Poetry, Selective Mutism and Finding Voice A Journey From Silence to Voice This year marks 30 years since I first began the journey of “coming out” from silence into voice. It has been a path shaped by courage, self-kindness and the slow unfolding of words that once felt impossible to speak. For 14 years, throughout my teens and early twenties, I lived with selective mutism—a condition that meant my words were locked inside, unheard by the world around me except in certain circumstances. It was a time of whispers, of carrying language quietly, of learning strength in silence. Recognition at the 2025 CHARTS Awards On this anniversary year, I am humbled and proud to share that my poem “From Whispers to Words: A Journey of Silence and Strength”, written less than a year ago in early 2025, has been awarded Winner in the General bracket of the Poetry & Literature category at the 2025 Community Housing Art Awards South Australia (CHARTS Awards) ceremony which was held on Thursday...
This A–Z began as a gentle reflection—an attempt to name the rhythms that have companioned me on my simplicity journey. These aren’t rules or prescriptions. They are gentle signposts I’ve noticed along the way. Some came easily; others I had to learn slowly through trial and tenderness. I offer them here not as an expert but as someone who’s still learning to live with intention, to let go of perfectionism and to honour what truly matters. If even one word here echoes something in you, I’m glad. That’s enough.
These words aren’t fixed or final; they are simply touchstones I have gathered along the way. I offer them here as an A–Z of what simplicity has come to mean for me.
. . .
The A-Z of Simplicity and Self-Care
Authenticity - Living in a way that aligns with your true values, free from the complexity of pretense or external expectations.
Be Gentle - Prioritise your self-care practices gently, starting small with tiny steps and kind words.
Clarity - The result of focused living, where priorities are clear and decision-making becomes easier.
Decluttering - Simplify your life by getting rid of anything that doesn’t contribute to what matters.
Essentials - Identifying and keeping only the core items, activities and relationships necessary for a fulfilling life; the things that "spark joy".
Focus - Directing attention to one thing at a time, a practice that reduces overwhelm and improves presence.
Gratitude - Appreciating the simple things in life which fosters contentment and reduces the desire for more.
Harmony - A state of balance and peace that comes from a life free of unnecessary complexity and internal conflict.
Intentionality - Making deliberate choices about how you spend your time, money and energy, rather than acting on impulse or default.
Joy - Finding happiness in the everyday, simple moments and being present in the "here and now".
Kindness - Practicing simple, pure-intentioned interactions with others without expectation or conditions.
Less - Embracing the philosophy of "less is more" where having fewer things or commitments can lead to a richer experience.
Mindfulness - Staying in the present moment and not making things complicated with worries about the past or future.
No - Learn to say "no" even when you aren't busy to prioritise your own needs.
Openness - Approaching life with a simple, clear mind, free from the burden of judgement or complexity.
Permission - Give yourself permission to take care of yourself without guilt.
Quiet - Creating moments of stillness and silence to allow for reflection and a peaceful inner state.
Release - Letting go of physical clutter, emotional baggage and limiting beliefs that complicate life.
Slow down - Choosing a deliberate pace of life over constant rushing, allowing time to appreciate the small things.
Truth - Seeking genuineness and honesty, as "the simplest things are often the truest".
Unplug - Disconnect from technology and the online world to recharge.
Values - Prioritising what truly matters, which often means rethinking your values and avoiding a false sense of identity based on possessions.
Wardrobe - An example of practical simplicity where having fewer, quality clothing items in your closet reduces daily decision fatigue.
Xenial - Meaning hospitable or friendly; a reminder that simplicity in relationships means being welcoming and generous with time and patience.
Yield - Giving up the need for control and accepting what is, a form of mental simplicity that reduces stress.
Zen - A state of calm focus and simple, direct action, often associated with a minimalist and tranquil approach to life.
. . .
I don’t see simplicity as a goal to reach. It is more like a companion—a quiet presence that walks beside me as I navigate each season. This A–Z isn’t complete and it isn’t fixed. It is a snapshot of where I have been and perhaps where I am gently heading. I will keep returning to these words when life feels cluttered or noisy. And I hope you will find your own rhythm too—one that honours your pace, your truth and your gentle self.
If any of these reflections stir something in you, I would be glad for you to share. Your own experiences and gentle insights can add to this conversation in ways that make it richer and more human.
Go gently,
Denise Marron 🩷
Simplicity Advocate and
Author at Gentle Self.
🌿 10 Years of Simple Living
🤔 Learn More About Denise
Living simply, writing gently,
companioning with care. 🌸
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