06/01/2024
A quotation attributed to the Dalai Lama says: “do not let the behavior of others destroy your inner peace.” It is a profound statement that, if put into practice, would make the world we live in a much better place. Many times we surrender our inner peace to the whims of others whose sole purpose is to be an aggravation to the soul. I once heard it said to "stop renting space in your head to people." We cannot control what other people say about us, but we have total control over how we let it affect us. Sometimes when we say nothing at all, we say it all. Somethings are not worth getting into a back and forth about; or even arguing about.
Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us: "do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." But the qualifying statement in the lead up to those verses puts it all into context when Philippians 4:4-5 says:" rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near."
Brothers and sisters, inhale the Saturday morning's quiet, let it settle in your bones. Exhale judgment, tension, the weight of discord. Breathe in kindness, weave it into your words, your actions, your very being. Like ripples on a still pond, let your peace spread outward, touching hearts, mending broken shores. Harmony isn't a destination, but a dance, a gentle sway with the rhythm of life. Embrace differences, find beauty in the melody of many voices. In the quiet moments, and the vibrant chaos, choose peace. Choose harmony. Choose to be the ripple that calms the storm.
Have a blessed and productive Saturday everyone. God is good.
