Ever tighter circles,
drowning in a whirlpool;
a lifeline thrown anchors,
soothes, restores perspective.
Still waters are boiling;
remove kettle from stove,
reliving just feeds it,
now is all that matters.
Things start to overwhelm;
exudes calm confidence,
all thought just melts away,
can’t fight that inner peace.
Needed to learn that skill;
things neither good nor bad,
have no expectations,
only desireless calm.
Understand not in books;
practice experience,
when respect and sincere,
diligent, persevere.
Thinking too much again;
stand, relax the body,
let go of all your cares,
find strength in the stillness.
Stop fighting mind monkeys;
don’t focus just accept,
no need to understand,
just quiet awareness.
Steadying hand when trip;
acknowledge subtle hints,
signpost where the path lies,
there are no accidents.
Fear’s an emotion,
chosen not to indulge;
grateful to my teacher,
for showing me the Way.
For Kevin McQuaid
teacher, counsellor, mentor and friend
with deepest respect and gratitude
for all the encouragement and support.