After a while it opens you up

 

Peng Kang-long’s “Jade Inlaid Vermilion Sky” (2022), a triptych in which white peonies float across a glowing pink sky.Credit...via INKstudio

In this AWP speech, Toi Derracotte (at about 1 hour and 8 minutes) gives Sonia Sanchez's model of daily haiku writing:

Every morning she gets up and writes a haiku and sets her intention for the day.  So I started doing that... and I really think I wouldn't have been writing these things I read tonight because after awhile you know it opens you up.

I asked ChatGPT what it means to write a daily intention and to provide some examples...

Setting an intention every day means making a conscious decision to focus your thoughts, emotions, and actions on a particular goal or desired outcome for the day. It involves taking a few moments to reflect on what you want to achieve, how you want to feel, and how you want to interact with others.

When you set an intention, you create a mental roadmap for the day ahead. By doing so, you are more likely to stay focused and motivated, and less likely to get distracted by external circumstances or negative emotions.

Setting an intention can take many forms. It could be as simple as setting a goal for the day, such as completing a particular task, or it could be more abstract, such as committing to being more patient or compassionate with others. The key is to choose an intention that resonates with you and that you feel is achievable.

By setting an intention every day, you can cultivate a greater sense of mindfulness and purpose in your life. It can help you to stay present and focused on what matters most, and ultimately lead to greater happiness, fulfillment, and success.

here are some examples of intentions you could set for yourself every day:

1. I intend to focus on my breath and stay present in the moment.
2. I intend to be kind and patient with myself and others today.
3. I intend to complete all of my tasks with focus and efficiency.
4. I intend to prioritize my health and well-being by eating healthy and exercising.
5. I intend to approach challenges with a positive and solution-oriented mindset.
6. I intend to express gratitude for the blessings in my life.
7. I intend to show empathy and understanding towards others, even when it's difficult.
8. I intend to learn something new today and expand my knowledge.
9. I intend to take time to relax and recharge my energy.
10. I intend to speak and act with authenticity and integrity in all my interactions.

These are just a few examples, but there are countless intentions you could set depending on your personal goals and values. The key is to choose an intention that feels meaningful and achievable for you, and to take a few moments each day to reflect on it and commit to it.