What brings you peace?

Yesterday, I went for a walk in Potsdam and came across some Christian missionaries who invited me to write something on their whiteboard in response to the question: “What brings you peace?” It’s a simple question, but not always easy to answer on the spot - especially these days. Still, it’s a good question to ask yourself from time to time.

I thought about all the sounds we’re surrounded by, from the city’s soundscape to the constant noise of media, and I chose the gentle rustling of leaves. In hindsight, I could have also picked the sound of the sea, which reminded me of my short visit to Rügen in May. Both sounds bring me calm, but the sea has a particularly soothing effect on my mind. It’s often the small things, and the chance to step back and enjoy the moment, that bring the most peace. Years ago, I used to meditate, and this brief conversation reminded me of that—maybe it’s time to start again for a bit more inner peace.

Despite the usual “Are you religious?” questions, I appreciated the small initiative. We even ended up chatting a bit about analog cameras.