There is a story of a great man who called for paintings portraying tranquil peace. A high price was offered to the artist who revealed serene peace in their art.

Many paintings were looked through by the esteemed man who called for the peace-filled art. Finally he chose the painting depicting superb peace. However when onlookers observed the painted picture, they could hardly see peace apart from the stormy water, surrounded by jagged mountains and overhanging dark threatening clouds. The picture looked opposing to serenity.

When questioned why he chose the particular piece, the man replied: The prized peace we each seek is not necessarily found in the perfect surroundings. The valued peace we search for can be found in the center of turmoil and strife. It may be found in the most obscure surroundings, situations and people.  

The man went on — look deep into the painted scene. There is a forsaken tree growing out of the side of the mountain wall alongside the body of water. See deeply into the frail hardwood. Find baby birds nestled in a nest created to house the offspring’s in enveloping calm. Here in the middle of disturbance and discomfort, we have peace.

Great peace is abiding within us at our core: A peace uncovered when we instinctively travel beyond the turmoil and distractions. Then we find the nest of sustaining peace inherent in us,  coloring our environment, circumstances and state-of-being in peacefulness.