The U. S. Capitol’s Pathway of Peace

The United States has a National Christmas Tree. Did you know that? I didn’t, and I probably would never have learned of except that in addition to the tree there are 56 smaller trees which make a Pathway of Peace.

The website says, “Since 1923, the United States has held a tradition of lighting a National Christmas Tree in Washington, DC. In 1978, a live 40-foot Colorado blue spruce was transplanted from York, Pennsylvania to its present site on the Ellipse, the grassy area south of the White House. In 1954, a "Pathway of Peace," 56 smaller, decorated trees representing all 50 states, five territories, and the District of Columbia were planted surrounding the National Christmas Tree. Each year sponsoring organizations from each state provide tree decorations that are encased in a protective plastic globe to shield it from the weather.”

The idea that in each of our fifty states, five territories and one district, a group of people spend a year working on their idea of peace that can be displayed on a tree thrills me.

Check out what your state, territory or district chose as their emblem of peace in 2008.

Christmas Pathway of Peace

“Every year one-of-a-kind ornaments are made by ordinary Americans to hang on 56 trees – one for every U.S. state, territory and the District of Columbia – that surround the National Christmas Tree. Volunteers have given their time and talents to design and create tree ornaments that symbolize the history, heritage and culture of their homelands.”

From Alabama to Wyoming and all points in between, a pathway to peace exists in our nation’s capitol. I dare to hope, dream, believe that these seeds of peace grow deep in our world. A very merry (and peaceful) Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza to all.

More info: http://www.thenationaltree.org/visit-santa/pathway-of-peace

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