On Certainty and On Uncertainty by Heidi Barr

On Certainty

What do you know for sure? 
Even if it isn’t much, there’s something—
what you’re standing on, the way the leaves dancing 
through autumn light make you feel, 
the shirt you always feel good wearing, 
which foods remind you 
of home, who you love, maybe 
even who loves you—keep it close, 
& lean on it when not knowing
tries to push you down. 
What do you know for sure?

On Uncertainty

There’s always something unknown
hovering, sitting on your shoulder
chirping questions,
a tiny thorney orb of wondering, 
a second skin that never quite settles
a chord that isn’t in complete alignment
with all the others because it’s still being created
and that’s the allure of it, thorns and all—
moments keep unfolding, and somehow
rough edges and deep, dark grooves
along with enough softness to cradle chaos,
provide the foundation
for a life in progress, allowing what comes
next to be a beautifully destructive 
invitation to dance.

Artist’s Statement

Though the process is often messy and full of mistakes, I’m committed to making my life and work a daily practice centered around working toward a decolonized world, where all humans, creatures, and the land are treated with respect. Writing poetry and offering it to others is a big part of how I do that. Hiking through forests, wading in rivers, digging in the soil, surrounding myself with natural wonder, and giving voice to what I notice, helps me stay grounded in reality.

Heidi Barr lives in Minnesota with her husband and daughter where they tend a large vegetable garden, explore nature and do their best to live simply. She is one of the St. Croix Valley’s 2022 poet laureates, works as a wellness coach, and is the Managing Editor of Wayfarer Magazine. As a mother, spouse, nature lover, and writer, she is committed to cultivating ways of being that are life-giving and sustainable for people, communities, and the planet. Her latest book is called Slouching Toward Radiance. Learn more at www.heidibarr.com