It is the season of contemplation – Poem by Ali Grimshaw

~ Ali Grimshaw

“We have an inner window through which we can see the world, and though it gets cloudy in life, it’s our job to wipe it clean and see things as they really are.” – Sebastian Koch

It is the season of contemplation
a time of wanting to flee while knowing stillness is the way forward.

I am seeking windows of all sizes
expansive with weatherproof panes, outlooks rippled with time.

Views to heal my confusion between rain and questions.
A skylight to observe the assurance of passing moon.

As the headlines continue to scream, I find another window holding
steadiness of trunks wide and wise from centuries, leaves of rainshine.

Curtains of my imagination sway with a peaceful breeze.
There is another way, another view, a possibility of love yet found.

I unshutter pain to let the air in.

© Ali Grimshaw 2025

The seed of this poem came from a prompt on dVerse Poets Pub and this inspiring view from a cabin in Oregon. Every time I return to this photo it settles me. 

Come join a welcoming group of poets for Open Link Night - HERE. Link a poem of your choosing.

36 thoughts on “It is the season of contemplation – Poem by Ali Grimshaw”

  7. Beautiful writing. Absolutely love the last line. When we feel pain and surrender to it, we get close on understanding where it comes from. As the season changes, I think it’s a great time for reflection – how far have we come and where have we grown, and where else can we grow… We are in Spring here in Australia, getting warmer and so inviting to spend more time outside. Wishing you a wonderful autumn and winter ahead, Ali 🙂

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    1. Mabel,
      How generous your response is in thoughtfulness and care!
      Transitions between seasons are an invitation to reflect. It is far too easy to go rushing into the next without taking time to celebrate and learn from our actions.
      I am jealous that you are heading into spring. I love seeing the new green.
      Be well and may joy find you today,
      Ali

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      1. You said it well, Ali. Slowing down is where we often encounter realisations and find inspiration. Perhaps you will have a cozy one this autumn and winter, one of reading, writing and creativity. Sending you sunshine, joy and love, Ali 💕

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  12. Dearest Ali, I have read this several times already and it’s stunning. I tried to find one part that most resonates, and I keep finding yet another then another then another that speaks so gorgeously from your heart in this generous sharing. What a gift you are to the world my friend. Thank you for continuing to show up exactly as you are and to share your heart. I love you♥️ ~Kirsten *Be well. Do Good. Shine Bright. *

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  13. I love your season of contemplation, Ali, the image you chose to illustrate it, a lovely combination of prompts, and the quotation from Sebastian Koch/ Your poem has so many lovely lines, and these jumped out at me especially:

    ‘I am seeking windows of all sizes
    expansive with weatherproof panes, outlooks rippled with time’

    and

    ‘I unshutter pain to let the air in.’

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  14. A lovely calm poem and gosh the way it closes is beautiful.

    I love these lines…

    Curtains of my imagination sway with a peaceful breeze.There is another way, another view, a possibility of love yet found.

    I unshutter pain to let the air in.

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  16. “Such a beautiful and profound quote. The metaphor of the inner window truly captures the need for self-awareness and constant contemplation. The image is the perfect frame for this quiet wisdom.”

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