disputes escalate beyond control. I hope this convergence of past and present resonates with you. At Destination Peace, we believe that every act of kindness and every choice for nonviolence weaves together a future where peace prevails. Even the smallest decisions contribute to a world built on empathy, resilience, and lasting harmony. Image credit: NHK World Japan

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Hawaii activism impact on tourism

A Cautionary Tale from Hawaii: The Risks of Following a Vocal Minority of Activists

A Global Lens on Local Challenges  Having traveled to forty-four countries, I have developed an appreciation for the subtleties of diverse cultures and the strengths and weaknesses of political systems. This global perspective has shaped my insights, particularly during my time in Hawaii, where I have spent four consecutive winters. No longer a mere tourist, I gained a deeper understanding of the islands, especially with the guidance of a close friend who has called Hawaii home for over 40 years. Hawaii, a place celebrated for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, has undergone significant transformation over the past four decades. Even within just four years, the changes became apparent. These shifts highlight the tension between economic development and cultural preservation, a delicate balance that continues to challenge the islands’ future. The Complex Realities of Hawaiian Activism Hawaii’s demographic tapestry is vibrant and diverse, with a significant Native Hawaiian population comprising 21.8% [1] of its residents, depending on how it’s measured.[2] While many visitors encounter the famous “Aloha spirit,” marked by the warmth and hospitality of Hawaiians enjoying family time on the beaches, a contrasting narrative often emerges in the media. Vocal activists highlight concerns about tourism’s impact on the quality of life for Hawaiians, stirring debates about the islands’ future. However, this activism reflects a fraction of the population. The voices advocating for severe restrictions on tourism and economic growth often overshadow the broader sentiments of the community. For many Hawaiians, the economic benefits of tourism are undeniable. The industry has been instrumental in supporting the island’s high quality of life, even as its challenges remain. A Call for Balance: Preserving Culture and Sustaining Growth The path forward lies in finding harmony between preserving Hawaii’s cultural essence and fostering sustainable economic development. The Aloha spirit, the ethos of love, respect, and inclusivity must serve as a cornerstone for collaboration. Tourism, the backbone of Hawaii’s economy, cannot be sacrificed without dire consequences for residents and visitors alike. Education and job opportunities are paramount concerns for Hawaiians, particularly for younger generations. A lack of economic prospects has driven many to seek livelihoods on the mainland, a trend that could accelerate if the islands pursue policies driven by a small but loud minority of activists. What is needed now is a collective effort, Hawaiians and other cultural groups working together toward compromises that ensure prosperity for all. The Broader Implications of a Vocal Minority Hawaii’s story is not unique; it serves as a microcosm of broader challenges faced by communities grappling with competing priorities. While activism plays a vital role in raising awareness, disproportionate influence by a small faction can lead to unintended consequences. In Hawaii’s case, the risk lies in undermining the very fabric of its economy and community. Destination Peace aims to ensure that all voices in Hawaii’s diverse community are heard and represented. The future of the islands depends on collaboration, vision, and a shared commitment to preserving both heritage and opportunity. Together, Hawaii can remain a world-renowned destination while ensuring a thriving future for generations to come. [1] Native Hawaiian Population in Hawaii: According to the 2020 U.S. Census, 21.8% of the state’s population identified as Native Hawaiian. [2] Native Hawaiian Population Distribution: The 2020 U.S. Census revealed that 47% of Native Hawaiians resided in Hawaii, while the remaining 53% lived on the mainland.

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Peace with music

The Synergy Between Music and Economic Prosperity

Destination Peace envisions a world where music becomes a catalyst for happiness and progress. This vision could become a reality in Africa where song is an integral fabric of African life. Similarly, the lessons of successful economic development in some African countries can be spread across Africa in the pursuit of a more prosperous continent.  Let us celebrate the harmony of song across Africa to strengthen the threads in the fabric that Africa shares to promote closer cooperation and economic development. In Destination Peace we seek harmony of African music with economic prosperity. African leaders need to look no further than the economic successes of those governments among the fifty-four countries in continental Africa. An example is Botswana, one of the Africa’s poorest countries at independence in 1966, and now among the three richest on a per capita basis in continental Africa. It is not alone in having rich mineral resources but has been able to develop its diamond deposits for sustained economic development and stability for over 50 years. Botswana has an area about the size of France but a small population of only 2.5 million and is often overlooked in the news media.  As a leading member of Botswana’s parliament once said, “we rarely are mentioned in international news because we don’t do anything wrong.” Botswana is known for sustained economic growth, political stability, low corruption and protection of human rights making it a leading light in Africa. Destination Peace’s Vision for Africa Through Music and Unity Destination Peace is an organization committed to fostering unity and understanding through the universal language of music. By bringing divergent views and people together, it seeks to create a world where peace and collaboration thrive. Its mission resonates especially in Africa, a continent where the power of song permeates life and culture. The Resonance of Song in African Culture An American friend and mentor who lived in Africa for several years shared his feelings about the power of song. “On arrival in Botswana my hotel was overbooked, and a resident kindly put me up in a thatched rondavel. I woke the next morning to the melodic voice of a maid singing as she washed clothes, and I knew then that Africa was for me. Today, I am thankful for the captivating African song that changed the course of my life. Across Africa, people are always singing—from women washing clothes at sunrise, to villagers walking to the local watering hole, and happy children in school uniforms walking together, their beautiful voices filling the air. These songs have a magnetic quality that draws in anyone who hears them, no matter where they come from. In Africa, perhaps more than anywhere else in the world, the power of music echoes most loudly.” Music in Africa is more than entertainment; it is a lifeline that unites communities, celebrates traditions, and conveys deep emotions. Recognizing this, Destination Peace aims to harness the unique musical spirit of Africa to inspire global harmony and economic prosperity. A Call to Action for African Nations Destination Peace encourages African nations to find social and economic solutions by drawing inspiration from their rich culture and growing expertise. After independence from colonialism most African countries depended heavily on foreign aid and expertise, but increasingly the expertise can be found within the fifty-four countries on the continent. But the progress in economic and political development varies widely among African countries. This fact suggests a need for greater sharing of lessons from successful African countries, and through the African Union, to spread the successes of the few across all of Africa and give African nations a louder voice on the global stage. In this journey, music can play an important role, serving as a medium of expression, connection, and hope. Destination Peace’s involvement in Africa has the potential to amplify these efforts, using the universal appeal of song to foster peaceful outcomes and harmonious development. Through this enhanced vision, Destination Peace and Africa together can create a melody of progress, unity, and prosperity—one that resonates not only across the continent but throughout the entire world.

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retaining idealism in future UN leaders

Retaining Idealism in Future UN Leaders – A Call for Sweeping Reform in UN Leadership

Destination Peace International envisions a future where the United Nations rises as a beacon of legitimacy—a global force that not only inspires hope but actively drives economic and social progress. This vision is not a distant dream, but a call to action, an urgent challenge to major industrialized nations such as: Together, these democratic nations hold the power to fundamentally reshape the selection process of UN leadership. By working as a united bloc, we can ensure that every UN department is led by individuals committed to transparency, integrity, and ethical governance. Only when these standards are upheld can we entrust them with the sacred responsibility of shaping our collective future. The Power of Leadership in Global Change Leadership matters. Strong leadership builds strong institutions, and strong institutions create lasting change. However, we must acknowledge a critical truth: Without the collective effort of the world’s leading democracies, the reforms necessary for the UN to achieve its full potential will remain out of reach. It is only through collaborative action and unwavering commitment that we can elevate the UN’s standards and, in doing so, uplift the rest of the world. Encounters with Young, Idealistic Leaders Throughout our travels, my wife and I have had the privilege of engaging with young leaders at UN training programs. We have attended intensive courses in: From Geneva to The Hague, we have met passionate, driven individuals who embody the core values of aspirational diplomacy, human rights advocacy, and humanitarian service. These future leaders carry with them: However, too often, idealism is dimmed when they enter the system. The moment they become dependent on institutional survival, they find themselves in a web of compromises—one that forces them to tread carefully, avoid dissent, and conform to political pressures. Their diplomacy is reduced to settling for outcomes predetermined by power dynamics, rather than striving for true, unbiased solutions. Why This Must Change—And How We Can Lead the Shift This cycle of compromised idealism must end. The United Nations must reclaim its foundational principles—not just as a symbol of hope, but as a functioning entity that enacts genuine reform. How do we achieve this? Building a UN That Delivers Change This must change. This will change. Together, we can reignite the spirit of idealism within the UN. We can build an institution that does more than inspire—it delivers. This is our opportunity to demand a United Nations that functions as a true force for good—a UN that stands as a beacon of hope for all humanity. Join the Conversation on UN Leadership Reform The future of global leadership depends on bold reform, transparency, and unwavering commitment to humanitarian values. Join us in this movement. Share your thoughts, engage in discussions, and advocate for a stronger, more ethical United Nations.

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Power of Music in Healing

The Power of Music in Healing and Peace

What is Your Greatest Accomplishment? During your lifetime, what would you rank as your greatest accomplishment, your standout achievement? During our global travels, we have found individuals whose lives are devoted to their families, themselves, or in selfless service to others. Some have discovered a way to balance those relationships in creative, satisfying ways. Dan’s Story: Music as Healing There is Dan, who carries his amp and guitar and sings to the homeless here in Honolulu. He brings fellowship and caring to strangers, who have lost loved ones and have become lost themselves. He brings them a spiritual love that transcends what would have been missed opportunities. They were “once lost, now they are found.” The Healing Power of Music The power of music serves as a healing instrument. It can be heard at night on lonely dark streets. In the deafening silence of hospices, bringing calm, acceptance, and peace of mind or in the global arena, changing intransigent minds towards peaceful solutions. My nonprofit, Destination Peace, has come across survivors from various cultures and oppressive situations who, despite enormous odds, escaped and started new lives. A Lifelong Commitment to Purpose When I got married 49 years ago, my compassionate girlfriend—then and still now—wanted to know if there was anything she should know about me!? I told her that if I didn’t accomplish something substantial during the day, I wouldn’t be able to sleep that night. Now in my later years, in order to sleep well each night, I must know that today I took another step toward world peace. What I learned from those blessed years is the reverse of a burning candle. Despite the inevitable deterioration of the mortal body, the inner eternal spark can grow into an all-consuming flame. A Voice for Peace Through Music I am not the first to discover the power of music to touch all hearts, regardless of religion or language. I was blessed with the gift of an emotive singing voice. After five decades of intensive voice training, I felt it my destiny to use my voice to reach out to the world through Destination Peace. I know music alone cannot bring peace, nor can war or endless negotiations between people with conflicting views. However, music can shift focus from the differences that keep people apart toward a shared humanity. My goal is simple: that our Destination Peace Anthem can serve as a unifying force, helping people transcend division. I can never claim that Destination Peace is my greatest accomplishment because my voice and music are only one thread in the larger fabric of peace. The Greatest Accomplishment: Saving Lives My most important accomplishment in my professional career was saving young lives at risk for suicide. I was the Team Coordinator at a New York City Child and Adolescent Day Hospital during the 1980s. There were teenagers that we worked with who had been sexually abused. There was a young female who for several years had been repeatedly raped by a close relative. After establishing a safe, therapeutic relationship, she surprised me when it was time for her treatment to end—she asked me to hug her goodbye. At that moment, I could feel restorative trust entering her vulnerable body. It was a life-affirming moment, one that made me realize the profound healing power of genuine care and human connection. A Call to Share Your Story At Destination Peace, we believe in celebrating the moments that matter—acts of kindness, connections that heal, and the power of music to unite. We invite you to share your greatest accomplishment with us. Together, we will find our common purpose—with a song in our hearts.

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