Peace.
Why did I feel this deep sense of peace as I was reading a book? Was it due to the beauty of its words? Was it because of the message? No. I think it came from simply stopping my thoughts about everything else. Not running away from them, but allowing myself some time to disengage. I felt good because I was truly present in a moment of deep curiosity and focus. No pressure. No expectations. And with that came joy for the unexpected and yet inevitable knowledge I am gaining.
My search for truth has become something beyond an escape route. Now it feels like a mission. A quest that will not only benefit me, but everyone around me. Many times this book brought me to tears. I thought it was because of its powerful writing. But now I know those tears are born from full presence. A presence that allowed me to see the beauty in this work of art.
I am beginning to understand that presence creates beauty. Presence is the origin of all things. It shapes and allows me to appreciate what is around me. It is not that time stops. It is simply that I know where I am right now, and I am okay with it. I believe that being at peace with both the past and the future finally allows me to exist in the present. And again, this presence is not an escape. It is a surrender. One born from forgiveness, compassion, and faith.