The Quiet Yes: A Poem For Santosha (Contentment)

A calming poem that explores Santosha—the peace of contentment and the beauty of being enough, just as you are. This original poem explores the gentle, powerful truth of Santosha—the yogic practice of contentment.

Through lyrical reflection and vivid imagery, The Quiet Yes invites you to pause the chase, soften the inner critic, and remember that peace is not in perfection, but in presence.

If you're feeling burnt out, emotionally restless, or stuck in a loop of "not enough," this poem offers a soothing reminder: you don’t have to do more to be worthy—you only have to be here.

Perfect for listening during your morning meditation, evening wind-down, or moments of self-inquiry, this piece helps you reconnect with your inner wholeness.
A poem not to uplift, but to return you—to the stillness that already lives inside you.

Transcript

A poem on Santosa. The poem is titled The Quiet Yes I used to chase the brighter light, The shinier fruit, The taller height, A restless wind beneath my skin, A hunger with no name within. But one still morning, Soft and wide, I met the world and stepped aside. No gold arrived, No trumpet call, Just birdsong, Breeze, And nothing small. The cup was chipped, The sky was grey, And yet I smiled, I stayed that day. The coffee cooled, The silence grew, And somehow everything felt true. No fireworks fled, No crowd adored, But something deep inside was restored. A gentle loosening of the grasp, The hand unclenched, The breath unmasked. Enough was here, And here was wide, I didn't need to run or hide. A whisper rose beneath my chest, Not joy, Not thrill, But something best. A quiet yes to all I am, To dirty floors and burnt toast jam. To rising sun and evening ache, To all I give and all I take. Santosa came with no parade, Just stillness where the wanting laid. A home inside, A softer gaze, A life unlaced from endless chase. So now I drink the simple tea, I watch the clouds, I let them be. And in this breath I understand, I've always held the promise planned.

Reviews

What a wonderful poem…so grateful for this today…you gave me just what I needed ..many blessings kind soul. 🙏🙏🙏🙏✌🏼❤️‍🔥

Afterthought I think much of what you said as I observe a small child with laughter and content playing with every day objects. I see I need to reflect it all myself. Thanks for bringing life into the present for me.

Great poem Leslie, I'm very glad you are recording and releasing them. 👏🙃❤️🙏