My river has rushed swiftly this summer, carrying lots of learning but not much time for writing long-form reflections. Keeping up with my ~daily “Serenity Splash” poems, however, has been a lovely and powerful self-care tool for me in the midst of the swirling currents.

I thought I’d send out some of the highlights, plus the most recent posts from my other two sections (“Learning Lagoon” and “Song Stream”), so if you’ve missed anything, you can dip in wherever you’d like. 🩷

Serenity Splashes

When I notice my experience
and keep it company,
I cultivate a witness
and companion inside me.

Rx: Take all four daily, or as needed, for anxiety.

Life’s not in your control;
hard things are not your fault.
Safety’s not outside you,
but in being kind inside you.
You’re allowed to rest
and stop carrying their stress.
It’s okay to take your time.
You are doing just fine.

I won’t get safety from the attempt
to manage things I fear,
but only stress. Real safety starts
with being kind in here.

How are you feeling, inner child,
and how can I help you right now?
Whatever you're feeling is okay to feel.
We'll find our way somehow. 🩷

Take it easy, like you matter.
Stop your ears to bossy chatter.
Voices urging you to hustle
are no match for grown-up muscle:
You're in charge of your own pace.
Wisdom treasures space and grace.

A poetic study in distinguishing wisdom from delusion, whether inside (as in old anxiety patterns) or outside (as in political/religious diatribe)

Delusion clangs with certainty.
Wisdom whispers inquiry.

Delusion blares a monologue.
Wisdom welcomes dialogue.

Delusion clings to rigid drills.
Wisdom breaks, reflects, rebuilds.

Delusion seeps from ancient scars.
Wisdom stretches toward the stars.

Anna’s River

🌊 Recent Highlights