MY ‘PLACE OF PEACE’

I have a special place in my heart that I call my ‘Place of Peace’. It’s been with me for years. I must have pictured it a million times. It’s where I go when my world is full of commotion and my brain is on overdrive. I find peace and solace here, hence its name, ‘Place of Peace’.

I’d like to take you there now. Close your eyes and imagine you’re standing under tall shady trees. Sunshine peeks through the branches casting lazy shadows at your feet. Walking paths meander here and there around corners of hills and dales and the soothing sound of falling water comes from a gurgling brook nearby. Wildflowers peek out from behind rocks and bushes and the sights and sounds of little living creatures are everywhere. There’s a house here, very Zen-like, with white curving arches, old wooden beams, tucked away nooks, and lots of room for invited guests. Connected to this house by a crooked stone path is a structure composed of one long rectangular room. I like to think of it as a special place for the soul where one can meditate, contemplate, gather to celebrate, create, rest, relax, anything you want. One of its walls is made entirely of glass allowing the beauty of nature to remain with you even while inside. Its opposite wall slides open to a veranda, perfect for cloud watching, daydreaming, or moon gazing.

It’s been my hope to have such a ‘Place of Peace’ in real life. One of the main reasons is that I want people to be able to go to a place where they can calm their minds, experience serenity, connect with themselves again, and take peace home with them when they leave.

I’ve held this dream in my heart for a long time but I came to a realization a little while ago. I realized that I don’t need to manifest it in the real word - I can be my own ‘Place of Peace’. I’ve already created it inside of me. I’ve been carrying it with me wherever I go, experiencing its magic all along.

As for the main reason for my ‘Place of Peace’, I can do that, too. I can try to be a ‘Place of Peace’ for others. I can give them peace and leave them with peace in the way I interact with them. There’s a quote by Mother Teresa that says, “Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God’s kindness: kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile.”  Kindness is a part of many things – listening, giving, receiving, having patience, showing compassion, to name a few. Kindness leads to peace and vice versa. In being these things with other people, I can make myself a ‘Place of Peace’ for them, or at least try to be. Of course, some people are easier to try with than others. It’s a learning process and a work in progress.

So my friends, what does peace mean to you? What does it look like? What does it feel like? Is it something you share? Are you acquainted with it? Remember, you’re always welcome to join me in my ‘Place of Peace’.

(As an aside, Japan has a special festival in honor of moon gazing called Otsukimi occurring every September.  I love the moon. Have you ever stopped to look out upon a moonlit night? Cloaked in ethereal blue moonbeams, the earth takes on a quiet stillness and mysteriousness not seen by the light of day. There’s a hushed tone to the air. It’s all very serene and soothing to the soul.)