walking through fields of bright questions I pick whys and hows, bloom gold awes for consideration wonderment training © Ali Grimshaw 2021 A shadorma (a six-line, 26-syllable poem or stanza) for National Poetry/Global Poetry Writing Month - Day 7. Visit this site for prompts all month long, napowrimo Join me for my next writing circle. Self-Compassion Through Poetry: Writing Circle Tuesday, April 20, 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM (PDT) Register here Photo taken in Munich, Germany 2019.
"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.” - Jacqueline Novogratz 500th 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
Curious I knew I was not up to it this thing called life. I was as if nameless not seen and without countenance or provenance And so from the beginning I have been curious with what I could be even who I could be. It’s been a road. But what a delight finding out. What blissful joy to discover the secrets of oneself. To see the patchwork patterns revealed. Even moments of brilliance. I look on with wonder and I ponder where do you suppose all that life came from? 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. Curious about writing yourself forward as 2021 unfolds? Email met at coaching@aligrimshaw.com
Stretched openness of summer sky. Time’s width I can't hold in one viewing. I bend to gather this spray of light and still can't see all points arriving through darkness. Each beam it’s own part in the collective we have named starlight. I stand openly as sky falls toward me into my arms assurance that is bigger than this moment. © Ali Grimshaw 2020 With all of the smoke in the sky, the stars are no longer visible. I remember they are there and see them in my dreams. Please send prayers and thoughts of goodness for the many fighting the wildfires in Oregon. Photo by James Wheeler on Pexels.com
As I continue to lead writing circles, I am inspired by the hearts and generous listening of others. Every time I write with others I am changed and lifted by the experience. Here in this space I am calling, Poems from the Circle, I will be sharing poems written by participants of my writing circles. We are stronger when we lean on and learn from each other. This poem is from Kelley Morris. I appreciate her willingness to share it here.
Silent River Standing on the bank All seems quiet Water slowly Drifts by The movement Difficult to perceive I must be still Listen closely Only then Will the river Tell its stories Of past travels Around winding turns Along cool stretches Over rough rapids Crashing past sharp rocks Curiously chasing The path ahead Until finally A free fall Plunging to the Clear pool below Briefly resting But never stopping And now, it carries My reflection while Telling its story- We have a lot in common This silent river And me
By Kelley Morris
You can find more of Kelly’s poems on her blog – pianogirlthoughts.com
In my writing circles we focus on listening. We listen to the poems being read out loud and we listen to each other. I never thought this specific, close listening would work online. I have been happily surprised. My writing circles have been gatherings of authentic reflection, heartfelt sharing and generated connection between people who have never met before. I am so grateful to have the opportunity to write with new people across the U.S. Each of us who joins the circle is embracing the slowing down that poetry offers. We are taking time to hear one another. And when we are heard, we are seen. I think this is more important than ever.
I would love to write with you, to hear your words as they come forth in the safe space of the writing circle. Click on the links below to register.
Writing for Renewal: Poetry and Reflection Circle – May 23
Writing for Renewal: Poetry & Reflection Circle – May 27
May love land on you today,
Ali
