Poetry Friday May 27, 2022
Today’s Poetry Friday roundup is at my friend Linda’s blog!
It’s been a tough couple of weeks. There is some medical stuff happening with our extended family. An old friend (not old–he was my age–but from long ago) died this week unexpectedly. And my oldest is graduating from high school. In the last week, we’ve had the last regatta, prom, last orchestra concert, and I’m feeling all the emotions–pride, sadness, excitement, nostalgia. We’ve had quick trips home, hospital visits, and a funeral tomorrow.
And there is so much heartbreak in the world with yet another tragic school shooting. They always hit me hard as I’ve been a teacher for more than 20 years. Columbine happened in my first year of teaching. I feel sick and heartbroken and angry each time. I have also tried not to watch or read much news this week because I can tell there are too many emotions piling up and they will just spill over.
I haven’t been able to get out in nature as much. I haven’t taken enough walks. I need to. But our schedules have been so busy with all of the things happening as the school year comes to a close. I did step out into our yard and take a few pictures, which is the haiku I am offering this week.
Haiku of the Week
I’m going to take a Poetry Friday break next week because of graduation and family in town. I’ll be back on June 10 with a more extended post.
12 Comments
Linda Mitchell
I love the hope in this haiku. I’m sending out teacher hugs to you. It IS tough right now. I find admitting it outloud powerful and helpful. I’m sorry your celebrations are mixed with sadness. How exciting for your eldest to graduate! I hope going to a VA college? I’ll be signing up for a scbwi event soon. I’d love to catch up!
Marcie Flinchum Atkins
Yes to a Virginia college. I hope you’re coming to our LOC event! I’d absolutely love to catch up!
Rose Cappelli
“Waych for fairies” brought a smile to my face. Good luck with all your upcoming events. Enjoy every minute, and remember to hug your kids, and all your loves ones, just a little tighter.
Marcie Flinchum Atkins
So true!
Irene Latham
Dear Marcie, thank you for your poem and congratulations to your daughter! I’ve stayed away from the news this week too…nature does heal. Wishing you that kind of time….and watching for fairies. Thank you! xo
Marcie Flinchum Atkins
Thank you, Irene!
Kathryn Apel
I too was photographing fungi today. Toadies. I popped some pics on my instagram and you’ve just inspired me to write a poem to match. (Thank-you)
This is such a big week for you. Be gentle with yourself. I well remember the emotions. The joy. But also the letting go… Take lots of pics, and enjoy!
Marcie Flinchum Atkins
Thank you! I’m looking forward to the joy!
PATRICIA J FRANZ
I looked again at your mushroom photo and imagined you on a forest walk and stumbling on these beauties. I hope the coming week of celebration can bring joy into your world. It’s okay to seek joy.
Marcie Flinchum Atkins
I do plan to seek joy this week! Can’t wait!
Mary Lee
Those “mushrooms from mud” are very Zen — like waterlillies from mud, like change from tragedy…we will rise.
Marcie Flinchum Atkins
I love this, Mary Lee!