Finding peace

Knowing one's self
both the good and the bad
and understanding
none of us are perfect
and allowing for and
forgiving yourself
for shortcomings.
An acceptance of things
as they are
and accepting the inability
to change another person.
No matter how badly you want to
you don't have that power.
The ability to treat each individual
as a equal and a unique person.
Not doing so denigrates
the self and God.
Letting go of being your
own worst critic.

The ability to ignore
the taunts and barbs of others.
It only shows
that which they lack
in themselves.Loving the people
in your life fully and wholly.
Without restraints or limits.
Can it be love any other way?
Accepting that some days
are going to hurt.
And some days will
be hard to find value in,
but it's there
if we can open up to it.
Finding beauty and pleasure
in the small things.
A flower unexpectedly
given or seen.
A walk on the beach
or under the trees.
The stars shining at night.
If we can't find pleasure
in the small things...
the larger ones
will also escape us.
Loving others.
It's a sure sign of peace
with ourselves.
How can we truly love someone else
if we can't find that which
is lovable in ourselves?