Autumn/Winter
December 31, 2008
The end of the road
Back at the place I started
Counting syllables.
What a wild and wonderful walk it has been. Some might say I followed Basho’s footsteps, others would view it as trancing on his grave. Regardless if you enjoyed ride of the 5-7-5, it is over. All things must pass ~ on to something else.
December 30, 2008
We cannot go back
Can’t even stay where we are
Destined for ahead.
Time to get on the painted pony and go around the carousel again.
December 29, 2008
Holy Land explodes
We’re not our brothers’ keeper
God on neither side.
Of course, we should be. It is the first question God asks in the Torah. It is a question each of us must ask ourselves. Again and again the response is “no.” There are many times that we respond positively to the question. Every time a stranger is welcome, someone hungry is fed, when a prisoner is visited. We hear the “yes” in the courage of those who fought for civil rights. We see it in the actions of those who run into burning buildings to save lives. All over the world we see the witness of “keepers”. The are living saints, the witnesses of love. Say yes, be yes.
December 28, 2008
Celebrating Mass
American Catholics
Gospel patriots.
Every year around Christmas I attend Mass at St. Harold’s parish. It is a small congregation of American Catholics on Chicago’s north side. My brother-in-law is on the schedule to preside and he invites me to reflect on the gospel readings when I attend. This small band of the faithful are courageous and authentic believers. It is the farthest thing from the Roman rite and the closest to the Last Supper. We break bread and share our stories with whoever shows up. The homeless, possessed, disillusioned and hopeful all gather around a circle of chairs. Everyone is welcome. Baptismal certificates are not checked at the door and the nearest thing to a catechism is a calico who wanders the halls. God bless and thank you brave parishioners of St. Harold’s.
December 27, 2008 ~ Sports Saturday
A double double
Two amazing children and
New extra son.
December 26, 2008
Lights of tradition
Memory illuminates
Identity shines.
Happy Hanakkuh!
December 25, 2008
The birth of Jesus
No different than others
Unique among all.
Merry Christmas.
December 24, 2008
Every unborn child
Waiting in the womb for birth
A potential Christ.
All children are sacred and reveal to us the face of God. Each one has a salvific purpose in the world. Regardless of their religion, or lack of it, each new being serves as the ongoing revelation of God. Birth is life’s ultimate epiphany.
December 23, 2008
Create new Christmas
Abandon feast of shopping
Perhaps in the spring.
Our culture has transformed the commemoration of the Christ into an orgy of consumerism that must be pleasing to Baal. Perhaps its best just to chuck it and start over. The 25th of December was intended to supplant the ancient celebration of Saturnalia and to eclipse the winter solstice. Perhaps it would be better to recreate the holy day closer to the actual time of birth. The idea of moving Christmas seems overwhelming, impossible, untenable, preposterous, etc. Regardless, it is something to ponder while waiting in line.
December 22, 2008
What would Jesus buy?
Violent video game
or sweatshop sweater?
In honor of the Prince of Peace we buy our children games that promote violence and clothes that are made by exploited labor. So many of our Christmas gifts are part of a production process that represents what Jesus fought against. The true testimony of faith is not found in words or doctrine, but rather in action. What we do is more significant than what we say or believe. I’m not advocating that we give each other holy cards or bibles, but there must be something better to give in honor of the one who gave so much.
December 21, 2008
Rededication
Time for a new beginning
Waiting is over
Today is the first day of Hanukkah, the last Sunday of Advent, and the winter equinox . A great day for Jews, Christians, and Druids! Whether it is the light of the menorah, advent wreath, or the sun , it is an appropriate time to reflect upon the direction we are heading. The darkest of days are, literally, over. The candles of our culture and traditions provide light to find our way, and day by day, step by step, the light of our world grows brighter.
December 20, 2008 ~ Sports Saturday
Mid air collision
One soccer ball , two players
The rest was physics.
My son David is a fearless goalie with a very hard head. It was ESPN highlight material.
December 19, 2008
Waitress adopts six
Rowdy table and no tip
Serving from the heart.
Two of our extra sons, and their four siblings, were supposed to get adopted by their amazing aunt. She is a waitress who has taken on the responsibility to raise her brother’s children. He died two years ago. The process has taken way too long and today the snowstorm shut down the courthouse causing an additional delay. The legal papers are a mere, but important, formality. She has been caring for them already and will continue to do so after the papers are filed. I am in awe of this woman’s commitment to these kids. She possesses a fierce love and sacrifices daily for their well being. If there are any million or billionaires reading my site, send them all to Disneyland or somewhere. Also, don’t forget to tip your waitress.
December 18, 2008
Nature wields her wrath
A gigantic winter storm
December 17, 2008
Kid with sprained ankle
Turned away at Doctor’s door
Hobbles in the night.
Spent the night taking one of my extra sons around to get his sprained ankle looked at. The first clinic turned us away because he doesn’t have private insurance. The secretary looked at me with a look of compassion, embarrassment, and unwelcome as she informed us that they didn’t accept Medicare. It was the only clinic still open. As he hobbled out of the immediate care clinic, I realized that what we just experienced was such a denial of the Hyppocratic oath. We went to St. Anthony’s ER and they took good care of him.
December 16, 2008
Not merry at all
season of disappointment
Students without cheer.
A fellow teacher said to me that the students were being affected by the full moon again. I told her it was Santa’s empty sack as well. For so many of my students, Christmas is just like the first one, poverty striken. As much as our kids like to say they hate school, they do like the welcome of caring adults and the comfort of a hot lunch. For some, the first kind words they hear in the morning are from a teacher saying ” Good morning .” As much as I enjoy the time off, I feel for my pupils. I wish I could give each one of them a gift for under the tree. In lieu of that, I’ll keep trying to make them feel welcome and wanted.
December 15, 2008
Without coats or gloves
Kids out in twenty below
Parents get an “F”.
The fruit doesn’t freeze far from the tree. I cannot fathom how parent(s) let their children out in brutal weather without enough clothes to stay warm. I hope my own kids had enough sense to dress warm. otherwise I’m in trouble.
December 14, 2008
Six foot eight Jesus.
Looking for a place to stay
Making Christmas real.
Inconveniences can serve as blessings. Meeting someone else’s needs is an opportunity to become more fully human The story about Joseph and Mary seeking a place to stay is mean’t to inspire Christians to make room in their hearts and homes. The question for all those who believe is whether or not we will respond to life’s circumstances in a “Christ-like ” manner. The issue is not WWJD, it is rather WWWD.
December 13, 2008
Christmas carolers
Some scrooge calls police on them
Kids fly like reindeer .
My son went to a party and the kids decided to go door to door and spread some Christmas cheer. I’m not sure what happened, but I would love to read the police report.
December 12, 2008
Shadow of my car
Silhouette on a snow bank
Driver waves at me.
Each day I attempt tp create a poem that is meaningful. Some days are harder than others. Occassionaly I need to “get out of my head” and just look out the window. Today was one of those days.
December 11, 2008
Kids taught to twiddl
While learning philosophy
The Bodhimanda
At Fourth St. and Walnut Ave.
All people were one.
Today is the anniversary of Thomas Merton’s death. He was a Catholic Buddha who transcended both time and space. His life and ideas are embedded in the words of his many books. He was a human bridge which provided a path for interfaith dialogue. To enrich your own life and find out more about him, visit http://www.merton.org/ .
December 9, 2008
Senate seat for sale
Available from Blago
PEBO left standing.
December 8, 2008
Woke up this morning
Suffering with desire
Unenlightment.
Today is a double holy day. In Japan it’s Bodhi day, and all over the Roman Catholic world it is the feast of the Immaculate Conception. Bodhi day commemorates the day that the Buddha, Siddhartha Gautauma , reached enlightment. The Immaculate Conception is a day that honors the conception of Mary, Mother of Jesus. The idea that Mary was conceived without original sin was formally promulgated as church dogma in 1854. This teaching is said to be based on an archeological find of a Dead Sea ultrasound.
December 7, 2008
Day of dignity
Japanese American
A pearl of a choice.
On the 67th anniversary of the bombing of Pearl Harbor, President-elect Barack Obama appointed general Eric Shinseki as Secretary for Veterans Affairs. General Shineski is the first Asian-American appointed to a cabinet level post. A poetic appointment.
December 6, 2008
The art of coaching
To encourage and inspire
Know when to shut up.
A good coach lets the players figure it out. The last thing an exhausted group of 8th graders need is to hear a monologue about what they did wrong and what they should do right. Note to all coaches ~ you had your turn, get out of the room, go sit down and watch the game. If you have something to say, bring it to practice. Also, if you have nothing positive to say, don’t say anything at all.
December 5, 2008
Student in wheel chair
Wins a brand new basketball
Life not fair, but fun.
We had a school assembly with a motivational speaker. The speaker used basketballs to grab the students’ attention. He did a great job. He played games with the kids and gave away basketballs. One of the kids who won one was a kid in a wheel chair. The kid didn’t care that he could not dribble. He held that ball like it was a bag of gold. The speaker motivated me.
December 4, 2008
Outside in the snow
Frozen water in a bowl,
Cold and thirsty dog.
December 3, 2008
Retired generals
Join battle against torture
Act of redemption.
A group of retired generals met with President-elect Obama today to encourage him to end the use of torture and help redeem our military’s image in the eyes of the world. They are encouraging him to include this issue in his inaugural address. These generals have spoken out against the Cheney-Bush use of water-boarding and illegal transportation of prisoners to third countries which are known for harsh interrogationsFor more details go to: http://www.reuters.com/article/politicsNews/idUSTRE4B18UY20081203 .
December 2, 2008
Cold weather canvass
Transparent becomes opaque
Water turns to white.
December 1, 2008
Affected by AIDS
Understanding HIV
Positive loving.
Over twenty years ago my life was transformed because of HIV/AIDS. I was fortunate to know and love many people who were stricken with the virus. In the early days the cause of AIDS was a mystery. I volunteered at Sing Sing prison in a segregated AIDS ward. I offered my time and presence to the prisoners who lived there. I visited this group of men with a friend, Michael McCullough, and we “ministered” to them. Both of us knew that we received more than we gave.
Moving to Rockford and reaching out to the people who contracted this dreadful disease. Overwhelmed by the number of young people who were ostracized because of an illness. Slowly gathering a group of compassionate and caring people who would reach out and embrace fellow human beings. A community coming out, standing up, speaking out.
I am more fully human because of AIDS. My life is richer because of those I had the privilege to help. Out of the sorrow and despair grew bonds of love and joy. Out of death came life. I remember their names and lives, They live on in me.
November 30, 2008
A time of waiting
For what has already come
Christ, risen in us.
Advent is a time of waiting, yet we already know what happens. The historical birth of Jesus of Nazareth is over. What we celebrate is an anniversary, a recollection of what happened, not what is about to. Advent is also about waiting for Christ’s second coming, but maybe this has happened as well. Perhaps the Second Coming can be seen as the Already Present. If the Church ( all Christians of all denominations) is truly the Body of Christ, then the waiting is over. For all too long hopes have been pinned on the notion that Jesus Christ will appear in the sky, Rapture, Armageddon, and so forth. What if it ain’t so? What if Those who believe in the message of unconditional love have been left to proclaim it, to live it in all its dimensions? What if the reign of God is in our midst and we are responsible for manifesting it?
November 29, 2008 ~ Sports Saturday
Championship game
In consolation bracket
2nd place solace.
Last year our team won two games all season long. We just finished the Thanksgiving tournament with three out of five victories. Same kids, a few inches bigger with a little more confidence and grit. Congrats boys!
November 28, 2008
Black and blue Friday
Stores filled to the brim with stuff
Without customers.
My spouse, Kate, and I have made a habit of going on an early date on Black Friday for the last few years. This morning we we’re shocked. Last year at 6:30 ( that is, a.m. ) the lines were hundreds of people long. People waited over an hour to check out. This year there were no lines. I did wait about thirty seconds in Kohls, no wait in Target and Menards, about one minute in Wal-Mart, and when we entered Office Max we heard an echo. At 9:00 a.m., three hours before the early bird specials flew the coup, there was only one other customer in the store.
I don’t participate in Black Friday for the deals, I go to watch the lunatics. Every year I see the nutsos running people over in parking lots, acting like commandoes with their walkie-talking cell phones. Black Friday is the equivalent of a primitive new year celebration in which the world is recreated and all social morays are temporarily put on hold for a few short hours. Today’s killing of an employee by a crowd that broke through a door to get to sale items is a clear example of how crazy it can get. There is something wrong with our addiction to materialism. This orgy of buying in which we engage is such a complete contradiction to the life of the ancient Jew who told us to give to those in need.
November 27, 2008
Existential thanks
Perpetual gratitude
Ev’ry day, gravy.
My friend Claude drove a tank in the Battle of the Bulge. He taught me that war is hell. He had a most interesting life. When he was younger he rode the rails. Claude made a living as a trader, buying and selling most everything that has was ever been for sale. He traveled the world looking for merchandise. He spent time hawking goods in India, China, and Japan. He also repaired clocks and restored Victrolas. We good became friends. I miss him a lot. He was the one who taught me, among many things, that every day is gravy. I guess it is something you learn while in a foxhole. A few years after we’d shared thousands of stories we learned that both of us had a death experience. We’d seen the same bright light and felt a similar sense of awe and peace when it happened. After speaking about our unique experience he commented, “Now its all gravy”.
November 26, 2008
Raking up the leaves
Silver Maple drops some more
I go get the saw.
Deciduous trees have a sick sense of humor.
November 25, 2008
Borrowed my son’s car
Never thought I’d have a son
With a Dodge Shadow.
November 24, 2008
Snow covered front lawn
Footprints proof of existence
Sun melts me away.
Eventually, we all evaporate. My advice, stay hydrated.
November 23, 2008 ~ Sacred Sunday
God is a stranger
Naked, thirsty, and hungry
Sick and in prison.
I like this image better than a “king”. Aren’t kings the ones who dominate, subjugate, and exterminate? The notion of God as a celestial dictator has always left me hanging. Since I’m on the topic of inappropriate analogies, I am not a sheep.
November 22, 2008 ~ Sports Saturday
Head Coach Obama
Policy priority
BCS playoffs.
If he can get this accomplished, the economy will be a breeze.
November 21, 2008
U.S. C.E.O.s
300 X worker’s pay
Send them overseas.
According to CNN, it’s more like 364 times. To read the article yourself, go to :http://money.cnn.com/2007/08/28/news/economy/ceo_pay_workers/index.htm . At what point do the American people say “enough” and throw the bums out? Providing for fair and even more than fair compensation for the corporate class is an integral part of capitalism. It makes sense to entice the brightest and best with lucrative salaries and benefits, but at what point does wealth turn to opulence? When does compensation become corruption? It would be a benefit to our society to send some of these corporate crooks packing, but what country in their right mind would want them? Perhaps, Somalia? In this time of bailout, CEOs that fly in their private jets or throw lavish parties while reaching out for taxpayer assistance need to have their paws slapped and sent home empty. We have enough overpaid bottom feeders, what we need are CEOs who are patriots concerned about the common good and the welfare of America’s workers. Perhaps we need to import a few CEOs who understand the importance of frugality and camaraderie. Check out this guy (watch the video), http://ibnlive.in.com/news/jal-ceo-takes-a-pay-cut-flies-airline-out-of-turbulence/77452-7.html
November 20, 2008
Student from Iraq
Safe and secure in first row
Returning home soon.
He is a kind young boy. He barely makes a noise. I’ve only heard his voice a few times. He sits in his chair as if he doesn’t want to be noticed. Perhaps its a survival strategy. I finally asked him some questions about his life. His family has fled the war, first in Syria, then Jordan, now the U.S. He has only been here a few years. His brothers are back in Iraq and his parents plan to return soon. I want to tell them to let him stay, safe in the first row. His seat will be empty soon, but the quiet will remind me of him.
November 19, 2008
No more back of bus
No more front of bus, either
No more bus at all.
Signs of hope and recession. The Rockford Mass Transit will be shutting down due to the economy. Marie Antoinette might say, “Let them rent limos.” Perhaps hitch-hiking will come back in style or people will open up their SUVs to those in need. It begs the question, “How would Jesus drive?” Would he pick up strangers on the side of the road or drive on by?
November 18, 2008
Met the kid’s parents
Figured out why he’s failing
Met the kid’s parents.
Parent teacher conferences are so revealing.
November 17, 2008
Driving in the past
Stuck on the side of the road
Big three with thumbs out.
General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler are hoping for a bailout for Christmas. I’m hoping for a hybrid Viper. The car industry is in need of a complete redesign. With gas prices going down, people will put efficient and alternative fuels on the back burner. We will be of to the malls in our SUVs to go window shopping before we know it. We cannot afford to loose our automotive industry. Something has to be done, but the vision and the leadership to do so cannot come from the hummers who brought us the Hummer.
November 16, 2008
Holy tolerance
Respecting differences
Beyond religions.
Today is the International Day for Tolerance. It should be renamed the “International Day for Celebrating Diversity”. Tolerance always feels to me as the minimal of possible responses. The word lacks passion. Religions have led the way of intolerance throughout the centuries. From crucifying those who are different to condemning those who embraces competing beliefs to eternal damnation; religion may preach love, but it too often practices hate. For those of us who believe, be wary of the choir.
November 15, 2008
So few black coaches
Yet, so many black athletes
Time for some more change.
Of the 119 division IA football teams, there are only four African American head coaches. Over fifty percent of the players are minorities. Someone throw a penalty flag. “Where have you gone Eddie Robinson? A nation turns its hope for change to you!” The vestiges of white racism still linger in the collegiate locker rooms throughout the country ( perhaps that is what smells). Someone needs to review the way the game is played and set some new rules.
November 14, 2008
Ms. Ann Dunwoody
Female Four Star General
Women win the war.
A great few weeks for breaking glass ceilings. First Obama, now Dunwoody. As a white man I feel such a load off my shoulders. No longer in charge of everything, I have time for more reading, knitting, and fixing up the house.
November 13, 2008
Student with great smile and
Degenerative disease
Year left to learn.
When my students say to me that something is not fair, I tell them that life isn’t fair and anyone who tells them it is, is a liar. I met a kid at a local school who has a terminal disease. His smile is infectious. His teacher was speaking to me about how to help him to be succesful in class. I asked her what the kid likes. I wanted to tell the teacher to throw the state standards away and find out his favorite flavor of ice cream. Then, find out what he really loves and is interested in and let him learn everything he can about it. We can all learn a lesson from this young life. If we knew our time was limited, what would we want to learn more about?
November 12, 2008
Big brothers return
A sense of family regained
Closest thing to dad.
Two families at table. Our extra sons were with their younger siblings again. Over the course of dinner the little ones gravitated toward their eldest brother and by the end of the meal were just about climbing on top of him. Each of our extra sons have a significant role to play in the lives of their little brothers and sisters. Their long journey is not over, but for now they are all together again in the loving care of their aunt. She is so courageous and devoted to these kids. We will continue to be an outlet, outpost, out of the box place for them to take rest as well. Seeing them all together brings tears of happiness.
November 11, 2008
Joy and sorrow mix
Extra sons get to go home
Our house half empty.
Whoever said “if you love something you have to let it go” was full of it.
November 10, 2008
A continent’s voice
Melodies of haunting hope
Mama Africa
Miriam Makeba died today. She was a voice of hope for Africa for many years. She lived in exile after being refused reentry to South Africa because she raised her voice against apartheid. for more information about her life, go to: http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5jK_Aed0fG4UHhDXEI2SuOdZLDKHAD94C29N80 .
November 9, 2008
Billions of temples
Every person a priest
Mass incarnation.
Don’t take my word for it, take The Word, 1 Cor 3:9c-11, 16-17 .
November 8, 2008
Fans begin to leave
Five minutes left in the game
Fat Lady upset.
No more freezing cold playoff games. No more waiting to see my extra son get in the game with only minutes left. No more warm chocolate.
November 7, 2008
Rebirth of nation
New script for America
Starring Obama.
D. W. Griffith’s epic propaganda film was a demeaning inaccurate portrayal of life in America during the time of reconstruction. The impact of the film was to bolster racist generalizations and characterizations of African-Americans. The character of Silas Lynch served as the anti-hero who threatened the destruction of southern culture. Silas was a black politician who was self serving and violent. What a difference a century, and reality, makes.
November 6, 2008
Equality’s look
Everyone’s presidential
American cool.
As my students walked into school I asked many of my African-American students the same question, “You gonna run for president one day?” Every kid had a different response. To each one I added, ” You can.”
November 5, 2008
The Dream is over
America is awake
More perfect union.
A friend wrote and responded that he thought the dream had just begun. I wrote back the following:
Real dreams are ethereal and exist only in the deep recesses of our minds when we are fast asleep. Hope is similar, it exists in our hearts, as opposed to justice which can be manifested in reality. I am using synonyms when I refer to the “dream”. Reality is what is most real. It is the incarnation, not the prophecy which is the ultimate goal of faith. In my opinion we need a new dream. King’s dream was more comprehensive than the election of one person to the presidency. But, his dream was also the articulation of the hopes of the civil rights movement which had voting rights and racial equality as specific attainable goals. Obama’s election is a powerful sign of the end of white dominance in the U.S. It does not mean the end of racism, but it signals the dawning of a new day for American culture and democracy. My reference to America being awake is a reference to the Buddhist notion of enlightenment. So, I am juxtaposing the dreaming of something and the realization of it. In one sense the dream is over because we have awakened and the dream has become reality.
November 4, 2008
America is,
No longer in the kitchen,
Picnic in the park.
The America that will be has become. The words of Langston Hughes have waited a long time to ring true. Race and gender no longer serve as barriers to the highest office. America has won the election. Tonight’s evening of equality will give way to a new day of opportunity.
November 3, 2008
Resubmit the check
Freedom’s promissory note
Funds are sufficient.
Its been a long time since M.L.K. came to Washington to challenge the government to make good on the promise of democracy. His eloquent chastisement of the failure of our country to live up to the words of the Declaration of Independence have inspired generations. Martin’s dream is about to be jolted awake when Barack Obama wins the election. In no way does his victory put an end to discrimination. It will serve as a milestone, a plateau, upon which we can continue to find our way to the promised land.
November 2, 2008 ~ Sacred Sunday
To speak with the dead,
Not just a psychic sideshow,
Catholic tradition.
Today is All Saints Day. Our priest reminded us that in our tradition the communication lines between this world and the next are open. He said that praying to saints or “Saints” is a means by which we can continue to speak with our loved ones, even if death has taken them. It’s as if we get heavenly reception with our soul phones.
November 1, 2008 ~ Sports Saturday
Football in morning
Futbol in the afternoon
Tired feet in evening.
I’m tired and I don’t even play. Just taxi-ing the boys from one event to another ends up being exhausting. Four boys, three different sports is quite a workout. It is good for them to be involved. Doing sports is so much better than doing drugs. At least the soccer arena has a bar.
October 31, 2008
Remember the dead
Focus on the task at hand
Give candy to kids.
The ancient feast of Samhain celebrated the end of the light and the coming darkness of winter. It was a major festival for the Celtic people which honored the last harvest. Today it has been reduced to a superficial consumer based ritual of giving sugar to kids dressed in plastic masks. Pagan festivals are not what they used to be.
October 30, 2008
Visiting my dead
Father, brother, and grandmother
Flesh and blood no more.
My family is from the south side of Chicago. Although we no longer live there, it is where we go to be buried. My father, brother, and grandmother are all buried off of 111th street. My dad is at Calvary and my brother and grandmother are at Mt. Olivet. My brother, David, was only three months old when he died. His name isn’t even on the headstone. My dad is in a mausoleum and is actually closer to 115th than 111th . It is a strange, yet peaceful, experience to go and visit the place where the bodies of your loved ones reside. When I was there I prayed to them. I waited for a sign, a response, a dragonfly, something that would let me know of their ongoing existence. In the end I walked away with an awareness of how cold it feels to kiss marble.
October 29, 2008
Brothers, my brothers,
Taught my heart and touched my soul
Made me a Marist.
Today a dream came true. I made a visit with two people whom I treasure. Mentors, spiritual guides, teachers, friends, fellow pilgrims on the road to Emmaus. I traveled to see my past, to spend time in the present, with people who influenced my future.
I had the great fortune to attend Marist High School on the south side of Chicago. Where I grew up there was a variety of Catholic schools from which to choose. The Christian Brothers ran Brother Rice, St. Leo, and St. Laurence, the Augustinians were behind St. Rita, and the Carmelites offered Mt. Carmel. I went to Marist because my two brothers went there before me. The formation I received at Marist has continued to influence my life. During my four years there I came to know the faculty, some who were Marist Brothers. Their sense of community and spirituality enriched, and still enriches, my life. Although I never joined the brothers ( I think at their suggestion), I have been molded by their charism and character. To those who warn that you can never go back, I did. That part of me that I left over thirty years is alive and well. Thank you, Patch and Vito, for making the spirit of Champagnat come alive.
October 28, 2008
Diwali’s light shines
Midst economic darkness
Lakshmi, help us all!
This week begins Diwali, Hinduism’s festival of lights. The festival has many meanings, but is primarily a new year’s celebration which focuses on renewing hopes, strengthening social ties, and enjoying life. For more information about the festival go to: http://alaivani.com/Blog/tabid/56/EntryID/215/Default.aspx .
The poet Tagore wrote the following line to summarize the meaning of Diwali,
“The night is black. Kindle the lamp of love with thy life and devotion.”
The Hindu goddess of wealth, Lakshmi, is paid tribute during this festival and there is a blessing of new financial books as well. Given the world wide economic crisis we are in, perhaps we shouild just burn all the books that once belonged to Lehman brothers as an offering to any god who can help us stabilize the world markets.
October 27, 2008
Slamming on my breaks
In the path of a moment
Skidding into now.
October 26, 2008 – Sacred sunday
A visitation
Her soul glorifies the Lord
Sabbath with Grandma.
I often wonder, how many more chinese dinners or rounds of Rummikub we have together? We visit my mom on Sundays. We pack up our sons , extra sons, dog, and a few piles of laundry and head east to Crystal Lake. Some days we sit around and hear the details of her physical ailments, but some afternoons are spent delving into the past, playing games and laughing the time away. The few hours we spend with her are sacred moments. My sister is her primary caretaker. She’s by her side throughout the week and accompanies her to the myriad of doctor offices they travel to in search of explanations for her pains and aches. My sister is a loving daughter. She has the burden and blessing of being with mom everyday. The burden is seeing her becoming more frail and forgetful, the blessing is spending time with this amazing women who has loved us into who we are. Blessed are we, the fruit of her womb, and blessed is she among women.
October 25, 2008 ~Sports Saturday
Standing in the rain
Soaking wet and freezing cold
Cheering for the clock.
I stood in the rain for four hours so I could see my extra son play for five minutes. Someone buy me a drink.
October 24, 2008
The gozo is felt,
with blisters and muscle aches.
Four new rooms for Him.
Jaime Kettner
Jaime just got back from Juarez, Mexico from her fourth missions retreat to build houses. She wrote her poem based on her experience helping to build homes for needy families. Gozo is the word for joy in Spanish. Jaime is a word for joy in english.
October 23, 2008
Global recession
Latest financial crisis
Old news for the poor.
The poor exist in a state of perpetual economic recession. The homeless are beyond worrying about defaulting on a mortgage they can’t afford, or accessing loans for which they’ll never qualify. Hopefully one positive outcome of all the negative economic developments will be a greater sensitivity to those who have so little already and might end up with less.
October 22, 2008
Geesefitti skyline
Ornithological tag
What’s that on my car?
Last fall the skies were full of Canada geese heading south. Looked like the grafitti in the 7th grade boys bathroom. The geese have returned, but the bathroom stalls remain clean.
October 21, 2008
Orion’s new dog
Canus Kirby in the sky
Heavens full of hounds.
My sister lost her dog, Kirby. She died yesterday. Kirby was Mary’s constant companion. Everywhere Mary went, Kirby was sure to go. But, Kirby has gone somewhere Mary won’t be going anytime soon. She now walks with our father in the world to come. Kirby had a soul, just ask David. My brother Mark believes dogs are actually angels, sent to teach us about unconditional love. This is secret knowledge only dog lovers learn. Kirby revealled this secret to all of us.
October 20, 2008
Haikus fall like leaves
A pile of obligation
In my frontal lobe.
It is difficult to write a poem every day. Poems come into existence in many ways. Some are built, others found. Some fly by like a wombat in a snow storm. Others are the careful creation of observation and reflection. Each day I wake up with the goal to write a haiku. I leave the front door with my eyes, ears, and nose in pursuit of something that can be transformed into a three lined, seventeen syllabled poem. There are days when the news serves as fodder and other days when nature just presents itself. This past year I’ve embraced the motto, ” WWBD “. I’m not sure how many poems Basho wrote, but he did take long walks and wrote down his experience. I’m no Basho, but I do have another walk to take tomorrow.
October 19, 2008 ~ Sacred Sunday
Blessed Teresa
Patron Saint of the gutter
Mother of the poor.
In response to today’s gospel reading, Mother Teresa is quoted as saying , “ Once you get done giving to God, there is nothing left for Caesar.” Although I am a strong proponent of the separation of church and state, they both have my allegiance. Being an American and a Catholic creates a necessary tension which informs and challenges my faith and citizenship. Both of these realms of influence are in a constant dialogue and create a health dichotomy . Competing values and traditions serve to keep me in check. American values of equality and democracy challenge the traditions of hierarchy and obedience while the universalism of Catholicism stretches the boundaries of nationalism and the limited wisdom that comes from being less than 300 years old.
October 18, 2008 ~ Sports Saturday
Catholic football
Inspired by the Crusades
Sack the other team.
When the local Catholic football team takes the field, as a pregame ritual, they impale a cross into the ground. I’m not sure of the meaning of it all, but it must have something to do with Jesus being on our side. The public schools should drop a flag in the other end zone and we could call it the church versus state bowl.
October 17, 2008
Raking up paintings,
Autumnal masterpieces
Wish Van Gogh could help.
I wrote this haiku last fall. I really hate raking. I’d rather use a flame thrower and ignite my front lawn. There something totally redundant about picking up leaves. Perhaps I should just cover them all with decoupage.
October 16, 2008
Full moon in morning
The sun chases it away
Makes me want to howl.
When the sun and moon are in the sky at the same time it seems like a sign that we can all get along, at least for about an hour.
October 15, 2008
Winner of debate
A real man of the people
Joe the plumber guy.
Joe told the media it was none of their business who he was planning to vote for. He gets my vote.
October 14, 2008
Fifty years of fall
Seeing it for the first time
With an open eye.
I am in awe of Autumn’s palette. I cannot help but stare in complete wonderment. The utter beauty of each tree and turning leaf, a landscape of nature’s artistry. I have never seen the fall as I do now. It has taken me fifty years to fully comprehend the beauty before me. Life is a stage and nature a canvass.
October 13, 2008
1492
When the “Christians” invaded
The Great Spirit wept.
The followers of the Prince of Peace pillaged and plundered in his name. The imperial faith took on the mission to subjugate native peoples, enslave them and steal whatever resources they might have. The Good News that was spread during the “Age of Discovery” was an abomination of the gospel. The light of Christ came as a fire of destruction.
October 12, 2008
My heart is a hut
I’ve dwelled in fifty years
Chanting life’s praises.
The Feast of Booths begins this week. A time to go inside to connect with the outside. For all our wandering we end up where we are.
October 11, 2008 ~ Sports Saturday
Juarito returns
Playing futbol in Spanish
America’s game.
Now that Catholic league soccer is over, Mexican-American league begins. Last year David was referred to as the “juarito” by an elderly grandmother type and the label has stuck. It translates “White kid”. Seems to fit just fine. He is doing fantastico in the gol.
October 10, 2008
Norwegians turn gold
Sugars ignite yellow red
Spruce are unimpressed.
The coniferous among us feel that consistency is of greater value than show. The deciduous bark about the superiority of change. As for me, I embrace both.
Yom Kippur
The path back to God
Is the journey of justice
The purpose of prayer.
Thank you Judaism for your wisdom and courage.
October 9, 2008
Nobel prize loser
Fluorescent jellyfish fame
Prasher get no green.
How does a researcher who discovers how to illuminate proteins using the fluorescence of jellyfish end up working on a car lot? This guy is almost broke while the people who are using his discovery are about to cash in on the million dollar Nobel Chemistry prize. The man is neither bitter or green with envy. All he wants is a job and for one of the prize winners to take him out to dinner. For more glowing information on Mr. Prasher visit the following sites:
http://www.conncoll.edu/ccacad/zimmer/GFP-ww/prasher.html
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=Douglas+prasher&aq=f&oq =
October 8, 2008
Amber waves of grain
Fields of soy bean turn to rust
Corn stalks’ green goes taupe.
Autumn’s palette fills the world with hues of burgundy and browns, yellows and reds.
Living in the Midwest provides the most amazing array of colors throughout the year. I could not stand perpetual green or white. Give me chlorophyll’s first and last breath, the deep dark of mud and dust on the wing.
October 7, 2008
Two men in a fight
Trying not to look angry
Smiling at the crowd.
It was a gentleman’s argument. Given the circumstances, both candidates acted civil. Some facts were stretched, a few fingers pointed, but in the end no one burned the town hall down. There was a rumor though that Sarah Palin was seen slashing tires in the parking lot.
October 6, 2008
Palling with Palin
On the hunt for Obama
Lies and deception.
The recent claim made by Sarah Palin that Barack Obama and Bill Ayers pal around together is a sign of things to come. Make her an honorary swift boat captain. Her assignment is to attack and discredit Obama despite how much she has to bend the truth. Since she has nothing substantial to say about policy she has focused her winking eye on half truths and exaggerations. Granted, both parties engage in propagandizing. The problem with Palin is that she is turning into a barking dog, a bit pull with lip stick. Her agenda is to try to embarrass Obama. The problem for Palin is that her attacks are backfiring and the only embarrassment she is causing is for herself and her running mate.
October 5, 2008
The obligation
To be a sign of God’s reign
Seven days a week.
So much of religion has little to do with God. A good part of religious custom, culture, rules and regulation focuses on the justification and maintenance of the institution. The political, economic, and managerial aspect of the Chuch often overshadows its spiritual and communal nature. We often confuse the institution of religion with the purpose of it. Jesus never spoke of the importance of religious organization. If anything he spent much of his active ministry criticizing it. He did speak about the reign of God, a way of living and existing by which God’s will would be mainfested in our midst. This obligation permeates our daily lives and offers hope to the world, including the church.
October 4, 2008
October crescent
Sinks slowly over the field
Into the end zone.
October 3, 2008
In teacher limbo
Watching students misbehave
Scowling through the glass.
Giving up power is a very difficult thing to do. It is also one of the most important steps on the path to enlightenment (whatever that is). My student teacher is great. His only problem is that he is not me. Or should I rephrase that and say my problem is that I expect him to be me. He is a fine young teacher who needs to learn from his mistakes and to experience the full resposibility of managing a classroom without a teacher peering in from the hall. I think I need to put on headphones and turn up the music or pitch a tent outside.
October 2, 2008
A civil debate
Nothing gained and nothing lost,
Back to the nasty.
Both sides won. Palin didn’t say dinosaurs roamed the earth 4000 years ago and Biden didn’t yell at her. The debate was like a first date at Grandma’s house. Everyone was polite around the table. A little tension, but no food fight. Biden smiled and Palin pronounced the names of heads of state correctly. Now it is time to get back to mud slinging, half truths ,and polls.
October 1, 2008
Wall Street religion
Lack of belief in mammon
A crisis of faith.
Much of our present economic woes are being framed as a crisis of confidence. As long as the credit flowed the gears of the economic machine kept turning. Friction is beginning to takes its toll. In my simplistic understanding of how the world economy works, it all seems like a gigantic gadget with a billion buttons, levers and switches. Part of the solution, besides several hundred billion dollars is belief in the machine. Complexity provides cover. The CEOs of Wall Street are akin to the high priests of ancient religions. Their shamanesque understanding of how to make money is beyond the comprehension of the average mortal. Their golden parachutes allow them to fly high above the daily grind and the reality of the middle and lower class. Despite our questions and concerns we are asked to believe so that the system will not come crashing down upon us. We need faith, blind as it may be, for the economy to resurrect.
September 30, 2008
Good for Campbell soup
Bad for the economy
Lines starting to form.
After the House of Representatives voted down the mortgage bailout plan stocks plummeted. The only stock listed on the S&P 500 that rose in value was Campbell Soup. Perhaps the thought of all those soup lines filled with the unemployed from companies that cannot secure loans was too tempting not to invest in. If something isn’t done we will needs lots of bowls.
It is obvious that we are in this chaotic situation because of inadequate oversight of financial institutions. The proposal before Congress included its own lack of oversight. A blank check for billions to Secretary Paulson that guaranteed a bail out for Wall Street never included an explanation of the benefits to Main Street. The risk imposed by voting down the proposal must be weighed against the benefits of a vocal electorate. Most of us do not understand the complex economic maneuvering that has created this crisis. Yet, most of do understand the idea of being financially responsible and prudent. People wanting more say in what is about to happen to them is not a bad thing at all.
There is a lot of blame to go around. First and foremost we should blame capitalism. Our system rewards risk takers, entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, small business owners, etc. It is a vulnerable system that when it works is great, and when it doesn’t can be catastrophic. We should also blame the people on Wall Street that were irresponsible and selfish in their desire to find even more complex and risky ways to make money off other peoples’ investments. We should blame the Bush administration for its lack of governance. It is what we appoint and pay them to do. Lastly, we need to blame ourselves if in any way we are unbudgeted, living on credit, spend without limits or are generally out of fiscal control.
Now what do we do? The best economic minds seem to agree that we need a solution, regardless of how flawed it is. Perhaps we should start the New Year off with a few resolutions. Some can even be written into the revised bailout plan. The first should be that we vow to come together as a nation and fix the problems on every level possible. The common good is a concept that has long been run over by the rat race and chewed apart by the dog eat dog nature of the economy. After the Great Depression, the government inspired a national work ethic to fix our problems. In the midst of WWII people all around our country joined together in an effort to survive by tightening belts and joining hands. Both of these worst times brought out the best in us. Someone needs to examine our national crisis in words that transcend the economy and get to the heart of citizenship. Perhaps the candidates could try their hand at this type of dialogue in the remaining debates.
September 29, 2008
Patron saint of sauce
Provider of cancer camps
He ran the good race.
Paul Newman lived the kind of life that makes the world a better place. Despite making a career in Pandora’s box office, he was a person who cared for others. His cancer camps gave and will continue to give hope and comfort to children struggling with the big C. His food companies provided a model for corporate behavior. The man was cool. Raise a pot of sockarooni to him.
September 28, 2008
Catholic Great Spirit
White Father cuts off funding
Broken covenant.
The Congregation of the Great Spirit is a parish composed of many Native Americans in the Milwaukee area. The parish was established back in the l980s when Fr. Ed Cook was approached by the Archdiocese. The parish is poor, but the building is paid for. The archdiocese has decided to cut funding for the parish and is planning to shut it down if money cannot be generated to pay bills.
Shame on the Archdiocese of Milwaukee for cutting off funding for a parish that serves as a sign of the Reign of God . Providing a place where Native Americans can worship using elements of their own cultural heritage and where the poor are welcome is doing what the Gospel asks.
To find out more about the Congregation of the Great Spirit go to http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=95143151 and have a listen.
September 27, 2008
Play without parents
Grab a ball and find a field
Stay out after dark.
Parents should have to stay far enough away from their childrens’ sports activities so as to not interfere with the games. Kids need sandlots and empty fields without adults around so that they can learn how to play together and get along.
September 26, 2008
Bongos in my breast
A syncopated heartbeat
Coronary jazz.
50 is so much fun. Just when you think you’re done with age related medical issues for awhile, another major organ wants some attention. My heart had center stage when I was in my twenties, but it seems to want to reemerge into the limelight. Atrial fibulation is definitely a way to gain some attention.
September 25, 2008 – Guest Haiku
Wealth is a river
Held by a few frightened souls
While so many thirst.
Kathy Lee
Kathy Lee is a subscriber to the website. She has sent a few in and they are really good poems. I hope she is still out there writing. The world needs more poets!
September 24, 2008
Wayward extra son
Riding his bike lost in love
Searching to find home.
Ah, to be young, in love, and lost on a bike.
September 23, 2008
Moon in my window
Illuminated pillow
Dreaming and awake.
September 22, 2008
When night equals day
The colors of death delight
Poetry rises.
Happy Alban Elfed, Autumnal Equinox, Cornucopia, Feast of Avilon, Festival of Dionysus, Harvest Home, Harvest Tide, Mabon, Night of the Hunter, Second Harvest Festival, Wine Harvest, Witch’s Thanksgiving, and the first day of autumn.
I must confess autumn is my favorite time. Living in the midwest means I get four distinct seasons. Each of them is so beautiful and unique. I wouldn’t live on any other line of latitude. The slow death of leaves fills the sky with stunning beauty. The cool of the air resuscitates my creativity. The fall reaches into the part of my soul where poetry comes from. The exhaustion of summer is over, the reflection of fall begins.
Norwegians turn gold
Sugars ignite yellow red
Spruce are unimpressed.
The coniferous among us feel that consistency is of greater value than show. The deciduous bark about the superiority of change. As for me, I embrace both.