Discover how true peace isn't about changing your circumstances but finding it in the present moment. The discussion highlights the difference between abstract struggles, like divorce or illness, and the reality of our experiences. By tuning into the here and now, you can uncover a sense of calm that often gets overshadowed. A new mentoring program is also introduced, aimed at providing personal guidance for those looking to support others in their journey toward peace.
True peace is found in engaging fully with the present moment, rather than seeking it through external circumstances or abstractions.
Recognizing the difference between the reality of lived experiences and labeling them helps uncover a deeper sense of peace within ourselves.
Deep dives
The Illusion of Adding for Peace
Many people believe that peace is achieved through adding or acquiring more—be it love, security, or better circumstances. This mindset is often reinforced by societal norms that suggest if peace is lacking, something essential must be missing. However, experiences show that continually trying to add more often leads to frustration and exhaustion, revealing that this approach is unsustainable. Recognizing this pattern can lead to a pivotal moment of acceptance where one can begin to seek peace elsewhere, beyond the confines of external circumstances and material desires.
Understanding Abstractions vs. Reality
Peace cannot be found in abstractions or broad labels that describe difficult situations, such as having a cancer diagnosis or going through a divorce. These labels and concepts are often abstractions that dilute the lived experience, making it challenging to find solace in the present moment. When one focuses too heavily on these abstractions, they miss the richness of immediate experiences that can provide genuine peace. By shifting attention back to the here and now, one can uncover the fluid, dynamic aspects of life that exist beyond painful labels.
Finding Peace in the Present Moment
True peace resides in the immediacy of experience rather than in thoughts or concepts about our circumstances. Engaging fully with the present—through sensations, sights, and sounds—allows for a deeper connection to life as it unfolds. Practices such as breathing and mindfulness encourage a return to this immediacy, offering an opportunity to find calm amidst chaos. Embracing the moment can reveal that despite external struggles, a sense of peace is always accessible when we choose to focus on the reality of the now.
It’s actually here, in this, now. How can that be when what’s here now is difficult and unwanted?
I’ll talk about the difference between an abstraction (e.g., I’m going through a divorce, my country is at war, I have cancer) – there’s no peace to be squeezed out of an abstraction…
And noticing the reality in the middle of everything. There is relative peace here, now. We just need to look to reality rather than abstractions.
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Beginning in March, I’ll be leading a small group mentoring program based around my Change Coach Self-Study course.
The mentoring group is perfect for people who want some personal guidance and feedback as they learn to support others in this powerful way. You will have the real-time, personal aspects of a live training experience in a time- and cost effective format.
You can see the full details here: https://dramyjohnson.com/coachmentoring/