Concord at Wartimes

The ancient Greeks fought against both foreign invaders, in an effort to defend their homeland, or among themselves as shown here in the Peloponnesian war

Every four years even if they were in the midst of a major conflict when the priestesses at Olympia lit the sacred flame and messengers dispersed throughout the Greek world to announce the Games, all wars paused albeit shortly.    

During the Olympic games a truce was observed by the Greek city-states to allow a safe passage for athletes and the spectators alike on their travel to Olympia.  Upon arrival the athletes competed in sports such as chariot races, wrestling and boxing.

During modern times an unplanned ceasefire was observed during World War I between the British and German troops at Christmas time.  Allegedly the soldiers sang Christmas carols together, exchanged gifts and played a friendly game of soccer that Germany won 3-2.  

One hundred years have passed since the beginning of the Great War, a war that was supposed to bring a lasting peace for victors and defeated alike.  Unfortunately, World War II followed and several more conflicts have been and continue to be fought around the world.  When humans comprehend and accept that we share a beautiful but fragile planet and co-existence is infinitely better to costly and destructive wars, the above mentioned examples of fleeting humanity, humility and kindness will hopefully become beacons to a new and better world.