Advent: Peace
It almost feels ironic to be talking about peace in such a chaotic time in such an eventful year. Throughout the ups and downs of this year, we’ve all had to find new and different ways to handle what life has thrown at us. Though I am certain that not all of these methods have been the best, I am proud of us all for making it to the end of this year. I pray that 2021 is much more peaceful, which is the candle we are lighting today if you missed that.
What does peace mean? The most common uses of the word ‘peace’ mean tranquility or a time without combat. Many people I have talked to associate peace with meditation and calm thought. Spa days and soft colors are some of the images that would appear if you were to search for peace in a computer. But does a ‘peaceful’ environment truly make someone peaceful? I would say no.
To me, peace is not even slightly about environment, but rather a state of mind. Peace is about faith, trusting, and generally comes with positivity. To be able to go with the flow of things and trust that things will get better are some of the ways I have remained stable throughout this year. It also comes to me through faith in God. Believing that things are in Their control is another method of staying at peace with the unpredictable stress of this year. That is not to say we should sit by and just allow things to happen, rather to know that when things are completely out of your control, there is no need to pressure yourself with it.
Peace to me is also about knowing how much is too much for you and when to disconnect. We can want to help everyone with everything, and there is nothing inherently bad about that, it can be draining on our own inner peace. Being at peace is also about maintaining peace. If we cannot take care of ourselves, how are we supposed to help others efficiently when they need us? This can also apply to work, if you are already drained, what can you give to your work?
This is the view of peace coming from someone who tends to carry other people’s anxieties and over think things too often, so I am really preaching to the choir on this one. But I do hope that you all could understand and take something from my ramblings. Remember to drink water and wear your mask.