Have you ever found yourself driving alone on a secluded country road late at night during the summer, with the gentle breeze rustling through corn fields and trees, and the rhythmic cadence of cicadas intensifying and then fading into the night?

Perhaps you carefully lay a thin blanket on the ground, and you and a companion recline on your backs, gazing up at the star-filled sky stretching wide above you, while the scent of freshly cut grass drifts gently across your face.

Peace.

When peace like a river attended my way
When sorrows like sea billows roll
Whatever my lot Thou hast taught me to say
Even so, it is well with my soul

-Rebecca St. James

Silence (or the sounds of nature) have always brought me peace, even as a young child. When I think of vacation, I tend to gravitate towards places that I can hike and be silent with the beauty of nature. Some of my favorite spots? Pike’s Peak in McGregor, Iowa, Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado, the Outer Banks, Raccoon River Park in West Des Moines, Iowa.

What else brings me peace?

Knowing there is a higher power having my back and putting faith in my belief brings me great peace. This sense of peace allows me to navigate through life’s challenges with a calm and steadfast heart. Furthermore, it gives me the strength to handle difficult situations and persevere when faced with adversity. Trusting in the guidance of a higher power bolsters my spirit and helps me maintain a positive outlook, even in the midst of uncertainty. Ultimately, this belief anchors me and provides solace during both joyous and challenging times.

What else brings me peace?

Nothing brings me more peace than the presence of loved ones in my life. Having a family that offers unwavering support is a true blessing. The warmth of their company, shared laughter and joy, and their comfort during challenging times create a sense of belonging and security that is truly invaluable. Whether it’s engaging in profound conversations around the dinner table or forming treasured memories during family outings, the love and support of family members enhance every aspect of our lives. Their steadfast encouragement and understanding provide a sanctuary where we can be ourselves without hesitation. The bond we share with our loved ones is a source of strength, filling our hearts with gratitude and contentment.

What else brings me peace?

Perhaps you know this already, but I have a deathly fear of heights, although ironically, I love rollercoasters, lighthouses, observation decks and the idea of skydiving. Just prior to the pandemic, my wife and I went on vacation to the Outer Banks to explore the more southerly part of the east coast.

If you don’t know it, the Outer Banks is a string of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina and southeastern Virginia, on the east coast of the United States. This narrow strip of land stretches for over 200 miles and is known for its beautiful beaches, diverse wildlife, and rich history, including the site of the Wright brothers’ first powered flight. 

The flight to Virginia went off without a hitch, we rented a Nissan Murano and headed on our way! We had a tunnel under the water to drive through which was no problem for me at all. The issue arose when we reached the bridge that took us from the mainland to the barrier islands. Although the image above doesn’t seem too high, when you’re actually driving up the incline without being able to see over the top, it could induce a panic attack.

The scary part is that you can’t simply stop, curl up into the fetal position and give up. You have to push through the anxiety, which is what I did. The radio was on in the car, and the song “Fernando” by ABBA was playing (honestly, not my favorite). To calm myself, I began to mouth the words to the song as it played.

They were closer now, Fernando
Every hour, every minute, seemed to last eternally.
I was so afraid, Fernando
We were young and full of life and none of us prepared to die.

-ABBA

How apt were those lyrics? Thankfully, I literally got over the hump and insisted my wife drive when we came back!

How does that short anecdote relate to peace? Ever since I stumbled upon pop music in my teenage years, that form of entertainment has gifted me with countless moments of pure joy, intense sadness, exhilaration, and, at crucial times… peace.

Whether it was the soul-stirring melody of John Denver’s “My Sweet Lady” serenading our wedding, the thunderous roar of AC/DC’s “Back in Black” reverberating through the speakers of my Chevy Monza during my college days, or even the bittersweet embrace of ABBA’s “Fernando” in what felt like my last moments, music has always been my unwavering companion, resonating with the deepest chords of my soul.

NOW IT’S YOUR TURN

So, these are a few sources I rely on to find inner peace: friends, family, music, and faith. What brings you personal peace each day? Feel free to share your own story with my audience by leaving a quick comment on the page.