Poems From The Porch
The lake is full of turtles.
I know this because I see their heads peeking out like thumbs, then disappearing.
Four sweet, little ducks are panning for gold near the water’s edge,
one of them more conversant than the others.
A velvet, black butterfly with neon, aqua-decorated wings is resting nearby,
now away she flutters.
The wind is blowing deliciously this morning,
making it feel like a seaside getaway.
There is no salt in the air, however,
but plenty of soft, almost rust-hued sand.
The pine trees lining the lake are tall and stately,
looming erect and protective over the inhabitants they shadow.
The abundance of this place is evident,
and I am fed by it,
gift after gift presented without assumption and unashamedly.
My return offering is to notice,
to appreciate,
to breathe it all in,
to let it awaken me to the effulgence of now.
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