Dressing My Monk (Poem)

Dressing My Monk

Robe's deep folds
hide not heart

once callow.
Hood held close

shields not eyes
from sorrows.

Chain breaks not
the yoke to One

Nor sleeves gather
dust from dust to be.
_______________________

I recently participated in an e-course, "Monk in the World", created by Christine Valters Paintner of Abbey of the Arts. The course was a lovely introduction to incorporating contemplative practice in daily life.  Paintner's related Monk Manifesto — an expression of "commitment to contemplation, creativity, and compassion" — was signed by nearly 300 individuals.

Carrying her theme forth, Paintner issued on August 23 an invitation for her 46th Poetry Party, the subject for which is "Monk in the World". My tiny poem, "Dressing My Monk", is my response to the invitation.

Anyone may share his or her inspiration at Abbey of the Arts by writing a poem that explores the theme, or goes in an entirely different direction. Be sure to leave a link to your contribution in the comments section here.

On Friday, August 27, a name from among those participating will be drawn at random. The winner will receive a copy of Paintner's Sacred Poetry: An Invitation to Write, an art journal comprising a collection of earlier Poetry Party prompts.