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DIVINE INSPIRATION: USING POETRY TO CONNECT TO GOD "We can speak in metaphor of the eternal and the infinite. If we wish to describe the indescribable, we can only do so by poetry. All endeavors to reach God by words resolve themselves into religious poetry. When we experience the hidden, the unfathomable, we can respond with the devoutness of silence...or, with poetry and prayer, we can sing the ineffable"
—Abraham Joshua Heschel
Workshop description There's a treasure trove of poetry that's been influenced by the poet's relationship with the divine. Writers of such spiritual works include 17th Century Mystics, Contemporary American and "Classical" poets, young children and, of course, The Book of Psalms, among others. Some people refer to this as "Sacred Poetry." Through reading that focuses on the feelings a piece evokes, group discussion and exploratory writing exercises (that require no experience in writing, only an open mind and the willingness to put pen to paper) you will discover how your own unique soul may encounter God's presence. A few words Many people use the word spirituality. They describe themselves as spiritual people, which I myself do. Some may go to houses of worship, while others pray or meditate alone. But actual conversations about God, in terms of our feelings and personal connection, are rare. The dialogue seems to be opening up, as the world around us changes. To me, not only as a poetry therapist, but also as a writer and lover of words, the natural thing is to turn to literature to find ways to express a connection to God. There, I can see, as we all can, what has moved and inspired others. In the poetry practice workshop we will look at many things. Some of them may include: God's hidden-ness from us, our feelings about faith, our doubts, the strength we may or may not get from God, ways we perceived God when we were children versus how we do now, anger at God, ideas of a compassionate God, testing God, hope in and from God. So whether you are questioning, firm in your faith, or both, this workshop is designed to open you up to new ways of thinking and feeling about God's place in your life. Back to top |
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