Cultivate peace – do not chase it

By: BK Usha
Source: The Daily Guardian https://epaper.thedailyguardian.com/2026/05/08/e-paper-today-delhi-09-may-2026/
Dated: May 9th, 2026
The human soul longs for peace. This longing is not something acquired from the outside world. It arises from within, as peace is the original nature of the soul. The soul is inherently peaceful, pure, and content. When we are aligned with this original state, we experience a natural sense of ease, clarity, and quiet joy.
However, this inner equilibrium is often disturbed in the fast pace of modern life. External pressures, constant stimulation, and emotional reactions pull the mind outward, creating restlessness and unease. Even though temporary pleasures may provide brief moments of excitement, they do not satisfy the deeper need of the soul. Instead, when peace is disrupted, we find ourselves unable to concentrate, think clearly, or respond with stability. Stress, irritation, and dissatisfaction begin to arise, not because these are natural states, but because we have moved away from our true nature.
This explains why we instinctively seek refuge in nature. The calmness of forests, the rhythm of ocean waves, and the stillness of mountains resonate with the soul’s own quiet essence. In such surroundings, our mind slows down, and we momentarily reconnect with inner peace. But, must we withdraw from daily life to experience this peace? Or is it possible to remain peaceful even amidst the demands of modern life?
Peace can be cultivated from within, and it is not dependent on our external circumstances. The best way to experience peace is to practise meditation. Meditation is not about escaping reality, but about returning to the self — the inner being that is naturally peaceful. In meditation, we gently withdraw our attention from external distractions and turn inward. We begin to remember who we truly are: a soul, a being of peace. By consciously creating thoughts of peace, we gradually stabilise the mind. Over time, the inner awareness that I am a being of peace becomes stronger than external influences.
Regular practice transforms our responses to life. Situations may remain the same, but our experience of them changes. Instead of reacting with stress or agitation, we respond with calmness and clarity. Peace becomes our foundation rather than a fleeting experience.
Moreover, when we are established in peace, we naturally become instruments of peace for others. Our presence, words, and actions begin to reflect stability and harmony, positively influencing our surroundings. In this way, meditation is not only a personal practice but also a service to the world.
In essence, peace is not something we need to search for outside — it is already within us. By reconnecting with our original nature through meditation, we can experience lasting peace even in the midst of a busy, modern life. With consistent practice, we do not merely visit peace occasionally; we begin to live in it, embody it, and share it with the world.

BK Usha is a Rajyoga teacher at the
Brahma Kumaris headquarters in Abu Road, Rajasthan.



