Poet Cole Arthur Riley discusses Black Liturgies, embracing embodiment, lament, rage, and rest in spirituality. Interview reflects on evolving faith journey. Exploration of emotions, self-care in activism, and transformative black experiences through poetry. Delve into self-compassion and protection in spiritual expression.
Black Liturgies explores spirituality embracing embodiment, lament, rage, and rest.
Drawing strength from memory and resilience of ancestors offers hope and stability.
Silence can challenge injustice and redefine prayer through diverse connections with the divine.
Deep dives
The Honest Expression in Black Liturgies
Cole Arthur Riley's work in Black Liturgies offers an honest and contemplative space where individuals can connect with the sacred. Through poetry, prayers, and spiritual practices, Cole delves into various themes, including rage, lament, and the pursuit of justice, exploring emotions and experiences that resonate deeply with her audience.
Hope and Memory
Cole finds hope in looking backward and drawing strength from memory. She sees hope in the resilience of those who came before, enduring similar struggles and finding ways to survive and pass on their stories. By reflecting on the past, Cole finds stability and hope for the future, emphasizing the power of memory and connection to heritage.
Silence and Subversion
Silence plays a complex role in Cole's work, from being seen as complicit to being a powerful tool of defiance. Drawing on historical events like the Silent Parade, she highlights how intentional silence can subvert expectations and challenge injustice, offering a unique perspective on the significance of silence in activism and spirituality.
Expanding Notions of Prayer
Cole's understanding of prayer has evolved to encompass any intentional connection with the sacred, beyond just written words. She explores prayer through the body, breath practices, rest, and healing, embracing a broader definition that invites individuals to connect with the divine in diverse and personalized ways.
Insight into the Black Experience Through Poetry and Liturgy
The podcast episode delves into the profound wisdom and insights shared by a young individual, offering a unique perspective on the Black experience through poetry and liturgy. The speaker highlights the importance of understanding the complex contexts and experiences that influence one's connection to religious practices and texts. Through examples and personal reflections, the episode emphasizes the significance of recognizing and appreciating diverse perspectives in shaping faith and spirituality.
Reimagining Jesus and Self-Compassion
Another key point discussed in the podcast episode is the reevaluation of Jesus' character and the concept of self-compassion. The episode challenges traditional perceptions of Jesus as a peaceful and gentle figure, presenting a more complex and challenging interpretation. Additionally, the importance of self-compassion, encompassing both tenderness and fierce protection, is highlighted, drawing parallels to the work of Dr. Christian Neff on self-compassion as a multifaceted approach to inner healing and understanding.
Poet and author Cole Arthur Riley joins us to talk about her desire for a spirituality that was more human and a more liberating expression of faith. This journey led to the emergence of Black Liturgies. From prayers and poetry to breath practices and ancestral writings, this digital project explores spirituality that embraces embodiment, lament, rage and rest. And draws deeply from both contemplation and activism.
Following the interview Tim and Anna reflect on their own evolving faith journey, and ponder what role embodiment, lament, rage and rest might play in it.
