Journal for Peace

(This was written near the beginning of the Iraq war...and still holds true today. It describes the point behind writing here..)
News of the war can be unsettling regardless of one’s political views. Who, I wonder, does not have difficulty watching and hearing about our servicemen who have been killed, captured, or missing in action? The news media carries stories all through the day and night that remind us of the missing peace.
Personally, I’ve found it necessary to turn to my journal to help me rediscover some of my missing peace. And it helps…some. Many people now share the belief, as do I, that finding our own inner peace, and doing what we can to lovingly spread it around, can certainly improve the quality of our lives, and may just be able to impact the world around us in a positive way.
Quantum physicists tell us that everything is energy. With that in mind, does it not make sense that adding to the fear and anger already circulating around the world will only fuel the current struggle? Similarly, if we find ways to experience more peace within our days, do we not then send THAT energy into the world? Perhaps in our own small ways, we can add to the missing peace.
How can our focus on personal peace be harmful? I’ve learned about the power of attitude and belief from years of working with cancer patients. As these people proactively step forward in their lives, choosing to expand the quality of their lives, they impact the functioning of their immune system—which then may affect their disease process. They have taught me that we have more power to influence those things we thought impossible---than we could ever believe. People with life threatening illness know about one kind of war, and can teach us about finding peace.
Journal writing is a tool used by many to feel more grounded, more aware, more in touch with their personal power, and also of their “still small voice” within. Research about journaling also supports its benefits as an immune system enhancer. So here is my invitation to you: to join me in writing about peace. We surely can improve our own quality of life—and just may impact this incredible world we live in. You can write when you want for as much or as little as you desire. It’s just for you.
For this week, describe a moment of inner peace. Consider those times recently when you got quiet and felt calm and at ease. Perhaps you’ll have a powerful memory of peace from the past, or an image of peace you hold for the future. Journaling has no rules, so there is no need to worry about spelling or grammar or punctuation. Just write from your heart, feel the quietness surrounding you, and open yourself to the possibility of more peace. Let’s rediscover the missing peace and bring it into the world.
--Sue