Where to Write From
You might think that
to be a poet
you must have a
way with words
You can keep thinking that
more room for me
You might think you
must reach way down
in the weeds
pulling out muddy roots
from your sodden brain
or recall in detail
places of distinction
You might think you
must go heart searching
to find phenomenal
fodder for verse
or have personal connections
with the waves, the sun,
the moon and the stars
There are those
who have done that
But really you might be
content to write frilly froth
of fabled fellows
Or maybe, just maybe
you’ll surprise yourself,
crawl down deep like an
a spelunking explorer
to places in yourself
you haven’t been
or yet even noticed
By Lilli Ann Carey
I am grateful for Lilli Ann's permission to share her poem
from a recent writing circle. Writing together provides a
mirror for us to process life in a safe place. Each of us has
words that matter. Within the writing circle we nourish them.
Curious? Email met at coaching@aligrimshaw.com
I spent some time with Ali Grimshaw’s writing circle and once again, enjoyed being with like minded souls as we explored poetry together. The inspiration for my poem came from, “Lighthouse Keeping” by Kay Ryan. – Val
Know that we are
keepers of the light
Holding space and
reaching out to those
in darkened places.
Its not our job
to judge, advise, fix
or rescue others.
Our calling is to keep
the light shining
within ourselves and
bring it to the world,
to keep us all afloat.
Thank you Val for sharing this inspirational poem and for all the loving support written on your blog,Find Your Middle Ground. You are a bright light in the world. Keep on shining. I will be reading in appreciation.
Photo by Ave Calvar Martinez
"The decision we face is not to chart the perfect way forward; it is simply to embark on a journey. Once we’ve taken a step forward, the work will teach us where to take a second step, and then a third, and so on. Purpose does not reveal itself to those sitting safely at the starting block. In other words, you don’t plan your way into finding your purpose. You live into it.”
- JacquelineNovogratz500th
I guess I can't call it an accident
it's time to admit, intentionality.
Claiming my inner poet five years ago
(a birthday gift to myself) has led to this
my 500th post. I would have given up
sharing, long ago, if it hadn't been for you
you reading, then reflecting back
your thoughts in return.
Knowing the aloneness of darkness
I started with the desire
to reach just one
share my flashlight
sit beside and just listen
and listen some more.
These years have brought your voices
on the breeze, across seas,
stanzas have sailed, flown
and walked themselves
beyond boundaries,
I have heard your hearts.
Together we are rewriting
a world through poetry.
Thank you for being a part of my journey.
I am here to serve you in yours.
I would love to write with you and hold space for your words.
Renewal Through Poetry: Introductory Writing Circles
March 7, 4:00 PM PST register here – Eventbrite
"Choosing to live and love with our whole hearts is an act of defiance. " - Brene Brown
Join me for Galentine's Day, Write Yourself: Self-Love and Poetry Gathering
Saturday, February 13. here - Eventbrite. (Tickets by donation)
One of the many joys of facilitating writing circles is contributing to the journey of others and connecting women from across the globe.
Renewal Through Poetry: Introductory Writing Circles
February 21, 11:00 am PST register here - Eventbrite.
"The circle is a very special part of my week. I am inspired by everyone, their thoughts, their writings, their words. I never come away without feeling something deeply or being profoundly touched. I am amazed at what comes out of the end of my pen." - Nancy
