Discernment

I once trusted

every standing bridge

I came to,

that it would hold,

carry me over

to the other side.

Now, I doubt.

At each crossing,

a hesitation.

Experience has taught me

wolves dwell among the sheep,

chaff remains midst the wheat.

Rotten planks.  Weak foundations.  Slippery stepping stones.

My eyes have fooled me

more than once

on this account.

But fear won’t have a stranglehold

around the neck of my indecision.

I’ll keep walking

even when I have to close my eyes

to see.

© 2016 Jennifer Wagner

Monotony

I’ll admit it.  It doesn’t feel much like love when I’m doing it.  Laying out bread, layering meat, cheese, lettuce.  Slicing apples.  Refilling water bottles.  Granola bars.  Crackers.  Daily packing lunches to be eaten by hungry kids the next day just feels like a task.  And one I often feel like not doing.  But that’s love, isn’t it?  And my kids never wonder if and when they will get their next meal.  Never.  With tears, I am grateful for this privilege I dismiss as monotonous duty.

the happiest chirp

at the freshly filled feeder

humbled, I’m quickened

© 2016 Jennifer Wagner

For dVerse Haibun Monday:  Quotidian

Note:  I believe my haiku to be classified as more of a senryu since it includes the human element with nature/season.  Thanks for reading!

abloom

Image © 2016 Jennifer Wagner

flowers

are for falling

like i do

into you,

knee-deep and

head over—

for healing

winter’s ragged,

jagged bones

and just

to make you smile

© 2016 Jennifer Wagner