This week I have felt nearer to normal. I’ve been thinking about teaching and preparing lessons for my return on Monday. I’m pushing away concerns that I have no control over. Yesterday I invited a neighbor, a retired teacher, to cut and paste magazine words onto Jenga blocks, an idea that originated with Paul Hanks and used by Kim Johnson. (See this post.)
I get a lot of poems in my inbox. Some days it’s too overwhelming to read them all. Some days I find inspiration in a line or a form or an idea. This week I found a first line from Ching-In Chen’s poem Breath for Metal.
Breath for Flesh
This a story
I’ve kept
inside my soft
body. I’ve discoveredbreath dissolves
fever–practiced pulling
in, hold, hold,
hold–
sigh.I am being gentle with her,
speaking softly
through tears
like a light rain in fall.Release
Margaret Simon, draft
is real.
Reflections on the Teche 
Oh, my goodness…it is so good to see that you are feeling more normal. Those words are answered prayers, friend. And, you are using jenga words! Cool. I’m glad you can return to teaching and that you will find joy there. My goodness…a long wait for that release. But, glad you are there or, almost.
So glad you are continually feeling better! I love the idea that “breath dissolves fever.” Be well!
Glad you are feeling better, Margaret. “release is real” – indeed.
This is so beautiful, Margaret–that second to last stanza takes my breath away. Glad you are recovering, and hope your return to school is a smooth one.
I’m glad you are better. This post is peaceful and resolute, and I love that you are relinquishing things out of your realm of control. Somewhere in the recovery and re-entry to work life, I sense that perspective has shifted. And purpose – your OLW. I feel the sheer energy and streamlined force you have in your purpose. Many blessings, Margaret! I’m cheering you on as you plan and return to school.
I love the self-care and affection in your poem, Margaret. So glad you’re feeling better!
Beautiful, Margaret…I love the relationship with breath as an other…and “speaking softly through tears…”
“like a light rain in fall” – lovely. And how we breathe is so vital. Glad you are continuing to heal, Margaret – wishes for both rest and delight/anticipation this weekend as you get ready for Monday. (Thought of you & others in my blog post today, with the recent goodbye to your beloved dog.)
Lovely. Simply lovely. And that you are feeling better makes me breathe easier, too. You surely know how many have been holding their breaths a bit, waiting for health to find its way back to you.
I’m sorry I worried so many people. I’m happy to be on the other side.
Not so much worry as care and love. No apologies required.
Margaret, what a peaceful breath of fresh air your poem brings. We are so happy for the real release you are receiving. Peace and joy to you as you return to school.
“being gentle with her” is such a caring phrase, Margaret. I’m glad you are taking that advice. Will send good wishes for Monday!
Margaret, there are so many lines in your poem that come from deep inside. Breath is an important part of recovery and I am glad that you are well enough to step back in the classroom with a wealth of ideas. Speak softly as you always do and “like a light rain in fall”. Release the breath and let it help you find an ease to go on. Best of luck for a happy reunion with your students.
Yes to being gentle with your body! Take care as you get back to the schedules of life.
Oh, this is gorgeous and you used enjambment so powerfully, especially between that first and second stanza. There’s such a sense of peace and renewal in this poem. Take care of yourself as you head back into the busy world of school. Also, jenga poetry! Yes!!! I have GOT to try that!
Thanks for noticing the enjambment. It is my current craft practice move.
I love that you address breath as her… and that release is real. Sending continued wishes for healing, Margaret. I hope your return to work is a gentle one. – Patricia
Hooray for breath and release and your coming round to feeling a bit better— hope this continues, and thanks for your beautifully sensitive poem. I sent a card to you, when you have a moment let me know if you didn’t receive it, and I can resend it.