January 11

Archibald Campbell, in his journal

. . .

Through mediation I seek inner peace. I heartily agree with Father Dominique Georges Pire, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, when he says: "I still think that to be a peacemaker, that is to say a man of peace, one must first be at peace with oneself. One must first achieve inner peace. This involves getting to know oneself and learning to control one's impulses. Only then can a peaceful being approach the immense task of creating harmony between groups and between individuals."
      - View From The U.N., The Memoirs of U Thant

I think back over my life, and the half dozen people I’ve known who seem to possess a deep peace and serenity. I’ve been thinking today about their common characteristics. It doesn’t just happen. There is careful thought involved. Sacrifices and trade-offs are required.

First would be self-control. They think before acting or speaking. They have their impulses under control. I need to work on that one.

Next kindness. They seek to serve others if they can, with balance and harmony at the center of that service.

And they have a clear sense or definition of what beauty and mystery means to them, and they build their life around that vision. It determines where they live and what they do in the important facets of their life.

Finally, a comfort with silence, with solitude. They don’t need constant stimulation. They find comfort retreating into their own mind, their imagination. They enjoy their own company.