Any
Tree That Falls
There’s
that old Zen riddle that we’ve all heard
“If
a tree falls in the forest,
and no one is there to hear,
Does
it make a sound?”
I only lately came to some understanding.
There is a writer’s workshop
(it happens somewhere on any given weekend)
Led by some accomplished poets and novelists.
All in attendance are writers
Most have never been published
Most are unknown
Except to a small circle of friends.
Any published writer
Evokes both admiration and envy
From the many poets and writers
Who create without recognition.
In every city
In every town
People gather to make music.
They sing
They play their instruments
In living rooms
In church basements
In garages.
By the way,
The answer to that riddle is “Yes!”
The answer is always yes.
Wherever there is life,
The answer is yes.
Any expression of art
Says yes.
Your contribution is important
Your voice is heard.
Your words are significant.
For every poet, we say yes.
For every singer, we say yes.
For every dancer, every artist,
every musician,
we say yes.
Even if there is no book,
no recording
contract,
no public
recognition,
We say yes.
For
every tree in the forest,
Every movement,
Every rustle,
As long as there is life,
We say yes.
Whether you sing in the shower
Or at the New
York Met,
The answer is yes.
Whether you write for The
New York Times
For Harper and Row
For your family
Or just for yourself,
The answer is yes.
Whether you dance for the Bolshoi
Or to the radio in your living room,
Your movement
Your celebration
Your voice
Your words make a difference
And the answer is always yes.
Charles Kinnaird
Thank you for this!
ReplyDeleteYour're welcome! And thank you for stopping by to comment.
DeleteYes!! Love it.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Beth -- and thanks for visiting the blog.
Delete