I began to listen

a little more deeply —

turning down the volume

of thoughts and stories —

focusing more and more

in my heart.

I found the contrast

shocking, really.

There was a tender

kind of sadness

as a quieter view

came more into focus

and what was most real

and true

began to show through

all the clutter.

And I vowed

that however great

the contrast became,

this time —

I wouldn’t let go

of this.