Michael

"This photo shows how big the world really is because as far as I can see its just sea, which makes me feel like I have no worries in life because I am marveling at the beauty of this world."

Nathan Ngai

"This photo was taken during an excursion with the peace camp. The bright red text caught my attention against the sandy white canoe. I chose this photo because the safety and sense of security that comes with a lifeguard reflects the sense of comfort and support necessary for peace to exist."

Claire G.

"In this photo I took a picture of Canadian geese swimming through the waters of Woodbine beach during our visit there!... I chose this photo because the Canadian geese are a crucial part of Canada’s identity as a country. Before this photo was taken, I saw them all huddled together, and only when we and other people approached them did they separate. This relates to peace because God created all living objects and creatures, and to me it is just amazing to see the beauty of the world and His creations."

Summer

"When we were down at the beach, I decided to go on the rocks to capture a picture. In this image, there are rocks half submerged in the water. The water has a green tinge and is a very pretty and relaxing contrast from the grey rocks. The water is shining and ripples are visible on the surface. To me, this moment was so peaceful :) It was actually the slightly churning waters that caught my eye to capture the shot. The way the water moved was quite mesmerizing. Although you can’t see the motion happening, my picture shows the mid-motion of the water. I wanted to include a photo of the rocks and water, and this was actually one of my favourite photos! The water is so chill!"

Michael

"I was at the beach and I was given time to take photos and this fence caught my attention because it looked like it served a real purpose. I chose this photo because the vast sea and beach contrasts with the inanimate objects and structures just showing how everything and a lot we do in the grand scheme of things is just useless which just lets me forget my worries and just be at peace."

Julianne

"This photo was taken at the beach. Mostly everyone was walking around the same area. The area of sand drew my attention because it was seemingly undisturbed by humans, with only animal prints seen. I chose this photo because it felt so undisturbed. I often see peace in nature, so, to see animal prints in the sand, felt like peace to me because it felt natural."

Summer

"There’s Lake Ontario with a smooth surface – the wind wasn’t too strong that day, though you can see slight currents. The beach curves its way into the image and lush trees are visible. Overhead, the sky is bright – but with grey clouds drifting in from the left… I wanted a water and rock shot first (H7) [see photo above] as well as a lake and beach shot. Tbh I just snapped the photo cause I thought it was pretty. I really liked the half and half – land and sky split into two. I thought it was pretty cool, so I included it. The water and scenery is peaceful."

Nathan Ngai

"In Lake Ontario, beside Woodbine beach lies three black ducks swimming in the water. The sky is open with clouds. Tall tours, green trees and yellow sand can be seen in the background. This photo was taken while I was skipping rocks with my friends. The group of ducks caught my attention from the beach. I chose this photo because of its tranquil atmosphere. The water and ducks are very calming, reflecting the sense of quiet serenity that comes with a peaceful environment."

Summer

"I’m at Woodbine beach standing on the sand. I decided to take this picture because there were also paw prints of an animal in the sand too… I don’t have any photos of me in them, so I decided to add this in. Plus I liked the feet picture aesthetic too. The sinking sensation of my feet on the sand was actually pretty relaxing."

Julianne

"This photo was taken on the edge of the beach rocks, leading into the lake. This photo was captured at the beach… It drew my attention because it looked peaceful. I chose this photo because the lake looked really beautiful. Everything was loud and busy, but as I stepped onto the rocks, I immediately felt calm enter my system. The view was mesmerizing and reminded me of how peace feels to me."

Henry

"When this photo was taken we (the camp) were at the beach by Lake Ontario and we were skipping rocks out onto the lake… I chose [this] photo because I love swimming and looking at big bodies of water, also because this photo looked so majestic when I was looking at it and I felt at peace when I was standing there looking out at the lake."

Michael

"I chose this photo because it captures some of the great beauty of this world and when I try to think about that all my worries somehow just leave me, letting me feel peaceful."

Toronto Peace Academy is an initiative of Toronto Chinese Mennonite Church.

Toronto Peace Academy is an initiative of