Buenos Aires, Argentina - “Cooperation and Development for Peace” was the slogan of UPF-Argentina's commemoration of the International Day of Families 2012 at the Buenos Aires Peace Embassy on May 15. It was an emotional ceremony during which 17 couples gave testimonies about their 25 or more years of living together.
Upon presentation of diplomas, they talked about their experiences, stories, and affection for each other; several confessed that if given the choice again, they would choose the same person, and others sealed their testimony with a kiss. Each one shared experiences that were lessons in coexistence, respect, understanding, overcoming difficulties, serene joy, patience, and, above all, much love.
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Among the distinguished couples there were international and interfaith marriages, some of them accompanied by their children and grandchildren; one couple had been married 60 years. Unity in diversity and experiences over time revealed once again that love overcomes all barriers and borders. It has never been expressed better than by the biblical verse quoted by one of the couples: “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love” (I John 4:8).
It turned out to be a real party, a reaffirmation of the family as the foundation of coexistence, peace, and values that made explicit the strength of the partnership developed through many years of love.
At the end there was a toast, cake, and music, including the song “What a Wonderful World!” by Louis Armstrong, played masterfully by the Gospel Jazz Band.
On this occasion, the chorus of the Family Federation also sang, and the message for the date by the Secretary-General of the UN was shared, along with the UPF Statement on the Family.
Translation: Ricardo Gómez
To read more about UPF observances of the International Day of Families 2012, click here.