Peace My Soul

AMAZING PEACE  by Maya Angelou

In our joy, we think we hear a whisper.
At first it is too soft.   Then only half heard.
We listen carefully as it gathers strength.
We hear a sweetness.
The word is Peace.
It is loud now.
Louder than the explosion of bombs.

We tremble at the sound.
We are thrilled by its presence.
It is what we have hungered for.
Not just the absence of war.   But true Peace.
A harmony of spirit, and comfort of courtesies.
Security for our beloveds and their beloveds.

We, Angels and Mortals, Believers and Nonbelievers,
Look heavenward and speak the word aloud.
Peace.  We look at each other, then into ourselves,
And we say without shyness or apology or hesitation:

Peace, My Brother.
Peace, My Sister.
Peace, My Soul.


I am not really one for poetry, but I love this one by Maya Angelou.  We all crave peace, in our hearts, in our families, in our lives, in the world. We recognize it instantly when we feel and we want so badly to hold on to it, but can't.  But each time we offer love, a hand, a kind word, compassion or understanding we invite it in again. 

As Christmas inches closer and closer, I always feel at peace more often, even among the chaos of office Christmas party drama, holiday shopping and family celebrations.  I hope you do too this holiday season, no matter your faith or circumstance. Embrace it when you feel it and don't let go, and if you feel it slipping away, invite it in again. and again. and again.


Peace, My Brother
Peace, My Sister
Peace, My Soul