A Compass for the Quiet Heart

If ever the world grows loud and cold, And the stories of old begin to unfold, Step away from the noise and the light, Learn the soft language of the night.

But promise me this, as shadows grow: You will let the heavy burdens go. When the stars begin their silver dance, Give your weary soul a second chance.

If you feel a longing deep and wide, Like the pulling of a distant tide, Do not reach for what has passed away; Dwell in the breath of the present day.

When the autumn leaves begin to fall, Listen for the wind's low, hushing call. Know I am there in the rustling tree, A quiet ghost of a memory.

If the monsoon rain begins to weep, And the secrets of the clouds are deep, Stand outside in the cooling spray, And let it wash the dust away.

The rain is a song without a word, The softest music ever heard. Let it touch your tired face, And hold you in a damp embrace.

If you wander down to the sandy shore, Where the ocean waves begin to roar, Watch the foam as it comes and goes, Washing the pebbles near your toes.

The sea does not try to hold the sand, It slips away from the reaching hand. Learn from the water how to be— To move with grace and to be free.

Should you remember a name you loved, Look to the white clouds high above. Send your sorrows to the empty sky, Let the old regrets simply pass you by.

Moments of calm will bloom for you, In the morning mist and the honeyed dew. If ever the path feels long and lone, Build a temple of your very own.

Take a seat by the river’s edge, Make your heart a sacred pledge. To keep the fire of hope alive, To help the tired spirit thrive.

When the moon is a silver thread, Let the kindest words be said. Whisper them softly to the dark, Until you feel a tiny spark.

If ever you feel the need to cry, Look at the birds as they fly by. They do not carry the weight of yesterday, They simply spread their wings and play.

So open the window, let it in— The world is ready to begin. Dwell in the grace the silence brings, And find your home in the quiet things.

I wrote this as a gentle guide for finding peace when life feels too loud. Inspired by the beauty of monsoon evenings and the vastness of the sea, these verses are a reminder that healing is a journey we take one breath at a time.