Up and Down, All Around

Summary

The web content is a poetic exploration of the concept of balance, both metaphorically and in the natural world.

Abstract

The article titled "Up and Down, All Around" delves into the theme of balance through vivid imagery and personal experience. It uses the metaphor of a see-saw to illustrate the dynamic nature of balance, characterized by constant movement and adjustment. The narrative extends to the dance floor, where balance is found in the trust and coordination between partners. The author reflects on the search for balance, recognizing its presence in the symmetry of nature, such as butterfly wings and honeycombs, and within oneself through moments of introspection and the rhythm of breathing. The poem suggests that balance is an ever-present force, both internal and external, that requires acknowledgment and harmony to maintain.

Opinions

The author believes that balance is not a static state but a continuous process, exemplified by the up-and-down motion of a see-saw.
Balance in relationships, as seen in dance, is portrayed as a delicate interplay of trust and physical coordination.
The author sees balance in the natural world, pointing to the perfection of butterfly wings, spider webs, and honeycombs as evidence of its inherent existence.
The search for balance is acknowledged as an internal journey, with moments of rest and deep breathing serving as tools for rediscovery.
The poem conveys an overarching opinion that balance is omnipresent and can be found with mindfulness and appreciation for the world's natural rhythms and patterns.

It’s all about the balance

Where can I find balance?

At the playground, sitting on top of the old wooden see-saw, feet dangling and hands clenched tight to the handle until down I go, land with a bang, push with my feet to go back to the sky and laugh as my partner crashes to the ground with a momentary thud even as he cracks a grin, pushes with his feet and sends me soaring.

Down and up, up and down the thrill of the movement, never static, always in motion, up and down, from the ground to the air the old wooden ‘see-saw” comes alive in the quest for balance.

Where can I find balance?

On the dance floor as I step forward, strengthen my ankles, engage my core, ready to twirl and be lifted; I lock into my partner’s eyes as the music begins and I sway to the movement of our dance steps, trusting he catches me when I jump, and as I dip under he extends his hands to pull me back and the choreography quivers with its vibrant tension.

Where can I find balance? It’s always visible.

I see it in the symmetry of butterfly wings, delicately spun spider webs and in perfectly formed hexagons of a honey bee’s honeycomb.

It’s always around, circling through me pulling me forward, unless I forget to honor its presence; and then I crash down and bury myself under the pillows, taking respite to reclaim what I have temporarily misplaced until I find the rhythm of a deep breath in, a deep breath out.

Where can I find balance?

It is already here, within and all around.

POETRY

Up and Down, All Around

It’s all about the balance