I love to close my eyes.
I’ll close my eyes in conversation, and listen deeply.
I listen to people’s voices: to the tone and texture of their speech, to the rhythm and silences of their utterances.
There’s so much in people’s voices, and I can hear it all.
Their hopes and fears, their desires and confusions, the stuff and substance of their character.
Sometimes sight is challenging.
I get overwhelmed by bright lights, or colors.
People think I’m tired, or falling asleep.
And it might be true. I’m often tired.
It’s true that closing my eyes is restful.
But I’m not falling asleep.
I’m caring for myself.
Closing my eyes lets me rest while being more present to voice, and speech, and the feelings of my body.
To participate more fully, more whole-heartedly, albeit in fewer dimensions.
It’s not always polite.
It’s definitely not normal, or usual.
People are sometimes confused when I do.
But still.
I love closing my eyes.