Poetry

A Beginner Every Morn

Posted on by Khaya Ronkainen / 40 Comments

piping note afar
bullfinch’s gentle call constant
regardless of change
I begin every morn with
delicate days fruitless

for Poets United

Lake in the Neighbourhood

On Writing and Living…

The year has started. I envisioned it to start with a bang. But life takes its own course, and proceeds along regardless of my plans.

I’d fallen into a sort of limbo; going from nowhere to nowhere, and overwhelmed by the idea that I might have to start all over again with something I thought I had it sorted.

Then I thought alright, let me put on some music and do this limbo. For “Life dances and you must dance with it.” to borrow from Phillip Moffitt.

So, I let go of my self-imposed deadline. There will be a delay with the publication of my second chapbook, and honestly it’s not a train smash. There are far more important things that occupy my thoughts right now.

Therefore, I start where I am, using what I have; words. The simple act of putting them on paper banishes my fears.

for (Doing It with Others)

How am I doing so far with my resolution to simplify this year?

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Khaya Ronkainen
Khaya Ronkainen is a writer, poet and creative professional. Her blog focuses on all things poetry and creative nonfiction.

40 Comments

  4. I love the gentle ways in which your poem reminds us that all beginnings start with blank canvas. We can either let all that emptiness drown us, or we can take a breath… and dance life’s latest tune.

    I hope stsrting over (or starting from a much earlier point) proves to be a blessing (for both of us).

    🖤♥️🖤

  5. Between poem and narrative I’d say you are doing very well. When you stop before restarting, you hear the Bullfinch’s call. I LOVE the simplicity of the poem. It reminds me of one I read recently, the way it is by William Stafford. You will be abundantly fruotful.

  6. Yes, remove that pressure from yourself. There is time ahead, the book will get finished. You would not believe how adept I am at putting off my To Do list. Smiles.

  7. I think you are doing fine…and as you go, you will even get better….more simple. I wonder what it would be like, if you removed all the un-needed words?

  12. It’s easy to drown. But I’m grateful everyday for the beauty of nature that surrounds me. It always revives.

    I hope so too, Maga. All the best with your writing endeavours.

  13. Thanks so much Susan for the prompt, and your encouraging words. I’m not very familiar with William Stafford’s work (will have to look him up) but I’m humbled by the compliment. Much appreciated.

  14. Happy New Year Khaya. But a lovely Tanka. Actually one of my resolutions for 2019 is to write more piems in this form

    Much 🎉love

  18. Happy New Year, to you too Gillena! Thanks, I’m glad you enjoyed this Tanka. But what a resolution, did you consider all that counting of syllables!? 😀

    Anyway, I’ll sure join you sometimes on the Tanka as I’m trying to stick to shorter forms (micropoetry) as well.

    Much love <3

  19. It can be tough to let go of those self-imposed expectations, but it is wise to be honest about the way the life’s rhythm’s are flowing at the moment and adjust accordingly. Good luck!

  20. The Way It Is
    by William Stafford

    There’s a thread you follow. It goes among
    things that change. But it doesn’t change.
    People wonder about what you are pursuing.
    You have to explain about the thread.
    But it is hard for others to see.
    While you hold it you can’t get lost.
    Tragedies happen; people get hurt
    or die; and you suffer and get old.
    Nothing you do can stop time’s unfolding.
    You don’t ever let go of the thread.

  21. You’ve started most beautifully. Your words sing. Wishing you a very happy, poetry filled new year Khaya.

  23. This is a profound poem. It’s so true and relevant to what I’m trying to achieve. My big take here is that I should hold on to that thread and forge ahead, because life happens regardless. Thank you Susan for sharing this poem with me. And it so happens that I know one of Stafford’s famous work, Traveling Through the Dark. It’s one of those poems I know but never remember who wrote it. Now I know, and I’ll certainly add one of his book to my reading list. Thank you!

  25. When things don’t go well, don’t look down but look up instead and the world appears to be a better place as I am sure you will find out.

  26. That is perfect- to find a reset every morning.. that really does simplify things a lot!

  30. It’s amazing how the “Universe” will put you in different directions. Go with the flow. I have tried to fight against it and it doesn’t work! LOL! I think you’re doing amazing! I love the photo! Big Hugs!

  32. Glowing with the flow makes things simple, indeed. I shall follow your advice; it’s no use going against the tide. Many thanks, dear Stacy!

  34. This is lovely and simple. Don’t pressure yourself, you’re doing fine.

Do leave a trace!