Can We?
Can we begin with objective noticing,
switching out of default mode, and
casting aside any entrenched
this-is-how-we-do-it culture?
Can we find dissatisfaction
with coasting along
in lackluster business-as-usual mode
and summon genuinely practical compassion
for those that are needy– regardless
of whether they are us or them?
Can we be willing to risk
taking the initiative
in being vulnerable,
stepping out in faith, exposed,
but ready to discover what feels
uniquely ideal, and to embrace all
that rings as deeply authentic?
Can we squeak the door open a crack
–or even fling it abruptly ajar–
and commence letting in light and freedom
and permission and unconditionality
by which we can tentatively (or ruthlessly!)
examine our motives? Can we keep only
the driving forces that we truly desire?
Can we sort them out
like outgrown books or clothes
making a small pile to keep,
and a larger one to let go?
Can we then choose to grow?
Why did we ever become myopic, apathetic,
prescriptive, judgmental, and narrow?
Self-preservation was not the worst purpose,
but how about something more inspired instead,
like generosity or kindness,
unity or exhilarating joy–
flexibility or forgiveness,
inclusivity or creativity– and especially–
courageously showing up as our very best?
Did you know holy means whole?
Can we actually do what makes us complete?
Can we cultivate an entirely fresh menu
of stimulating reasons and motivating forces
by which to progress, and bless,
and shine indubitably forth?
Can we shift paradigms, either fast or slow,
gleaming onward anew, like fireflies aglow?
Even tectonic plates
slide along by tiny increments,
and look how far that’s gotten them;
we are a long way from Pangea.
Can we throw inertia off?
Can we figure out what we want?
Can we chunk it down and start?
Can we get moving towards it?
Polly Castor
4/10/2022
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5 Comments
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We surely can, Polly! Thanks for the prod to get out of our comfort zones! You always have just the right words. Xx
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Thank you for this “wake up” poem Polly!
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Love it! This is exactly how I feel! Church should be a supreme joy, discovering new and fun ways to connect with our neighbors.
The Pacific Beach church in San Diego just had an Open House, replete with 2 awesome speakers about healing, 3 musicians performing on our corner, people dancing and using tamborines and rhymn instruments, chalk art on our sidewalks with happy words, a face painter, Bible coloring pages at a children’s table, the CSM podcast available in our Reading Room, lunch and drinks, balloons and much joy in welcoming our community. We had way more people new to CS attend, in comparison with our members!! Love and newness wins!!-
Author
Great!
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I sincerely appreciate your insightful poem Polly, thank you
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