We sat together quietly, eyes closed with our hands placed gently over our hearts. The energy in the classroom immediately began to calm and our bodies slowly settled with each breath. Alongside twenty five fourth graders, I invited us to recall a time in our lives when we’ve felt peaceful. With our attention on this memory, we imagined ourselves there as we called to mind the details of our surroundings. We listened to our hearts and identified reasons to be grateful for this place in our lives. If emotions came to visit during our practice we named them and noticed how it felt in our bodies. With a deep in breath we filled ourselves up with all of our gratitude for this peaceful place. On the out breath we sent off our kind wishes and appreciation.

As is our routine, many children shared about their experiences. Some felt peaceful walking on the beach in Maui, during a trip to Lake Tahoe, or in the quiet space where one young boy goes to gain respite from squabbling siblings. Our session came to a close and I was packing to leave when a soft-spoken young student called me aside to ask if she could tell me about her peaceful place. She described her small apartment shared with generations of family. In the single bedroom, there’s a corner where the unused blankets are stored during the day. There’s also a lamp, a bookshelf and space where no one interrupts. She nestles into the blankets, reflects on her feelings and enjoys solitude amidst a very busy household.

I’m thankful to this wise young girl for reminding us to notice our preconceived conditions for peace. May we open to the possibility that, sometimes, peace can be found right in the middle of it all…right here…right now.

xo