Balloons over Bullets…
After a two year hiatus due to CoVid, Water Wars returned this past Tuesday. Water Wars started as the way that Shawn wanted to celebrate his birthday, and was an immediate hit with the community that made sure to make it tradition. Every year it is, to our knowledge, the biggest water balloon fight in the West End. The community was thrilled to see Water Wars make its return. We had over 4,100 water balloons this year and 30 water guns. Just as important as the fun this year was the message that Shawn kept going back to: Balloons over Bullets.
In the 8 years since Love City started crime in the blocks around our building has decreased drastically, being cut to less than half of what it was. Unfortunately, gun violence still exists in our community. We have seen several MOA families be affected by gun violence in some way this past summer. Last week we saw the senseless killing come close to our building for the first times in year. Water Wars could not have come at a better time.
A view from the frontlines
Going to the park and pelting your neighbors with water balloons is fun, but we do it because it releases Love. It releases Love to everyone who drives past and sees it, bringing a smile to their face, maybe even a laugh. It imbues everyone who is there participating with Love, everyone who has embraced their inner child and just decided to let go and have fun. Then, all of those people return home with that Love and it spreads to the rest of their household. They take peace as they return home to their houses. Water balloons help with that, I have never seen an unhappy person throw a water balloon and not smile, but what really does that is community. Community is what the world needs more of.
Along with the balloons there was a very popular inflatable water slide
Everyone needs community, it unlocks the best in people. The best version of someone can develop when they are surrounded by a loving and caring group that wants the best for everyone involved. We need more neighbors coming together with joy and celebration for everyone to see to help bring out the best. We can’t let senseless killing keep us in hiding out of fear. This is the Kingdom’s community and the Kingdom needs its citizens to claim it, even if it requires going to war with balloons and putting up the bullets.
You can watch WHAS coverage of Westonia Water Wars here.
If you haven’t seen the video yet, take a few minutes to hear our family talk about Love City and Mighty Oak Academy in the video below.
Ethan
Fish Fry Today 11am-7pm!!!
The Fish Fry will be open today from 11-7pm. Stop by for a fish sandwich or some churched up tots.
If you are interested in volunteering or to find out more information about supplies needed please email: info@lovecityinc.org or call (502) 272-078.