I hope you enjoy this Midweek Pause for Peace. Each week, I pair a beautiful image with a poem—a little something for your heart and your nervous system.
—Laura Davis
Episode Overview
In this transformative episode of "Pause for Peace," host Laura Davis explores Chelan Harkin's profound poem "November 6" - a rallying cry for finding our inner strength when everything seems to be falling apart. Laura reflects on how this poem reminds us of the inner strength that lives in all of us, and how we just need to find a way to tap it. This midweek pause reminds us that our deepest challenges often awaken our most powerful potential, calling us to rise and find the indomitable light within.
Featured Content
Poem: "November 6" by Chelan Harkin
Theme: Rising from collapse and finding inner strength
Format: Poetry reading with inspirational commentary
Duration: Midweek pause episode
Key Themes Explored
Inner Resilience: Discovering strength we didn't know we possessed
Rising from Devastation: Transforming collapse into fuel for growth
Collective Support: The importance of reaching for each other in difficult times
Light in Darkness: Embracing our luminous nature during challenging periods
Integrity Under Pressure: How trials test and strengthen our character
Indomitable Spirit: Finding that which cannot be defeated within us
Episode Highlights
Opening reflection by Laura Davis on the inner strength that lives within all of us
Full reading of Chelan Harkin's stirring poem "November 6"
Exploration of how foundations crumbling can awaken our light
Discussion of burning through devastation to make it fuel
Message about not being afraid of the dark but bringing forth our light
Call to action: "Rise, and find the strength in your heart"
Guest Spotlight: Chelan Harkin
Chelan Harkin is a celebrated poet and inspirational speaker who explores the mystical connections among "the family of things." Her work focuses on:
Published Works:
Susceptible to Light
Let Us Dance: The Stumble and Whirl with The Beloved
Wild Grace
The Prophetess: The Return of The Prophet from The Voice of The Divine Feminine (newest work)
Expertise Areas:
Healing from trauma through poetry
Self-realization and personal growth
Cultivating wholeness and unity
Dismantling barriers that divide us
Mystical spirituality and connection
Speaking & Impact:
Chelan has shared her unique, inspired voice across the country, encouraging others to open their hearts and break down divisive barriers. She lives in Washington State with her children, Amari and Nahanni.
Connect with Chelan Harkin
Instagram: @chelanharkin
Find her published works and speaking engagements
About This Episode's Message
This poem serves as a powerful reminder that our greatest challenges often reveal our greatest strengths. When everything external falls away, we're invited to dig deeper and discover the indomitable force that lives within us - our capacity to rise, to love, and to shine light in the darkness.
Reflection Questions
What hidden strengths have you discovered during difficult times?
How can you use your current challenges as fuel for growth?
In what ways can you reach out and support others during collective struggles?
What does it mean to you to "not be afraid of the dark"?
About "Pause for Peace"
Each week, host Laura Davis pairs beautiful imagery with meaningful poetry, offering listeners a respite for both heart and nervous system. These midweek pauses provide essential moments of reflection, healing, and inspiration in our complex world.
The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive regular posts like these, as well as beautifully curated poems, essays, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.
You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com
You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/