The Eternal-Peace Flame

A very special monument to peace can be found in the port of the city of Oslo, at Akker Brygge, a complex along the water of shops, cafes, sculpture, and boat and ferry docking. It is frequented by thousands  since the cruise ships dock here upon arrival in Oslo.  Near the tip of the Akker Brygge boardwalk, a permanent monument to peace can be found – The Eternal Peace-Flame.  The installation looks like a giant lotus flower and in the center of it is a flame that burns continuously.

The Eternal Peace-Flame was dedicated to the City of Oslo by World Harmony Run founder Sri Chinmoy. Watch a slideshow I made from my photos/video here:

Eternal Peace Flame Oslo, Norway from Sharani Robins on Vimeo.

The Eternal Peace-Flame moved me deeply. As I sat and contemplated peace, both individual and collective, I found myself considering just how often I do not make the quest for peace front and center as a goal and destination of my life. Of course, I pay lip service to the concept of peace but what do I actually do to line my life up to achieve it? Knowing that this installation exists where the flame burns non-stop day in and day out inspires me to keep the same kind of presence inside my own being focused on the importance of peace.

I was also deeply moved to see that many of the people walking by stopped and read the plaque, took photos and video and seemed to really appreciate it. The day I was there was a somewhat cold wintry day and the sun was low on the horizon despite it being shortly after Noon. This time of year the sun sets in Oslo by 3:30 pm. Despite this weather, the Eternal Peace-Flame was a hub of attention. It must be even more so in the summer when the cruise ships dock in Oslo. If you are ever there, be sure to include a visit to the Flame in your travel itinerary. And if you can’t make it there in person, visit it virtually at the Eternal Peace Flame website or World Harmony Run Norway Site .