Each summer, my senses are heightened to the art of listening and speaking. With my kids on summer break, our home becomes a cacophony of words. Some words are joyful, some are pointless and some are ugly. I listen. I speak. At times, I respond. At times, I react. I bungle both (listen/speak) on a regular basis. I ask myself, “What does it mean to listen with depth and honor the other? What words are actually needed and how can I respond with mindfulness and compassion?” To listen and speak with love is a spiritual practice. To an artist, the…
Tag: listen
Nurturing the (Soul, soul)
Often, we attempt to nurture the self. But, the self isn’t the same as the soul. I’ve been considering this quite a bit lately. Here is a poem that arose from from my reflections. Soul, soul. I hadn’t seen her in some time, as she loved her secret space. When she peaked her presence, I delighted. In short order, I took control of her needs. I bought her a Starbucks latte and a new red handbag, but she didn’t seem impressed. I fed her fancy chocolates and poured her a glass of wine. She smiled a bit, but still, something…
Still, Small Voice (& the Birth of a New Year)
Happy (almost) New Year, friends! As I’ve considered the dawning of 2017, my deep desire is for the gap between my written words and my actions to narrow. Of course, this is easier written than done! Regardless, I decided to sit down, listen to the still, small voice [I call her Spirit] and write what I heard as a guide for my upcoming year. I believe I will return to these words throughout 2017 as a gentle reminder. May it bless you and/or prompt you to listen to the still, small voice within and write your own guide for the…