We at Hope House applaud the amazing peacemaking efforts of the Koreans and the International Olympic Committee, as opportunities to build bridges are being enthusiastically seized. We cheer on these peace efforts and pray that the Olympics is a turning point of hope for the Korean people and, indeed, the world.

We have a special place in our hearts for Korea since our visit to South Korea in 2006. We were touched by the extreme graciousness of the Korean people who hosted us. It is no surprise to once again see the powerful effect that Korean hospitality can have. Also, during our visit, we witnessed the continuing grief from a divided North and South. Korean families remain torn apart.

In great contrast to that grief was the recent joy expressed by athletes of both North and South Korea, seen walking side by side in the parade of nations during the opening ceremonies of the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang. The athletes’ exuberant unity, and the resounding cheers erupting around the stadium as North and South Koreans walked in together, is a loud message to leaders around the world — peace is what people long for. Even when differences seem so great, peacemakers lead the way forward.

We were also privileged to visit Beijing, China, during the 2008 Summer Olympics and experienced the impact for peace and openness that the Olympics can have on nation-to-nation relations.

Now is another such historic opportunity. Many are embracing it.

Bruce and Jan Willson, Lewiston

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