NATIONAL LAW ENFORCEMENT APPRECIATION DAY

Across the country on January 9th each year, citizens take the lead to show support on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. 

Law Enforcement Officers of every rank and file have chosen a profession that puts their life on the line every day for their communities.  They’ve answered a call to public service that is demanding and often unappreciated.

From local, state, and federal, their duties command dedication. The jobs are often thankless and take them away from their families for long hours. Rarely do they know what their days have in store for them. Often law enforcement are the only paid emergency resource a community has. More often they work in coordination with other local, state, and federal organizations to make communities safer.

On National Law Enforcement Day, we have an opportunity to thank them for their service and offer a token of respect.

NATIONAL LAW ENFORCEMENT APPRECIATION DAY HISTORY

Several organizations came together to create National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day in 2015 to thank officers across the country for all the daily sacrifices they make for their communities. Some of the organizations supporting the observance include:

  • Concerns of Police Survivors
  • FBI National Academy Associates
  • Fraternal Order of Police
  • International Association of Chief of Police
  • Officer Down Memorial Page
  • Law Enforcement United
  • National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund
  • International Conference of Police Chaplains
  • National Troopers Coalition

Since then the inaugural celebration, nationwide many more organizations have joined forces to support National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day (L.E.A.D.) to spread encouragement and respect to these dedicated men and women.

HOW TO OBSERVE #LawEnforcementAppreciationDay

There are several ways to show your support. Send a note of thanks to your local, county or state police agency. Wear blue, turn your social media channels blue or shine a blue porch light to show your support. Find more ideas at Concerns of Police Survivors and share your support using #NationalLawEnforcementAppreciationDay to share on social media.  

NATIONAL SCIENCE FICTION DAY

National Science Fiction Day promotes the celebration of science fiction as a genre, its creators, history, and various media, too. On January 2nd annually, millions of science fiction fans across the United States read and watch their favorites in science fiction. 

The date of the celebration commemorates the birth of famed science fiction writer Isaac Asimov.  An American author and Boston University professor of biochemistry, Isaac Asimov was born Isaak Yudovich Ozimov on January 2, 1920. He is best known for his works of science fiction and his popular science books. Isaac Asimov, whose works are followed by many, died on April 6, 1992.

National Science Fiction Day is recognized by the Hallmark Channel and the Scholastic Corporation. 

Considered a master of hard science fiction, Asimov, along with Robert A. Heinlein and Arthur C. Clarke, was considered one of the “Big Three” science-fiction writers during his lifetime. Many regard the Foundation Series as Asimov’s most outstanding piece. His other major series are the Galactic Empire Series and the Robot Series.

Some of the successful television shows recognized by science fiction fans include Star Trek-The Next Generation, The X-Files, Battlestar GalacticaDoctor Who, and The Twilight Zone.

As we look back at some older science fiction in our current technology-infused world, how close do the writers come to imaging our futures? Long before Asimov created his first work, humans imagined machines that allowed them to soar like birds. Another man, Leonardo Di Vinci, looked to the future, too. He designed contraptions worthy of the science fiction in his time.

Science fiction impacts life in ways we may not even consider – even those who don’t enjoy reading or watching science fiction. 

NATIONAL SCIENCE FICTION DAY HISTORY

Since at least 2011, science fiction lovers have been honoring Isaac Asimov and other science fiction contributors. In 2013, asimovs.com published a guest editorial by Ed Finn. The writer talks about doomsday predictions while also looking toward the future – all moving toward the true meaning of National Science Fiction Day. Read the complete article, Celebrate National Science Fiction Day by Learning to Live in the Future.

HOW TO OBSERVE #ScienceFictionDay

The day encourages reading or watching science fiction. However, consider exploring science fiction in other ways. For example:

  • Introduce science fiction to an entirely new generation. Offer to read excerpts from your favorite science fiction author to a youth group at a library. 
  • Explore the authors of science fiction you’ve never read before.
  • Study the history of science fiction and how it has impacted modern culture.
  • Share your favorite science fiction story or character. 

Use #ScienceFictionDay to post on social media.

UNIVERSAL HOUR OF PEACE

From 11:30 p.m. on December 31st to 12:30 a.m. on January 1st each year, Universal Hour of Peace hopes to take a step toward a war-free world. 

The day encourages the promotion of peaceful activities during the hour of observance. 

UNIVERSAL HOUR OF PEACE HISTORY

Dr. Barbara Condron at the School of Metaphysics conceived the first Universal Hour of Peace, and the world celebrated on October 24, 1995. It coincided with the 50th anniversary of the United Nations and the autumnal equinox. The following year it was moved to January 1st at Noon GMT. It is now celebrated from 11:30 p.m. December 31st to 12:30 a.m. January 1st.

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HOW TO OBSERVE #UniversalHourOfPeace

Organizations around the world host events supporting an hour of peace. Some include prayer, music, poetry, or speeches. Gatherings may be large or small, but the effort overall will be to spread the word of peace in every heart and mind regardless of faith.

Several ways to participate include:

  • host a prayer circle
  • join a candlelight vigil
  • meditate or attend a meditation session
  • organize an event to discuss drawing us closer to peace
  • share resources for promoting harmony in communities
  • participate in discussions that bring organizations together to create solutions to issues
  • share an experience
  • write a poem or story 

Use #UniversalHourOfPeace to post on social media.

Amazon Book Sale

Finding a good summer read often begins with identifying your personal preferences and interests. If you enjoy escaping into different worlds, consider diving into a fantasy or science fiction novel, which can transport you to imaginative realms and provide a thrilling break from reality. For those who prefer stories grounded in reality, a compelling contemporary fiction or a heartwarming romance might be more appealing. If you’re interested in personal growth or new perspectives, non-fiction books covering topics like history, self-improvement, or travel can be both enlightening and inspiring. Reflecting on what you hope to get out of your reading experience—whether it’s relaxation, adventure, learning, or a mix—can guide you towards a book that will keep you engaged throughout the summer.

Another approach is to explore book recommendations from trusted sources. Checking out best-seller lists from reputable publications like The New York Times or browsing curated lists on platforms like Goodreads can provide a plethora of options vetted by fellow readers and critics. Additionally, visiting local bookstores or libraries can offer personalized suggestions from knowledgeable staff who can match you with a book based on your tastes. Don’t forget to consider the format that suits your summer plans; e-books and audiobooks can be particularly convenient if you’re traveling. By combining your interests with curated recommendations and considering practicalities, you can discover a summer read that’s perfect for lounging by the pool, relaxing at the beach, or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home. Some of my favorites have pages on this site, and is by no means all of them. 

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