Do not let the behavior of others destroy your inner peace.
Dalai Lama
I have used this photo of the Eisenhower Chapel many times in my posts. The chapel is about a block from where we live. It is located on what was the Lowry Army Air Base and it is part of the National Register of Historic Places. President Eisenhower and the First Lady worshiped there when they were visiting Denver.
The chapel is special to me for a different reason. It reminds me of the little clapboard church I grew up attending. It, too, was a block from where I lived. I have walked the aisles of Notre Dame in Paris. I have climbed the 268 stairs to visit the Big Buddha on Lantau Island, Hong Kong. None of these means as much as that small church. I was reminded of this as I viewed the State Funeral for President Carter at the Washington National Cathedral.
Just the fact that I was watching television, this morning, is unusual. Generally, I get up and make coffee before my husband goes to work. I listen to the news for a short time. Then, I get on with my day. This morning I happened to see President Carter’s funeral was on and I got caught up in it. I believe, on occasion, God puts us where we need to be.
Many moments moved me during the service. I have still not resolved the anger and disillusionment from the past election. Seeing current and past presidents sitting together in the first two rows of the cathedral, I thought, “Okay. This isn’t great, but maybe we can get through it.” Hearing the Navy Hymn reminded me of my, now deceased, husband. He was career navy. While stationed in San Diego, I remember that hymn being part of many Sunday services. It was comforting. Some spoke of President Carter’s integrity. Not something we hear mentioned that much in today’s politics, But, it is consoling to know it still exists. Hearing the scripture readings made me cry for those now gone. Something I don’t do enough.
At the end, I remember the often said phrase, “Peace be with you.” as an integral part of the church liturgy. What a precious wish for another human being. If only we all find peace. What else do we really need?
Aging with Grace 
6 responses to “Peace be With You”
I haven’t had a chance to watch a ton of the funeral, but I’ve had similar feelings to what you described. Yes, maybe we (or I) can get through this. And yes, may we all find peace. Yes, yes, what else do we really need. Great message, thanks for sharing!!!!
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Time has been getting away from me, lately. But, I wanted to take a moment to tell you how much I value your comments. Yes, It is my hope that we can get through this and find peace. ⭐️
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Oh, you fib AgingwithGrace! But thank you anyway for your kind comment. Ha, ha, I consider myself horrible about commenting on other posts. I’m really bad about it. I usually feel guilty because others take time out of their schedules to read my posts and I can be a slacker. I try not to be especially since there’s so much good stuff out there. Ha, ha. And yes, I’m with you: trying to let the strange news of the day float off my back and instead looking for peace!!! Some days I’m successful, some days not. Ugh.
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I admit to being a procrastinator in many areas of my life. I hope that won’t stop you from commenting.It doesn’t take away from the fact that I value what you right.
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Peace is in us, but the world is noisy and tends to cover it up. The best way I’ve found to tap into it is in stillness. Do you still practice meditation, lovely? My childhood church was within walking distance as well. 💖
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Sorry this was taken me awhile. Yes, I still meditate. Not as much as I would like, however. Life has been getting in the way. ❤️
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