I often think about those who say that “Islam means peace” and expect that to be the end of the story. And yet each year it seems that anger grows everywhere and in everyone, regardless of religion or a lack thereof.

Peace is one of those words that is bandied about but the reality of which is so difficult to hold in one’s heart. It’s one thing to feel peaceful when one is surrounded by nature or in retreat from the world, it’s quite another to hold it in one’s thoughts, actions and words when confronted by challenging situations and people.

That’s why I like the quote below, it captures the necessity of peace as an active and lifelong pursuit, a planting of its roots deep in one’s heart and soul, like a kelp forest which gently sways when buffeted by waves, but never breaks.