For years I have called poetry my “creative and spiritual practice.” I am continually reminded how true this is. I recently completed my book, “Finding Your Spirit Guides,” in which I write about the many kinds of Beings from different realms who are available to inspire and protect us. I included ten methods for connecting and communicating with these wonderful Spirits. One of these was through honoring our Art, whatever that may be for each of us.
Over the past few years, I have become a ‘morning writer’ rather than a ‘midnight writer.’ Before I do anything else when I get up, I perform a quick meditation of thankfulness and connection to Earth and the Infinite Universe. Then I read a poem. After that I open my notebook to a fresh page and simply write whatever arrives in my consciousness. Some mornings I get a whole poem. Others I receive a fascinating word or phrase or line.
After this supreme surrender, I get to work, either continuing with the current piece or revising and tuning a poem I have been working on. Some days I have time for ten minutes. Others an hour or two are free for poetic expression. My aim is always a moment when I feel completely transported into the flow of Spirit. And in this vibration, free of gravity and clocks, I am cleansed, healed and brought into balance and harmony.
Does this happen every day? Of course not. But the more often I attempt this sincerely, the more I am able to find the Flow. Most of the poems are foreshadowings or fragments. Sometimes a whole poem is born. Or the seed of one. Whatever happens I bless myself as a Poet.
I have Guides who join me. One is a famous poet I have chosen. And we all have a Poet now in Spirit that we especially admire and relate to. Mine is Gwendolyn Brooks. I met her many years ago and was so inspired by her generosity of spirit. I also love that her poetry is about ordinary people, often the poor, whom she makes transcendent. My favs of my own poems are about real people too. I also have two teachers, now on the Other Side who encouraged my poetry, and one wonderful poetry friend.
All poets need Muses! I hope you will take time right now to think of a poet or two – you don’t have to have met them except through their work – to ask to be your Guides in your craft of beauty and truth. Then think of people who have profoundly influenced your creative, poetic life. Let your mind and spirit find them. I am sure they would love to work with you now!
