Claudette, you write so movingly, and so thoughtfully.
Another poignant transition in the journey of life, and what I hope is a comforting reflection.
Knowing the depth of your previous writings, though, I am set wondering about possible ambiguity in that final line. Are those "things" about your father a genuine revelation, or a facade? After all, we all attempt to present a better image of ourselves in public – perhaps in the hope that others will have a fine opinion of us. But day to day it is impossible to maintain such a facade with those closest to us – our children and families know our foibles, our bad habits.
This poem encourages me to re-examine my own behaviour: to reflect on whether I am living authentically and with integrity in public as well as with my nearest and dearest; striving to ensure there is never hypocrisy or cause for disappointment. And then to reflect on what happiness and consolation I might leave for my family by storing up secret good deeds and works helping others.
Once again Claudette, thank you for sharing your poems with us.
May 22nd, 2014 at 9:41 am
So simple and insightfully truthful. Lovely.
May 22nd, 2014 at 9:54 am
just perfection!
May 22nd, 2014 at 12:39 pm
Really speaks to me. I experienced this…
May 22nd, 2014 at 3:17 pm
very nice….
May 22nd, 2014 at 10:48 pm
Poignant…
May 25th, 2014 at 6:59 am
Claudette, you write so movingly, and so thoughtfully.
Another poignant transition in the journey of life, and what I hope is a comforting reflection.
Knowing the depth of your previous writings, though, I am set wondering about possible ambiguity in that final line. Are those "things" about your father a genuine revelation, or a facade? After all, we all attempt to present a better image of ourselves in public – perhaps in the hope that others will have a fine opinion of us. But day to day it is impossible to maintain such a facade with those closest to us – our children and families know our foibles, our bad habits.
This poem encourages me to re-examine my own behaviour: to reflect on whether I am living authentically and with integrity in public as well as with my nearest and dearest; striving to ensure there is never hypocrisy or cause for disappointment. And then to reflect on what happiness and consolation I might leave for my family by storing up secret good deeds and works helping others.
Once again Claudette, thank you for sharing your poems with us.
Strider
May 26th, 2014 at 3:56 am
Strider, thank you so much for your thoughtful response. Your comments always add layers of meaning and insight to the haiku you write about.
Claudette
May 27th, 2014 at 4:42 am
I like the fact that this is so open – the 'things' could be impressive impressive or disappointing.
marion
May 27th, 2014 at 6:42 am
Thanks to everyone who commented.