I was born in 1967, and grew up in a world which was infused with ideals and influenced by art, politics, education, psychology, diplomacy, activism, New England pragmatism and a deeply serious work ethic.

As a child I observed and sometimes participated in the creation of schools, children’s museums and a community owned retreat property by my parents and their friends. Sweat equity was a real and tradable commodity, as sound as the dollar.

My view of humanity came from this world, and was handed down to me by an incredible group of interesting people who wholeheartedly believed in an America that was fair and free and served the greater good for all, with equality and justice being the cornerstone of Peace.

The people I grew up with came from the 50’s and 60’s but weren’t hippies. They were idealists and activists, educators and creators. They believed in rolling up your sleeves and participating in the change. It was about being the catalyst for progress instead of watching from the sidelines. Apathy was not an option.

My father appreciated and occasionally identified with the word Peacenik, its origins and meanings. I also loved the word, and as someone who grew up through the Carter and Regan administrations learning to fear Nuclear power and weaponry, and witnessing the end of the Cold war, Peacenik was a word that had direct and important meaning for me.

I find myself longing for that particular Peacenik sense and approach to community, where differences between us are fodder for conversation rather than disunity, where Peace between humans is paramount for the communal good of us all.

So that is why I have started this version of quiet Peaceful protest which is meant to spark conversation between folks who don’t always see life the same way. Wearing personal messages of belief reaches out farther than friend groups and hopefully sparks conversation with others in our community who we would only meet out in public, on the streets of our cities and towns.

Please join me in working towards a more Peaceful world by opening our hearts and minds, and treating even the neighbors with whom we disagree, with care, respect, compassion, empathy and love.