The #MicroPoetry of the blog began as a creative practice in 2012. Using the confines of twitter’s 140 characters, this discipline has been a generative opportunity to use words to poetically muse. Starting in 2017, brief reflections became another way to explore the use of these verses as part prayer, thought, reflection, challenge or something in-between. I hope these monthly collections offer you space to be, reflect and consider how your own choices might help you and other #ShineOn.
Problems
As they arise
& surely they shall
present guidelines & signs
how best to navigate
toward our future anticipated
which we faithfully toil
Inspired by collectively discerning a good way forward …
Reflection
In Canada, my primary concern is the journey towards reconciliation between Indigenous and Treaty communities. This path is challenging due to a difficult history and inevitable mistakes. However, it is also an opportunity to establish relationships based on interconnectedness rather than unequal power. The obstacles we encounter will serve as guideposts as we strive for shared healing and empowerment.
Tomorrow
Dream dreams undreamt
imagine possibilities unimagined
seek potential unrealised
When we begin together paint
what will our canvas say?
Inspired by embracing that today we tomorrow build …
Reflection
Now is a peculiar time. The past has shaped this moment, which in turn belongs to the future. Interestingly, as we contemplate the future, it circles back to the present, prompting us to reflect on the past. These non-linear sequences of events spark curiosity.
If time is a circular web connecting past and future, our present actions have far-reaching consequences. Within this framework, how can we shape a future that inspires hope?
In time turbulent
as voices despair
dominant seem
May we look to the still
ever present calm
that life pervades
To Love we moor
& there blooms Hope
Inspired by the courage to lovingly covenant to another …
Reflection
A covenant encompasses more than mere agreement, quid pro quo arrangements, or principles for mutual benefit. While these elements are included, the essence of a covenant lies in mutuality. It serves as a fundamental promise of faith, acknowledging that we complement one another with our unique gifts and blessings. Embracing a covenant means committing to the thriving of each other and, in our journey towards true humanity, extending compassion and care to all of Creation
We are each Beings Light
invited to illumine the path
for others in shadows’ midst
At times we are the bearers
& other times reflection’s mirror
Inspired by the blessing to offer hope in challenge’s midst …
Reflection
In our digitally connected world, despair can easily overwhelm us through fear-inducing news feeds. However, we are not meant to succumb to this despair.
During challenging times, embracing our inherent blessings serves as a model. We have the power to bring hope to a hurting world, and it starts by recognising hope within ourselves.
Wholeness’ journey
unfolds in letting go
of narratives negative
& embracing the knowing
that we are each entrusted
a blessing to the world bring
Inspired by recognising the difference between wholeness & perfection …
Reflection
Perfection and wholeness are not necessarily in a binary relationship; instead, they can be seen as pointing toward that which we might consider holy and sacred. If we imagine them engaged in a conversation, we might be able to recognise truth.
Perfection, in this context, represents an ideal—a fleeting moment or an object that encapsulates beauty. On the other hand, wholeness refers to a state of being—a transformative journey towards fulfilling our true potential. As we progress towards self-understanding and heightened consciousness, ultimately achieving wholeness, the concept of perfection becomes evident in a way that is awe-inspiring and not driven by materialism.
Dreams are Beauty’s
ever-present invitation
fostering faith in Reality’s filaments
a practice that tomorrow belongs
thus shaping Future’s wonder
Inspired by a future in which Hope thrives …
Reflection
In the current era, our entertainment and artistic expressions frequently revolve around dystopian narratives, portraying a world where humanity grapples to coexist harmoniously with both itself and Creation.
While this captivating storyline aligns with the challenges we face today, it does not encompass the narrative envisioned by the wisdom of Elders and Mystics. Regardless of our chosen spiritual paths, it is precisely during such trying times that Hope emerges as a driving force, urging us to move forward and guarantee that future generations inherit a legacy filled with vibrancy and abundance.
Fear
a generative companion
when we shift from fight’s temptation
to curiosity’s invitation
As wonder emerges
new opportunities are so revealed
Inspired by shifting from bravery to a narrative of awe …
Reflection
Too often in our prevailing discourse, we witness a recurring narrative of power clashing with power. This adversarial storyline permeates our inner narratives as well. We often label ourselves as feeble, inadequate, unprepared, or lacking the necessary knowledge to tackle the challenges before us.
A different approach, inherent to the task of inner work, involves a shift away from the notion that “might is right” towards embracing curiosity. By cultivating a sense of wonder, what would have been a narrative dominated by power dynamics transforms into one of meaningful conversation.
It’s not what happens
amidst this & that
that determines journey’s outcome
It’s our choices
that translates what happens
into experience learned
Inspired by noting that what happens doesn’t determine what’ll be ..
Reflection
We are inherently wired to connect our experiences with their subsequent implications, creating a cause-and-effect relationship that influences our future. This process often moulds our behaviour based on pre-established and largely automatic responses, validating our assumptions about what lies ahead.
Fortunately, habits have the potential to be uncovered and examined. By dedicating time to explore them, we not only unravel their grip on us, but also foster a sense of curiosity that allows us to engage with our experiences in a fresh manner. This approach opens the door to new opportunities and breaks the cycle of self-fulfilling prophecies, leading to a more promising tomorrow.
Your reflections are most welcome!