If thou canst but thither, There grows the flower of Peace, The Rose that cannot wither, Thy fortress and thy ease.
Interpretation
The quote expresses the idea that true peace is a timeless and unchanging quality that brings comfort and security.
Henry Vaughan's quote reflects the belief that achieving inner peace is essential for a strong and secure life. The 'flower of Peace' symbolizes a serene state of being that remains unaffected by external turmoil, akin to a fortress providing safety and ease to those who possess it. The imagery of a rose, which is often associated with beauty and tranquility, reinforces the notion that inner peace is both precious and enduring.
In practice
During a meditation session, I shared a thought on finding peace in our hectic lives using Vaughan's quote.
Man hath still either toys or care: But hath no root, nor to one place is tied, but ever restless and irregular, about this earth doth run and ride. He knows he hath a home, but scarce knows where; He says it is so far, that he has quite forgot how to go there.
You can always make peace with an F-16 in your pocket.
Peace is not passive, it is active. Peace is not appeasement, it is strength. Peace does not 'happen,' it requires work.
In peace, the Middle East, the ancient cradle of civilization, will become invigorated and transformed. Throughout its lands there will be freedom of movement of people, of ideas, of goods.
We have the ability to achieve, if we master the necessary goodwill, a common global society blessed with a shared culture of peace that is nourished by the ethnic, national and local diversities that enrich our lives.
Choose the human race over the nuclear race. Bury the weapons and don't burn the people.
War will exist until that distant day when the conscientious objector enjoys the same reputation and prestige that the warrior does today.
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