A Beautiful Question

I was introduced to the concept of a "beautiful question" when I heard internationally known poet and author David Whyte speak at a conference. Those words took me by surprise and I wanted to know more about what he meant. That was only one of the many times over the past 30 years David's words were inspiring, thought provoking and inviting.

My understanding of a beautiful question is one that David says, "has no right to go away." It is asked and answered over and over throughout your life. A question that can shift the way you perceive and think about something. It has the capacity to shake things up in you.

I came across my current beautiful question this morning reading a quote from John O'Donohue's work. The question, "When was your last great conversation with someone?" Lately our world seems to be in the midst of divisiveness, arguing and finger pointing more than having conversations. I started thinking about what constitutes a great conversation for me. Qualities like presence, vulnerability, authenticity, an open heart, courage and feeling seen and heard came to mind.

I recalled a recent conversation during a visit with friends I had not seen since my husband Mike's death prior to the pandemic. A strong bond had formed in our 40 years of friendship. Our friends were present and sincere listening to the story about Mike's final days. Our shared vulnerability was palpable as we sat in my living room holding space for the grief and sadness about his loss. I felt seen and heard by them in our exchanges which resulted in a noticeable feeling of warmth and closeness. While it might have briefly crossed everyone's minds, I appreciated that no one was making jokes to relieve the emotional discomfort we all felt. This was an example of my ideal "great conversation." I know I want to create more of these experiences in the new year.