No one can deny the severe division we are experiencing in the world right now, particularly in the United States. Believe it or not, summer solstice might be the perfect day to spread a message of unity. Summer solstice is a widely celebrated time of year, as it marks the start of summer, as well as being the longest day and shortest night of the year. This year, it occurs on June 20 (in the Northern Hemisphere). Most celebrations revolve around flowers, seasonal meals, and of course, the sun. One man chose to celebrate a little differently, and you may not know it, but it involves all of us.
History of The Global Stone Project
Wolfgang Schwarzenfeld set out on a global mission to find the perfect stones for his project. He sailed around the world in search of stones with unique characteristics and history. On every continent, he collected ten stones: five to be placed in the countries representing each continent, and five “sister stones” to bring to Berlin: the place where all the stones unite. He calls this the Global Stone Project
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Once a year during the summer solstice, the sun reflects off all the stones’ polished surfaces and connects them. People are encouraged to go to Tiergarten Park at noon to witness the symbolic moment. The reflected light off the circle of five stones in Berlin travels around the world to connect their sister stones. Everyone who wishes to participate connects the stones by holding hands and creating a circle around them, unifying mankind. The pairs of stones in Berlin and each continent represent the five steps toward global peace: awakening (Europe), hope (Africa), forgiveness (Asia), love (America), and peace (Australia). The idea is to symbolize “unified humanity in peace.”
Turning Unity Into a Global Mission
You don’t need to be in between the stones holding hands in Berlin to recognize the symbolic meaning of the Global Stone Project. Wherever you are at high noon Berlin time, the world connects by light. Take that time to acknowledge the steps toward peace, and think about how you can better practice those steps in your daily life. Or, perhaps that time will inspire you to make a change; fight for a global cause, donate resources to those in need, or simply spread awareness about the steps toward peace.
Summer solstice doesn’t just celebrate the sun, but on a spiritual level, it celebrates growth. How can you broaden your perspective at this time? Maybe start by listening to others and being open to learning about different ideas. Forgive people for the past and work together to improve the future, whether that be a personal relationship or something more large-scale. We can achieve peace if we listen to one another and think beyond ourselves. The Global Stone Project may just be rocks, but they represent all of us. It’s time we strip down to the basics, like the stones of the earth, and look within ourselves to create change––together.
ABOUT UNITED PLANET
United Planet is a non-profit organization with a mission to create a global community, one relationship at a time. Established in 2001, United Planet offers volunteer abroad, virtual internships, internships abroad, gap year volunteering, and global virtual exchange in more than 40 countries.
