Protect Your Peace

As I have aged, I now understand how important it is to protect my peace. Sometimes that means saying no to people, places or events. I would have previously said yes to these out of a sense of obligation and expectation. Trials and tribulations over the years have helped me to say no and mean it. Neglecting to protect your peace can cause harm to your body and mind, leading to irreversible mental and physical health problems.  

This often means saying no to family, friends, associates and even invitations. While I believe people can change, some do not want to, and their willingness to change is not your responsibility. You may need to distance yourself from those who. compromise your peace. If your relationships are one-sided, you may need to adjust. Constantly giving without receiving compromises your peace.

If you are around people who have no spiritual life or no connection with God, they may not understand your need to connect with God on a daily basis. Having a relationship with God helps me to keep from falling apart when things get tough. I may get down, but I don't stay there because I serve a Big God. With any relationship, you must continue to communicate consistently. Likewise, you must talk to God daily.

Some people do not set goals for themselves and just do everything haphazardly with no sense of order or direction. Oftentimes, they are not organized and live in chaos. If so, they won't see your need for goals or order and thus may compromise your peace. I believe in setting goals for myself and children need to learn to set goals as well. You should have spiritual, mental, physical, and financial goals. If your relationships are one-sided, you may need to adjust. If you are always the one giving and never receiving, chances are you are compromising your peace.

Financial peace is more important than people realize. It means knowing how much money you have and where your money is going on a daily and for some weekly or monthly basis. Many people do not live on a budget. They feel like they don't have enough money so what is the point. They may also try to keep up with the trends although they can't afford it. Making adjustments, paying off debt, and saying no to unnecessary expenditures can give you financial peace.

Moving your body on a daily basis can help you have better overall health and better mobility. It could be as simple as walking every day. If you live a sedentary lifestyle, chances are you will not have much peace. Do the type of workout or exercise that appeals to you.

What does peace look like to you? Is it reading a good book, watching a movie, or taking a hot bath with bath salts, bubbles and candles? Maybe peace is getting enough sleep, listening to music, or taking a much needed vacation. What calms and recharges you? You should know what brings you peace.

Peace,

Dr. Porchanee' A. White