Artists for World Peace, Inc.

The International Peace Belt traveled to Chodoun, a beautiful village nestled between hillsides and farmland in the Czech Rebulic. Here it was welcomed by four teenagers Marketa, Martin, Alena and Jakub who danced in tradition folk costume worn during celebrations. Gracefully they danced showing off their talent in traditional dance passed down from generation to generation. The most exciting part was later in the evening, I watched as they studied all the elements of the peace belt, asked questions and listened to the story behind it. It made it all the more special to see them take such an interest.

As the caretaker of the International Peace belt I was not only honored to bring it, but to be able to bring it with my four year old son Samuel for his first trip to the Czech Republic. It made the trip extra special for us both. When I first started coming as a child to visit, then Czechoslovakia under communist control, I was restricted to even visit with certain family members. And how ironic that today I cared the Peace Belt to my family. The changes and progress I have seen over the years just made it more special.

Peace begins at home with family, the bonds and love that we share with each other. If we could just feel that way about everyone surely we would all be at peace with each other throughout the world.

Michele Wytas