Peace, Gratitude and Calm

• "You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one. I hope someday you'll join us. And the world will live as one.” ― John Lennon

Musician  John Lennon was always hopeful for a world where Peace was the norm. He and his wife Yoko protested for peace in a peaceful manner. 

The world is not at peace now. So much conflict, death and anger envelopes our world.

As members of this world we can only start with ourselves. We can be grateful for what we have, and who we have in our lives. We members of planet Earth should seek out peace, gratitude and clam. 

If  you are at peace with yourself you are a step ahead of the game. You can not force peace on another person, but you can show by example what a peaceful nature looks like. Perhaps it will rub off on negative people.

We may not be happy about certain things in our world/society, but the counter to that is to find what you are grateful for. When you look to the sun the darkness falls behind.

There is always good in everyday. Focus on the good in your own life. Be grateful for family, community, home etc. Keep a gratitude book and jot down a few things each day you are grateful for. This helps me feel better. I am grateful for so many things.

If you are not in a calm place try a few of these tactics.

1) deep breathing

2) If you have an aquarium spend five minutes watching the fish swim.

3) Pets-take your dog for a walk. spend some time petting the dog or cat.

4) 5 mins of aerobic exercise-walking even around your house, but better outside.

5) Help a neighbor or friend this will make you feel pleasure and connection.

6) Meditate or yoga

Having a Calm mind will bring peace to your life and happiness will find you. 

I love this quote on happiness. I had to read it twice to get the meaning. 

"Some cause happiness wherever they go; others whenever they go.” —Oscar Wilde

What do you do to restore calmness and peace to your life in troubled times?

(All pictures taken by Diana McCollum)