ALS NaPoWriMo Day 21 Prompt: Use every 5th line as a refrain.
I am using the words of the Dalai Lama to begin my poem: “Do not let the behaviour of others destroy your inner peace.”
And the refrain that I’m using at every fifth line is “Find your inner balance and stay centred within.”
Poem: I am centred within
“Do not let the behaviour of others destroy your inner peace,”
Do not let your love and kindness be washed away with ease,
Do not change yourself to fit into their description,
Do not let the seasons eliminate your being,
Find your inner balance and stay centred within.
—
The chaos of the outside world will threaten to create turbulence,
Swelling emotions of rage, mistrust, envy and discontent,
The limitations and struggles of others will also subjugate you,
But no matter if it torrents or shines,
Find your inner balance and stay centred within.
—
Control your own emotions, and not others’ demeanour,
Take learning from nature, which only knows how to honour,
Fighting the demons outside isn’t worth your time,
Taming your inner demons is what needs focusing,
Find your inner balance and stay centred within.
—
Let the waves of negativity crash against your being,
Let the ebb and flow of life aid your becoming,
Let others learn from your calmness and clarity,
There’s a lesson concealed in every adversity,
Find your inner balance and stay centred within.
—
©Vandana Bhasin
21.04.2025
