What Nicky would have said in the past: A poem, especially if sandwiched in a paragraph, doesn't warrant my attention.
What Nicky would say now: Poems touch and connect with more than my mind. They deserve my attention.
The poem below has much to offer us. Pay attention to the images and sounds that it evokes in you. Slowing down to read it reminds me of how I had to slow down in order to recognize grief (in post #132). I am beginning to appreciate the benefits of slowing down and the gifts one can find in poetry.
What Nicky would say now: Poems touch and connect with more than my mind. They deserve my attention.
The poem below has much to offer us. Pay attention to the images and sounds that it evokes in you. Slowing down to read it reminds me of how I had to slow down in order to recognize grief (in post #132). I am beginning to appreciate the benefits of slowing down and the gifts one can find in poetry.
Quiet of the Heart, you are
Calm as a falling feather,
Serene as dusk's fading light,
Tranquil as the opening rose,
Restful as a cooing dove,
Gentle as the softening rain,
Hushed as a sleeping babe,
Peaceful as a blade of grass.
When I cease my foolish pace
I enter your undisturbed stillness.*
Do you tend to get caught up in the fast pace of life or do you slow down to savor? Let me know how you benefit from slowing down in the comments section or reply to this email.
Thanks for exploring the mystery - Nicky Mendenhall
*Reading for September 27 in Fragments of Your Ancient Name. 2011, Joyce Rupp.
Thanks for exploring the mystery - Nicky Mendenhall
*Reading for September 27 in Fragments of Your Ancient Name. 2011, Joyce Rupp.
Hi Nicky,
ReplyDeleteWhen I return home from a trip, most specifically from Minneapolis where my youngest daughter and her husband live, I do experience melancholy feelings. I so love being up there, spending time with her/them, and the experiences that only MN can offer. And I wish that they would move back down to DM so that I could see them more often and on a whim if I like. But then I think about how they have established a life up there, have friends, jobs, schooling, etc. and how much they have grown by being on their own. And at the end of the day, that is what I want for my children.
All that being said, however, I do have a bit of sadness upon my return home. So I give myself a "re-entry" day. To do the laundry, go over the mail, pay attention to the cat who has been SO lonely (just ask her!), and adjust myself back to my life here. And I always send my daughter a text saying how much I enjoyed my time with her. And then....back to work and normal life.
Thanks for your comment Connie. Your daughter is lucky to have a Mother who appreciates her life and can enjoy it with her.
DeleteSlowing down has Never been in my thought process. I wake up and see how much caffeine I can consume. I hurry and pick up,put away,or shove it in a drawer so I can leave the house to go and find something else to occupy my time ( and my restless mind ). To me,it's scary to slow down. I would see it as "nothing accomplished ". When I am racing around,doing this and promising that,I say to myself ( and any one listening ) "wow,I got so much done today". (Applause,Applause..) I understand (just because I read the post ) about the need and benefits of slowing down,calming moments..the first thought that came to me was if I ever took a moment to breathe,relax,be aware,I probably would cut my having to apologizes by 95%... That being said thanks for idea.
ReplyDeleteYes, we are addicted to accomplishment.
DeleteYou are most welcome for the idea - let me know how it goes for you.
Thanks for your comment - I think a lot of us can relate to your words!