Calm · 3 min
Keep one poemin your pocket
Copy out one short poem you like, keep it in your pocket or phone case, and read it once a day this week.
A poem is the smallest thing you can read that still feels complete. This practice keeps one close, so it is there in the middle of the day.
The steps
Four small steps,in your own time.
Find a short poem you like: in a book, on a card, from a friend. Shorter than a page is best.
Copy it out by hand onto a small card or piece of paper.
Keep it somewhere you will find it: a pocket, a wallet, the back of the phone case.
Read it once a day this week, slowly, maybe twice. Notice which line stays with you.
The reason
Why it helps
A short poem read many times gives more each time. Copying it by hand slows you down and makes it yours. Having it in your pocket means there is something good to read in a minute of waiting, and a line to carry through a long afternoon.
A gentle variation
If poetry is not for you, copy out a line from a song, a prayer or a letter.
WE · TRIBE
Try itwith someone.
Copy it twice and give the second card to someone. Ask them for one of theirs in return.
Try it today
Find one short poem, copy it out by hand on a card, and keep it in your pocket to read once a day this week.
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