"I do not want the peace which passeth understanding, I want the understanding which bringeth peace. If you do not find peace in yourself, you will never find it anywhere else."
By definition, inner peace is a state of rest, well-founded peace is unshakable by external circumstances.We may look for peace by trying to make our surroundings more pleasant, it takes work and discovery to develop that level of peace.
But if we are in a peaceful room or moment, it's likely we are not experiencing internal peace so much as contentment with what's around you.
The unknown always seems a little scary - anxiety, frustration and fear often stem from lacking a full understanding of a situation or relationship.
The discontent can also come from our own unhealed hurts.
The hall mark of peace is its existence in the middle of a frustrating or frighting situation.
Whether we seek to better understanding other people and situations or to learn more about our own personal needs or healing processes, the natural by-product of increased understanding is greater peace.
Once we've experienced that real peace, we are able to enter into that state a little more easily the next time a tricky challenge arises. We are able to appreciate the contented moments even more, too!
I recognize there are areas in my life that lack peace. I will look for ways to increase my understanding so the unknown no longer seems so intimidating.