A while back I wrote about adopting a practice of writing a haiku poem each day, I haven’t written one poem a day. Some days I haven’t written any, and some days I’ve written more than one. I’m embracing my practice as it is so that I can find joy in it and continue.

I love the process of writing the poems. I’m not following all the rules of haiku, but I am maintaining the 5-7-5 beats for each poem or stanza in my poem. Finding words to fit the form is getting easier, but occasionally I still struggle to express myself in the form. At those times I head to thesaurus. Searching for a new word that has the needed number of syllables and the right meaning and feeling is enjoyable — I may even be enlarging my vocabulary!

As I write I’m working to be true to what I’m experiencing and noticing, but also to be positive and optimistic. I’m happy to report that I find great joy and encouragement as I reread the poems. I’m remind of happenings, pleasantly surprised by the rhythm, and encouraged by the meaning.

A few readers have asked me to share some of my poems and the poems my Kindergartners create. I haven’t introduced haiku to my Kindergartners yet. I think in the next few weeks, It might make sense to bring it into some of our work and thinking together. Once I do, I’ll share their work. For now, here are a few of mine — seven, actually, simply because I like the number.

RAIN (written in the depth of our drought)
What’s that? Is it rain?
Window thrown open, I melt
in the lusciousness of rain.

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MORNING PAUSE
Wake, sit, breathe, and pray.
Mind and body run away.
Gently call them back

Hands on heart, I breathe.
Inhale, exhale, up and down.
Cultivating peace.

Repeat as needed.
Notice, accept, and breathe on.
Held in prayers and peace.

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AMAZING THINGS
Believe it, it’s true.
Amazing things will happen.
Make room, lots of room.

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MORNING
Drat the pencil’s dull
Shavings accidentally
Fall upon the floor

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REPROGRAM
I am courageous
I am peaceful. I am loved.
I am safe and well.

Reprogram your brain.
Create new neural pathways.
We have the power.

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PHEW, YAY!
Worked out yesterday
Feeling it today
Celebrate new strength

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THEY’RE HERE
My spot’s invaded
by giggles, joy, and chatter,
My Kinders are here.

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