Can Congress Find Peace Under a Tree?

At a time when our leaders struggle to reach a consensus to pass laws, my good wishes go out to all the Members of Congress as they continue to find some sense of peace in the daunting task of trying to address the critical issues facing our Country.

Twenty-two years ago, I, as the Director of the Brahma Kumaris Meditation Museum, in collaboration with the Landscape Architect of the Capitol under the leadership of Matthew Evans, planted a Peace Tree best known as the “Om Shanti Peace Tree” by the northern portal of the Capitol Gardens. It has been a space for respite, silence, deep thinking, and creative ingenuity.

On many occasions, and with the recent shooting in Uvalde, Texas, I found myself sitting by the Peace Tree deep in thought wishing for the Members of Congress to do what their deepest and purest thoughts say to them at night when their heads hit the pillow.

Like many of us in America, holding our cell phones and sending a tweet or comment isn't enough to turn this situation around. True change will come from amplifying our inner peace which will then impact policies, choices, relationships, the environment and even our own minds.

We have everything at our disposal and yet, the ability to choose peace seems to be the most challenging. Here's my invitation to every Member of Congress, visit the Om Shanti Peace Tree, it's planted next to the Christa McAuliffe Tree. Sit there for a while allowing the shades of peace to flow around you and into you and then go vote.

Today, we celebrate the "late" Dadi Prakashmani, a woman who was gentle in spirit and large in presence. She was the spiritual leader of the women led Brahma Kumaris. She visited Washington D.C. on June 10, 1999, to address leaders at the National Press Club on Reverence for Peace. Former Mayor Anthony Williams proclaimed June 10th, 1999, Dadi Prakashmani Day in Washington DC. Make today your day to honor the peace within. There is also an Om Shanti Peace Tree planted at the Department of Defense.