Recently, I read about Peace Pilgrim, a remarkable woman who devoted her life to spreading a message of peace and love and personal transformation.
“From 1953 until 1981, a silver-haired woman calling herself only “Peace Pilgrim” walked more than 25,000 miles on a personal pilgrimage for peace. Wearing a blue tunic and carrying just a few worldly possessions in her pockets, she shared her simple but profound message in thousands of communities throughout the U.S.: “When enough of us find inner peace, our institutions will become peaceful and there will be no more occasion for war.” ~Peace Pilgrim
Peace Pilgrim described the characteristics of peace, love and personal transformation in a short list:
- A tendency to think and act spontaneously rather than on fears based on past experiences.
- An unmistakable ability to enjoy each moment.
- A loss of interest in judging people.
- A loss of interest in conflict.
- A loss of the ability to worry.
- Frequent, overwhelming episodes of appreciation.
- Contented feelings of connectedness with others and nature.
- Frequent attacks of smiling.
- Increased susceptibility to the love extended by others as well as the uncontrollable urge to extend it.
When I read this list, I realized just how much inner peace I now have – ten years after my youngest son died. It took a long time and is greatly due to experiencing his death, feeling the depths of sorrow, and finally acknowledging my own faith and hope.
I wish inner peace for all of you.
Cyndi
