This morning, feeling sad about the state of things (who’s vague? not me!), I tried to write a post of my thoughts, my perspective on the multitude of events complicating life as I know it, and all my attempts fell short. Instead, my feelings unfolded on the page and I found myself assembling this reflection, that I’ll charitably call a poem.
I’m no poet, and it feels a bit strange to share it, but I’m putting it out there. I’d love to hear your thoughts about it.
There is a heaviness in the air and in my heart
There is so much to say and yet words are rendered ineffectual
There is internal and external struggle
There is an ever present plague of disappointment, discontent, division
There is a dilemma, a pervasive unraveling
There is confusion, disbelief, uncertainty
There is a desire to speak up, to shout, to pitch a fit, to throw a verbal punch
There is an inner voice saying, “don’t bother, things won’t change”
There is guilt and shame
There is burning hot dissonance swirling, uncomfortable
There is a place inside to hide, illuminated by distraction as the madness continues outside
There is a dense fog lingering heavily, ominous and gloomy
There is outrage, exaggeration
There is bombshell revelation, there is disregard of truth
There is overwhelm, always overwhelm
There is a heaviness in the air and in my heart
I sense it, feel it, can’t escape it, so I breathe it out of my system, temporarily relieved
I repeat it over and over, clearing the air around me with my own breath, trying to rise above the fog
I trudge forward in pursuit of truth and progress
There is a heaviness in the air and in my heart
– SLH
In searching for a quote to accompany this bleak reflection, I was struck by an excerpt from Michelle Obama’s keynote address at Young African Women Leaders Forum (well worth a full read if you can take the time).
So you may not always have a comfortable life. And you will not always be able to solve all the world’s problems all at once. But don’t ever underestimate the impact you can have, because history has shown us that courage can be contagious, and hope can take on a life of its own.
Michelle Obama
Acting once again as a beacon of hope, her words give me strength. As much as my reflection feels bleak, I’m also struck to press on with courage.
I am resilient and strong. I will rise above the fog.
Does this resonate with you? How are you getting through? I’d love to hear from you.
