Dimapur, November 11: “Peace is the need of the hour. Everyone is yearning for peace yet, somehow it is illusive because there is lack of forgiveness and love among the Naga people. If only we have forgiveness in the hearts of every Naga people, peace will prevail,” this lines from former chairman of the NSCN (IM) late Isak Chishi Swu pleading for peace and forgiveness and to pass on this message to all the Nagas resounded as NSCN/GPRN celebrated his 87th birth anniversary at CHQ Hebron on November 11 on the theme “Forgiveness, love & peace.”
In his opening remark, kilo kilonser, Rh. Raising said birthday celebration is only feasting if it does not talk about a message one brings with. Quoting line from BoneyM song “Man will live forevermore because of Christmas Day,” Raising said it is a strong and far reaching message that touches the heart of every listener. He said late Isak Chishi Swu came with the message of freedom, forgiveness, love and peace.
In her short speech, Mrs Eustar Chishi Swu, Steering Executive member and wife of late Isak Chishi Swu, expressed her profound gratitude to the CNC and the NSCN for shouldering the responsibility in organising the programme. She said if the Nagas chose to live in their own way rather than following the path of the Lord, the Nagas will perish.
Rev. Puni Mao, Member of Collective Leadership, said forgiveness is an equipment every Nagas must possess. “If the Nagas practice forgiveness, we have peace and when we have peace we have everything,” he added.
Main events of the celebration saw special numbers, poems and distribution of memento by Mrs. Eustar Chishi Swu. Many tribal hohos, civil societies, student leaders, church leaders, well wishers, family members, NSCN members and publics from neighboring villages attended the celebration.
