In “Meaning of a Word,” the poet 

is telling us what a difference 

one word truly makes, the holy 

implication of our language. 

When we say, teacher, the expres-

sion is outward, toward another. 

The teacher is outside us. But 

when we say, “My” teacher, there 

is a deep shift toward the inner. 

“My” teacher is the one “inside 

(us) who hears” and who “is 

awakened by ‘my’ call.” The true 

teacher is within...and as we 

begin to awaken spiritually, we 

seek her, and she responds. 
The poet also cautions us not to 

be foolish and “play games” with 

our (spiritual) “Self.” Calling up 

the inner teacher is sacred busi-

ness. After all, she says, “Who 

are (we) when we speak the holy 

words that awaken the inner 

teacher?” We are one with the 

Divine teacher within.

— Parthenia Hicks

Sabiha Betûl is a CSA Minister, author, 

artist and teacher. She organizes seminars 

on Kriya Yoga philosophy and practice in 

Ankara, Turkey, where she lives. 
Parthenia M. Hicks, M. Div., is the Poet 

Laureate of Los Gatos and the poetry 

editor of the Enlightenment Journal.

Meaning of a Word

 

When you utter the word "Teacher" 
It's a lifeless word. 

Yet, when you say "My teacher!", 
You own it! It's yours! 

"My teacher!" 

What a word! 
Listen to it as you say it, 
Know that it will become real, 
When it is repeated sincerely. 

You assume that she is someone, 

What is that thing that says  

"My teacher!" 

When you know who speaks these 
words through you 
Who are you? 
When you say "My teacher!," 

There is someone inside who hears, 

Someone who is awakened by  
your call, 
Someone who is reborn. 
Each and every "My teacher!" from you, 
Is a gift you give to yourself, 
When you say "My teacher!" 

Your respect is for yourself. 

Don't be caught unawares, 
When you utter the word "My teacher!,"
It is a sacred word, 

Don't ever play games with it! 

—Sabiha Betul

POETRY