"It is my response to the world, not the trigger that can get me in trouble."

This is one of those thoughts I consider an "eureka" moment.  Much easier said than done.  To that end, what do I do when I get triggered? When I am dragged through the mud so to speak, and whatever energy I do have is being sapped out of me?  Well, I have to be conscious enough of my own state of mind at the get go, to even realize that this non-peaceful trigger is happening.  This requires observation. 

Start by observing oneself. 

How do I do that?

Start today.

Before I go to bed tonight I will write one wish on a piece of paper and place it under my pillow.  In the morning I will read the wish again.  I will carry that wish with me all day.

Tomorrow I will write another wish and place it under my pillow.  ETC.

The idea is simple:  The act of making a wish and carrying it all day is a way to begin to observe oneself.  Does it come true?  Is it pie in the sky?  Observing my own way of thinking and desiring is the beginning of consciousness.

The challenge: to make 40 wishes!

Every day we are awash in the world, going to work, preparing food, traveling to or from work. The basic stuff of life carries many distractions not all of it peaceful. When does one have time to get in the habit of connecting to peace?  I try to remember a peaceful thought at the top of the hour and at the bottom of the hour everyday.  This very quick technique has really helped me.  In fact, whenever I glance at the clock or am in a transition of sorts I take a quick moment and remind myself that peace is a possibility. All I have to do is acknowledge the sentiment and it creeps into my life. 

First Peace Intervention:  Yes I can.  I believe peace is available to every human soul living today....  I consider its possibilities at least once every hour. 

One of my favorite ways of reminding myself of peace in myself and in the world around me is to take a moment everyday and just give thanks for life.  This thanksgiving is something I do in the present.  For instance if I see something that captures my attention such as a redbird on a branch in a tree.  I try not to walk past it and keep going.  I try to take note of it and I might think.  "Thank you redbird for this day.  Enjoy!"  It sounds silly, but in that instant I will feel that life is good.  I feel peace.  The redbird reminded me of the gifts of life. And that is something to be thankful for.