This month Linda Mitchell posed our Inkling challenge: “Honor someone’s April Poetry project in some way with a poem in the spirit of their project, a response poem or some way that suits you.” I loved the idea, but was a bit worried because I hadn’t followed along consistently with many, or really any, of the National Poetry Month (NPM) projects. I was peripherally aware of what people were doing, and dipped in now and again, but that was about it. Time just got away from me, and focus was in short supply as well.
As I pondered my options (and was all too aware of time ticking away), I realized that the big take-away for me this past month was admiration and gratitude for everyone who participated. I was simply wowed by the commitment and passion of each poet, impressed by their creative projects and by their determination to recognize and participate in NPM. Although I didn’t participate at all, I benefitted greatly from those who did and shared their work and their processes so generously. In the end, I decided that’s what I wanted to honor–the creative efforts and outcomes of all who participated in NPM.
A Word or Two of Gratitude
They dive
into the rush and gush
of creative flow
not knowing, just going
and growing
sowing poetry seeds
on a month-long quest
not to be the best
but to be blessed by words
along a self-chosen quest
to dive deep and reap
to snatch at a wisp
of whispered word
twist it, chisel it
into a “something” that prickles
pierces upward
like a tender leaf
Reaching through soil
breaching boundaries
reward for the toil
from coiled seed
into bud and bloom
which soon falls
to mulch, to mix
into rich compost
a host for the next endeavor
whatever
that might be
Never minding the distractions
infractions
odd daily impactions
they peel back layers
a wordy striptease
to find the sublime
rewind time
strike at each part
let words fall apart
until the heart
of it all pulses
with a steady
beat beat beat
at our world-weary feet
A gift beyond measure
a poetry treasure
©Molly Hogan
If you want to check out what the other Inklings did with this challenge, click on the links below:
Linda Mitchell
Catherine Flynn
Heidi Mordhorst
MaryLee Hahn
Margaret is spending time with family this week and won’t be participating.
This week’s Poetry Friday is hosted by Jama Rattigan at her blog, Jama’s Alphabet Soup. Be sure to stop by and see what she’s dishing up this week along with other PF participants.
Nix the comfort zone 
It’s a thought-filled celebration of all.those.words, Molly. I love the whirly, twirly end verse and “a host for the next endeavor”. Lovely!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Linda. It was a lot of fun to play with the rhythm and rhyme. Thanks for sharing all your treasures last month!
LikeLike
And that is what you have given us, Molly; A gift beyond measure /
a poetry treasure.💛
I can relate to your ‘passing you by’ feeling. Life has been busy here, too. Bit I don’t have a whirlwind of words to express my wonder, awe and appreciation. So thank-you for crafting and sharing yours. And take care of you. x
LikeLiked by 1 person
It sounds like you’re in the midst of a celebratory whirlwind over there, Kat! Your newest book looks utterly delightful!
LikeLike
“not knowing, just going” describes the faith many of us writers have when we just sit down to create. I love finding where the unexpected path will take me. “odd daily impactions” just hit me as what life is often for me. and that is certainly the beauty and joy of living if we embrace their inevitability. thanks for testimonial for your fellow poets. i do have a question, is there a less male-centric word to use than “fellow” in the previous sentence? as a woman do you use fellow in a similar context? please, any of your writer friends – what are your thoughts on using the word “fellow?”
LikeLiked by 1 person
I think my strongest writing often comes as a surprise, taking an unexpected path from my preconceived journey. I’m not sure what to say about the word “fellow”, but I appreciate that you’re considering all its nuances. It’s not a word/expression I use much. I’ll have to think on it. Anyone else?
LikeLiked by 1 person
Simply gorgeous! Thank you!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wonderful praise poem for all the NPM participants. I’m in awe of those who met their goals and gifted us with their words all month long.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s really an impressive commitment!
LikeLike
I love just going/and growing. The poems have been far from perfect, but I do feel like I get better every time I write, even if I miss the mark. I appreciate your poem, the wordplay, and the rhyme.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Tricia, for sharing your words this past month. Your NPM project is fascinating. I love the idea of using primary sources to spark poetry.
LikeLike
It’s our Molly that thinks to include everyone and that is why we love her so much! This is such a celebration poem…a new anthem.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Linda. I love your positive lens.
LikeLike
A lovely and gloriously loose celebration of almost more than can be captured! Hang in there, Molly.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re an inspiration, Heidi! Thanks for your NPM poems!
LikeLike
Wonderful wordplay and a lovely celebration!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Your poem speaks for all of us, Molly. Grateful for you. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Right back at ya’ Bridget (and Smidgey, too, of course!)
LikeLike
“sowing poetry seeds” indeed! Love this image, Molly!
LikeLike
I adore this poem, Molly. “Not to be the best/but to be blessed by words/along a self-chosen quest” are my favorite lines. It is a blessing indeed to share this journey with you!
LikeLike
Thank you, Molly! Your words are full of joy and the rhyme and rhythm fits so well. It, in itself, is a treasure.
LikeLike