Not a pretty tree, but a pretty message

VIRGINIA BEACH

 The ornaments are far from ornate. No festive colors, no sparkles. Just wooden cutouts of hands, houses, butterflies, bells, bows and umbrellas.

But look a little closer. There, in the penmanship of adults and the handwriting of children, are messages of joy, peace, love and respect.

And that’s the point.

The ornaments are nestled within the branches of  the 6-foot  Harmony Tree  in the lobby of the Virginia Beach Convention Center.

The artificial tree was erected for Human Rights Awareness Week, which runs the second week in December. The tree remains on display and open to messages until Friday.

“We thought it would be thought-provoking,” said Fay Silverman, chairwoman of the Virginia Beach Human Rights Commission. The tree debuted at City Hall last year.

“We’re not out to change the world with the Harmony Tree,” Silverman said, “but to make people more aware of the concept of harmony.”

Some might call the messages corny ; others might call them inspirational. Here’s a sampling. You be the judge:

“Love one another.”

“We have a long road ahead of us. Let us unite and move towards the direction of love and peace.”

“Lending hands are always welcome. Reach out and help others.”

“Say 'I love you’ more often.”

“Human Rights: to live a free and secure life without limits on what and who I can be when I 'grow up.’”

“God has bless me with a home and a car and piece of mind.” 

“To celebrate our differences as much as our similarities.”

“Freedom for all.”

Susan E. White, (757) 222-5114,  susan.white@pilotonline.com