I want to thank everyone for their support of the "Sounds of Peace" campaign by purchasing the Cambodian Jingle Bells since I put them on my website earlier this month (to see that post, go to blog.integratedenergyhealing.com/2009/02/09/the-sounds-of-peace.aspx). I am thrilled to be part of this effort to support the Cambodian people in their attempts to heal themselves and their country. As you may know, Cambodia was invaded by the Khmer Rouge in 1975 and over 1 million innocent people were killed over the course of 4 years. Now the Cambodian people are picking up the pieces, and are literally collecting spent artillery shells from landmines that continue to dot the countryside. These shells are then recast into bells, which are used to adorn the harnesses of oxen, cows, and water buffalo.

I was so inspired by this story that I offered them for sale on my website. Little did I know that I would be touched by so many people's personal stories. I want to share some of the creative ideas people have come up with for using the bells. One man who served in Cambodia during the war was able to bring a bit of peace to his past by purchasing the bells. It was his way of giving a little bit back to the people who suffered so much and whose faces had continued to haunt him. One woman who purchased the bells plans to teach a class of young children about mindfulness using one of Thich Nhat Hanh's children's books. She knew the sound of these particular bells would be the perfect reminder for them to come back to the present moment. A Reiki Master purchased a bell, charged it with Reiki, and attached it to his sick cat's collar so that the healing energy would be with the cat wherever it may go. I could go on and on, but suffice it to say that it has warmed my heart to be able to provide these bells to so many wonderful people; I truly believe that they possess a transformative power for good. May the sounds of peace fill your heart and warm your Soul.