Peace begins within

As we embark on celebrating the “International Week of Peace”, let us pause to reflect on where peace truly resides. At the deepest level, there is only one religion that unites all of humanity: the religion of peace. Unlike religions created by human traditions, peace is the natural law of the universe.

It is the innermost desire of every being, the ultimate fulfilment in life. Yet, while it is so close to us, we often look for it outside, forgetting that both peace and turmoil rise from within. The real war is not out there – it begins in our own minds and hearts.

FROM PIECES TO PEACE

Over time, we have fragmented ourselves into many parts. With each role we play or expectation we meet, we put on a new mask. These countless faces confuse us and create inner conflict. The truth is, our real struggle is not with the world but with our own thoughts, emotions, and desires. When we fight within, we lose clarity and strength, but the moment we stop the war, peace naturally surfaces, bringing lightness and stability.

ACCEPTANCE – THE DOORWAY TO PEACE

One of the greatest barriers to peace is our inability to accept ourselves fully. We criticise our flaws, condemn our past mistakes, and feel smaller because of our weaknesses. Yet, acceptance is not resignation. It is the beginning of transformation. Fighting yourself is like making your left hand wrestle your right. No matter who wins, you lose. Desires and comparisons add further restlessness, making us prisoners of our own expectations. True freedom begins when we forgive ourselves, embrace our wounds, and walk gently with our unique journey. Acceptance turns mistakes into teachers and weaknesses into stepping stones.

BECOMING WHOLE AGAIN

A child is naturally peaceful because he does not fight with his own experiences. We, however, often live in a courtroom of the mind, endlessly debating what is right and wrong. This keeps us disconnected from the present moment, where peace already exists. To restore harmony, we must bring all our broken pieces together and stand as whole individuals. When inner conflict ends, creativity flows, relationships soften, and love deepens. By being our own friend instead of our harshest critic, we discover boundless energy and connect more deeply with life and the divine.

PEACE IS HERE AND NOW

Peace is not a distant dream. It is a choice in this very moment. The more we accept ourselves, the more easily we accept others and life’s uncertainties. Ending the war within is the greatest gift we can offer to the world. When the sun of peace rises within, it shines outward, outlining that peace in you is peace in the universe.

Courtesy: Rajyoga Meditation Centre, Kingston (meditation courses and counselling are offered free of charge). Get in touch via email: bkmeditation.jam@gmail.com or WhatsApp: 876-853-7848. Follow them on Instagram: rajyoga_meditation_jamaica.