The Surprising Connection Between Volcanic Eruptions and Peaceful Thinking

A Moment of Reflection at Kilauea Crater 

As I stood in awe at the mouth of Kilauea Crater on February 11, 2025, my mind wandered, contemplating the numerous historical events that have transpired since the dawn of magnificent volcanos. 

I envisioned my parents, my wife’s parents, and both of our grandparents, as well as all our family ancestors, who lived and breathed during previous generations of  volcanic eruptions—whether they were dormant or in full force. I felt an eruption of memories and ancestral connections. 

The Cycle of War and Peace 

As a peace ambassador, I also contemplated the cyclical nature of war and peace, including violent outbreaks and the subsequent cessation of war treaties. 

It is time to rise from the ashes and end the cycles of recurring conflict.   

Nature and Human Existence: A Paralleling Force 

Art not only mirrors life, and life not only mirrors art; witnessing the raw power of an erupting volcano, I realized that life parallels nature. We are experiencing the echoes of the earth and still living in a volcanic rhythm.    

Lessons from Pompeii: Time Standing Still 

I reflected on a past trip to Pompeii where my wife and I witnessed ashen bodies frozen in statuesque poses. It was morbidly eerie to see a permanent piece of art created by what was once a living breathing human caught forever in a frozen moment in time. 

The eruption of Mount Vesuvius led to the destruction of Pompeii. The disaster caused a major societal impact, affecting local governance and economies. The first time in recorded history that time stood still as humans were encased in an ashen shell.   

How Volcanoes Shape Civilization 

Volcanic eruptions serve as a powerful reminder of nature’s immense forces that have shaped the physical landscape and played a pivotal role in shaping human history. 

These natural events have had a profound impact on various aspects of human existence, including migration patterns, technological advancements, cultural developments, and political landscapes.  

Throughout history, humanity’s remarkable adaptability and innovative spirit have been instrumental in ensuring survival and progress. Volcanoes shaped civilization.   

The Hawaiian Islands: A Testament to Volcanic Creation 

The Hawaiian Islands, a chain of volcanic islands, exemplify the process of volcanic island formation. As the Pacific Plate moved northwestward, magma rising through the Earth’s crust gave birth to these islands, transforming them into the paradise we know today. 

A Call for Global Peace 

What isn’t captured in the accompanying video is my wish that the world’s enemies had been standing with my wife and me and coming to the realization that we are not so important nor are our reasons to hate and kill. Why waste the most precious gift of all, a chance to live, love and make a difference. 

A time for true harmony amidst eruptions.