Yesterday I visited the Botanical Gardens in Wellington, New Zealand, perhaps best known for its Rose Garden. Tucked away in a corner near a little duck pond, I came across the Peace Garden, which houses a lantern, within which is a flame from the fire created by the atomic bomb dropped in Hiroshima, presented by Japan to the people of New Zealand in recognition of their stance against atomic weapons. The lantern represents “the light being shone on the path of friendship and understanding”. There is a welcome shady place to sit, and visitors are invited to reflect on what peace means to them.

What does peace mean to you?

How can you find harmony within your heart?

What can you do to develop more friendship and understanding …within yourself, and with others?

How can you help others to shine their light?

This Christmas perhaps the greatest gift we can offer is to be present to and give acceptance to others, to give our time, love and attention to those around us.

Have a fantastic Christmas and New Year!