Lens-Artists Challenge #239 – Finding Peace

ocean, chairs, flags, Kiawah — Perfect Perch

“If you are guided by courage, awareness, tranquility and peace nature will serve you.”
Amit Ray

Last week Ann-Christine challenged us to address Alone Time. Many of our responses spoke to the contentment we find when we are alone – doing things like reading, gardening, walking, etc. So this week, let’s take Ann-Christine’s challenge one step further, and address the ways we’ve learned to Find Peace in today’s ever-more busy world. In the image above the two seats are perfectly arranged for peaceful contemplation. Below, a sunset sail assures its passengers will have a peaceful evening.

sailing, sunset, water, Kiawah — Sunset Sail

“So be satisfied and quiet, be contented with your contentment.
Jeremiah Burroughs

For me, time along the ocean – sitting and watching the waves. walking along the shore, or sailing calm seas – is guaranteed to bring moments of peace. There is something about the gentle pull of the waves, or their synchronized motion, that erases the creases on my forehead and reminds me that despite any perceived problems, for the most part all is right with the world.

“Learn to sit back and observe, not everything requires a reaction.”

Inner Peace Zone

Although the sea brings its own sense of peace, for me pretty much any water view will do. The image above features our quiet spot along the edge of one of Kiawah’s ponds. As long as no alligators are close by, it too fosters a sense of inner peace.

Foggy Day on Kiawah

“Peace is not the absence of the commotion outside, it is the presence of serenity inside.”
Bangambiki Habyarimana,

Somehow I’ve found that weather can be a profound influence on my sense of inner peace. A thick layer of fog, as above one morning on Kiawah, or as below during a fast-moving NYC rainstorm can be just the thing to quiet an active mind.

Afternoon Light and Rain, New York City

“World peace begins in each home.”
Mashona Dhliwayo

I have a very strong memory of the amazing NYC moment shown above. The sun was shining brightly in the late afternoon as the rain poured and the winds blew. It was something I’d never seen before and brought the city to a near standstill. The image is straight out of camera, showing the incredible light that late afternoon, which lasted only a few brief moments before it was gone.

egrets, water, flowers — Three Little Birds

“Whenever possible, choose peace.”
Donna Goddard

I’ve often posted about the many places on Kiawah where nature surrounds us, and where I find my most peaceful moments. The image above, however, proves that quiet and peace can be found anywhere. The scene was captured as we traveled to NJ for a family celebration. Only 20 minutes from the chaos of Atlantic City we came upon an area filled with hundreds of beautiful birds enjoying the sunlight as they fished in the tidal creeks.

Thanks to Ann-Christine for her Alone Time challenge last week which led me to today’s subject. This week we hope you’ll share the ways you find peace in your corner of the world. Be sure to link to my post and to use the Lens-Artists Tag to help us find you. Finally, we hope you’ll also join us next week when John will once again lead us on his Journeys with Johnbo post. In the meanwhile, as always please stay safe, be kind and enjoy the journey.

Interested in joining the Lens-Artists challenge? Click here for more information.