Poems From The Porch
I have come out to the porch to receive the gifts of the day,
and they are many.
There she is, a confederate rose hibiscus blossom
white now with a spot of red in her center,
like the Sacred Heart of Jesus,
acknowledging that all of us are touched by the pain of the world.
She will be here for this day only,
gradually coloring pink as the hours progress,
then withdrawing into a ball as she enfolds her crimson heart.
Here now is the affectionate onyx kitty
nuzzling my neck and giving me hugs.
I am purring my own embrace of his warm furriness.
Hello, Mr. Hummingbird,
drinking quickly at the feeder
then retiring to places unknown.
The day is cool and inviting,
pale blue sky promising to deepen its hues.
The morning is gaining clarity in her purpose.
Tinkling chimes alternate with the adamant calls of the jays,
the crow of the rooster, and
the chirps of the birds in the pines.
A few gardenia flowers are sparsely sprinkled in their mother bushes
waiting to have their fragrances appreciated.
The yolks of tall wildflowers are turned toward the sun
in adoration of his glorious rays.
Here in the midst of the autumn cool
there is a hint of dampness in the air,
caressing my face with a gentle moisture.
Over yonder, Father Oak is extending a long arm
in a gesture of hospitality,
a deferential bow to All That Is.
My heart is full of love and gratitude for these precious presents,
so I am writing my thank you note to everyone for showing up.
This is yours.
Engaging With The Poem
Poetry can be a doorway to the soul and your own creativity. Throughout the ages, the written word has been used as a means to access personal truth and as a vehicle for prayer through the practice of sacred reading (lectio divina). I encourage you to try this beautiful practice and let its fruits be self-evident.
How to Practice Sacred Reading
· READ
· REFLECT
· RESPOND
· REST
Read the passage through slowly more than once, noticing how it feels in your body and the response of your heart.
Reflect: What word resonates with you? What phrase speaks to you?
What overall personal meaning comes to you? Allow yourself to follow a tangent.
Respond by making space for the prayer of your heart to manifest. Write down the words and/or phrases that resonate with you and allow them to arrange themselves into your own poem or prayer.
Rest with your eyes closed, perhaps using the word that most resonates with you as your mantra for silent meditation.
Dear friend,
May your mind be peaceful and calm,
may your body be relaxed and comfortable,
and may your heart be filled with love.
Thank you for reading.
Blessings and gratitude,
Ani
