We Forge our Own Peace

“Peace comes from within. Do not seek it without” Siddhārtha Gautama

It is difficult to feel at ease in a world so full of conflict and suffering, especially when we witness the collective shadow of humanity in full force; yet never has it been so important to find true serenity and peace within. World peace will never be achieved unless we first establish peace within our own minds and hearts. Without inner peace, outer peace is impossible. When we become more intimate with that transcendent source of peace within, only then can we radiate that outward into the world. Then we will realise that the feeling of separation is but a mirage concealing our interconnectedness within the vast web of humanity.

If we are peaceful in thought and action towards others, peace will be reflected back to us because life is our mirror. Inner, abiding peace spreads outwardly as joy, regardless of what is unfolding around us. Happiness is nothing more than a fleeting emotion and success can be taken from us just as easily as it can be gained, but real inner peace is everlasting and unassailable.

Indeed, peace is a state of Being that we find by realising who we are at the deepest level and meditation is the most fruitful way to cultivate it. The challenge is that the busy mind must be extraordinarily quiet and still to feel deep inner connection on that level of existence with the whole evolutionary force of the Universe. By consistently soaking ourselves in the unbounded ocean of pure Consciousness, we become more empowered to bring greater peace into the world. As our experience of the silence and stillness expands we are experiencing the deepest truth of who we are and aligning with the creative intelligence of Nature.

Peace is not simply the absence of violent conflict; it is a state of harmony; harmony between people, between humanity and nature and harmony within ourselves. So rather than just wishing peace for everyone, this Christmas, we wish for everyone to make peace, to realise that peace is who we are and what we emanate out into the world. We have the power to choose peace in every moment so we might share our innermost joy with others. Like fragrance, it oozes forth from the core of the blossoming soul.

Peace Mantra: Lokha Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu

May all beings be happy and free from suffering