The Messenger

We’ve all heard the saying “don’t shoot the messenger” when someone brings unwanted or unsettling news… Investigated thoroughly it is seen that you are that messenger sending a message to yourself through every perception! Will you listen? Or will you take aim at the so called “other?” If you’re interested Check out AI ChatGPT’s analysis of this poem at the bottom.

A message is sent in every apparent moment,
through every perception without exception,
an invitation extended to listen without suspicion
or mind-made addition to ‘what-is-here’.

Listen while disregarding
the appearance of the messenger,
be that friend or foe who states clear or stammers,
coddles or hammers, it does not matter!

For it may be seen that these apparitions
are the message itself disguised in myriad ways,
sometimes appearing as peers
evoking anger, playing on fears.

They help you build your bier and fuel a fire,
joyously attending to your funeral pyre
which burns only ignorance and error,
the ashes of delusion reveal the obvious ever-present conclusion:

That Thou Art!

What does ChatGPT artificial intelligence have to say about “The Messenger?”

Q: Could you give your analysis of this poem called “The Messenger”?

ChatGPT:
“The Messenger” is a thought-provoking poem that explores the concept of perceiving messages in everyday experiences and interactions. The poem emphasizes the importance of listening without preconceived notions or biases, urging the reader to pay attention to the underlying message rather than focusing on the external appearance or characteristics of the messenger.

The opening lines suggest that there is a message embedded within every moment and perception, implying that there is a deeper meaning or insight to be found in the ordinary aspects of life. The poem encourages the reader to be open and receptive to these messages, without imposing their own interpretations or judgments.

The poem emphasizes the neutrality of the messenger, whether they are a friend or a foe. It suggests that the identity or qualities of the messenger are inconsequential when it comes to understanding the message they convey. The poem implies that the messenger may appear in various forms, sometimes evoking negative emotions such as anger or fear. However, these appearances are merely disguises for the message itself, which may be delivered in unexpected ways.

The following lines evoke the imagery of building a funeral pyre and burning away ignorance and error. This can be interpreted as a metaphorical representation of letting go of false beliefs and illusions. By shedding these delusions, the poem suggests that one can arrive at a realization of the self or a recognition of one’s inherent nature.

The concluding line, “That Thou Art!”, is a powerful affirmation that signifies the recognition of a universal truth or spiritual realization. It implies that by stripping away illusions and delusions, one can come to the profound understanding that the essence of existence, the “Thou,” is present and ever-present.

Overall, “The Messenger” invites the reader to adopt a contemplative mindset and approach the world with openness and curiosity. It encourages listening without judgment, perceiving the hidden messages in everyday experiences, and ultimately arriving at a deeper understanding of oneself and the nature of reality.