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Stillness (Double Sonnet)

He said, "Be still and know that I am God",
the organizer of all time and space;
creation, all of it, receives his nod,
and all is given wholesomeness and grace.

Our thoughts and deeds cause other things to be,
the consequences, reaping as we sow;
and not one thing is hidden, he can see
the dormant strength in seeds before they grow.

To know that all is known and live that way
is knowledge of the very highest kind,
for nothing can be hid from light of day,
and all is known by universal mind.

In stillness see the cause and the effect,
in stillness understanding then perfect.

+

In stillness find the godhead, silence speaks;
don't sully it with music or with noise,
remain in quiet, for the holy seeks
to fill our hearts and souls with silent voice.

In stillness God is speaking of his peace
and healing for the illness of the age;
it's found when movements of the mind decrease,
when fantasies and thoughts no longer rage.

In stillness find the greatness of the One
and cherish it in practice day by day,
until the presence permanent is won,
in action it may then be brought away.

To one who keeps the stillness in his heart
his saintly powers then will God impart.

.

Author notes

Meditation.
Written July 6th, 2004

In a list

A contest entry

What did you think

    I plan to revise this poem: please leave constructive criticism!
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Comments

1 - 53 of 53

  • klassy lassy
    January 6, 2007

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    Margaret these words wield the healing Truth...He gives us roses, how it we only find the thorns? He gives us love, we only find the pain. For with ears we hear not, and with eyes we see not. To think, a word swelled creation's lay, the answer before the question. Your light encompasses me this morning!

    Love,~ K.


    • MargaretG
      January 6, 2007
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      Wisdom

      Dear Karen, thank you for your lovely, lovely poetic comment, you bring light to my night.


  • Lyndon gold member
    January 1, 2007

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    Congrats. on Silver

    I do not know what the opposition was. However, you would make a good Quaker. They worship mainly in silence; but a spirit-filled silence. There is no need to comment on technique. There is no need to comment on the fluent manner you executed in this double sonnet with facile strength. This poem is biblically rich in imagery and text: "Reap as you sow". Yet there is a modern voice in: "... don't sully it with music and with noise".
    The repetition of "In stillness " is not over-done.
    I cannot see why a Church publisher does not snatch up these fine sonnets.
    Best wishes for fine sonnets in the year 2007. Love, Ron


  • maa gold member
    December 15, 2006
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    the Truth

    the Truth expressed gracefully and masterfully ...
    a poem which resonates with every cell of my body and with my whole being ...
    what a joy to read such a precious jewel of a poem ...

    maa

    • MargaretG
      December 15, 2006

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      Thank you

      Dear Marion, thank you for your appreciation. I have to be careful not to become so busy that I forget the quiet I have inside.

  • MargaretG
    March 1, 2006
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    Thank you RL. A double sonnet is just two sonnets on the same topic; some poets have gone on the write sonnet series and crowns of sonnets. Usually I write just one. I'm happy you like this.

  • Reflected Light
    March 1, 2006
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    This is just lovely. I love your writing. The line "the dormant strength in seeds before they grow" is my favorite. I've never read a double sonnet before; you make me want to try one of my own. Great job.

  • MargaretG
    June 27, 2005
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    Hi Bierce, welcome to AP. Your profile on me is amazing, I call myself a perfectionist proofreader. Please visit again.


  • Yemassee gold member
    June 27, 2005
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    I followed this link from another page (Mary6), so now I have to go back and read the original page intended. Excuse me, I'm new here and find all this stuff fun to do.

    Sometimes you can learn a lot about somebody by what they write. For instance your poem indicates that you have a strong faith (obviously) but it also indicates that there is a calmness about you. That is based on your writing style (if this is any indication of your typical style) and how you handled your subject. I'd also be willing to bet that you are detail oriented. That comes from the poems structure and how you painstakingly go about the process.

    I'm probably way off but it was fun trying to see someone through their words. I'm glad I clicked on that link.

    • MargaretG
      December 8, 2006
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      The "how" of faith

      Well, here it is, Yem. Faith is another case of "seek, and ye shall find; ask, and it shall be given; knock, and the door will be opened". I found a lot in the words of Jesus, collected in Matthew chapters 5 and 6. This includes the Beatitudes, his interpretation of the 10 commandments, and how to pray.


  • cutiepie gold member
    January 8, 2005
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    Excellent

    I love this, it has a clarity and grace that is not often found. Many congratulations on the Silver Trophy.


  • kala chimera
    November 27, 2004
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    Wow... this poem is amazing. I can't say how good it is, and it's an awesome tribute to our awesome God!!! I love it.

  • nellymichelle
    September 27, 2004
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    This too is a very good poem...I love your work very much you know..you have the tendency to pour out your emotions in your poem so well that I just have no words to describe it.Yes it's time in the 3rd stanza, thanks for pointing out my mistake..will correct it..


  • Maatkara gold member
    September 17, 2004
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    Congratulations on your Silver! I loved this one too, M. I'm so plesed my two favourites were 1st and 2nd!

    ~ G

  • surfermike
    September 16, 2004
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    smiles . .congratulations . .
    a strong piece

  • MargaretG
    September 16, 2004
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    Thank you for the silver trophy, it is very satisfying.
    Kudos to you for running a fair and supportive contest on religion.

  • el desdichado
    September 16, 2004
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    In stillness see the cause and the effect,
    in stillness understanding then perfect.

    Absolutely stunning. Amazing form. Wonderful ideas. This IS poetry. I myself could never write a sonnet...I just know I can't. Maybe I'll try, but I'll never WRITE a sonnet, if you what I mean. It just wouldn't come out right. I suppose I'm just too stubborn. Or something. Probably both. Anyhoo, I really loved this poem. It just works on so many levels. Technically, it works. Structurally. As a sonnet, it just soars. And all the ideas. Yes. I really can't say anything else. The rest would just be accolades and praise, and I think you would prefer that in the form of a trophy and some well-deserved points, don't you? Well, I don't want to speak too soon, really. But once you got me in a contest, I have to say--you GOT me.


  • Faded silver member
    September 7, 2004
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    I am not a very religious person, but this poem moved me. I am left breathless and in awe.
    ~Faded


  • MargaretG
    August 23, 2004
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    Thank you Bezoar, I had a lot of help from the boss on this one!


  • Queen Mab gold member
    August 22, 2004
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    Argh! Convicted again... A perfect write for a perfect and only "I AM."
    ~Bezoar

  • EgyptianEyez
    August 16, 2004
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    This was definently very nicely written! I love that you wrote about a spiritual point. It had a VERY powerful message and in a way inspired me. It really is a great poem! Thank you so much for entering my contest and even more for sharing it at all, it was well worth the read


  • neptune386
    August 11, 2004
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    this was an amazing piece...i agree with everyone else...two thumbs up. this is fantastic work. good luck.

    ~ alyssa~

  • MargaretG
    August 9, 2004
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    Thank you miamigirl. You took my breath with the "gold trophy"!
    I see I still have to wait for final judging, but I am more than pleased with the response I have gotten.

  • miamigirl
    August 9, 2004
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    Awesome

    This was brilliant. I love the tribute you paid to God. We forget that He alone is in charge of everything. I am certain that He was very pleased with your write, and that you used your talent to bring attention to HIs greatness. Two thumbs up, and one gold trophy.


  • MargaretG
    August 2, 2004
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    Thank you Del, for your wonderful comment.


  • DelWarrenLivingston silver member
    August 2, 2004
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    Awe Inspiring

    Hello Peaseeker,

    Not much I can add to what has already been said. I can only echo the magnitude of praise you have recieved thus far and to say I am refreshed and enlightened to find and read this wonderful piece of work. The fact that it was "inspired" is paled by the fact it is also "inspiring."

    I am sure I shall be reading more of your work...you are truly tallented.

    Blessings,
    Del


  • July 25, 2004
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    Exquisite!

    This was captivating, inspiring, a million other adjectives that it would be futile to list. It's spiritual and intelligently written, and I'm completely impressed that you managed to find the patience to write a double sonnet. Now THAT is amazing. Haha. Best of luck!


  • whatsinaname silver member
    July 10, 2004
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    Truly inspired

    A stunning write and it is easy to see that it is truly inspired.There was a contest run by a poet called mark Spencer a few months ago and he was looking for poems of divine inspiration and this one would fit the bill absolutely.When you cut out the static and be still you can hear the voice of the universal mind/God/providence/The great spirit....


  • MargaretG
    July 10, 2004
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    Bonnie, I see you standing and waving! Thanks so much for your support, and the very pleasant critique!


  • MargaretG
    July 10, 2004
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    Thanks for your comment, Romeo, indeed the poem inspires me to be more faithful with my hour of meditation!


  • MargaretG
    July 10, 2004
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    Thank you Shanna for your praise; I agree, this sonnet was inspired!


  • BonnieQ silver member
    July 9, 2004
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    Exquisite!

    Sweetpea... I know, it's Peaseeker, LOL! You have exceeded even your own talent with this one. It is magnificent with such an important message that the majority really need to hear and heed: "Be still, and know that I Am God!" Indeed, Yeshua does speak to us, if we care to listen, and His gifts are superior.

    Technically, this flowed so beautifully with great rhyme and rhythm as well as perfect meter. Such power this piece packs, worthy of any contest's gold and more. You never can go wrong when you use a God-given talent to bear His messages and sing His praises. You've done both!

    See me rushing to my feet in exuberant applause, shouting "Bravo, bravo, bravo!" God is smiling down upon you, sweetie. Many blessings to you.

    Love and hugs, BonnieQ

  • TheOneRomeo
    July 9, 2004
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    Meditation is an excellent way to keep your head together and find a great way to let your thoughts and ideas flow through your entire being...keep the faith as it states in the poem strong.


  • LuminousKiss
    July 9, 2004
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    Wow... your words speak your intention proudly... great spiritual, in so many ways... I don't know what more to say, but I, personally, am pretty awed. Keep it up, and NEVER stop writing, you, you just can't!

    God Speed, and Bless You.

    Shanna


  • Terry-too silver member
    July 9, 2004
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    I am here again, had forgotten the name, but discover in it meaning I had missed before. I had been annoyed and now I'm at peace. It will continue to work over time I'm sure.
    Thank you. --Dee


  • Themajikalpance
    July 9, 2004
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    I love sonnets. You're my hero.

  • MargaretG
    July 9, 2004
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    Thanks for the applause, Anna, this one is pretty special to me. It came mostly prewritten, I just had to substitute a few words for rhyme.

  • AnnaSpanna silver member
    July 9, 2004
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    That was truly beautiful. I must have missed this the other day (I'm doing a catch up). This is one of your best!
    Not that they aren't all gems, but this one particularly stands out.


  • adios muchachos gold member
    July 8, 2004
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    In hoc Senor Wences

    I like the way you talk pal.


  • Mishielle
    July 8, 2004
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    This was very inspirational, and every one needs that veryday, I am telling you, i really enjoyed this poem, it was wel worth being put on the featured area! I hope you get more great comments about your beautiful work, you deserve it!


  • Kahlan4
    July 8, 2004
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    Beautiful

    Wow, very nice and well written, I love it I agree wholeheartedly with what it says, glad to have had the chance to read it


  • MargaretG
    July 8, 2004
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    Of course Cheryl, it is for you. Please print it if you wish.


  • Damaris
    July 8, 2004
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    Very Nice Poem . Keep up the good work


    ~Danaris~


  • poetryality silver member
    July 8, 2004
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    "Peace be still". That's what I thought after reading this wondrous sonnet. I understand why you wrote a double sonnet, there is so much to emote about the peace of God. This is very serene. An element of quietness is necessary to enjoy this poem. I had to mute the sound on my TV (which is just on to keep me company) after the first line to feel the total imapct of PEACE. Exquisite! Good luck with the contest!


  • MagicLady silver member
    July 8, 2004
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    You have a way with these words. I am aways amazed at how you do it. What a wonderful gift it is. Sometimes I don't know how to comment on it, because I am not educated enough on what to say. Wasn't it you that didn't know how too comment on free verse? (maybe not). But ... I need to learn more. Wonderful prayer like sonnet...thank you. I bookmarked it, and I will print it out with your permission, and keep it at my night stand.

    Cheryl


  • creon
    July 8, 2004
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    i must say that i enjoyed that poem alot and i think that it is great the way you wrote this poem, well that's all i have to say about that, thanks for reading my coment

  • MargaretG
    July 8, 2004
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    Great comment!

    You are probably right about the meter in that line, because 'in' is a pretty weak word to bear a strong beat. Will have to complain to the muse on that one, and see what can be done!
    How about "the hidden strength in seeds before they grow".
    I notice a slight buzz in my hearing as well, perhaps the jet engines damaged my hearing the time we stood on the tarmac for 30 minutes waiting to board for Kiev. I covered the baby's ears, but had no hands left for my own! Mothers really need more than two, but hey. I just listen to the buzz, it can become a focus for concentration too.
    Edited on Jul 08, 12:30 because 'new thought'.

  • Terry-too silver member
    July 8, 2004
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    Peace!

    Beautiful! Completely agree! My favourite line is
    "what's hidden in the seeds before they grow." and that would apply also to people, I would think. Some anapestic feet in that.
    What a calmly confident way to be!

    The double-sonnet works well, one flowing easily into the other, and neither would be complete alone.

    I wish my stillness were like yours but I have no stillness anymore. The tinnitus in my ears is increasing, very high-pitched like millions of distant crickets all as one, soon louder than my radio. Being of lower pitch, there is no problem hearing it yet, but I find I must listen more closely to soft-spoken people. You can therefore imagine what yearning your stillness brings! --Dee
    Edited on Jul 08, 12:14 because 'typo'.


  • FlawedDestiny
    July 7, 2004
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    This is a very nicely written poem. I felt myself calming just from reading it. I liked this a lot, good feelings in this.
    ~*Destiny*~


  • M.A.King
    July 7, 2004
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    my eyes were swelling with tears by the end of this. not only is it just simply outstanding in quality of form and such but the message is deeply moving. and one, i might add, that i needed to hear. it is in quiet meditation and prayer that God works on us. what an exceptional write! i dare say it is my favorite piece of yours (that is saying something) and i will certainly bookmark it.


  • Trellis
    July 7, 2004
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    Excellent!

    Very inspirational and comforting! Very good job of writing!


  • Maatkara gold member
    July 6, 2004
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    Amen




  • SEA angel gold member
    July 6, 2004
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    Excellent

    It is almost as if reading this poem creates a meditative state while reading and as if a blessing of peaceful stillness is sent out with every line. An excellent poem to read before going to bed for I feel such a peaceful stillness. If not a blessing sent a blessing that ensues off the page nonetheless.
    Thank you
    Edited on Jul 06, 11:37 p.m. because ''.

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