Try to Imagine Peace: Hope for the Holidays

"Imagine there's no countries

it isn't hard to do

Nothing to kill or die for

And no religion, too

Imagine all the people livin' life in peace..."

-John Lennon

When I got out of the Army in 1971 John Lennon released the song Imagine and it's been one of my favorite songs since. Every Christmas I find myself listening to it as I look at the chaotic world around me.

John Lennon was accused of being a dreamer, but I must confess to being one too. Worldwide peace would be the greatest gift ever to mankind. Who's to say that one day mankind will overcome the hatred and ban wars? I know it's not probable however that doesn't mean it's impossible.

There are numerous organizations and charities that help poor Americans and immigrants in their struggle to survive. Providing hope is the first step towards a more peaceful world. 

There's an organization called Global Refuge that serves vulnerable immigrants and refugee communities across the United States that also provides hope to millions of people throughout the world. 

Formed in 1939 Global Refuge (then National Lutheran Council) provided assistance and services for refugees from Germany and Eastern Europe. Since then, there have been many crises that forced our global neighbors to leave their homes. 

From Hungarians (photo above circa 1939) to immigrants from South America, wars in Uganda, Vietnam, The Balkans, Afghanistan, Iraq, and more, Global Refugee has been providing hope for 80 years.

There are numerous charities worldwide that provide hope for the holidays throughout the year. 

Here's the top 12 charities giving hope to millions, as compiled by The Giving Back website this year:

1. Habitat for Humanity International

2. CARE

3. Bay Area Community Services, Inc.

4. New York Street Project

5. Lifting Hands International

6. Project Hawaii

7. Entryway

8. Refuge for Women

9. Breakthrough

10. Oxfam America

11. The Life You Can Save

12. Save the Children

You can Google any of the above should you wish to make a donation or just to learn more about an organization.

Charities and other service organizations will not bring peace to the world however, but the hope they provide is part of the foundation needed to establish peace on the planet - when everyone's needs are met there's no need to go to war.

Imagine if all the industrialized nations had leaders who promoted peace and solved conflicts through civilized negotiations. It would be mankind's salvation. And the earth's too, as everyone would agree to fight climate change so that future generations wouldn't be doomed to living in wastelands with toxic air.

HOPE. It's a big four-letter word. Like LOVE. They go together. 

As it Stands, I wish you joyous and peaceful holidays!