This is a favorite for me that I’ve used often, from American poet, Adrienne Rich. I like the way that this points to the openings and the essentialness of choice and awareness. “…there is always the risk of remembering your name…” — yes, that is beautiful. I’ve heard this poem referenced as The Door Frame, and, as it is referenced below.
Prospective Immigrants Please Note
By Adrienne Rich
Either you will
go through this door
or you will not go through.
If you go through
there is always the risk
of remembering your name.
Things look at you doubly
and you must look back
and let them happen.
If you do not go through
it is possible
to live worthily
to maintain your attitudes
to hold your position
to die bravely
but much will blind you,
much will evade you,
at what cost who knows?
The door itself
makes no promises.
It is only a door.
