When There Are No Words

But Haiku

Photo credit: Pinterest

Listening to BBC Radio 4 whilst walking the ridgebacks through the morning darkness, my heart sank. The reports about the Hamas attacks on Israel sent a shiver down my spine. I was haunted by the horrific stories of how the soldiers are recovering bodies, the majority of them women and children, and it’s just heartbreaking. I just feel so helpless. I feel numb.

I don’t have the words this morning.

None of my daily ramblings have any significance.

But I can’t not write anything.

I’ve promised myself I would write every day between my 49th and 50th birthday here on Substack, no matter how I felt.

So when in doubt, read.

‘Three Simple Lines’ by Natalie Goldberg is a book I always lean into in moment of sadness, because Haiku seems to always stir my soul. This special book explores the practice of Haiku, a traditional form of Japanese poetry known for its brevity and simplicity.

Haiku moves me.

I get lost in it every time.

What about you?

Just in case you’ve never come across Haiku, it introduces the reader to the art of finding profound meaning in the smallest moments of life.

I’ve tried to write Haiku for a couple of years. And I usually struggle. It’s an art. But I do enjoy the practice. As Natalie Goldberg explains in her book, Haiku has influenced her writing and her life. I couldn’t agree more. Three Simple Lines is not just for poets or writers, but for anyone seeking a more contemplative and mindful life. The one thing it is, is accessible. For me, it is the inspiration I’m seeking to deepen my connection to the world around me.

I read this Haiku once and wrote it in my journal, but it was signed Anon.

‘Torn skies, hungry eyes

War’s cruel hand on children’s hearts

Innocence betrayed’

God bless the children in Kibbutz this morning.

Until the next time

Take care & stay safe xx