
and they signed up to become listeners for the collective
pledging their ears to receive the full telling of each
without rejection of a single tale or truth
a willingness to learn this craft of the heart
essential for survival of the whole
most understood this was more than an occupation
it would become their way of being for a lifetime
to cradle the words of each speaker
holding tender the unthinkable
without judgement
© Ali Grimshaw 2025
Photo taken in Croatia 2023.
When you know, you know…and sometimes knowing and awareness takes time. I love the last three lines. It speaks of listening and just listening. It’s easier said than done when there are conflicting opinions and people want to be heard. But it starts with patience and being open. Well written, Ali 🙂
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Mabel, thank you for your reflection. Truly listening is a challenging task for me and one that I’m highly committed to. It is a way for others to feel seen and to have connection. Thank you for hearing me.
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I like how you think about listening as a way for others to feel seen and have connection. We all deserve to be seen and have connection. Thanks for sharing, Ali 🙂
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❤️☮️Thank you
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This is such a wonderful poem beautifully written, Ali 🙂 Thanks for sharing, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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Great to hear from you, Avía. Keep sharing your travel adventures. I’m gonna need them.
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to cradle the words of each speaker
holding tender the unthinkable
without judgement
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Thank you for reflecting back the words that spoke to you, my friend. Much appreciated.
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Love this Ali 💞💞
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Thank you so much for letting me know. It means a lot to me.☮️❤️
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Perfect 💐🙏🏻💖
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Hi Ali, Did you see my previous message? Did you receive my check yet please? Thank you. Fredda
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Let the Earth bear witness to the truth, Ali … https://youtu.be/KGLyhPHfD9g
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Thank you, Ivor
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You’re welcome, Ali
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So peaceful, deep, and lovely, Ali.💜
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Thank you, Carol. I am grateful to the listeners who have brought healing to my life and I’m glad to be a listener for others.❤️☮️
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