Wayfinding-Two Poems
Whether compass or stars, we find where we are and where we're going
Wayfinding-One
If this world is the book of God, it spins too fast to linger
over divine language, an oration we miss, pointing its compass
beyond the horizon. Alas, I find it’s not the needle
that moves, but me—spinning. A revolving top or door
swinging on its hinges, undone by a breeze.
Now I choose, holding both compass and view—
poised on the day’s threshold. Notice the dawn,
read creation’s lines and linger as the
path unfolds.
Wayfinding-Two
Mariners charted their course by the stars,
Steadfast, sure, fixed,
Celestial landmarks guiding the way,
Constellations like anchors in the sky.
Turning waves rolled under vast vessels,
Threatening to capsize crew and craft
And still they steered, undeterred
Displacing oceans and the immediate
Known for horizons filled with the
Neverseen.
A fellow mariner, I chart my course and
Sail on.
These two poems from my book “Mining the Bright Birds”1 have one thing in common—keeping the horizon in view. The first one is an allusion to Psalm 19 and its record of God speaking through Creation in the skies.
I am often moving too fast to see God’s message of not words but the Holy Spirit continues to remind me to Just Slow Down, even for a minute and look up or out from where I am. The change in perspective and pause that is required often recalibrates my soul in minute ways.
A compass is used to find out where we are. The stars show us where we’re going.
What might you find if you slow down and stop the spinning or take in the view from your ‘ship’? How might God speak? What constellations will mark your way as you find your way forward?
Take the metaphor(s) in hand and share in the Comments. We would love to hear.
Until next time~
-Jody
Guest Post
In case you missed it, I had the opportunity to write a Guest Post on Matthew Long’s Substack for National Poetry Month, tracing my journey to poetry. You can read that via the link below. Enjoy!
Both of my poetry books are available via this link.
Goodness, friend. Beautiful poetry here. Thanks for sharing with us.
I too need to stop spinning and recalibrate--often! Thank you for your artful reminder. "To read creation's lines"--now there's a worthy goal, especially in spring. Thank you, Jody!