Keeping Peace in the midst of Turmoil
“It isn’t enough to talk about peace. One must believe in it. And it isn’t enough to believe in it. One must work at it.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt
Peace is defined as freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions.
It seems as if America is in such a state of turmoil none like I have ever seen in my lifetime. I was born in 1970, so I did not live through the turbulent 60s. I am aware of the many instances of turmoil and struggle during that time period As an African American woman I do believe I have benefited greatly from the struggles of my predecessors. I do believe struggle and turmoil are often necessary to achieve the greater good. Much like the caterpillar as it struggles in its chrysalis to emerge as a beautiful butterfly we as human beings often struggle to recognize the true beauty inside. There is a difference however between viewing turmoil through the lens of historical context, and experiencing turmoil personally. How does one maintain peace in the midst of turmoil? Maybe you are not experiencing turmoil because of what is going on in our nation. Maybe you are having difficulty resolving interpersonal or personal conflicts. How do you find peace in the midst of personal turmoil? My hope is to share with you these key elements I have implemented in my life to maintain peace.
- Speak life– The words we speak and the words we listen to often shape our perspective. We may not be able to control what happens in our world but we can control what we say about it. Instead of using negative words to describe your situation attempt to change those words into a more optimistic perspective. Hopeless can change to hope for the future.
- Now what– Now what create the idea of moving beyond the current situation. I consider it the bridge to optimism. It is fine to acknowledge what causes us distress. Once we acknowledge it we then must say now what. For example, I am not happy with my current situation, now what, I will make a plan and be active in changing my situation.
- Do what you love– Do you love to watch movies? Do you love to read? Do you love to exercise? Are you like me and love to be pampered with a nice manicure? Taking the time to do what you love can help you find peace in the midst of turmoil. Doing what you love serves as a gentle reminder of joys of life.
- Take a moment– Take a moment to rest. Take a moment to meditate. Take a moment to pray. Taking a moment allows you to slow down and recharge for the challenges ahead. You will find that taking a moment will rejuvenate your body and mind. During times of turmoil we are physiologically in a state of stress. If we don’t take a moment to recharge we may find an increase in physical challenges such as high blood pressure as well as heightened levels of anxiety and depression.
We can achieve peace in the midst of turmoil. As Eleanor Roosevelt stated we must believe it and we must work at it.
Author Alicia Lurry