Peace V Stress

Stress:  The body's reaction to a perceived threat or challenge, and this can be described as a mental tension or worry.  (Ed. Note: I like the inclusion of the qualifier perceived in the definition.  I must also add that stress can be a very important reaction to something that does indeed need to be avoided or addressed.  Stress impels us to action and sometimes action is what is needed.  My problem is that I tend to manufacture stress, to see a threat or challenge where none exists.)

Peace:  Freedom from disturbance; tranquility.  (Ed. Note:  Normally I look at several sources to aggregate my definitions but this one nailed it on the first try.)

Peace like a river.  Think it, feel it, see it flow in smooth currents that will not toss the smallest boat.  Stress can raise the blood pressure.  It can make our ears roar and our hearts race with panic.  Stop, and say: "Peace.  Be still."  This has always worked to calm the storms.  Some people need stress to feel they are competing successfully.  Instead of quietly doing good work, the need to wrestle with imaginary competitors or hidden foes.  Stress is holding rigid opinions, but peace is a river with the power to make energy enough to heal a body.