I took a long rest
A turning inward that started small
But grew to encompass a year or so sabbatical
During which I cloaked myself
In the caterpillar’s cocoon
Unknowing, going in, that change was inevitable
Only enjoying the solitude
The exploration of self
After so many years of living for the world
A short time (in the grand scheme of things)
To live for me
The caterpillar doesn’t realize
When she spins her protective barrier
That her entire makeup
Diminishes
Entirely new life is formed during her rest
And all the while the world goes on
I had a vision
I was on the edge of a ravine
With no end
Only unknown darkness
Those on the far side called, “We’re waiting.”
“Take the step.”
But I was too afraid
I was curious, felt the confines
Of the safety I’d created
But I wasn’t ready
And my uneasiness grew
Have you ever felt like you’re on the precipice,
Building up to a magnificent crescendo,
After which life as you know it
Will never be the same?
My wings were starting to form
The music became faster
The drumbeat more frantic
The tenseness of solitude
Began to nudge me from within
For often solitude becomes a fortress
Serves a purpose for rest and rejuvenation
But can hinder growth and expansion
Solitude became both a soul’s need
And a soul’s barrier
And the rhythm became stronger
Calling me to the next step in the journey
Until the realization came–
Creation is a birthright
The inner soul seeks to express
To use its gifts to affect the world
Shutting off of mind and body
Kills the soul
And with it joy, peace, and love
Contentment, happiness, gratitude, and health
Creation in all its forms brings new life
To a world that once seemed lost
A new message for this time
I’ve escaped my confines,
My self-imposed web of safety
Though I haven’t traveled far yet
The thin veil of freedom is still wrapped
Loosely around me
Drying in the sun
With the mandate to fully open to the world
Fear has taken up residence nearby
Tasked with showing me where I need to grow
Each day I take a step off that ravine
Into a darkness like no other
Each time I emerge with more
From deep inside
The pieces to the puzzle of a lifetime
Laid bare for all–
Raw
Vulnerable
Real
Don’t stand there and let the world happen to you, bending like a tree, subject to the wind. Become a Creator.
(11-4-12)