War and Peace

A child easily identifies the unique properties that contribute to an environment of peace. Although subtle, and at times unnoticed, quiet settles on a home and bequeaths stillness and calm. Individuals may also possess these characteristics, either bestowed at birth, or cultivated through years of effort. Regardless, it is a trait to admire and emulate.

The noise of our world incessantly invades the natural place and order that potentially exists in each life. For someone accustomed to a state of high volume, quiet, calm, and peace are nearly foreign. While I have used activity to compensate for life's disappointments and hurts, this disallows any quantity of silence or stillness in my routine.

Within the week, I expended time in the company of two relatives whose homes exhibit the type of simplicity that invites peace and quiet. Upon entry, the relaxation is palpable. Without cell service, focus is forced and I had little choice, but to simply enjoy the presence of loved ones and meaningful conversation. Needless to say, this is an unnatural state for me. Spending time at my aunt's farm, produced a feeling of time standing still. The noiselessness of her farmhouse enveloped my thoughts and momentarily, I was able to breath without distraction and revel in the laughter of my children playing in the adjacent room.

As a culture, we are accustomed to purchasing relaxation: massages, incense, oils, candles, music, spa vacations, etc. On the contrary, peace is available at the small cost of time. In a sense, we are at war. Entertainment, commercialism, and vanity threaten to abscond with the simple pleasures of sitting with the ones we love, listening, breathing, and just...being.

In order to fight the good fight and reclaim the peace in my relationship with my children, I begin the new year with a resolution to put down the phone, focus on their sweet faces, and truly listen to their darling voices. This is my first step in shutting out the noise of world and inviting peace back into my life and home.