This poem is in response to a prompt from the Writer’s Gathering I attend here in Seattle. We’d read through ‘Beannacht ‘(Blessing) by John O’Donahue from Echoes of Memory, and the following line stood out for me: “May the fluency of ocean be yours.”

Blessing of Water

“May the fluency of ocean be yours.”

May water in all its ebbs and flows fill you,

as water takes whatever form it holds

so may you be free within yourself.

As the ocean waves wax and wane upon the shore

so may you let go,

finding ease in the arising and retreating,

savoring grace in the coming and going,

loosening your grip to the fluidity that is.

May the ease in which water shifts and shapes, guide and aid you,

from flowing stream to icicle,

pelting rain to dripping sweat,

ice cube to popsicle,

warm shower to bubble bath.

“May the fluency of ocean be yours.”

May the depths become home to you  as you plunge your soul,

your ego being gently washed aside

as the truth of you emerges.

May the many creatures that claim ocean as home become kin to you.

The long life of sea turtle,

the dancing play of spinner dolphin,

the stealth and power of shark,

the lightness and protection of jellyfish,

the curiosity of seal,

the friendship of angelfish.

“May the fluency of ocean be yours.”

May the corral and sea life lean into and nourish you,

granting you wisdom and discernment,

perseverance and play for the road ahead.

May water in all its ebbs and flows fill you,

as water takes whatever form it holds,

so may you be free within yourself.

From running stream to low lying pond,

rain drenched rivers to trickling brooks,

swimming pools to children prancing through fountains,

“May the fluency of ocean be yours.”