Finding Joy in Presence: A Poetic Reflection

Let me be lulled

by the melody of your voice-

the rises and falls,

the acceleration,

repetition

and easing.

Let me be infected

with the joy of your smile and laughter

so each cell of my body

retains this energy once you depart.

Let me be awed

by the ideas, creativity and humor

developed in your mind

giving me new perspectives.

Let me be whole

again-all parts of my heart

living and beating

at home together.

This poem was inspired by James Crews’ Weekly Pause: Winter’s Algorithm. The invitation was to write your own prayer or blessing for existing in a truer, more connected place-perhaps out in nature or in-person among kindred spirits. The point was to focus on something outside the online world. He suggested starting with the line “Let me be…”

So when I first sat down I figured I would write about being out in nature. However, that is not what came across my pen. Instead, the images and feelings of having my family of 4 together under 1 roof for a few days kept popping up. I focused on what blessings came from all of the interactions that I don’t get from our texts or even calls. Just being in the presence of each other- whether quietly watching TV, engaging in conversations, playing board games or eating meals together-brings an ease to my heart.

Engaging in this writing process, made me aware of the deeper connections present when just in the presence of others with no screen between. I knew this, of course, but this made me feel it in my soul. So I have an intention to be more present in the daily in-person interactions I have with friends, colleagues and family.

Here is the link to James Crews’ Weeky Pause: Winter’s Algorithm

Weekly Pause: Winter’s Algorithm

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