Dear kalyāṇa-mittatā,
Today in Sri Lanka, a very significant Buddhist holiday is celebrated — the Day of the First Council, or Nikini Poya.
In honor of this occasion, we have published a sermon by Venerable Rakwane Gnanaseeha Thera, abbot of Chittaviveka Monastery, dedicated to the happiness of peace.
This is a very beautiful and inspiring Dhamma talk, closely connected with another of Bhante’s sermons — “Upasamānussati: Recollection of The Peace of Nibbāna.”
At first glance, it may seem that this sermon explains very simple things. But don’t be deceived by the lightness of the words: these seemingly simple themes require deep, careful, and honest reflection. They are not formulas to memorize and put aside, but invitations to practice — to contemplate slowly, to return to again and again, and to verify in the laboratory of your own life. If we do not learn this happiness of peace, it will be very difficult for us to remain on the Noble Eightfold Path.
As a practical complement to this sermon, you may also find useful Bhante’s Dhamma talk on the pañca nīvaraṇāni — the Five Hindrances, which block us from experiencing happiness and peace.
In one way or another, you have already become familiar with this happiness of tranquility — that is why you are here.
We wish you to notice your happiness, to value it, and to develop it. May these merits help you to be freed from all suffering!
May there be well-being, sabbe sattā sukhi hontu 
Santasukha: the Happiness of Peace — Venerable Rakwane Gnanaseeha