A Poem: Tuning In

Be kind to yourself.
And kinder again.

We are sometimes children
thrown from the womb too soon.
But your heart is a mother.

Your name
when it calls out to itself
is shelter,
and your touch comfort.

Your embrace turned inwards
is permission.
Permission for pain,
and the relief of its soothing.

You are a healer,
a lover, a staunch friend.
Your body’s best advocate.

You are the sensitive antennae
tuned toward home.
The bird’s nesting instinct.

You are a boundary setter.
A time keeper,
that the gift of rest is savoured.

You are a deep listener to your needs,
a first responder.
A warm blanket.

A peace bringer.

Ana Lisa de Jong
Living Tree Poetry
May 2022