Path to peace is circuitous –
having been modeled unrest,
schooled in denial…
Expectation envisions
a grassy peninsula –
gently rolling greens
and tranquil blue waters –
predictability that lulls
I am accustomed to together –
the perpetual state of empathic
measuring – one’s values aligned
to another’s emotional indicator
Looking outward, I contemplate;
force-feed my innards with fluff
of how-to’s and top ten ways –
nothing that sustains…
It’s dawning now that neither
upbringing, nor expectation,
nor the noise of expert wannabees,
will lead me to the peace I seek.
I turn my attention to nature –
study the steadfast confidence
of the Great Blue wading through
darkened waters, intently aware
Like a feathered shaman, he
mesmerizes me, commands respect,
calms the noise and lifts my soul –
the secret is within, his presence
whispers, and for once, I listen.
(This week, I am focusing on living with intent, specifically interested in the ways in which I invite peace into my life. My weekly challenge is open to all.)
This stirs up some contemplation on my part! Very effective poem. And your heron as shaman is superb as model, as image, and definitely as one to pay attention to.
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Thanks Jazz. He has taken up residence behind us – quite the teacher.
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Shaman and ambassador!
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Absorbing oneself in nature is definitely the truest way to finding peace. Love the idea of the feathered shaman. 🙂
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Thanks, Olga. He is ever-present, and I feel as if I should be learning something.
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Definitely sounds like he’s a messenger. 🙂
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So still and contemplating a stance.
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They are great teachers of stillness.
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“force-feed my innards with fluff of how-to’s and top ten ways – nothing that sustains…” – this is so succinct. I’ve been there, too. And also ended up at the Sea, where I am right now, trying to find peace within. It turns out there is a lot of noise within, too, that doesn’t want to leave. I have another three days and hope they will help soothe the inner waves.
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The inner noise is the worst. Thanks for your comment. It’s good to know when my words resonate with another.
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They most definitely do.
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