Peaceful Place

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A World Torn Apart

Last week, myself along with the world watched in horror as the details unfolded about Charlie Kirk's murder. A 31 year old dedicated husband, father and Christian was gunned down in front of thousands as he simply shared his views in front of others. To add to the sadness, another school shooting took place where innocent lives were lost, again. Why? Why does this happen? I have so many questions, and no answers.

My heart was filled with extreme sorrow as these senseless acts of violence took place with hate as the key motivation. It brought to the forefront how very present evil is in in our world today. As a nation and world we are in need of peace like never before. We are desperate for it. 

Peace comes in many forms. Sadly we are in short supply in all of them at present. What are we to do?  I have thoughts. Let's unpack this together.

Choose to Forgive

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As much as we wish we could, we cannot control what is going on in the world right now. We can however control our reaction to it. This is where the true power is. We can draw our line in the sand. We can stand firm, decide to live in harmony, let go of grudges and choose to forgive those who have hurt us. It is not easy but so freeing. 

It is liberating to break free from unforgiveness and live in peace with others. It is God's plan for us and this is one of the key secrets to having true inner peace day to day.

We forgive to set ourselves free.  We can agree to disagree, and still walk away with our integrity intact. The choice is ours.

I invite you to strive to develop respect for those who are different than you reminding yourself that all people are dearly loved by God. 

Love Your Neighbour

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As Christ followers we are called in the Bible to love our neighbours - period. It doesn't say our kind and thoughtful neighbours, or neighbours we actually like, but all neighbours means all people in general. I think of the song, What the World Needs Now which speaks of "love sweet love."  We sure need more love and peace today. There is no question about it. 

Find Your Peaceful Place

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In class we talked about finding our "peaceful place" to balance our hectic lives and find solace in the day to day stress our lives can bring.

I shared my peaceful place is my backyard. I love to be silent, listen to the birds and just take the beauty of it all in. The noise of the classroom, and busy world just melts away and I feel so close to God there. Kids shared of different places they find peaceful solitude like when they are tucked in bed, while quietly reading or playing at the park.

One little girl shared how try as she might, she cannot seem to find her "peaceful place." She looked ready to cry about it. I assured her that it is out there, and worth pursuing. She will find it and I am happy to assist with her search.

She is not unlike many people today. So many feel lost like my sweet student. They seek peace but cannot seem to find it. They are looking in all the wrong places. 

​So where do we find true peace, which is more than a temporary feeling or change in scenery?

Make Peace With God

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True peace comes from having a relationship with Jesus.

I heard a lesson in Sunday School which simplifies it very well. No Jesus - No Peace or Know Jesus - Know Peace. That is it in a nutshell. Very straightforward indeed.

My friends we don't know what the future holds but we know that with Jesus by our side we can ride the waves together.  We will never be alone and that in itself brings peace. 

Call to Action

• Search your heart this week and see what you can do to invite more peace into your routine.
• Ask yourself what do I need to eliminate or add to my day to achieve this? 
• Make the effort to forgive those who have hurt you to move forward.
• Make Jesus a part of your life by growing closer in your walk with Him or asking Him to be the Lord of your life.
  
• Move from No Jesus - No Peace to Know Jesus - Know Peace every day!

Until next time my friend, I am wishing you peace in the midst of the storm.

​Dana
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Tags: peace, God's peace, forgiveness, live in peace, finding peace

Copyright: © 2025 littlelessonslearnedbydana (Dana Romualdi) ​

Author

Dana Romualdi is a Canadian elementary teacher, blogger, author, and speaker. She is dedicated to "loving God and loving people" with all her heart. With a passion for helping others and spreading much-needed encouragement, Dana makes a positive impact wherever she goes. She resides in Ontario with her husband and their two grown children.