This poem about grieving speaks to keeping an open mind and heart. It’s certainly a practice, which means that it’s ongoing (one day could house all the stages of grief) and requires our attention.

Paying attention – really paying attention – is part of mindfulness. That includes heightening the senses to more fully and richly experience life on earth, but it also includes a certain openness to every experience.

There is an element of intrigue, acceptance, awe, and curiosity involved in mindfulness – the kind that heals, awakens, and connects.

“The simple and bitter truth is, you grieve for your loved ones for as long as you live.” — Narin Grewal

I wrote this little poem about grieving because it’s something I live with every day. There are no days that go without thoughts, feelings, signs of the ones who've gone before you.

Before you read it, I have to mention this handwritten poetry print: "I have not heard your voice in years, but my heart has conversations with you every day." A lot of people love that one. You might love it on your wall, or to give as a gift.

I hope this poem helps you trust the mystery and even embrace it: what a fascinating life this is; a heartbreakingly beautiful one; worth opening to and listening to and diving into.

A Poem about Grieving Mindfully

When a thing with wings whizzes by, 

I can only think of you.

At times I smile as you land nearby,

and I think I see you eyeing me, knowingly.

Then there is the breeze—

someone once said to go there

for secrets and peace.

When you left,

I started to listen to them.

I cannot say what I have learned,

but I have been listening.

— I listen for you

. . .

Tell me:

Which part of this poem is your favorite?

Tell me in the comments. I read every single one, and I'd love to know.

Listen for the secrets. Your heart will understand before your head does.

With love,

Jen

P.S. Need more light today? See what else I've written about loss and possibility. You might find exactly what you need.