Finding Inner Peace in a Chaotic World

By

Desiree Future

Last month, I had to go to the laundromat before a big snowstorm.  My clothes were piling up, and there was no way I would be able to do it after the snow. It would have been risky to move my car. Where I live, you risk losing your parking spot if you don’t have your own or a driveway.

The storm was scheduled to land in two days, and I also had to finish knitting a scarf for my friend’s birthday. Along with my two large bags of laundry, I also brought my knitting supplies. My plan was to knock out two birds with one stone.

I didn’t get there until after five because I had to work. The huge establishment was brimming with people, all trying to get the wash done before being snowed in. Luckily, I was able to snag two machines next to each other.

There was a kid at a table with his mother, helping him with homework while folding clothes. Another child sat watching a movie while enjoying his fast-food dinner. A young man watched the TV above, trying to hear over the loudness in the huge area.

A couple was attempting to hold an empty folding table while they waited for their dry clothes. In hopes of getting lucky, people stalked washers and dryers for any available one. Others walked in and out without getting any machines.

There was so much going on around me that it was truly insane. Needing an escape, I turned on some jazz music and started knitting. Having a full view of my clothes, I sank into my peaceful world.

Yes, there was chaos all around me, but no, I didn’t let it bother me. The sounds of various instruments gently tickling my eardrums relaxed me. The motion of my fingers turning a piece of string into a scarf made me smile from the inside out.

I’ve always loved this type of music, but never really got into it until recently. Not sure if I was meal prepping or trying to wind down from a busy day. All I know is that it put me at peace.

In life, sometimes we have to turn down the noise, if you will. Tune everyone and everything out and go to your happy place. You might not be able to put on headphones or knit or paint. Just the thought of what you love to do is what you should keep in your mind.

Life can be challenging at times, but when you focus on the positive, it makes things easier. As for me, my new hobby is knitting and enjoying great music by Miles Davis, Wynton Marsalis, John Coltrane, and Gregory Porter, just to name a few. How do you escape the noise around you?

John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Sidenote: Being new to jazz music, can anyone recommend any artists I should check out? Please and thank you.