Another Successful Year for Project Common Bond

For one week in August while their friends were hanging out on summer vacation, teenagers from Israel, Liberia, Northern Ireland, Spain and the US met to share with each other and learn how their “common bond” of losing a family member to an act of terrorism has changed their lives.

The ipods were left behind, the cell phones were put down and the sleeves were rolled up as they participated in an interactive Global Youth Leadership retreat that also included various workshops in art, theater, music, movement and sports.

The words sharing and understanding took on new meaning as friendships were formed that will last a lifetime.  “I grew in friendship and family.  This week truly impacted my life.” 

Most important thing you learned?: “I learned about peace-building.” “Everyone has a deep connection.” “That I am not alone in trying to figure out this game we call life.” “The most important thing I learned is understanding.” “What lies behind conflict and how we can use this understanding to make a difference.” “I told my story for the first time and I feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders.” “That I’m not alone.” 

Ways in which you grew? “I’ve become inspired by the people I’ve met and more motivated to make a difference.” I was able to connect with people from around the world and people who share the same experience as me.” “I learned how to trust people more.” “I was taught crying was weak, but now I can be free with my emotions.” “I grew in friendship and family.  This week truly changed my life.” 

Peace-building project that you are inspired to work on? “I want to start a global leadership club that creates awareness about terrorism throughout the world and what we can do to support those affected and how we can affect peace.” “I’m inspired to improve my community through clean up projects.” “To stop tension in a neighborhood in my town.” “Collaborating with all my peers from Project Common Bond to stay active in our communities.”  

Project Common Bond will continue in 2010 and will expand to include more teenagers from other nations.

For information about Project COMMON BOND 2010 click here