It is time for a second look at my 2018 haiku. Actually I look at it every day because it is the postscript at the end of my Google email account . A haiku is a form of Japanese poetry that has a certain structure. It is always three lines, with the first line having 5 syllables, the second line having 7 syllables, and the third line having five syllables.
A friend of mine, Monika, has given me haikus for about five years. She writes in the late months of the year, and then sends it to me. Below, is the one I have had for the past year, 2018.
Here is my second reflection on this haiku:
Mature trees stand still
Whispering loudly wise words
Will we join their call
Monika Pieper Landoni 2018
I have had a busy year . Both Shirley and I turn 60 this year. Shirley was 60 in June, and I turn to the next decade in November. I have returned to being pastor in March. I did not think I would be a pastor again, but I returned to the call, although only part-time. I have embarked on something completely different as well. I am pleased also to work for Mennonite Central Committee, and am humbled to preach for them on Sundays.
In the haiku, I hear that I must stand tall, but be silent. I must know what I believe, and stand in the background, and await for people to ask me what I believe and think. As an introvert, I do not usually enter into a discussion unless asked, But, if am leading a meeting, I am able to do that . At 60, I hope I am more mature, as an oak, elm, or maple tree. What is my favourite mature tree ? I like blue spruces, but I think my favourite would be a Maple of any kind.
The second line is a oxymoron, opposite things going on in the same sentence. “ Whispering loudly “ cannot be done, but it is for me a symbol of all the paradoxes in my life. Having faith in God is like opposites in my life. I know God is there, but cannot quite grab hold of God. Last night at Bible study, we talked about meaning and meaninglessness. They are both part of my faith journey. It is like “ chasing after the wind” ( Ecclesiastes 1 ). I seem to have to start over again every day. But wise words are offered to me everyday, by events, by people and by my work. Sometimes I do not see them or hear them or live them out, but I know wise words are there if I wait to see them.
“ Will I join the call “. My daughter was denied access into Israel. I must continue to call the government of Israel to a more just living with the Palestinians . What other call must I continue to live out ? I must stand up for the #Metoo movement. There is the call to always to work for non-violence in all of our relationships. What are you called to do ?
Jesus says in Mark, the second of the biographies in the New Testament of Jesus, chapter 8 that I must do three things, “ deny myself, take up my cross and follow him.”. That is the call that I must continue to join everyday. Come on for the ride.
Fred Redekop
Ponder Anew 