Serenity and Inner Peace

There is a lot of talk about Serenity and Inner Peace in 12 step fellowships.  We say the Serenity Prayer and it seems that inner peace is the goal of many who are on a journey of healing.  I figure if that is my goal then I would like to explore exactly what I’m working so hard to achieve.  There are many definitions and my guess is that Inner Peace would be a bit different for everyone.  This is my top 10 Signs of Inner Peace, it’s just a list and I know I can never have full serenity in my life but here are some ideas I desire:

1. I will be physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually at peace, regardless of pain, turmoil, etc.
2. Having balance and peace in my life; including my thoughts, family life, etc.
3. Being able to mindfully respond to situations, using wisdom to ensure it’s the right course of action
4. My actions will come from a place of love, courage, and understanding
5. I will not feel the need to control,  judge or act on any other character defect
6. I have a deeper connection with my Higher Power, myself, nature, the world…
7. I have the ability to be both strong and calm in the face of a crisis or adversity
8. I have an abundance of gratitude, appreciation, and enjoyment,
9. I make decisions based on facts, feelings, etc, not based on fear.
10. I will live mindfully in the moment

I know there are a lot more ideals that I strive for in my life, this is a start.  I also know that I will never attain nor hold onto all of these at the same time.  As I've said it is the aspiration and exploring it is a great way to create an action plan.  I believe that I am on this journey and what I've been through in life has shaped who I am. The ugly incidences which have happened to me used to be what I would dwell on.   That was not a life, filled with self-loathing, resentment, fear…I have been working toward a more serene life for over seven years, so I’m a baby at this. 

In 2009 something happened to me leaving me with debilitating pain.  It has been something that has turned my world on its side.  I was on a 12 step journey when this happened and I wanted to maintain a positive outlook on life despite the circumstances.  This was the point where I really had to take stock and evaluate my priorities.  I had come to a crossroads once again and had a decision to make: find the courage to live or give up and die.  As you can tell I’ve found the courage to live with the pain which I will have indefinitely.  But not only live with pain but enjoy my life, my husband, my children, family, friends and have an abundant life.  That was a choice and some days I need a little more courage than others.  So the above goals toward Inner Peace are something I know I can strive for and write about in the hope of sending love and peace into this world.  Bonnie J