Tuesday, April 1, 2014

How Do I Listen?

How Do I Listen? 

How do I listen to others?
As if everyone were my Master 
speaking to me 
his cherished last words.

How do I listen to you?
As if you were the Alpha 
and the Omega 
of all sound. 

         April is poetry month, woohoo! The American Academy of Poets sent me this email today: "Once a day please press pause on the mad rush and read a poem. Linger over its language. Reflect on its lines, as they might reveal new truths about your life. Imagine the experiences and histories portrayed, which are so different from your own. Smile and enjoy!"
        When we are "fully present" it is a great gift. It is how we grow in love with another, by dropping the obligations of life, pressing pause, and lingering in their presence. Listening, just listening. Cherishing every word as if it were a poem, because the words of the people you love are akin to poetry.
        Just as the Academy of Poets recommends this month, truly absorbing the words of your lover "reveal new truths about your life". In the iconic novel by John Green, The Fault In Our Stars, the two main characters face the challenge of their time to listen to each other being limited.
“Some infinities are bigger than other infinities. But, my love, I cannot tell you how thankful I am for our little infinity. I wouldn't trade it for the world. You gave me a forever within the numbered days, and I'm grateful.”           The marks you leave within the hearts of those who loved you, have an infinity all their own. And yes, that's poetry. Happy Poetry Month! :D 

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