There is a quiet kind of strength that doesn’t announce itself.
One of the most tender threads woven through A Hundred Ways to Hold Her is the voice of the future self. These benediction verses arrive not as guidance, but as witnessing. They speak from the place of wholeness slowly taking root, honouring the courage it took to arrive there.
The verse shared below is one of those offerings.
It was written from a space of deep gratitude for the woman who kept walking even when the path was so uncertain.
So often in healing, we focus on where we hope to arrive. But these benedictions turn gently back toward the journey itself.
As I’ve been writing this collection, I’ve come to understand how powerful it is to be witnessed in the middle of becoming, not only celebrated at the end. These verses exist to honour the courage that often goes unnoticed, the kind that lives in ordinary days and private moments.
This future voice isn’t rushing her forward.
She is simply saying, I see you. I am here because of you.
Sharing this benediction feels like opening a window into the heart of the book. It reflects the deeper intention behind the collection: to create a space where survival is honoured, tenderness is reclaimed, and the long road back to self is treated as sacred ground.
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As this work continues to unfold, I’ll be sharing more verses, reflections, and pieces of the journey. Not as a finished story, but as a living one, shaped by heartbreak and hope, wounds and wisdom.
If you find yourself in a season of becoming too, I hope these words feel like companionship. A reminder that even when the way isn’t clear, every step taken with courage is already carrying you closer to yourself.
May this space always feel like somewhere your heart can rest. ♥
If you’re just joining this journey, or would like to return to earlier verses, you’ll find previous posts linked below.
- Returning to What is True: Poetry, Presence, and the Inner Work of Becoming
- A Hundred Ways to Hold Her: Honouring the Healing Journey Through Poetry
Natalie, xo
This space is an offering of presence.
Words shaped through listening, reflection, and reverence.
A place where becoming is honoured, and the voice remains true.
As a multi-passionate creator my heart is rooted in storytelling, self-expression, and soulful connection. I’m a writer of poetry that journeys the deep emotional landscapes of life—the vulnerability and valour of the soul. Nature is my sanctuary. In its tranquil beauty and quiet wisdom, I find restoration, reflection, and a deeper connection to the soul. It’s where I return to breathe, to listen, and to simply be. Creativity, for me, is more than expression—it is transformation. It is how we return to ourselves. Whether you’ve arrived here for a spark of inspiration, a moment of peace, or a sense of belonging—I welcome you!
Natalie this poem is exquisite. It touched me deeply. I have been that woman. 💕
Thank you, Jan. It’s remarkable what our hearts carry us through. I know you know this well. I always appreciate you stopping by. xo
I love this. It gave me hope following a rather hope-less day, Thank you.
Thank you for your message, Annette. I know life has placed many challenges along your path, and I truly admire the strength and grace with which you continue to meet each day. It means a lot to have you here in this space. I do think of you often. Sending warm, hopeful hugs your way. xo
Stunningly beautiful, Natalie x
Thank you so much, Toni. I’m grateful you’re reading along. xo