Serenity is not freedom from the storm, but peace amid the storm.
I remember as a young girl coming to understand the feeling of serenity. It happened while I was sitting by the dock of the bay (thank you Otis) watching the sunset, after a full day of frolicking in the hot sun. It was a magical feeling that came upon me unexpectedly as I watched in awe the magnificent colors of the sky intermingle over the horizon line. It was as if I was seeing the sun disappear for the very first time. A feeling of tranquility came over me that is often difficult to acquire in the hurriedness of life’s demands.
As life went on, and troubles came and went, I believed that serenity was something that could only be achieved when by the water, at sunset. When troubled, I would try to imagine that day so long ago when I sat on the dock in reverence of the sun disappearing over the western horizon. I would long for the serenity found in times when I had the opportunity to wander along beaches. I would imagine the peace I felt when riding in my father’s boat, the wind against my face.
Recently, I have realized that I don’t have to be by water at sunset to find serenity. It is right here in my own back yard. However, I have to take the time to look for it. It cannot be found in busyness. It requires turning things off like the television, computer, and cell phone. It demands finding a quiet place to either sit and relax, or maybe take a quiet stroll. It means listening to nothing but my own thoughts, and maybe the birds chirping or the squirrels chattering. It calls for peacefully watching as the sun filters down and sheds it’s light over trees, plants, and flowers.
I have found my serenity in slowing down and taking in nature’s beauty that is all around me. I have found a passion in trying to capture how the sun falls on the flowers leaving darks and lights, shadows and highlights. I look forward to the day when I can visit the bay and amaze at the way the light from the sun dances on the water. But for now, I will content myself with enjoying my serenity in my own back yard.
Have you found your serenity?
To Create Sunshine 