Kundalini Splendor

First, here is Ivan Granger's eloquent statement about the essence and impact of sacred poetry:

When asked why he writes poetry, Ivan says, "Poetry has an immediate effect on the mind. The simple act of reading poetry alters thought patterns and the shuttle of the breath. Poetry induces trance. Its words are chant. Its rhythms are drum beats. Its images become the icons of the inner eye. Poetry is more than a description of the sacred experience; it carries the experience itself."

All you gurus--

Beware the poet.
He sings
your praises,
spreading delightful
lies
and not caring.

All you gurus--

Beware the scholar.
With devotion
he records
your entire history
when you have
none.

All you gurus--

Beware the priest.
He builds
spired temples
on every green hilltop
only to house
himself.

All you gurus--

Beware the girl.
She casts her look,
hoping, terrified,
you will take the hook.

All you gurus--

Beware your wife.
She serves all
with eyes of compassion
fixed
on the softest seat.

All you gurus--

Beware the diligent disciple.
Ceaselessly meditating,
he has already tried
your back door.

Gurus, beware
these children
in your care.
They teach you
how much of you
is still there.

(copyright, Ivan Granger)


Bent

Yogis, you should
sit up,
stand tall.

Yogis, you should
keep that spine alert.

But hear
my bent secret:

All saints slouch.

God's lovers lean
into the divine embrace
and there
let the years pass.

Struggling for straightness,
your strivings shaken,

learn what true knowers know:

Effort clears the way,
but the steps
are already taken.

(copyright, Ivan Granger)