My favorite jazz musician of all time is the late Count Basie. In the midst of blaring trumpets, trombones and saxophones, the Count sometimes sat watching from his piano as though he were a spectator. I remember how he delighted in striking a single note that would send his audiences through the roof because it was so perfect.

"Less is more" not only describes the Count's musical style, but it also characterizes those who seek God's kingdom first. They don't allow a myriad of non-essentials to rule their lives. The habitually rushed life is usually the confused life. To help maintain the proper perspective, I have a sign that reads "Live for God: Don't Sweat the Small Stuff."

"Some people don't like to be quiet a lot," says Lauren, 7. Those that have inner peace "must have a quiet house," adds Victoria, 7.

Someone should develop a 12-step program called "Noise Addicts Anonymous." This program would help people withdraw from the constant noise of televisions, radios, stereos and telephones. The average American watches more than four hours of television a day.

"Some people do not have inner peace because they have so much anger in them," says Valerie, 10.

It feels so right to be angry when someone wrongs us. The choice is obvious: Grit your teeth and live in bitterness, or forgive as Jesus Christ has forgiven.

"Some people have inner peace because they have happiness and joy inside them. Jesus has inner peace," says Mindy, 7.

Before the Apostle Paul tells his readers to be anxious for nothing but to pray about everything, he writes, "Rejoice in the Lord always" (Philippians 4:4).