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For some people, it doesn’t make sense to do things like take a walk to bring awareness to a specific issue, thinking it doesn’t do enough to solve the problem. However, the truth is people are quick to forget about things – even important ones – if they’re not consistency brought to our attention.
That’s why it’s great that Reach of Cherokee & Graham Counties is holding the 13th annual Elder Abuse Awareness Walk at 5 p.m. Monday, starting in the pavilions near the playground at Konehete Veterans Park in Murphy. There will also be community resources on hand to learn about, so come on down and bring a friend; even if you’re not physically able to walk, your support does count for something. Our seniors deserve a life filled only with love.
Another symbol has come to Cherokee County. On the Monday morning of June 2, the Rotary Club of Murphy dedicated a Peace Pole near the L&N Depot at the River Walk in downtown Murphy.
“The Peace Pole Project represents more than just a physical monument – it embodies Rotary’s fundamental commitment to peace and international understanding,” Murphy club President Jackie Egli said in her dedication speech. “Visible symbols of peace can serve as daily reminders of our shared humanity and common aspirations.”
These poles, she added, “create a network of peace ambassadors, each carrying the simple yet profound message: ‘May Peace Prevail on Earth.’ This universal prayer transcends borders, cultures, and languages, uniting us all in a common hope for a more peaceful world.”
This meaningful endeavor was championed by Stephanie Urchick during her tenure as president of Rotary International, which has clubs worldwide.
I’m happy to see Murphy be one of the places where Rotary is standing on the side of peace. “May Peace Prevail on Earth” is inscribed in four languages that represent the county and region’s history – Cherokee, English, Gaelic and Spanish – reflecting the multicultural tapestry that makes our area and country strong, vibrant and a whole lot more interesting.
“Our own Peace Pole stands as a testament to the diversity and unity of our community,” Egli said. “Each language on our pole tells a story – of families who have made this place their home, of traditions that have enriched our community and of the bridges we continue to build between different cultures.”
What a beautiful thought. I still believe humans have more in common than otherwise, but political actors are always at work trying to divide us. My prayer is that we won’t let the bad guys win.
“Let us remember that peace is not merely the absence of conflict – it is the presence of justice, understanding and mutual respect,” Egli said. “Our Peace Pole serves as a daily reminder that each of us has a role to play in creating the peaceful world we all desire.
“Every act of service, every gesture of friendship, every bridge we build between communities contributes to the peace our pole proclaims.”
David Brown is publisher of the Cherokee Scout. Call him at 828-837-5122 or email dbrown@cherokeescout.com.