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The Grail Inside The Lotus - VIDEO RECITAL


Inside the human heart, a flower’s gem
its perfume uncompared to what is known
pink petals gently cuddled ‘round its stem
embedding Holy Grail placed on its throne

The Grail I talk about is rarely seen
for open hearts are pearls so rare to find
Sweet Lotus only grows in waters clean
within compassion’s soil and tranquil mind

So fertilize it with Life’s lessons learned
Control wrath’s fire and grief’s corrosive pest
For blessings of Abundance must be earned
by gardener whom Life has put to test

Know, Lotus has its roots deep in the mud
and perfumed flower always springs from bud


Through watching seed and flower side by side
Enlightened mind will know Eternal Law
Effect of fruitful action does abide
within the seed of cause that you now sow

Each thought of kindness bears the fruit of love
the very moment where intention springs
Outside, inside, around, below, above
Immortal Soul of Pure Awareness sings

Untouched by dirty mud of mundane world
in purity the Lotus lifts its head
When time is ripe its blessings get unfurled
through perfumed nectar which for all is spread

Be like the Lotus – rise with utter grace
the Grail of Love in heart’s most sacred space

 

 

painting "mahalakshmi" by maa

Author notes

my constantly updated video-poetry :
http://allpoetry.com/poem/show/3791503

****************************************************

In Hindu mythology, Goddesses are often portrayed sitting upon a Lotus-flower or holding a lotus-blossom in their hand(s), symbolizing enlightenment … Likewise, noble qualities like compassion, generosity, purity, peacefulness, wisdom etc. potentially spring from the fully bloomed Lotus-flower of our hearts … My painting shows the Hindu-Goddess Sri Lakshmi, considered the Goddess of both material and spiritual abundance, illumination and purity …

The Lotus flower is the only plant which blooms and bears fruit at the same time, symbolizing the simultaneity of cause (the grain) and effect (the flower) of the universal law of karma, and representing one of the major principles of Buddhism, Hinduism and several other spiritual traditions …

The fact that the Lotus grows in the mud, lifting her head above the water where she fully blooms, shows us that our difficult experiences, negative emotions and the material life in general will serve our souls as the necessary fertilizer in order to achieve spiritual realization in the Light of Consciousness …

 http://www.anaflora.com/articles/fe-profiles/lotus-flower.html

***

this poem is very dear to me, since it teaches me the simultaneity (and not linearity) of our intentions and the resulting outcome, and that time is just an invention of the mind ... it makes me realize that there has never been anything else than this eternal present moment ... I intend to live it with grace ...

***

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Comments

1 - 39 of 39

  • The Fun House silver member
    August 29
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    Divine! Completely divine!


  • Little Eagle Greeters member
    March 3

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    Thank you for your entry

    Interesting comparison between the holy Grail and love. Love the double sonnet.

    The form was done well. Good job with the syllable count. The rhyme scheme was developed well and had a good rhythm.

    I encouage you to keep writing to read and comment.

    You have been chosen to proceed to the next round. Once the next round contest is up you will receive a link to that contest.

    God Bless
    Tammy


  • Dark Otter
    January 20

    Edit | Reply

    Yowzer!

    The video 'oral recitation' of this finally gave me an understanding of the true essence of poetry. Sound that pleases, sound that harmonizes and the sound of thought that alters the mindset of the one who hears it. Your work is 'stunning' in aural tones.


  • ea silver member
    November 11, 2008
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    This is lovely and so well wrought; thank you for the opportunity to read this.


  • Peripatetic gold member
    June 6, 2008

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    I admire the use of form, but most especially when combined with content that is more than an exercise in technique. Lyric poetry is sometimes appreciated for no more than its graceful appearance, just as a blossom might be admired for no more than its color or fragrance in the immediate air.

    "The Grail I talk about is rarely seen
    For open hearts are pearls so rare to find"

    "Through watching seed and flower side by side
    Enlightened mind Eternal Law shall know
    Effect of fruitful action does abide
    Within the seed of cause that you now sow"

    These are my favorite lines. While our Americanism, "stop and smell those roses" is a similar thought, your words encourage us with more grace to not only stop and enjoy but to consider the source and fruit of the experience.


  • Pisces rainbow gold member
    May 31, 2008
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    YOU HAVE WON MY HEART WITH YOUR MASTERPIECE!

    GOD BLESS...


  • Ellis gold member
    November 29, 2007

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    Outstanding

    Time is a creation of the mind
    It is our measurement of objects in motion
    The earth's rotation and orbit of the sun defined
    As the standard for time to which we've taken a notion

    But time is not a thing within itself
    It is the ordered form of all movement in nature
    Summarized by the watch or clock upon the shelf
    We see time as the second-hand goes around for sure
    ---------------


    • maa gold member
      November 30, 2007
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      I must admit that if I try to search for time (in the sense of looking for its substance), I cannot find it ... like all manmade concepts, it does not exist as such ... you have expressed this truth in a perfect way through your poetic response to maa's poem ... thank you so much for being who you are ...


  • Blue Rew silver member
    August 1, 2007

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    I still find this piece a true blessing of an enlightened soul. There was never even any competition in my contest after I read these honest words of compassion and hope. I'm so glad to see it recognized here. You move me. Blue


    • maa gold member
      August 1, 2007
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      thank you so much, that is so sweet of you ...


      maa


  • mborda
    July 9, 2007

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    Fantastic!

    Nice to see a sonnet that is written correctly! Great job and I love the couplet(s) at the end!

    Monique


  • Florida Sunshine
    July 4, 2007

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    Ok~ your 2nd is just as beautiful as your 1st ~ clearly you are an amazing talented poet! ... I ask you ~ how do you improve on perfection??? I'm sorry but I am TRULY in awe of your abilities! Really you are that good! Nice job! Thanks for entering the contest ~ best of luck to you!

    • maa gold member
      July 5, 2007
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      thank you so much for your words of appreciation and the efforts you invested in your contest ...

      all the best to you,

      maa


  • Raven Contest
    June 11, 2007

    Edit | Reply
    What a truly eclectic artist you are. I am really smitten with the completeness offered here. The painting, the poem, and the prose explanation to tie everything together in beautiful package that is as accessable as it is enjoyable. (I have often wondered about people who are satisified to experience art singularly as they interpert it, without ever questioning what the artists intentions were and the enlightment that may come from knowning. This is the most mature piece I have read in some time.)

    I also love the cultural crossover between the atypical (but far from unfortunate) use of the sonnet and the Asia subject matter. You've shown a worldly grasp that ties very nicely to the message your piece is intented to convey. It is very relaxing to read something that someone has put time into creating and defining. I have read much deep-posing ambiguity in this contest and it has taken its toll. Pieces like this have a rejuvenating effect.

    It is with some regret, then, that I have to point out (for the sake of a complete critque) that "Law" and "Sow" don't rhyme. I can't imagine that, given your diligence elsewhere in the work, you haven't done this on purpose, but for the life of me I can't imagine why. It is not terribly disruptive, but I would consider changing it.

    As I have mentioned, this piece works on many levels, which is enough to qualifiy it for advancement in this contest. I will be refering this work to the scrutiny of other Raven judges.

    Thank you for your refreshing entry.

    ~Das

    • maa gold member
      June 12, 2007
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      I wish to thank you for your in-depth comment and for your valuable suggestions ... indeed, "sow" and "law" are not perfect rhymes (I guess they are called imperfect, slant or dissonant rhymes, if I remember well ...) I agree that perfect rhymes are much more harmonious, especially in a sonnet, so I just switched a few words around and hope that the line still flows well ...
      thank you for having helped to improve this poem, it has become my favorite poem amongst those I have written so far ...
      I love merging eastern and western concepts, art-forms and search for the underlying unity inherent in the essential core of all traditions, religions and philosophies ... not only mentally, but through contemplation and experience ...
      thank you so much for being sensitive to my approach and to my soul's way of expressing itself ...

      this contest has been a blessing to me so far ...

      thank you and the judges for your commitment and care you invest in this endeavour ...


      maa


  • Room without doors gold member
    May 26, 2007
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    Outstanding

    I liked the imagery of the lotus, another poem with a sense of spirituality and depth. I also like the amount of detail you manage to create in your sonnets -almost a note book style in places which gives your poems a unique style. Thoughtful and reflective. A pleasure to read.


  • Blushfulmoon silver member
    May 12, 2007

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    excellent~

    This is a flawless Double English Sonnet.....
    Great imagery and penned with just the right depth...
    Just beautiful sis.....I see you got a gold trophy for this one and I can certainly see why......
    Excellent....
    I just posted a new one do hope you drop by and see me as well
    Hugs
    Your sis
    Susan~~~


  • sommerregen
    April 27, 2007

    Edit | Reply
    Wow, you have created beautiful and splendid images! I also like very much your rhyme structure, your double sonnet. This form is new for me,I definitely like it.

    Interesting to read the background information.

    Thanks for sharing.



  • MargaretG
    April 25, 2007

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    Congratulations on Gold!

    "Be like the Lotus – rise with utter grace
    The Grail of Love in heart’s most sacred space"

    This is a most worthy ideal, which I see you and a few others working on diligently. Whatever comes our way can be improved or used to our good, if we remember that we are all equally children of God.

  • Mercury Rising
    April 24, 2007

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    Beautiful

    A truly wonderful poem which really resonates in my heart, as I have written a poem titled, 'Siamese Lotus Sutra'. Perhaps you'd like to read it some time. I'll post it if you like, or message it to you.

    All the best,
    David Michaels


  • grannyeri gold member
    April 6, 2007

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    One learns so many new things when they read some of your poetry - very educational and lets us understand the Hindu culture a bit. Loved these two sonnets - bravo.


  • -Ink Artist-
    April 4, 2007

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    This is an absolute pleasure to stop by and read again! I love the representation of this lovely flower in your words. Your ability to write sonnets is much admired by me. You are truly talented, dear poetess! I wish I could applaud again but this silly system won't allow it!


    ~Lori

  • Blue Rew silver member
    April 4, 2007
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    "Each thought of kindness bears the fruit of love
    The very moment where intention springs
    Outside, inside, around, below, above
    Immortal Soul of Pure Awareness sings"
    There is simply no better way to put the cause and effect of Karma. These words are sheer beauty and must surely come from an enlightened Soul.
    Thank-you for sharing this Blessing with me through poetry. Blue

    • maa gold member
      April 13, 2007
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      dear blue rew,
      I am full of joy about this gift of a gold trophy for my poem ... thank you so much for your offering as well as for the 430 points which you offered together with it ...
      this particular poem means very much to me, and to see it honored in such a way, gives me so much happiness ...
      it tells me that there are some souls who resonate with my way of expressing the love and wisdom that passes through my vehicle when my heart is open ...
      thank you from my deepest heart for having been the divine messenger today who confirmed my step on my path ...
      namaste,
      the divine in me honors the divine in you,

      marion


  • Sai Babas Lotus
    April 4, 2007

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    Overflowing with Compassion

    O WOW! Such a beautiful painting of MahaLakshmi and such a wonderful message of the Lotus in this poem. This is so precious to me, my dear Mari You are the compassionate one here to have written something so tender and uplifting as this poem and then dedicated it to me...I am so touched that I have tears in my eyes. When I was barely a few days old, my Mom had written a letter to me. In that she wrote that when I grow up, I must be a compassionate human being. I try to respect that wish The lines in your double sonnet that resonate so much in my heart are:

    " The Grail I talk about is rarely seen
    For open hearts are pearls so rare to find
    Sweet Lotus only grows in waters clean
    Within compassion’s soil and tranquil mind "

    Your pen flows with grace and wisdom and I truly feel blessed to know you and I am now thinking that once we settle down in Pune, I'll print these out(after we buy a fax and printer there) and stick this and your other dedications to me on my wall of friends/soul sisters

    I also love these lines:

    "Be like the Lotus – rise with utter grace
    The Grail of Love in heart’s most sacred space"

    The rhymes, rhythm, flow, imagery, alliteration and assonance in this poem are outstanding. I am so touched((((((((((((((((warm hugs and wet kisses to you)))))))))))


    Chari

    P.S. Moments before I logged in to read this poem, I came across this link:http://www.innerlightworkers.co.uk/planetary/OrderBlueLotus.htm

    The other day at the Krishna temple, I was DELIGHTED to see so many pink lotus in a golden thali(plate) at an arm's length from me. The child in me wanted to grab as many as I could, but the devotee in me wanted to shower them all on Krishna


  • Tangled Angle
    April 1, 2007

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    This was nice.

    I felt you only told and didn't show, but overall you pulled this together nicely.

    You and Laura Lamarca seem to be in the same league- she's your competition when it comes to the rhyme area. lol

    It will be interesting to see who does better.

    I think this was really good, as your poems usually are, but I feel this needed more showing. If you would have had imagery, you probably would have ended up at number one this round- however, I think you'll sail through this round, but won't do well as some people.

    Good luck to you. And who knows, maybe you will make it up top.


  • Ryno
    March 30, 2007

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    This is impressive and beautiful. Great flow and form and rhyme. Well done, no suggestions.
    Thank-you for your continued entries, best wishes.
    ~Ryan~


  • countrybabe gold member
    March 30, 2007

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    Gorgeous write

    Good luck in the contest.

    Countrybabe


  • Cupcrazy gold member
    March 28, 2007

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    Very impressive form with flawless rhytm, rhyme and meter. Great imagry and emotion. A captivating write written with compassion and heart. Loved it. Bunny


  • trista gold member
    March 28, 2007

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    WOW...I am (nearly) speechless...I've read so many great entries in this contest already, but this really blows me away. I love it. It's just so much deeper than I can even imagine going with a flower as inspiration. (Might be why I'm still struggling with mine. lol) There's just nothing not to like about the entire thing, and in such beautiful form. Amazing work...

    Much love, and s mixed with best wishes,
    ~J.

  • -Ink Artist-
    March 28, 2007
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    Impressive indeed! My lady, you never cease to amaze with your creative and spiritual touch. Your words grace the page with serious 'flower power'! Loved this...brilliant!


    ~Lori

  • MargaretG
    March 28, 2007
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    Profound

    You have many beautiful lines in this sonnet pair, and describe the enlightened life very beautifully. It may take a gardener's patience to "Control wrath’s fire and grief’s corrosive pest", but the reward "When time is ripe" is certainly worth it. Good luck to you!


  • February Moon gold member
    March 28, 2007

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    This is truly amazing. I am really beyond words right now. Seriously, I don't know what to say. I love the sonnet form, (mostly because my attempts at it have been feeble at best) and you wrote it beautifully. Good luck, this is amazing!
    Chelsea


  • Pure Thought silver member
    March 28, 2007

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    Utter perfection...

    My sister, you have penned well yet again. The perfection of the Lotus flows through your soul and on to the page.
    We are blessed to have you share with us.
    Thank you, Brother Buddy


  • sheltered
    March 28, 2007
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    Very well done. Nice metaphor and imagery. Enjoyed the notes too. Best of luck.


  • Errant Panther gold member
    March 28, 2007

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    Very profound write, such wonderful use of metaphor. these lines "For open hearts are pearls so rare to find" "Each thought of kindness bears the fruit of love" are just superb. The lotus flower is such a beautiful choice, portraying the serenity in one's own soul gives the ability to appreciate the beauty in others.


  • cherche -d -ame
    March 28, 2007

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    loved the double sonnet of course [as I can not write those] but it is the comparison of the lotus flower and all that we can be by learning about it and the way it survives and blooms in beauty that really fascinated me. Isn't it out of the lotus flower also that birth of Brahma is attributed to? I believe it is said "spranf forth out of the womb of the lotus"?And the pursuit of wealth which the bloom stands for [not material] but wealth of character. I can't think of all the 'wealths" at this moment...but now you gave me incentive to go and look it up and or/irrigate the crevices of my brain
    another write of yours that inspires to achieve "higher self"
    bisouxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx et bonne chance,
    Jeanne/reenie
    P.S
    1) Those that know me will wonder why all of a sudden I have become "Jeanne"
    2) still swooning about that win/award


  • waydownuponjoy
    March 28, 2007

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    This one sparkles ...

    The painting says much the words ... more! A excellent transcribing of some beautiful thoughts and a welcome read for this poet. Sometimes it is hard to realize that the flower must be nurtured! Great entry and good luck in the contest! joy


  • ma belle
    March 28, 2007

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    maa, this is exquisite! The lotus is to be revered and praised--she who possesses the holy grail twist her luscious breasts. The double sonnets were just the form to convey her sacredness and beauty within the bounds of your perfect meter. God bless you, my fellow flower poet, for this masterpiece. I have just bookmarked it to read again and again. ♥ annabelle

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