Our Call for Peace: An Aspiration
Delivered by Japanese Buddhist Priests at the Ceremony
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August 7, 2004
On this occasion to observe the 59th anniversary of the dropping of the world's first and only atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, let each of us embrace the call for world peace.
In this time of hate, chaos and uncertainty, let us re-affirm our desire to bring peace and compassion to everyone and everything in this world.
But let this call for peace not only pertain to faraway foreign lands. Let each of us embrace peace within our own families, within our own households, and within our own communities. Only along with creating peace within each of our own worlds can we truly call for world peace.
Tonight, let us not only remember those who perished in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. But in their memory, let us remember all people and all beings throughout the world who have lost their lives in war and hate and to those who have suffered from loss of loved ones in war as well.
The Shakyamuni Buddha, the Great Teacher and Enlightened One, taught that "Hatred is not overcome by Hatred." Let each of us, as human beings, regardless of our religion, creed, race or faith, embrace the call for world peace.
May this gathering be an inspiration to the whole world that each of us here tonight promise to work for the cause of peace and harmony for the sake of humankind.
In the spirit of Oneness, with Infinite Compassion and Wisdom, let each of us embrace peace.
In the spirit of Oneness, with Infinite Compassion and Wisdom, we set forth these peace lantern boats with the hope that the light from each and every lantern will inspire hope and peace throughout this world.
In the spirit of Oneness, with Infinite Compassion and Wisdom, let each of us embrace peace.
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