Recalling a Time Before


Multiple Prompts Fusing Together

Recalling a Time Before

Raven and Hawk Crossing path for pondering song

Photo by Pete Nuij on Unsplash

I recall a time before this
one of torment and rage-filled memories
triggering movement into a protective motion
guarding self and all the vulnerabilities.

Down a spiritual path
fifteen, maybe seventeen
in the making
returning to a place of peace,
tranquility,
whilst accusations of apathetic fly.

Just as the raven and hawk
fly together
returning the world into balance,
finding equilibrium between
shadow and light.

End of road
thought-provoking wonderment
of chapters next, storytelling tales
gasping for air
homeostasis scattering pieces
puzzled mystery existing
in everything and nothing alike.

Trusting spirit’s return
self-inflicting knowing
life’s burdens entwined
letter of credence
written upon hearts
letting go.

~ Ani Po

Photo by Niklas Veenhuis on Unsplash

Image captured by Author

Much gratitude for the author’s prompts, sitting with me during a time of great change.

This past month I sat with my mother, who was thought to be on ‘end of life’ care, only to return home after spending two weeks in rehab, gaining strength and learning to walk again.

During this time, reflecting on my inward journey, healing traumas of past, present and future to come, I arrive in a place confused as apathetic or non-caring for current circumstances.

Being present and holding sacred space does not require words and is often misinterpreted as non-caring. We continue holding space — healing familial traumas and paving future paths to travel.

Driving home one day, A hawk, chasing a crow, fly in front of my windshield. Two territorial beings flying together — sort of. I am reminded — continue holding balance for self, infusing into the world without questioning my steps.


Infinite gratitude to James G Brennan with his Resurrected Performance, challenging me to a prompt, now expired, Carolyn Hastings for accepting my request to Paper Poetry, Sahil Patel and his prompt on Lifeline, Ravyne Hawke on her prompt in letting go, Diana C.arriving at a time of knowing where I needed to focus my energy, and Frank Ontario for his piece on Transcending Words through Pictures — as I witnessed a different outcome unfold before the medical team could.

Unable to capture Hawk chasing Crow in flight, while driving, I share the spirit of each separately, together in one piece.


Much gratitude for those who take time to read, ponder, and allow the inner workings of self to come forward. Grateful for the feedback, love shared, and, more importantly, the Dance with Inspiration. Deep Peace.

Joseph Lieungh

Photo by Javardh on Unsplash

Mindful Existence


Mindful Existence

Everyday lessons of returning to mindfulness

Photo by Laurenz Heymann on Unsplash

We wake to a constant disagreement between the right and left. Unsure of who is right or wrong. Is there a right or wrong? Is it perceptually understood as such?

In the Midwest, during the first snowfall, there are extremists pointing fingers at the other side. Fearlessly driving too fast for slippery conditions, pointing fingers at the fear-ridden or cautious of sorts for driving too cautious. Or the cautious blaming the fearless for accidents.

Who is right? Both!

The cautious creating a wall undetectable to the fearless until it is too late for response…causing a step on the brakes just a wee bit too hard…losing control and swerving either into a ditch or another vehicle.

Who is right, and who is wrong? Is it a matter of being right or wrong? Instead, is it a matter of not being aware of the current situation?

Mindfulness in a single moment extends throughout our days. Mindfulness can support us during times of fear, likewise, in times of haste. Mind is clear of clouded thoughts, clarity restored, and greater awareness of our surroundings, those who play and interact with us in this Great Canvas, we mindfully exist in a place of sacred space…


Thank you Diana C., jules, Ravyne Hawke and Spyder for holding this sacred space within Know Thyself Heal Thyself.


The above scenario is not really about being right or wrong, in my opinion, but more about how humans work together. Some have different viewpoints and may not always fit into our perception of reality.

Are we attached to being right or wrong? Having an attachment to this or that? If so, we are left in disagreement with ourselves and others, causing disharmony with all of the above.

Continue driving slower than the rest, or speed like you are always late. Regardless of reality, both having consequences. Returning to the greater picture of all there is, we can foresee the varying reactions of others and anticipate our next step.

Parnelli swerves right
dodging in and out
gracefully remaining
the lane set before us.

Frustration and disgust
or pure joy
in learning a new step
dancing with in
the Canvas of Life.

~Ani Po


Much gratitude for those who take time to read, ponder, and allow the inner workings of self to come forward. Grateful for the feedback, love shared, and, more importantly, the Dance with Inspiration. Deep Peace.

Joseph Lieungh

Photo by Javardh on Unsplash