PEACE: Serenity and a Community of Love

Matterofprayer: A Year of Everyday Prayers – Monday, April 18, 2016

PEACE: Serenity and a Community of Love

Some days ago, I went to St. Viator’s High School in Arlington Heights. Principal Fr. Corey Brost gave me the opportunity to hang out in the lunch room and talk briefly with anyone who came up to the table I had set up on one side of the large room.

This was a wonderful chance to talk with young people and get their viewpoints on PEACE.

The first definition of the day comes from Angela. Her personal definition: “PEACE is serenity. <3”

When I asked her for a further description of her definition, she said, “Serenity is your own peace of mind. Peace with serenity is being okay with who you are.”

Wow, Angela! You hit the nail on the head. Exactly what so many people are looking for. If you or I (or anyone else, for that matter) strives for peace and serenity, you have a fantastic definition of peace with serenity (being okay with who you are!).

The second definition is from Mary. Her personal definition: “Peace is a community of LOVE.”

Mary said her definition actually had two parts. The first part? “We are all part of a community and this is the community part of the definition. That means accepting others as they are. The second half is personal, about peaceful people in my life. And, being able to accept others in relation to myself.”

Serenity and community of love? Yes, please.

Dear God, encourage each of us to seek out serenity, as well as a loving community. Please, God. (God willing.)

@chaplaineliza

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Why not visit my sister blogs, “the best of” A Year of Being Kind.   @chaplaineliza  And, read my sermons from Pastor, Preacher Pray-er

PEACE is Hugs and Happiness

Matterofprayer: A Year of Everyday Prayers – Sunday, April17, 2016

PEACE is Hugs and Happiness

Today, I return again to St. Viator’s High School in Arlington Heights, for their third lunch period. Principal Fr. Corey Brost gave me the opportunity to hang out in the lunch room and talk briefly with anyone who came up to the table I had set up on one side of the large room.

I’ll be featuring two personal definitions of PEACE per day. This was a wonderful chance to talk with young people and get their viewpoints on PEACE.

The first definition of the day comes from a staff member at the high school. I thought her definition was so sweet, and so special!

Ann Perez’s personal definition: “PEACE is a hug from my 4 year old daughter.”

Of course, I asked Ann for more information! She responded, “Her name is Sarah. She’s four, so she does silly things sometimes.” We talked about preschoolers for a few moments, and then she added, “I love hugs from anyone!”

Roxanne’s personal definition: “PEACE is when everyone is HAPPY J “

As I spoke further with Roxanne, she got into some more serious matters. When I asked her for more information, she said, “I think on no drama, no crying, no unhappiness. That is my personal meaning.”

On the surface, Roxanne’s definition seems sunny and happy. However, dig just a little deeper, and she hits something serious, that resonates with most people.

Both are superb definitions, although different from each other.

Dear God, send us many hugs today. Offer each one Your peace, amid life’s uncertainty. In Your mercy, hear all of our prayers today.
@chaplaineliza

Like what you read? Disagree? Share your thoughts with your loved ones and continue the conversation.

Why not visit my sister blogs, “the best of” A Year of Being Kind.   @chaplaineliza  And, read my sermons from Pastor, Preacher Pray-er

 

PEACE, Upon Reflection

Matterofprayer: A Year of Everyday Prayers – Monday, April 4, 2016

PEACE, Upon Reflection

Another day, anothter definition. I gathered personal definitions of PEACE from the young people at St. Viator’s High School in Arlington Heights, I am grateful I had the opportunity to engage with anyone who came up to the table I had set up on one side of the large lunchroom.

Two more personal definitions of PEACE today; a great chance to talk with young people and get their viewpoints on PEACE.

Kathryn’s personal definition: “PEACE is complete understanding and relaxation with God and creation.”  

I asked her to explain a bit more about those interesting images. She said, “Peace is relaxing, without worrying. It’s when we fully understand God, His creation, and God’s purpose for everything.”

Upon reflection, that is a particularly tall order. However, striving to understand God is something I’ve tried to do for years and years. I commend Kathryn for her commitment to that striving.

Anna’s personal definition: “PEACE is kindness in every way, shape and form!”

I wanted to know more about this. Anna said, “I think it’s important to show kindness in words and actions. Also, it goes along with having a peaceful mindset.”

Since the subject of being kind is near and dear to my heart,  exactly what I thought.  Excellent interpretation of the word PEACE.

I am amazed at how much excitement I have been able to see, regarding the word PEACE. Way to go, all of you young people!

God, grant me the willingness to calm my own heart so I can listen to the still, small voice of God.

@chaplaineliza

Like what you read? Disagree? Share your thoughts with your loved ones and continue the conversation.

Why not visit my sister blogs, “the best of” A Year of Being Kind.   @chaplaineliza  And, read my sermons from Pastor, Preacher Pray-er