Poetry unites races, creeds, cultures, genders and even political affiliations. It is an art form that renders a common denominator of value and connection, which people rally around. While it seems like poetry is a boring and dying topic of conversation to some, there is a poetry revival going on around this country and abroad that is reinventing the passion of poetic verse.
Today is the first day of April and time to kickoff our celebration of National Poetry Month. Typically, April 1 is known as April Fools Day, but there is nothing foolish about poetry. In 1996, the Academy of American Poets inaugurated the month of April as National Poetry Month. They have some wonderful ideas on how to maximize your poetic potential, so check out their site if you haven’t already. https://www.poets.org/
Get your writing gear in order and let’s get those creative juices flowing. Poetry is multifaceted, so let your hands sculpt some beautiful works of poetry and prose! How are you celebrating poetry this month?
“You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with
joy in your presence.”
– Acts 2:28 (NIV)
Zephyr and the Seven Circuits
Gigantic trees created an umbrella of serenity
trickling waters from a nearby pool
calmed my tense, nervous spirit
I said a short prayer before entering the meandering path
that first step into the seven circuit labyrinth
was my hardest one to take
inhaling a deep breath and then another
curiosity and magnetism drew me in deeper.
A hound named Zephyr
belonging to the labyrinth keeper
followed me into the sacred space
I welcomed his unexpected companionship
rounding the first circuit
I’d taken on a new pattern of thought
a spiritual cleansing had begun.
Suddenly I became aware that the hound disappeared
perhaps sensing that this part of my walk
had to be done alone.
Elements of nature embellished each segment of the trail;
twigs, leaves, branches
cracked open walnuts and rocks
sporadically scattered over the spherical gravel path
current reminders that life’s course
is not always a smooth journey.
I maneuvered around these objects
some big and others small
symbolizing the unexpected obstacles I encounter daily.
Retracing my steps on the way out
unloading some emotional burdens I carried in
out of nowhere Zephyr reappeared
as if to congratulate me on my unicursal journey
my challenging first step is now my past
discovering a greater peace within and a divine revelation.
*Celebrating National Poetry Month! This poem is from the book “Diversities of Gifts: Same Spirit.” (2009)
Do you have a favorite poem or poet that rises above all others? How do you commemorate your favorite poem or poet? Since 1996, National Poetry Month has been celebrated during the month of April. The concept behind this national literary observance is to focus and promote poetry, honor poets from the past, empower poetic voices of today and to promote our next generation of poets.
The art of poetry is a blend of visual appreciation or spiritual saturation, coupled with emotional stimulation. Poetry affects Read more…
From Behind the Pen 