Inspirational Poems: John O’Donohue’s For a New Beginning

I love the brevity of poetry and the way it cracks open a window into the soul. As least it does for me.  I used to try and write it when I was younger, but just never quite got the hang of it. Perhaps I need more words to get my point across.

I came across this poem the other day and fell in love with it. Unfamiliar with the author John O’Donohue, I was saddened to learn he had passed away. I feel so fortunate to have discovered this treasure he left behind.

I hope you enjoy it too.

 

For a New Beginning

 

In out-of-the-way places of the heart,

Where your thoughts never think to wander,

This beginning has been quietly forming,

Waiting until you were ready to emerge.

For a long time it has watched your desire,

Feeling the emptiness growing inside you,

Noticing how you willed yourself on,

Still unable to leave what you had outgrown.

It watched you play with the seduction of safety

And the gray promises that sameness whispered,

Heard the waves of turmoil rise and relent,

Wondered would you always live like this.

Then the delight, when your courage kindled,

And out you stepped onto new ground,

Your eyes young again with energy and dream,

A path of plenitude opening before you.

Though your destination is not yet clear

You can trust the promise of this opening;

Unfurl yourself into the grace of beginning

That is at one with your life’s desire.

Awaken your spirit to adventure;

Hold nothing back, learn to find ease in risk;

Soon you will be home in a new rhythm,

For your soul senses the world that awaits you.

John O’Donohue

Isn’t it beautiful? Have you come across any poets that have touched your soul?

-db

Who is Dianna Bonny?

Hi, my name is Dianna Bonny. It’s my mission to candidly share my journey with you. For me, it’s all about the healing: to create a radiant healing energy for others who have befallen a similar fate. Together, we can forge beautiful lives of belonging and connection. Thanks for joining me today! I look forward to hearing from you.

  4 comments for “Inspirational Poems: John O’Donohue’s For a New Beginning

  1. Suzanne
    February 3, 2014 at 7:20 am

    That is one of the most beautiful poems I’ve ever read.
    Thank you for sharing.

    • Dianna Bonny
      February 4, 2014 at 9:50 am

      I agree with you and it is my pleasure to share the good stuff 🙂 xo

  2. Polly Case
    February 3, 2014 at 7:30 am

    I love John O’Donohue!! His work entered my life early in my grief journey. I return to his book of blessings, Bless The Space Between Us (i think) often. There are youtube recordings of him speaking it – a real treat – his lovely voice. All of his books are fantastic. Anam Cara. Thank you for posting.

    • Dianna Bonny
      February 4, 2014 at 9:49 am

      I was so thrilled to find this poem Polly. I will have to look up the book you mentioned and check out the YouTube videos – thank you for sharing that information. So glad to know he has fans out there because his work is gorgeous. xo

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