As we interact with others in our worlds, we sometimes realize that we are not always in a peaceful setting. A “peaceful feeling” is not a constant state of mind, but one that we strive to experience now and again.

It takes a village. And when your village burns down, the community comes together to process, mourn, create, and rebuild, together. Peace Camp was an opportunity to create some semblance of peace and joy and hope.

In Spring of 2025 in Fresno, California an exciting Peaceful Pirate Spring Camp was experienced by fifteen children and four teachers. It was held at a children’s park called Storyland.

I am fortunate to have belonged to one of the last generations able to grow and develop through free play. Being able to go outside and play until the streetlights came on was the best scenery during the weekends and our vacations.

Peace Education emphasizes meeting needs collaboratively, but older wisdom holds that true peace begins within. Individuals must cultivate inner peace before they can fully and successfully walk the paths of peace with others.

As educators, we have a unique opportunity to model for and encourage the children in our care to recognize unfairness and develop empathy and skills to stand up for themselves and others.