It started out as a joke between friends… (*coughEllie101cough*) but the idea morphed and grew in my mind and became way too much fun to let go of.
For those who don't know, a haiku is a type of poem that originated in Japan. It has 3 lines (with a breakdown of 5/7/5 syllables), usually using contrast and juxtaposition for effect. Haikus are widely regarded as one of the best forms of classical poetry for imparting a deep wisdom with only a few words.
For maximum entertainment value, read these in the voice of the Wiseman.
1) They come for advice,
But leave without listening.
My hat is a bird.
2) Open your eyes. See.
You're only blind if you choose.
Where are my glasses?
3) Seasons come and go,
But time stands still here, unchanged.
I made myself sad.
4) Someday, I will leave,
Find someplace new to travel.
But for now, I zzzz zzzzz.
5) Which way is forwards?
Sometimes it is the way back.
Leave a donation.
6) See the simple things.
Love them, and learn to be wise.
Just don't take my job.
7) Ships are safe in ports…
But there… they cannot sail…
Stop interrupting!
8) Laugh long and live well,
Always love without limits.
Unless you're a hat.
9) It's not how we fall,
But how we rise that matters.
My legs are asleep.
10) Listen carefully.
Hear the Earth's secret music.
See past your eyebrows.
11) Stay strong in hard times,
Storms do not last forever.
In my day... mumble...
12) Start where you are now.
Don't live for anyone else.
Embrace the madness.
13) Wake ready to learn.
Life is short. Mere moments.
Unless you're immortal.
14) It's not the answer,
But the question that's key.
I can't do all the work.
15) You make your own fate.
You control your destiny.
What was the question?
16) Don't trust sight alone—
All that glitters is not gold.
This peach tastes funny.
17) Befriend animals.
Welcome them into your heart
And into your beard.
18) Sometimes, in your life
You'll find that things do not make sense.
When in fact, we are.
19) Age is in the mind
It is what's inside that counts.
Don't you think, young lady?
20) Wisdom is healed pain,
Grown sage with countless mistakes.
Believe me, I know.
Let me know which one(s) you enjoy best.
CHALLENGE- Can you make one of your own Wiseman haikus? I'm throwing down the gauntlet because I'd love to see a whole wave of people starting to compose their own wise and wacky poems. They are so much fun. Feel free to throw one into your review!