IFS Poetry

Though the mystical and transpersonal dimensions are essentially beyond words, we can sometimes tiptoe our way toward them. For many, poems offer a portal into these other realms. Ordinary words—strung together with intention and infused with silence—can evoke a sense of calm, presence, and possibility.

My “poetry part” was born under the glow of the Strawberry Moon in Ericeira, Portugal, during a time of deep inner work guided by a wonderful Senior IFS Lead Trainer—someone who held space like a midwife, with deep knowing and trust in the process, gently supporting what was already ready to emerge. Surrounded by the rolling waves—both of the vast Atlantic and the collective Self energy of 48 beautifully Self-led humans—something unexpected happened. Words began to take shape, carrying the rhythm of the sea, the spaciousness of Self, and the essence of that profound experience.

I wouldn’t call myself a prolific poet—at the breakneck speed of about two poems per year, my muse seems delightfully committed to the slow art of patience. But when my poetry part does make an appearance—these days, often inspired by holding space for others—it brings me so much joy. Each piece feels like a small but meaningful gift, arriving exactly when it’s ready, never a moment too soon.

This slowly growing collection is my invitation to pause… and to see what world it might unlock in you. I’d love to hear which poems resonate with you, how they are received in your system, or what other themes you’d love to see explored. Drop me a line—I'd be honored to hear from you.

Selected Works of Poetry

The Empress
Noémi A. Sullivan Noémi A. Sullivan

The Empress

An honoring of both the Self and the Collective Self

What does it mean to lead—not through force, but through calm, loving presence? The Empress is not a ruler of domination, but of deep knowing, compassion, and courage. She governs not merely a land, but a realm of truth, where sovereignty is not about power over others, but about wholeness and harmony within.

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A Blanket From Long Ago
Noémi A. Sullivan Noémi A. Sullivan

A Blanket From Long Ago

An exploration of legacy burdens and their quiet weight

For many of us, the blanket we were wrapped in at birth was not new, light, or soft—it was already heavy with the weight of generations. Much of what we carry was woven long before us, passed down in silence alongside heirlooms, inherited without question.

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Different Shades of Bitter
Noémi A. Sullivan Noémi A. Sullivan

Different Shades of Bitter

A reflection on the impact of burdens—and the way forward

This piece emerged from a quiet inquiry into bitterness—not as a flaw, but as a complex messenger. It is a tender map of the internal system, one that honors sharp, protective edges without judgment.

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The Alchemist’s Legend
Noémi A. Sullivan Noémi A. Sullivan

The Alchemist’s Legend

Meeting a strong protector with compassion and witnessing its transformation

At times, our protective parts—whether a Firefighter urgently escaping pain or a Manager striving to prevent it—may want to lead us away from the world, convinced that isolation is the safest path. The Alchemist’s Legend tells the story of such a retreat, but also of what becomes possible in the presence of Self energy.

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Ascension
Noémi A. Sullivan Noémi A. Sullivan

Ascension

Honoring and healing our tender parts

Ascension speaks to the tender journey of healing our exiles—the parts of us locked away for protection, yet longing for redemption. This piece gently invites us to reconnect with the grace that has always lived within us and release the weight of old survival patterns.

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Hope Merchant
Noémi A. Sullivan Noémi A. Sullivan

Hope Merchant

Trusting the pace, wisdom, and self-healing capacity of the inner system

Hope Merchant is a testament to the wisdom and self-healing capacity of the internal system. The treasure buried beneath—our exiled parts, along with their natural gifts—cannot be unearthed by force.

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Breathe In the Birdsong…
Noémi A. Sullivan Noémi A. Sullivan

Breathe In the Birdsong…

Ten short lines from a newly reborn part

Breathe In the Birdsong speaks to the sacred process of transformation—the slow germination, the gentle unfolding. It is an offering, a reminder, and a breath of grace for all on their own path of becoming.

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How It All Started…
Noémi A. Sullivan Noémi A. Sullivan

How It All Started…

My “poetry part” was born under the gentle glow of the Strawberry Moon in Ericeira, Portugal, during a time of deep inner work guided by a wonderful Senior IFS Lead Trainer—someone who held space like a midwife, with wisdom, patience, and trust in the process, gently supporting what was already ready to emerge.

Read More