I’ve been hearing so many negative stories on the news lately that it is beginning to bum me out. From the civil unrest going on in Egypt right now to the recent news stories of the savage slaughter of sled dogs because tourism slowed down in BC after the Olympics, my mind and heart are becoming a bit overwhelmed. Thus, I turn to spirit to give me strength, peace and grace.

Curious about how others define peace and grace, and being ever so practical, I looked the words up in the dictionary. Here’s one of the definitions that resonated with me for peace: “freedom of the mind from annoyance, distraction, anxiety, an obsession, etc.; tranquillity; serenity.” This really resounded with me, for only when we are free, can we truly feel at peace. There were also many definitions for the word grace, but this is the one that struck me as the most true: “the influence or spirit of God operating in humans to regenerate or strengthen them.” At this time, I pray that we can all be blessed with both peace and grace.

But when the world is in such turmoil, how can we still achieve these feelings of peace and grace? To ignore what is happening and stick our heads in the sand is not the answer, but to revolt against all that causes us pain and suffering seems just as futile to me; for when would the fighting finally cease if we were to take up arms in response to all our personal injustices, along with all the injustices in the world? While I am not entirely a pacifist, I find the best answer for me right now is to find peace and grace within myself, and encourage others to do so as well. I wholeheartedly believe that if we all stop to pause, reflect, and go within to find a sense of peace and grace, then this will begin to spread throughout the world like wildfire. Could peace and love not be just as contagious as the negative things that are strewn across the Earth? I do hope so.

And so, my dear bothers and sisters, I ask you to join me in taking a few moments to pause, reflect, meditate, and radiate peace and grace upon the earth. Let us harness this power to allow our energies to unite and be cast out into the world like a plague of goodwill and love.

May peace be with you, and with us all.