Catholic Singles

PEACE
BY: MARK ANTHONY ROSOLOWSKI


"Let us offer each other the sign of peace", we do it at every mass but what does it mean to you?

Peace is defined as freedom from war, or the time when a war or conflict ends. That could be the definition that God meant, but do we have the power to end war or a conflict? Yes we do a conflict between you and a neighbor, a conflict between two family members, can be ended by a simple handshake and the words, "I'm sorry."

Peace is further said to be a time of tranquility, a calm and quiet state, free from disturbances or noise. The best time of mass is the time when there is a quiet time; a moment when you can just sit and contemplate what was said during the mass. Wishing someone, freedom from the pains and stress that life bring. Is there anything better you can wish for your neighbor, to have a tranquil time.

Peace is also seen as a mental calm which is a state of mental calm and serenity, with no anxiety. Wouldn’t a few minutes of no worries, no anxiety, and no stress be nice? To wish your neighbor to have that time of quietness, that time just to be able to reflect without the worries and stresses of everyday life. What a wonderful gift to give another person the wish for them to have a life without stress.

Next time you offer the sign of peace to someone at a mass, do not just hug, or kiss your family member, take a look around you, see the person who is alone, shake their hand and offer them a kind word. Look at your neighbor who you had an argument with years ago and are still not talking to, walk to them and offer them your hand, they probably want to make up as much as you do and rekindle an old friendship. Look at yourself, and grant yourself peace, let your worries and stresses be lifted from you and let God help, it is amazing how light our crosses become when we allow God to assist us.

Finally do not stop this at the churches door, take it out into the world with you, say hello to people you pass on the street, a quick chat with the clerk at the bagel shop, open the door for the person behind you, simple acts of kindness, will bring a calmness to the hurried lives of people.

But, above all else give yourself peace, stop rushing, stop worrying, don’t get angry while driving, grant yourself peace.

Let peace be with you.