Renewed

Summary

Lori Carlson's "Renewed" is a haibun poem reflecting on personal transformation and reconnection with the Earth.

Abstract

"Renewed" is a contemplative haibun by Lori Carlson that delves into the author's ritual of purification and the shedding of societal negativity. Through the act of cleansing, the speaker seeks to return to a state of innocence and harmony with nature, acknowledging their role as a servant of the Earth. The poem is accompanied by a serene image of nature, credited to Noah Buscher, and concludes with an invitation for readers to support the author by becoming Medium members. Carlson's work often explores themes of spirituality, self-awareness, and mental health, and she is an active figure in the Medium community as the owner and editor of several publications.

Opinions

The author expresses a personal journey of cleansing oneself from the negative influences of society, such as hatred and bigotry.
There is a strong sense of humility and respect for the Earth, with the speaker viewing themselves as a servant to the planet.
The process of physical and spiritual purification is depicted as a path to inner peace and rediscovery of one's true nature, characterized by love and peace.
The poem suggests that the act of self-reflection and the shedding of self-deception can lead to personal renewal and transformation.
The inclusion of a referral link for Medium membership indicates the author's desire for community support and engagement with her audience.

A haibun

from this earth I came a babe of ignorant shame to earth I return

And so I do this. Strip off the layers of filth that clog my pores each and every day from the hatred, bigotry and self-righteous indignation splashed upon me by the outside world. I take brush in hand and scrub and scrub until I bleed. Rub myself raw to give back to the Earth each cell of my being. Wrap myself in cold water, a shock back to reality. I am not the master here. I am merely Earth’s servant. As each lie I tell myself washes down the drain, I become renewed, rejuvenated and memory resurfaces. I am peace. I am love. I am.

to earth I return renewed, rejuvenated peaceful lamb once more

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Lori Carlson writes poetry, fiction, personal essays, creative non-fiction, and articles. She focuses on Spirituality, Life Lessons, Self-Awareness, Relationships, Mental Health, and LGBTQ+. She is the Owner/Editor of Promptly Written and Not For Bedtime Stories. You can find her older stories on her creative writing blog, Ravyne’s Nest and random ramblings on her personal blog, A Delicious Torment.

POETRY

Renewed

A haibun