How I Cultivate Peace

Just over a year ago I joined a young adult women's group that is affiliated with my church. This group has been a great community to me and I am so grateful for these ladies. Since the Summer we have been reading "Searching for and Maintaining Peace" by Fr. Jacques Philippe. This little book hold such insightful ideas. Here are some reflections I have taken away so far:

Peace Cultivates Peace

This was an insight I came do early in the book. I see that if you have lived, are living, or plan to live a peaceful life you need to start attracting peace. Once you have a peaceful atmosphere and a peaceful mindset you will begin to see the more important aspects of life.

Life Isn't Meant to be Crazy

Your life is what you decide for it to be. Whatever is thrown at you cannot be controlled by you, but how you respond and react is up to you. Sometimes all you need to do is take a step back and breathe.

Faith is the Basis of Peace

Peace is a gift granted by God, and He will never take it away. The only reason you lose your peace is because you allowed yourself to lose it. Have faith in God, trust in His plan for you, and you will be successful. I know I cannot control the world and the plans I have for myself are nothing compared to how they will actually pan out. It is also good to remember that roadblocks are character building.

Find Ways to Relax

When you think about peace, what is it you're thinking about exactly? Being on a boat drifting off to sea without a care in the world? Watching a comfort show or movie which takes your mind off of reality for a while? Or maybe even doing a hobby you love because you can slowdown and use some brain power you don't always get to exercise during your day. For me I pretty much do all of these things. I like to journal and reflect on my day or week, I like to do puzzles so my mind is only focused on solving the picture, and sometimes I like to remove myself from reality and watch a tv show. If you can't find a way to relax and take a break, where is your peace?

Discuss your Struggles with People you Trust

I love talking to my friends and family about things that are difficult for me. Not only is it an outlet and a nice way to get things off my chest, but sometimes I get insightful feedback from a different perspective. Another way I like to look at it is being able to share things that I am troubled with simply to let them know I'm going through a tough time. You don't always have to show the highlights. That's unrealistic. Sharing problems builds more trust which can deeper your personal relationships.

I hope at least one of these takeaways is helpful. Stay tuned! There will be more to share when we finish the book!