Peace is, by definition, the freedom from disturbance -- quiet and tranquility. It is an elusive state for some and a constant state for those lucky ones. I have been less fortunate in achieving this state. I have searched high and low for it. Sometimes I have found it for a while, only for it to escape from my grasp yet again. However, at the age of twenty-one, I finally think I have found it. I believe I have earned this state and I believe I can keep it this time.

Throughout my life, I have been faced with numerous obstacles. From the time I entered this world, it was apparent that peace was going to be an ever-escaping creature in my world. I did not have the luxury of a normal childhood. Unfortunately, I rarely had the treat to see my father because he and my mother were separated. Their separation was never a difficult obstacle in my mind; in fact, I was happy that they were divorced. They were happier apart, so I was happier as a result. But because of this, I had to live with my mother.

My mother is a different story all on her own. For the purposes of this article, let us just say that she played no role in my life other than negative contributions. My childhood was hectic and frankly, horrible. I do not say all of this to gain your pity. I am actually glad that these were my circumstances growing up because I believe God knew I was strong enough to handle them. These circumstances often times sent me into panic attacks, fits of outrage, deep depression and confusion. I strived to have peace in my life, but it always escaped me.

It is with great pleasure that I can finally inform you that I have captured the ephemeral state named Peace. It is because of my childhood circumstances that I have learned to overcome adversities. I have learned to handle bullying and berating blows with grace. Most of all, I have learned to be genuinely happy with who I am as a person, regardless of anyone else’s criticism or degradation. This, my friends, is the key to finding and keeping peace in your life. There will always be obstacles in your path and life will not always be easy, but peace will stay with you if you stay true to yourself. Do not ever doubt yourself, your character or your morals. Remember to hold onto your inner peace and never let it go because in this life, it is arguably the most important aspect of living a healthy, happy life.