peace is not crafted 
in marbled halls of power.
it’s not the purview of the wise,
nor the product of a boardroom
strategically drafted.

peace is a candle, just a humble flame  
that sparks one-by-one by one
within the hearts and minds of those 
who seek the quiet and clear the mess,
who focus on what’s better,
provide the space—and wait.

it is the gift of a heart that listens,
a mind with intention, 
a scaffolding of love. 

and i have heard the desperate-hearted say
that while joy would be amazing,
they could contentedly live long
if they simply had peace.

heather pound 2026

Getty Images For Unsplash+