The quote highlights an ironic truth about the pursuit of peace; it suggests that striving for peace can actually hinder one's ability to attain it. The chase for peace often leads to stress and anxiety, creating a paradox where the more one seeks it, the further it seems to slip away. This implies that peace is not something to be chased after as an external goal, but rather an internal condition that may require letting go of the incessant pursuit.
In Bhante Henepola Gunaratana's "Mindfulness in Plain English," this idea points to a deeper understanding of mindfulness and presence. By embracing the present moment without the incessant need to find peace, individuals can discover tranquility naturally. It underlines the notion that true peace arises from acceptance and an inner stillness, rather than from external accomplishments or desires.