Life with most teenagers was like having a low-grade bladder infection. It hurts, but you had to tough it out.
Peace is joy at rest. Joy is peace on its feet. quoting her pastor in Salon, April 25, 2003
Interpretation
What this quote means
Peace and joy are interconnected states of being, with peace representing a state of calm and joy representing an active expression of that inner state.
In this quote, Anne Lamott illustrates the relationship between peace and joy, suggesting that peace is a restful state while joy is an active and vibrant expression of that same harmony. The duality of these emotions reflects the idea that true happiness encompasses both a quiet inner calm and an exuberant outward expression, emphasizing the importance of balancing these two facets in life.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech on mental wellness, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of both peace and joy in achieving true happiness.
More from Anne Lamott
All quotes βOr you might shout at the top of your lungs or whisper into your sleeve, "I hate you, God." That is a prayer too, because it is real, it is truth, and maybe it is the first sincere thought you've had in months.
Your problem is how you are going to spend this one odd and precious life you have been issued. Whether you're going to spend it trying to look good and creating the illusion that you have power over people and circumstances, or whether you are going to taste it, enjoy it and find out the truth about who you are.
It is hard to remember that you are a cherished spiritual being when you're burping up apple fritters and Cheetos.
Gorgeous, amazing things come into our lives when we are paying attention: mangoes, grandnieces, Bach, ponds. This happens more often when we have as little expectation as possible. If you say, "Well, that's pretty much what I thought I'd see," you are in trouble. At that point you have to ask yourself why you are even here. [...] Astonishing material and revelation appear in our lives all the time. Let it be. Unto us, so much is given. We just have to be open for business.
...because when people have seen you at their worst, you don't have to put on the mask as much.
Similar quotes
Probably the happiest period in life most frequently is in middle age, when the eager passions of youth are cooled, and the infirmities of age not yet begun; as we see that the shadows, which are at morning and evening so large, almost entirely disappear at midday.
Be grateful for what you do have, and you will find it increases. I like to bless with love all that is in my life right now-my home, the heat, water, light, telephone, furniture, plumbing, appliances, clothing, transportation, jobs-the money I do have, friends, my ability to see and feel and taste and touch and walk and to enjoy this incredible planet.
...Be grateful for what you have to be thankful for instead of complaining about the little things that annoy you.
This is a wonderful day, I have never seen this one before.
Nothing prevents happiness like the memory of happiness.
Happiness is not a reward - it is a consequence. Suffering is not a punishment - it is a result.