You haven’t taken a vow of silence. But, you’ve believed there are certain things better left unsaid. When you’ve tried to champion the cause, spoken the alternate view, you’ve been met with resistance, or worse, disengagement. You don’t want to ruffle too many feathers, take a chance on not pleasing the listener. It’s only natural that you’ve wrapped your bruised voice in burlap and steel wire. You stick to the pallid pleasantries of life. (but) take notice. this is no time to remain silent. Those “certain things” you’ve believed are better left unsaid are the very words we need. The…
Tag: voice
(The Art of) Listen / Speak
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…
She Wisdom
In the book of Proverbs, Wisdom takes shape as a woman. She doesn’t slink back into dark corners keeping her opinion to herself. No, she uses her wild voice and calls aloud to those on the street. She finds the place where paths meet and stands taller, stronger. She takes her space. She is a tree of life, ripe with fruit for those who seek her. She is a keeper of the flame, a light for all. Her mouth speaks truth and liberation. She makes clear her feminine ways were birthed by God before the oceans were in place. She…