A Casual Hike

Here we find a very short story that points to a common predicament created by thought. All thoughts and corresponding states arise in the mind. What we are allows for and observes all states yet when established in knowing our true nature, we remain utterly detached and unaffected by appearances.

A to B

"A to B" is a whimsical exploration of the unpredictable journey we often find ourselves on. With humor and metaphor, it challenges the idea of linear progress, inviting the reader to embrace detours, unexpected encounters, and the realization that the destination might not be what we think it is.

Another Approach

"Another Approach" invites readers to reconsider the conventional methods of seeking peace and tranquility.

Back to Basics

Back to Basics explores the simplicity of our natural, innate goodness—a quality that exists prior to learned behaviors, rules, or societal structures. This poem reflects on the small, universal gestures that reveal our unicity, like a smile or a kind deed, and how they effortlessly express our shared being.

By the Fire

By the Fire invites the reader to reflect on the difference between superficial seeking and deep, transformative longing. The poem metaphorically speaks to the inner fire of desire that draws us toward truth, urging us to move beyond fleeting mental distractions and embrace the intensity of true seeking.

Clickety Clack

Clickety Clack explores the feeling of being caught in life's repetitive patterns, symbolized by a girl traveling on a train with no space between its cars. The rhythmic "clickety clack" of the train echoes the mind's endless loops of thoughts and stories. The poem hints at the possibility of freedom through "uncoupling" from these narratives, allowing for a return to peace, but for now, the journey continues.

Crossing the Rubicon

I learned that the phrase “Crossing the Rubicon” originates from Julius Caesar’s decisive act of crossing the Rubicon River in 49 B.C., an action that marked the “point of no return” and led to the Roman Civil War. In this poem, the Rubicon is a metaphor for the irreversible journey toward self-realization in nonduality. To cross this river is to relinquish the illusion of the individual self, leaving behind the false sense of identity that binds one to doubt and fear. Enjoy!

Distracted

This is the first nondual poem I wrote. It reflects aspects of the apparent journey we take to discover the Truth of who we are - the way is full of distractions!

Forever and a Day

Here is a metaphorical reflection on our "True home" - the Atman or Self. It contrasts the impermanence and burdens of the 'relative' world with the timeless, worry-free state of our True nature.

Full Stop

The poem "Full Stop" invites the reader into a deep reflection on stillness and the illusion of continuity created by the mind. It calls for surrendering the need for certainty and embracing the emptiness that paradoxically reveals fullness. Through the act of stopping, one is led to recognize the ever-present, complete nature of just This, where all desires are fulfilled by simply being.

Goodbye

'Goodbye' reflects on the illusion of separation and the realization that what is truly real never ends. The poem invites us to see beyond appearances and embrace the deeper truth that remains constant, even as we say goodbye to the forms that come and go. With clarity of vision, we discover that what is present in the "heart of the heart" is eternal, beyond the fleeting nature of physical goodbyes.

Like Space

Boundless awareness may be likened to empty space - unseen, infinite, and ever-present. I invite you to look beyond appearances and touch the silent, luminous essence that simply is.

No Matter

'No Matter' explores the essence of self-awareness, finding reflections of the self in every sense and sensation. Each line points toward the recognition: that behind every experience lies the steady, illuminating presence of the Awareness.

Out of Bliss

Short poems like “Out of Bliss” are some of my favorites as they say so much with so little. There is a rhythmic quality that is almost like a mantra. This may serve to quiet the mind somewhat and allow an understanding prior to thought.

Safe Harbor

This poem guides readers from the struggle of survival to the realization of their inherent stability, ultimately transforming them from mere survivors into beacons of light for others.

Sounds from a Clock

In the gentle rhythm of a ticking clock, this poem contemplates life’s oscillating moments—between remembering and forgetting, presence and absence, reminding us of the timeless freedom that lies beyond.

Steadfast and True

“Steadfast and True” is a poem that arose this morning, I suppose in an attempt to capture that inspiration is transient, and also speak to the enduring power of past creative insights. There is only patience and acceptance here – the poems in “Take Heart, Seeker” and on this website remain, at least here, as True inspiration and remain a guiding light even in the apparent absence of fresh arisings. Gratitude!

Sylvia's Way

I have written poems for/about friends as I often find inspiration in their creative endeavors. Sylvia Arkilanian is a friend, artist, and photographer in Montreal who shares our love of Truth. Sylvia’s painting featured here is called “All Things Return to the One” and may be viewed at Sylvia’s website “Fresh New Eyes“.

Take Heart, Seeker

From the book "Take Heart, Seeker" - poetry by Walter Cecchini, artwork by Priyam Saini.

The Giver

"The Giver" explores the themes of nature's effortless generosity. It reflects on how sunlight, breezes, and birdsong offer their presence freely, not to give something tangible but to reveal the essence of the giver itself.

The Heart of the Ocean

This poem emphasizes the contrast between surface turmoil and deep-sea tranquility. What non-duality offers is to realize stability and tranquility regardless of life circumstances!

The Open Secret

This offering invites us to explore the profound unity that underlies all appearances and reveals that the Truth of our shared essence is both simple and ever-present, though often overlooked in the noise of the world.

The Race to Nowhere

The Race to Nowhere" highlights the futility of chasing external goals, inviting us to recognize that the true prize is already here, beyond the rush of seeking.

The Temple of Silence

While a “loud and proud” personal exchange may seem to disturb the peace, one may always find refuge in The Temple of Silence! If one starts or becomes drawn into these exchanges, it happens less often, with less intensity and for a shorter duration.

Welcome

"Welcome" conveys the acceptance of difficult emotions as uninvited guests, offering them compassion and patience without resistance. Through gentle presence and non-interference, there is a recognition of the transient nature of sadness, grief, and shame, observing as they eventually leave, revealing the enduring radiance of peace beneath them all.

Yeah, but...

"Yeah, but..." exposes the familiar voice of doubt and resistance that arises whenever we inch toward change or growth and how this inner dialogue often holds us back, while reminding us that true freedom lies beyond the constant objections of the mind.