It only takes a reminder to breathe,
a moment to be still and just like that,
something in me settles, softens,
makes space for imperfection. The harsh
voice of judgment drops to a whisper
and I remember again that life isn’t a relay race;
that we will all cross the finish line;
that waking up to life is what we were born for.
As many times as I forget, catch myself charging forward
without even knowing where I am going,
that many times I can make the choice
to stop, to breathe, to be and walk
slowly into the mystery.
"Walk Slowly" by Danna Faulds. Go In and In: Poems from the Heart of Yoga (Peaceable Kingdom Books, 2002). Art credit: "Woman Carrying Load on Her Head," image by unknown photographer.
Many luscious elements in this one, Danna, it is a potent reminder that "we will all cross the finish line".....so many reasons to make sure we choose our race with full joy in life
ReplyDeleteInspiring & calming breath I fully experience each time I read this poems. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteIt is much easier to "walk slowly" and to breathe now that I am retired. I wish I had read this mindfully 50 years ago.
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