Zendoings Part 2: Coming To Terms With PTSD Through Poetry
Welcome to the second instalment of Zendoings, haikus by our client Brendan that chart the ups and downs of healing from traumatic experiences.
Hello again to those who have read my previous edition of poetry and welcome to those who have just discovered my work. My name is Brendan and I have had PTSD since September 2020 when a lot of my childhood trauma emerged after being abused in the workplace. Following part one of Zendoings, Haikus for recovery, I am presenting part two.
A Haiku is a short stanza with three lines. The first and third lines have five syllables, and the second line has seven syllables. It is thought that the rhythm of five syllables is designed to enable you to tune into the mind or brain and seven syllables to enable you to tune into the heart. It also contains what is known as a kireji, or “cutting word”; and a kigo or seasonal reference.
These are offerings that follow the same theme of recovery and I have titled Zendoings Part 2- Coming to terms with PTSD. I hope you enjoy!
Zendoings Haikus
Part 2: Coming To Terms With PTSD
Spring/Summer 2021
Shedding Belief – From A Nut To A Tree (Just Being Me)
The shell that protects me
Is broken by the passer by
I have fallen but will grow again
The Vehicle Of Faith – As My Life Careered Into A Ditch
Disassociation from emotion
Keeps the wheels of my ‘self’ in motion
Even when I can’t see the road
Focus – Is My ‘Lotus’ Of Control
Distractions and reactions
Can get in the way of my actions
Until I do something ‘wrong’ and flower
