Ride on the Peace Train
Today, September 21st is International Day of Peace. This day reminds us that peace is not just the absence of conflict but the presence of compassion, understanding, and balance. One of my favorite sayings is, “Peace is created from within.” Lasting harmony cannot be forced from the outside; it begins in our own minds and hearts. When we cultivate inner calm, we ripple that serenity outward - into our relationships, communities, and even the wider world.
Many voices throughout history have underscored this truth.
The Dalai Lama reminds us that “Peace does not mean an absence of conflicts; differences will always be there. Peace means solving these differences through peaceful means.”
Mahatma Gandhi’s words echo similarly: “Each one has to find his peace from within. And peace to be real must be unaffected by outside circumstances.”
These quotes remind us that peace is not something distant or abstract - it is a daily practice of choosing patience over frustration, kindness over criticism, and understanding over judgment.
Like my #1 Life Lesson, “We cannot want more for someone than they want for themselves” … peace can’t be forced on others. We cannot “make” peace for the world around us, no matter how much we wish it. What we can do is keep peace within ourselves - protecting it, nurturing it, and allowing it to flow into our words and actions. When we show up with calm and compassion, we create the conditions where others can choose peace for themselves.
One of my favorite reminders is this: “If it costs you your peace, it’s too expensive.” In today’s world, that wisdom feels more relevant than ever. We often overcommit, chase goals at the expense of well-being, or remain in situations that drain us. Choosing peace sometimes means setting boundaries, saying no with grace, or walking away from what doesn’t align with our values. These choices are not selfish, instead they create the conditions where we can show up more fully for others.
As a kid, we had to listen to the “oldies” station on road trips with the family. Many of the songs had peace as the theme. One of my favorites is Cat Stevens’ “Peace Train.” The song invites people from all walks of life to “get on board” with hope, harmony, and unity. More than just an entertaining song, it became a symbol of optimism during a time of division, reminding us that peace is a journey we can all choose to join.
Sadly, we find ourselves once again living in a time of great division. That’s what makes the message of “Peace Train” feel so timeless. Just as that song calls people together with its gentle power, we too can take everyday steps toward peace - pausing for mindful breathing, practicing gratitude, listening deeply to others and resolving disagreements with empathy and kindness.
On this International Day of Peace, may we be reminded that peace is not only a global aspiration but a personal practice - one that starts within us and radiates outward into the world.
