Making of ‘The Sheltering’

Be in a state of gratitude for everything that shows up in your life. Be thankful for the storms as well as smooth sailing. ~ Dr. Wayne W. Dyer

After pouring my heart out, last week, I’ve been feeling a bit depleted. Hence, today I’m not saying much except pointing you to the conversation I recently had with a friend on Making of ‘The Sheltering, if you like learning about ‘behind the poem‘ sort of thing.

Anyway, the holiday season is upon us. As we all know, it can be stressful for many reasons. So, I wish you a restful Sunday, and unhurried days as you prepare for the holidays ♥

PS. Featured image is one of many Santa Claus’ houses situated in Lapland, where the Arctic Circle runs through.

Khaya Ronkainen
Khaya Ronkainen is a writer, poet and creative professional. Her blog focuses on all things poetry and creative nonfiction.

18 Comments

  1. Khaya, you create a beautiful path we all can follow when you “go where it hurts” with your poetry. Thank you for sharing 💜. Yes to gratitude for storms as well as smooth sailing. Everything helps us learn and grow.
    Beautiful feature photo! ❤️

  2. I wish you a “restful Sunday, and unhurried days as you prepare for the holidays.” I couldn’t say it better. Hugs, my friend. And I’m looking forward to the read. <3

  3. Oh Khaya, I listened to your interview, your conversation with a friend and I was even more moved by your reflections than when I read your book. I heard you read one of my favorites, “Silence,” and it took me to a place with an emotion I cannot define. You placed emphasis throughout your reading of that particular poem that hit me with tears, remembering the losses in my family. Thank you for sharing this message through your post.

    The photo of your house is awesome. And in your conversation, you mention that the ills of the pandemic, politics, etc., is a global concern and not just unique to one country. Replenish your energy. Take care of yourself. Thank you for sharing a piece of you with us today my friend. 🤗🙏🏽😘💖🤩💐😊

  4. True that, “everything helps us learn and grow.” Thank you for kind and encouraging comment, Natalie. <3 And about the photo, thank you. It was taken from Santa's village; a place to visit when one wants to rekindle that childlike spirit. :D

  5. Kym, your affirming comment moves me, too. You have no idea how glad I am to hear that our conversation and my reflections were useful to you. That they connected you with your own feelings; it’s all I hope this book will accomplish. Thank you!

    Yes, ills of our individual worlds, societies, are a global concern or phenomena that happen across the board. But sometimes we don’t get to hear other stories, because some countries have both a huge budget and megaphone to communicate theirs to the world. That’s why, I believe knowledge gained through our collective personal stories or lived experiences is very important.

    Once again, thank you so much Kym for listening and your wonderful support. I appreciate all of it! Look after yourself, too. <3

    And oh, point of correction, the photo is not of my house but of Santa Claus. I think I need to add a postscript about that. 😀

  6. WOW Khaya, I simply don’t know where to start. I agree with you across all fronts, and as I listened to your voice and the conversation you had on the road to “The Sheltering,” oh what a powerful testimony and emotional experience I embraced. 🤗

    Thank you for your very kind comment and I try where I can to help uplift the voices of those of us who see and hear beyond that huge megaphone that tries to drown out our voice and advocacy. 😊 Stay encouraged my sister friend and empowered, even on those days that try to attack your spirit and deplete your energy. Your strength is much greater and your faith is unshakeable. Believe it and receive it.

    Enjoy the rest of your week. Make magic happen! Sending you big hugs and smooches! 🌞💐🤩🌟🙏🏽

  7. My dear October Poet, Khaya. Hearing your voice, talking around your kitchen table, I feel I am there, too. The laughter, controlled courage and intelligent discourse. How precious to be allowed to hear you reading one of my favorites: “Accepting What Comes From Silence.” You spoke my (he)art, too.
    Personal social commentary, personal living in these harsh times – spoken with such grace tinged with just enough disquiet to make a difference. You, my dear are a troubador of social conscience.
    Stay true to yourself, dear one.
    “Laugh hearty. Cry deeply.” Laura Bruno Lilly 2000

  8. Thank you so much, dearest Laura. Your words bring me joy, especially your recognition for my concern about injustices of our society. I once mentioned that I don’t “take any action off the keyboard” nowadays. That is, during my student days I used to take to the streets in protest. Nonetheless, I hope my small contribution goes some way…I’m really glad you enjoyed our slightly unfiltered conversations. I live in hope that one day I’ll have the privilege of a face-to-face conversation with you, for October loves both of us. Much love! <3

    PS. And your quote, “Laugh hearty. Cry deeply.” Laura Bruno Lilly 2000 speaks to me...I'll send you a letter about it.

  9. I am listening to your interview Khaya. It is good to hear your voice, to hear you read from your book. Wishing you peace and beauty this season and always.

  10. Khaya, I finally had the space and time to listen to the interview in its entirety. I love this interview you did because it was with a friend and writer, so I could feel the warmth and love of not only your words, but also your heart (if that makes sense). I also really enjoyed listening to you read your poetry in your voice.

  11. I so appreciate your kind and encouraging comment, Kathy. It means a lot to me, especially that you enjoyed the reading of poems, too. I have insecurities about my reading…long story. Mind you, I used to do voice-overs for a radio station, many years ago! Thanks once again for taking time to listen. <3

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