Solace. Peace. Serenity. Contentment. These words carry so much weight to them to my ears and mind. Solace is something that I have sought for throughout my life. At some periods, I succeeded, and in others, I didn’t succeed. I know that I am not alone in my search for solace, as I have seen that search in the eyes, actions, and dreams of those around me. While in Hawaii for two years, as I interacted with many people from different cultures and backgrounds, I saw that they too sought for solace and peace and a lasting happiness. Those words represent much more than just a feeling.
I’ve found solace in many different places. For me, as expressed in a previous post, one place has been writing. Such a freedom and gift to be able to put thoughts, feelings, and stories into words and share that with others and myself. I found solace in the feel of a soccer ball against my foot and the beauty of soccer. I’ve found solace in learning and gaining knowledge; I feel that excitement within myself as I see more about the world.
Most of all, I’ve found solace in relationships. Whether great or small, there is peace in interactions with others. Whether it is the simple interaction of a smile between someone else I’ve never met in a hallway or spending time on the beach with my family. There is much peace to found in giving a listening ear, sharing thoughts and feelings, and laughing and crying with others. Whether with friends, family, or acquaintances, solace is found in serving others and receiving their service. When have I been the happiest? When I have seen others succeed, progress, and feel joy. When have I been the saddest? When I’ve been focused on myself and not thinking of others.
The greatest relationship that has enabled me to find solace has been my relationship with deity. I don’t know your beliefs in regards to deity and things spiritual, but I know that I have found the most solace and peace as I have drawn closer to deity. I know that there is a God. That God is my Heavenly Father. He loves me and knows me. I have a Savior, Jesus Christ, who knows exactly what I face in life. The Spirit, or the Holy Ghost, is one who will never lie to me and will guide me forward. As I have worked on strengthening my relationship with them, I have found solace. As others have strengthened their relationship with deity, they too have found solace.
Solace can be elusive, and has been and different times in my life, and it was in those times that I ignored relationships. Solace can be found. And then we must fight to keep it.