Dear Tender Learner

a poem by Peter M. Ivey

My son as the best Oberon there ever was :)

Dear Tender Learner

Breathe. Just breathe.
Why don’t we start there?
I know you’re scared 
      
      (I can feel it)

to step out from behind the curtain,
let alone take a bow, 
and who could blame you
after hearing you’re not enough
from every corner on blast
like a high school anthem.

Someone once said, Be yourself 
so the people who are looking for you 
can find you.

Did you hear that?
There are other tender souls out there
with battered eardrums
desperate for a soothing song,
and you are that tune.

So take my hand.
We’ll step out together.
We are enough.

---

An Invitation

1. What word, phrase, or image in today’s poem captures your attention, draws emotion, or catches your breath?

2. Consider reading the poem again slowly. Then spend some time in listening prayer. Is there an invitation you sense God extending to you in today’s poem? A kindness being offered? A reminder?

3. If you were to write a letter, a poem, or a song to your inner child, what would you want to say? Consider spending some time in prayer, and then give it a go! Take the risk. Let the Spirit lead.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on today’s poem! Consider sharing your favorite line or a thought it’s brought about.

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