Introduction

Dear Readers,

Thank you very much for stopping by to read this month's issue. Whether this is your first time here 
or you are a repeat reader, you will find a diverse selection of poetry that addresses the experience 
of the divine in daily life. This may inspire a greater interest in poetry and spirituality on your part. 

Often I feel that reading spiritual poetry is an extension of a basic instict all of us have toward finding 
truth. So with great thanks to all the wonderful people who have shared their poetry with me, I now 
offer a few thoughts to the general reader who is used to reading other people's works. Because 
whether you are a reader and/or writer as well, in the end it really is about you.

It is ironic that on a website whose topic is the discussion of the Big Questions, I am asking you to pause 
from reading other people's thoughts and rather turn inward to listen to your own. Looking inward may 
not provide the answers, but hopefully it will raise your Big Questions, which actually is a more worthy 
quest. In the words of philosopher Edward Hodnett, "If you do not ask the right questions, you do not get 
the right answers." 

You probably did not come here to be lectured. I am pretty sure, though, that you came here to be found. 
Honestly, isn't the reason we spend so much time surfing the web so that we can find ourselves? By 
searching for, finding, and capturing that perfect article, or idea, or consumer good, we hope to be defined, 
captivated, and explained. However, part of keeping a balanced life is knowing when to tune out, in order 
to address your particular questions, doubts, and issues. So listen to the expressions of your own soul, that 
higher and more authentic part of yourself. 

When I read a good poem, I usually feel that it has defined me, captivated me, or explained me. I feel 
honored by every selection in this month's issue. Thanks for reading. 

All the best in life and writing,

Omar Azam



Note: In the August 2004 issue, the poetry form "Eintou" was described inaccurately as a "traditional African form." Actually, the Eintou is 
an African-American form. Reader Akintiunde Kofi Camara notes, "While the structure of the form does encompass both African American and 
African historico-cultural philosophy, it is also based on the musical, rhythmic strategies of the blues and jazz, among other aspects of African
American culture." Thank you, Akintiunde.