Cusco, Peru

Brilliant sunshine crept into Cusco on the morning of June 15, 2013 as the city's Colisseo Cerrado prepared to open its doors for a memorable event. The Mayor of Cusco had warmly welcomed Prem Rawat to the ancient Incan capital days before at an intimate ceremony acknowledging his work as an Ambassador of Peace. The atmosphere surrounding Prem Rawat's inaugural visit to Cusco was jubilant, children and councilmen alike joining in the celebration. The Mayor of Cusco was visibly moved, describing the impact of Prem Rawat's visit to the city as life-changing: "I said that this would change each and everyone of us. And I think that you can see that, in the people... I know that all who hear the message of peace that you have brought will be certain that they are part of the seven billion reasons for accomplishing peace." As I walked through the stadium doors I passed groups of excited youngsters chatting amongst themselves as they took their seats. In an empowering speech, Prem Rawat spoke about the potential that each and every one of us has to be an Ambassador of Peace: Are you trying to be the bird or the wind? Are you trying to be the road or the traveller? Because if you're trying to be the wind, it's not going to work. Because your nature is the bird. Be the bird. If you try to be the wind, it becomes problematic. Be the bird, and fly. Peace doesn't need to be imported. Peace doesn't need to be created. Peace needs to be felt. Because it resides in you. You see, when you feel peace inside of you, you become the Ambassador of Peace. Once the event had concluded I wandered through the lingering crowds, listening to people sharing their thoughts and feelings with one another. Prem Rawat had clearly started a dialogue about peace with the people of Cusco that they were keen to continue. — Rose, freelance reporter If you haven't seen it yet, you can watch the entire event on The Premium Channel or purchase it for your home collection.