
“The children of happiness will create a new world.”
Opportunities for youth participation
-Sri Chinmoy
Happiness and peace
are interconnected, and especially so in children and young people. This video from our sister organization, the Sri Chinmoy Oneness-Home Peace Run, shows the marvelous program which Finney Community School in San Diego created. Midway through the video, you will catch a glimpse of a Peace Runner leading the children in a guided exercise deep within their hearts.
What a joy!
Paula Beatriz Villaseca, Kindergarten Teacher, Argentina. Kamikumite (person with light) at the World Divine Light Organization from Japan
“Los chicos son muy receptivos a la paz cuando precisan cambiar de actividad. En varias oportunidades hicieron lindos dibujos mientras mantenían silencio. Otras veces les enseñaron a sus padres cómo sentirse más tranquilos con simples ejercicios de respiración. En el silencio nos volvemos más creativos, alegres y también solidarios para ayudar a los demás.”
“Children are very receptive to peace when they need to change activities. On several occasions they made beautiful drawings while keeping silent. Other times they taught their parents how to get a tranquil feeling with simple breathing exercises. In silence we become more creative, joyful and also more caring for helping others.”
Sandra Gavarri, Argentina
Audio of her experience here

Suggestions for Programs with Children
Here are a few possibilities to guide inner minutes of peace in a secular surrounding.
Religious organizations may, of course, guide youth in prayer.
Meditations on Nature
“Imagine the deepest part of yourself offering you love and peace.”
“Imagine a beautiful moon inside your heart.””
““Imagine a field of flowers inside your heart, and smell their fragrance.”
“Place your hand on your heart and silently repeat the words “Peace is inside of me; peace begins with me.”
““Imagine breathing in peace and breathing out any unhappiness.”

Suggested time lengths
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1 minute of silence
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2-5 minutes of silence (teacher or group leader discretion)
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2-7 minutes of silence (teacher or group leader discretion)
Artwork Inspired by Seven Minutes for World Peace
Pipasa
Syeda, Age 9
