Between Maps and Meaning

I’ve stated before in a former post that 2025 was the year of healing in my personal journal. I’m starting to wonder what 2026 will be for me? Of course I have my resolutions, but what is the theme of my year? Where will my focus be?

I heard someone say today in a podcast, that the “blue bird of happiness doesn’t come knocking on your door.” I want to start by saying let’s substitute happiness for peace. Chasing happiness is such a selfish way to live I think. There’s nothing good that comes from hiding from tough times/suffering. It makes us worse as a person to just seek happiness. Peace is better, peace allows us to suffer when it’s time to suffer and be joyous when it’s time to be joyous. I can only think in my mind that I want to chase God’s peace this year. Whatever happens to me, whatever life may throw, I want to consistently remind myself to chase the peace only God can provide. I think that is what 2026 will be for me. If I’ve learned anything over 2025 it’s that God’s peace is exactly what I’ve needed my whole life. As the world seems to keep falling apart, I’m no longer waiting for the blue bird of God’s Peace to knock on my door. I’m putting myself in positions this year that keep His Peace close to my heart.