delve deep
delve deep into your data
do not rush or strive to explain
words, images, stories, numbers
let the results play with you,
toss you about,
turn you round and
sit you down.
And slowly, gently
let them mould you
shape you, change you
make you new.
Be still
and know.
Do not be afraid.
If the patterns do not fit
or sit in comfort
with your pre-formed views
Be still and know
and don’t be afraid.
Perhaps it is you
who needs to grow.
This past month I have enjoyed having time to spend on some of my research and writing. I wrote this poem as a reminder to myself of the importance of sitting with my data and allowing them to speak.