Didn’t think it would happen this fast.
Thought it would be a few days, maybe a week or two.
Thought at least 36 hours would pass.
Didn’t think it would happen this fast.
Blink awake and wonder begins.
Tended to, cared for, independence too soon.
Didn’t think it would happen this fast.
Alone yet connected, forward yet diverted.
Mind confused, soul searching.
Didn’t think it would happen this fast.
Purpose as idea, purpose as reality.
Trying to catch, often missing, the right tempo.
Didn’t think it would happen this fast.
Seeds planted, blooming, fading, renewing – a cycle.
Ends suddenly, baton passed.
Didn’t think it would happen this fast.
First inhale. Last exhale.
In between matters.
Poetry in Life and Leadership
April is National Poetry Month. Poetry is described as the “rhythmic qualities of language.” I am amazed by poetry and want to read more. Business and poetry seem like unlikely pairs. I disagree. If poetry is a rhythm, then business, life, career, and purpose all have a poetic center. The sooner we realize this fact, the sooner we unleash the creativity and momentum within each.
Glynn Young promotes this poetic fact through his book, Poetry at Work. As Glynn states: “Rather than seeing poets as outsiders speaking into the corporate world I believe, that poetry already exists within business and work. Though they may be largely ignored and unrecognized, I’ve seen poets and poetry within the business world — insiders if you will or vital to the ongoing operation and success of what we call work. They just need to be given the freedom to do what they do best: help navigate uncharted territory and speak with poetic precision to lead the way.”
Jeffrey Davis talks of Business Artistry. A great way to shift our mindset. I agree with what Jeffrey said, “Poetic language startles us out of our workaday stupor. Like a strange magnet, it attracts heart particles into new combinations.”
My attempted poem may or may not resonate. If you noticed, I have written some other poetic attempts before. Whatever you may think, in some ways, it doesn’t matter. Writing a little differently causes me to think a little differently. The end result is a refreshed perspective with a new spark in my brain and sparkle in my soul.
Moving piece Jon. I loved your poem about the brevity of life and my heart goes out to you in this time of loss. Losing a father is a great loss indeed….
If you haven’t already done so, I highly recommend reading The Heart Aroused: Poetry and Preservation of the Soul in Corporate America by David Whyte. I’ve recommend this book several times in the past few years. You may find the language and perspective refreshing and inspiring…a welcome contrast to the concrete environs of the corporate world.
Thank you for sharing.
~Samantha
Thank you, Samantha. Very grateful.
I believe I heard of David’s book… maybe from you (probably!). I just ordered a copy. Look forward to reading it.
Thank you, Jon
Hi Jon – I can vouch you’ll love that book. Samantha shared with me as well and it is one of my favorites. Loved the poem and thanks for sharing these authors. Definitely checking out their work.
Thank you, Scott.
Jon – thanks so much for the great reference!
Thank you, Glynn, for creating a poetic spark for so many of us!