As usual for these winter days, the sun seems to be outshone by gray skies. While this weather pattern seems odd, it is a reality, something that I need to adjust to this season. As I walk the spiritual journey, I always seek shreds of wisdom. It just so happened that Irene Latham shared her blog poem at Live Your Poem this past Friday. One line resonated with me, and so I kept it in my heart.
"Teach me how to hold the sun when the day is
anything but joyful."
These lines will stay with me as a reminder to be optimistic in the face of challenges while maintaining hope.
I know how to teach,
but how do I teach me?
Is there a way to understand how?
Perhaps I should reach out to
winter's doldrums - hold
all that the season offers in the
middle of my hand when the sun
does not shine. When
the sky provides the
the gift of light on a certain day
there is
an expectation that anything
can open my heart, but
only with the spirit of joyfulness.
draft CVarsalona, 2026
February 24, 2026
Join me as I come into the light on a winter's day.
Oh, Carol, so beautiful! I loved your teaser on the Two Writing Teachers site, your introduction here, Irene's quote (did you share it with her?), and especially your poem. You seem very able to teach yourself! Peace.
ReplyDeleteI did send a note to Irene that I am using her quote, Denise. It is a special one that helped me write my post.
DeleteOh gosh, did I need this today! After another huge snowstorm and more disruption of plans -- and SO many gray days -- I really want to seek a perspective shift. This is such a lovely idea -- thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteAmy, if you are BlueJeanAmy then I am happy to know you. It is always wonderful to find a new Two Writing Teachers to converse with via our blogs. I could not find a comment section on your post but I want you to know that I thoroughly enjoyed your post and found the titles to other ones to be interesting as well. Keep Irene Latham's quote near you to remember that we both have to hold that sun in our hands if it is only in a photo so we can move ahead.
DeleteCarol, I read your comment on Kim’s blog. I hope you’ll write about the grief. counseling and the PT you’re doing. If you ever want to face time or Zoom (Google Meet) I’m here for that. Hugs and peace to you.
ReplyDeleteGlenda, I would love to go online with you. I think my March SOLSC will deal with deal with bereavement and the challenges I am having. I wasn't sure if this would be a topic that others would like to read. Thanks for the nudge.
DeleteCarol, your poem is heartfelt and tender. When the light seems dim, it is hard to find it, even though we know it's there. I am grateful that you are entering the grief counseling because I think that is the key - connecting with others and knowing that no matter what, there are people out there who stand ready to support and encourage. I agree with Glenda - - yes, please share what you can if you are comfortable. I have a friend who continued counseling long after she felt she needed it just because she said it made her feel whole. There is so much we can all learn from you and your experiences, even if we are standing in different shoes.
ReplyDelete"Teach me how to hold the sun when the day is anything but joyful."
ReplyDeleteCarol, this is what I needed today. The last few days have been grief filled ones on the emotional rollercoaster I have been since my husband’s death in September. I wake up every morning searching for the joy.
Carol, I see hope in your poem and also joy in your knowing that you can rise above the winter doldrums and reach the light that is there for you. That light is always within our grasp although some days it is a struggle to get to it. Bob
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful line for a golden shovel - and the poem itself is beautiful, as is the picture you've chosen to accompany it. This is a wonderful reminder that soon the sun will return, and until then I can choose to find it. Hugs.
ReplyDelete