Passing The Peace

We shall find peace. We shall hear the angels, we shall see the sky sparkling with diamonds. – Anton Chekhov, 1897

We have a lovely tradition at the UCC church that we have been attending for almost a year. There is a special time of fellowship toward the end of the service called “Passing The Peace”, when we shake hands or hug one another and wish them “Peace”. This simple act of communion may be trivial to some, but I consider it to be one of the most important aspects of the service.

Peace is not a relationship of nations. It is a condition of mind brought about by a serenity of soul. Peace is not merely the absence of war. It is also a state of mind. Lasting peace can come only to peaceful people. – Jawaharlal Nehru

We tend to think of peace as the opposite of war, but it really is a personal realization. We are given trials so that we might grow and understand the tribulations of others. That understanding promotes peace and acceptance, and makes us all more comfortable in life.

First keep the peace within yourself, then you can also bring peace to others. – Thomas a Kempis

I am thankful for my personal challenges in life, because I feel that they have enabled me to have a better understanding of the human condition. My uniqueness doesn’t separate me from others; it actually connects me with people, because I can empathize with their pain.

Whoever you are, wherever you are, I wish you peace like a river.