The Christmas Truce - This refers to a series of unofficial ceasefires along the Western Front of World War I around Christmas 1914. In the week leading up to the 25th, French, German, and British soldiers crossed trenches to exchange seasonal greetings and talk. Historical accounts indicate it began at the first light of dawn on Christmas, when some some German soldiers emerged from their trenches calling our "Merry Christmas" in their enemies' native tongue. The Allied solider's at first feared it was a trick, but seeing the Germans unarmed they emerged from the trenches and shook hangs with the enemy soldiers. They exchanged gifts of cigarettes and plum puddings. There were joint burial ceremonies, prisoner swaps, and several meetings ending in carol-singing. A famous example was a game of soccer that took place amongst opposing troops.
The Christmas truces were significant due to the number of men involved and their level of participation. It was seen as a symbolic moment of peace and humanity during one of the most violent events in human history.
Positive News - Beau's Coffee Shop was the vision of Amy Wright, the mother of two children with down syndrome, whom upon discovering that nearly 70% of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities do not have jobs, they resolved to do something about it. The shop opened in January 2016 and has a staff almost entirely comprised of individuals with an intellectual or developmental disability (Down Syndrome, Autism, Cerebral Palsy) and for many it is their first job. Today the store employs 40 people with disabilities, as well as two managers who have degrees in special education. All the profits from the coffee shop go to Wright's nonprofit, Able to Work USA.
Shop website - Bitty & Beau's Coffee Shop
Topical Music -
Happy Xmas (War is Over) - John Lennon
Why Can't We Be Friends - WAR
Alive with the Glory of Love - Say Anything
No comments:
Post a Comment