My blog post this week comes to you via poetry. I'm a lover of words and I try to indulge in writing at least once a week for a short block of time-- even 15 minutes will do. Poetry is by far my favorite artistic endeavor within the confines of the written word.
As I sat down a third time this week to write this post, it was as if this poem was asking to be written. So, I did what I've trained myself to do: I got really quiet, listened, and let it come together on its own.
Advice from an Owl
You told me to just have fun with it.
“Wing it,” you said with a wink.
So I jotted down some illegible words on a page.
Still, nothing.
Still.
Nothing.
You wondered, “how do you tolerate it— that persistent fear of being found out?"
Your encouragement
wears on me like struggle
like I’m wearing a ridiculous sweater vest
ridiculously too tight
and I can’t
for the life of me
squirm out of it.
So I toss a blueberry in your beak
to keep you satisfied for now
and keep on wondering
if I’m a fraud
or just no fun at all?
At first glance, it's a piece about imposter syndrome, creative blocks, and the struggle of being ok with stillness and nothing... themes that are all too common amongst the women and men who come through my office doors. Though, written words have a life of their own to be explored for days, weeks, and years after being recorded.
I'm sure this poem will continue to evolve in meaning and symbolism over time— as life is lived, experience is gained, and things change.
Alongside my professional training in art therapy and trauma-informed counseling, I am trained in expressive writing and other methods to help move you through the stuck places in your life. I am always creative, deeply tuned in, and darkly humorous when it's called for.
If you or someone you know might benefit from working this way, reach out today. To schedule a free phone consultation for therapy with me, click here.
Be Well,
Jessica