A lasting peace? -

A lasting peace? Can it ever be found? And if so, how does one achieve it?

Jonathan is a Counsellor, writer, blogger, and published author. He has made many podcast appearances and has been his local papers.

Jonathan Arenburg

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We all go through tough times, and when we are in the heat of those times, we feel its misery. In fact, I seldom hear people say, “This is the pathway to the life I have longed for.” And for good reason.

Let’s not lie to ourselves – mental pain is ugly. Yes, it’s the hard truth. However, I like to think that it has a purpose. And I don’t think falling on challenging times is designed to make us miserable – at least, not entirely.

When I look back at my journey, for example, I know that it hasn’t been an easy one. What’s more, the rough path I have carved out of this thing called life has left me in a strange place.

Like coming out in a different location than planned after a long day’s hike, my life plan has been re-directed. In fact, I often find myself wondering, “How did I end up here?”

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But after slugging through the thick and untamed wilderness that is life, my destination is far from a miserable one. I mean, I would love to not have PTSD, but as a beautiful lady I know tells me, “It’s not in your hand.” Meaning I can’t control what has happened.

What I can do however, is embrace this beautiful meadow I have walked upon – its lush green grass, dew sparkling in the morning sunlight and the calm – man, it’s heaven.

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Even though my angst melts away and my exhaustion becomes apparent, I know that life’s amazing moments won’t last forever. Moreover, my mental health won’t allow for a continuity that brings a lasting peace. It doesn’t work that way.

While I’ve accepted that I have a small window of tolerance, I know it’s up to me to make the most out of life. Therefore, I must rest, but only for a brief time and then ready myself for a climb. A climb up a mountain that I failed to notice when I first happened upon the clearing.

As I let out a sigh, I stand to my feet, and armed with the knowledge that this climb will be hell. However, I also know that what lies at the top is a change at a whole new beauty. And this time? Well, it just may be the life-long peace I’ve been looking for.