International Day of Non-Violence is annually held on October 2 to coincide with renowned Indian leader Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday. On this day we participated in holding a day long event in the center of Rijeka, together with our friends from Youth for Christ. The idea was to create a platform for passers-by to take part in and experiencing positiveness in various forms.

Anna led the painting of our “What everybody needs is love” mural on a 2x3m canvas on the main walking street. It is not a very common sight to see such a large picture painted down-town and many people stopped to watch, ask questions and some to give us a hand and try out their painting skills.

In the meantime, Elvis and Maggie accompanied by some 80 young people from various schools cheered up the city with a flash mob dance, lively music and free hugs for all! Many people commented how the atmosphere of the whole center was changed and added happiness and cheer to the otherwise mundane streets. Even the rain decided to let up in the morning and let the sun out to add an extra spark to the day. It was a very rewarding experience with many people’s lives touched and many people commenting that such a thing should happen every day.