Pearls in the Pandemic

A COLLECTION OF PANTOUMS FROM THE 2020 CLASS OF COMPANIONS IN CARE

Companions In Care concluded with a poetry-writing exercise.  Engaging with poetry helps us express the inexpressible; it also fosters connection, intimacy and mystery – some of the intangibles of Spiritual Companionship.

The theme of the meditation and poetry exercise was “The Pearl in the Pandemic.”  We are living in the midst of unprecedented suffering, uncertainty, loss and grief … and yet there are still unexpected blessings, experiences of surprising grace, insight, and genuine growth.  There are invitations to connect in profound and unexpected ways.  Sometimes lessons can only be learned by journeying where we did not want to go. 

The students were invited to reflect:  what are the unexpected gifts that have come since the COVID lockdown?  What grace has arisen … what invitations have been offered … what connections made?  Have there been opportunities to pause and slow down?  To reflect deeply on what is essential? 

What for you, is the pearl in the pandemic?

Out of this contemplation and journaling, CIC students were guided to create and then share inspiring works of poetry.