A key moment in history taking place in one of the leading hotel brands in the hotel industry. Last week I shared a post on Instagram in remembrance of the famous bed-in protest which took place in the Hilton Amsterdam exactly 50 years ago. Instead of having a lavish honeymoon, spending money on expensive outings and hotels. The newly wedded couple chose to spend their honeymoon promoting peace starting with a bed-in in March 1969. This peace-activism continued for more than two years.
Obviously, this bed-in protest was mainly provoked by the Vietnam war followed by the famous “war is over if you want it” campaign during Christmas. To spread his message the ex-Beatle used conventional marketing tools, such as billboards and advertisements. Clever thinking.
I always wondered how John and Yoko could stay in bed for one week, non-stop. Only occasionally getting up for housekeeping to change the sheets. It must have been an extremely comfortable bed. I am thinking an added cushioning featherbed to sink into whilst playing guitar, entertaining journalists, wining and dining and last but not least (hopefully) sleeping. Probably enjoying delightful crispy Egyptian cotton sheets and a lightweight goose down duvet. Ah yes, also plenty of soft pillows supported by sturdy body pillows. I mean, let’s face it, they were sitting up most of the time. They must have had an abundance of pillows for support. How else did they endure this lengthy bed rest?
As you can see, I have my own theories on the bed. But I am drifting from the subject. Back to the Instagram post where I quoted John Lennon’s wise words:
What we’re trying to promote is an awareness in people on how much power they have, and not to rely on the government, or leaders or teachers so much. They have to have new hope. Everybody’s looking for goals and answers; The youth especially. What we’re trying to tell them is that “You are the goal. Nobody on earth can do it for you. Whatever it is you want, you must do it yourself.”- John Lennon 1969
I like to think his message had a more comprehensive value. It is so true that the power is within yourself. Instead of looking at others to tell you what to do, how to think, what to choose. You decide your course of action, the way of live and what you want to believe in. Such a powerful message which will always be relevant.
So, thank you John Lennon for sharing your wisdom and I hope people still benefit from it today and will do so in the future.
