A Time of Conflict or Turmoil


A Time of Conflict or Turmoil

Day 12 of 30-day challenge

A day does not pass without facing trying
or difficult times; grand or small makes no difference.
How we handle these times of conflict remains
our definition of whom we’ve become.
Coworkers bring in their baggage, lashing out
at all their encounters, projecting theirs onto our own.
No thank you, as a simple phrase silently spoken
or thought quietly to ourselves.
These are our internal customers, ones we
cafe to shine upon, offering a new light of day.
The external customers, those coming for services,
watching how the internals carry themselves.
Attention to detail, mystery shoppers, if you will,
watching our every move.
They know when we are not getting along
having been brought to our knees.
Smile and wave, showering them with kindness,
sharing this with internal and externals alike.
Shit hits the fan, grandiose of turmoil
approaching similarly as the small day-to-day.
Smile and wave, allowing the others to remain
or change their footing to proceed on this glorious Canvas.

~ Ani Po


Photo by Frank Busch on Unsplash

This year has proven difficult for everyone on many fronts adding to the already difficulties within our day-to-day. How does one deal with that? There are many strategies to counter these times, finding our balance and holding onto peace within our days. Whatever techniques work for you, whether meditation, yoga, retreating to nature, do them! The simplest thing that we all can remember is that everyone is doing the best that they know.

But it just keeps coming! Hitting us from all fronts, wearing us down, tearing us down. During these times, I am often heard saying, “time to double down on our efforts.” Meaning we focus more on finding that balance and if it means adding more yoga session, more walks or sitting with our favorite tree, then do so!

Drained? Time to recharge. Charging our batteries is beneficial to ourselves and those around us. In a time of great turmoil, smile! It is hard to project a smile with our masks covering our mouths, but the feeling emitting from that smile will be felt by those around us. Through our actions, reflecting that smile, we shall bring a brighter day to someone lurking in the shadows.



Much gratitude for those who take time to read, ponder and allow the inner workings of self to come forward. Grateful for the feedback, love shared, and more importantly the Dance with Inspiration. Deep Peace.

Joseph Lieungh

Photo by Javardh on Unsplash

Defying Tradition and Conformity


Defying tradition and conformity

day 11 of 30-day challenge

Photo by Wexor Tmg on Unsplash

Never being one to conform, transfixed on truth unbeknownst to
self-calling bullshit with smells deep in sacks of countless lies
lie detector, radar love’s selfless acts of kindness.
True to heart’s unbroken seal of approval
taking solo dives without certification
later blessed by Pope Francis himself.
Singing to the lepers, trannies and the Maldives
victims and persecutors alike
dry bones first touted Ezekiel’s song.
Animals drawn chariot of four directions
eagle-vision as written word declares, though not
foreseen by the prophets of old, new, and coming of age.
Humbly walking, sword in hand, rod and tackle
on shores of peace and tranquility,
resting with wildlings, natural to the forest.
Compass spinning forth moving towards next
waiting for the call of Spirit, whispering warrior by name
acknowledging those in need and those too stubborn to know.

~ Ani Po


Thank you . for this 30-day challenge and The Bazaar of the Bizarre for hosting this piece.


Much gratitude for those who take time to read, ponder and allow the inner workings of self to come forward. Grateful for the feedback, love shared, and more importantly the Dance with Inspiration. Deep Peace.

Joseph Lieungh

Photo by Javardh on Unsplash