Serenity in Sedona

As individuals, we do the daily grind, struggling with the economy, often attempting to gain enough money to seek out a vacation and unwind.

When we experience life trauma,external stresses are difficult to undo. We still must go to work, function, take care of family, and deal with whatever trauma or stress has occurred.

It is easier when we are away. At least for most. If we could only take our memories of our trips home with us and use them to de-stress. We frequently try and more often than not, fail. Usually, within two to three days of getting home, we fall back into routine. We may even experience a post-vacation depression of sorts.

When life trauma like abuse occurs, we frequently travel in our minds to escape. We may focus on the negative and spiral downward. For myself, writing this blog amongst the red rocks of Sedona, Arizona, I feel at peace.

My inner peace is knowing that beautiful,serene locations exist. I am fortunate to be here. I hope to spread the message that one can seek  out and find inner peace anywhere. Sure, it helps to have the visual experience of a beautiful location. Serenity does not just begin with traveling to a new place. In order for me to appreciate nature and appreciate the goodness in others, I had to find serenity within myself. A calmness that actually always existed.

We all want to seek out health and happiness. When we get abused or experience the ugliness that life dishes out, we frequently get stuck. We do not risk anymore, or at least very little. When you stop risking and stop taking chances in life, you stop living. Serenity then, is seldom  found. Sedona, Arizona has given me the perspective that inner peace is not the trip, not the red rock cliffs or the blanket of evening stars from above. It has to be within one’s soul first, then a clarity of life is seen, no matter where you are.

I have been to Sedona in the past. It looks different now. The cliffs have not moved, the sky is the same brilliant blue, and the stars dot the sky at night like Christmas lights above. So why is it so different, so much more beautiful ?  It is my perspective, my new vision of life, the present and the future. I now have better judgement. I am slowing down and cleaning my emotional house as well as dumping past clutter. There is a freedom in letting go and walking a new path. Seeing Sedona again, through healthier eyes and a healthier soul, was a true awakening.

Open up your own Pandora’s box. Get rid of those old habits and move onto a new path. Places you have visited in the past just might look different to you. You may find your own serenity, and it may just be in your own backyard.