Secrets of Inner Peace from Sri Chinmoy

"No price is too great to pay for inner peace."

-- Sri Chinmoy

SECRETS OF INNER PEACE
Consciously or unconsciously, we are all searching for inner peace. Inner peace is the foundation of lasting happiness and satisfaction. Without inner peace, humans can not know him/herself or be at peace with the world.

1. Inner Peace is a Choice
It is our own thoughts that will either bring us peace or restlessness. If our mind is clear of useless, undivine thoughts we can experience inner peace in abundance. If we maintain equanimity and detachment to events of the world, inner peace will remain a permanent feature of our mind.

2. Inner Peace is to be experienced Here and Now
It is a mistake to feel inner peace will be achieved in the future, when circumstances are more favorable. Inner peace can only be felt in the present moment. If we live only for the present moment we can learn to understand the immediacy of inner peace.

3. Inner Peace and Oneness are inseparable
If we live in the critical mind and are constantly judging others, we will never experience real inner peace. When we are flooded with inner peace, we feel others are an extended part of our reality.

4. Inner Peace is in the Heart, not the mind
To find inner peace in the mind is difficult. The nature of the mind is to think, analyze and create problems. The nature of the heart is oneness, love and joy. If we can bring to the fore the qualities of the heart, we will find peace. It is also in the heart that our Soul resides. The Soul is the divine part of our being and is inundated with peace.

5. Inner Peace is Dynamic, not passive
Inner peace energizes us. When we have a connection with inner peace, we spontaneously have a positive outlook on life. Inner peace is not a passive quality; it embodies great energy.

6. Inner Peace and Meditation
If we feel inner peace remains a far cry, we should not despair. If we sincerely pray and meditate for inner peace, we can achieve it. Our sincere aspiration for inner peace is the most powerful tool for making it a living reality. We cannot expect to be flooded with inner peace if we make no effort to attain it.

7. Peace does not require an escape from the world.
Inner peace does not require us to live in a Himalayan cave; inner peace can be experienced in the hustle and bustle of the world. What is important is the state of our mind, not the outer circumstances.