Replacing Missoula’s Peace Sign

Dear friends,
Last week we discovered that the peace sign in our park on Waterworks Hill had been torn down. We have received many expressions of sadness in response to its disappearance, a reminder of the passion for peace in Missoula. We also discovered that someone has stolen the signs we had marking the park entrances, and identifying the park as a gift to the community.

On Tuesday, about a dozen people hiked up to the park with sheets and towels — some even making multiple trips – to restore the peace sign. Initially we all had questions, thoughts of blame and even anger, but as we worked, the group reminded each other that those thoughts were not only not helpful – they were counter to what we were doing.

Acts of violence and vandalism are reported around the world. On the hill, we were reminded that our power lies in finding the small ways we each can respond by building peace. So we restored Missoula’s peace sign – in peace and forgiveness; We stand in solidarity with the people of Iran in the hopes of giving them the support and encouragement to protest another day; we write letters to our legislators and talk to our neighbors to give voice to our hopes. So let it continue to be – we teach peace, and peace teaches us. The expense of replacing the signs is a hardship for us as we struggle to make ends meet just as everyone else in this economy. But we will find a way.

We appreciate all of your thoughts and efforts.
With thanks and peace,
Betsy