Question: How can I tell whether or not I am just imagining peace in my life?
Sri Chinmoy: If you have a desire, either it will be fulfilled or it will not be fulfilled. You will know that you have peace of mind if you see that you get the same amount of joy whether it is fulfilled or not. If you can remain the same person, if you can maintain the same consciousness in your life, then it is certain that you are getting peace. Either fate has to be taken with the same consciousness. Then you will know that real peace has entered into your life.
Sri Chinmoy, AUM — Vol.II-2, No. 4, 27 April 1975, Vishma Press, 1975