The VP debate took place yesterday evening, and although it was way more peaceful than the presidential one, too bad we can’t say the same for the Middle East. Iraq struck Israel with 200 missiles last night and according to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel is going to respond. It looks like a full-blown war is coming soon.

And it sounds like we need the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi more than ever. Not only is October 2nd Gandhi’s birthday, but in celebration of his life, it is also the International Day of Non-Violence. Born in 1869, he was so committed to peace that the world decided to dedicate a day to his philosophy. Gandhi didn’t just fight for India’s independence, he taught the world that you can win battles without ever raising a fist.

October 2nd is also the day Thurgood Marshall was sworn in as the first African American justice of the U.S. Supreme Court in 1967. His fight for justice and equality played a key role in ending segregation in public schools, as he was the lead counsel in the Brown vs. Board of Education case. Marshall’s journey is a reminder that justice is an ongoing fight, and his life’s work encourages us to keep striving for fairness in the world, even when it feels like progress is slow.

As heavy as the journey to peace, freedom and progress has been, the cutest beagle we know was also born today. Did you know that Peanuts debuted on October 2, 1950? Yes, today marks the first appearance of Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the gang! Charles Schulz’s comic strip captured the humor and heartbreak of everyday life, all through the eyes of kids (and our favorite 4-legged friend).  

Maybe there’s a reason why such a heartwarming, humble comic strip debuted on a day that also celebrates figures who stood for truth and kindness. It reminds us that sometimes, change and hope come in the smallest, cutest packages.

So, today, take a moment to reflect on freedom, justice, and peace—and maybe chuckle at Snoopy doing his happy dance. And don’t forget to think about what holiday you’d like your birthday to become. Something tells me we could all use a day dedicated to spreading joy, just like today.

Happy October 2nd!