Inspiration

Thoughts upon a haiku

‘the light of a candle

is transfered to another candle

-spring twilight’

The quote underlines the unfathomably high influence one’s behavior might have on the surrounding world. Should one spread empathy and generosity, others will remark on said acts of kindness. Furthermore, they will attempt to incorporate such random acts of kindness into their mundane activities. Thus, a so-called domino effect will inadvertently be triggered by actions of such positive connotation, creating a highly efficient and more favorable cohabitation.  Novel perspectives of their environment will be developed by even average citizens, therefore even so-called ordinary people will acquire outstanding and unique personalities. In such a case, us humans are the candles of the haiku, while the compassion we spread among peers, will grow day by day, representing the flicker of candlelight, which will gradually shine brighter with each lit candle, consequently increasing the intensity of such clearly metaphorical incandescence.

For instance, I would mention a life-altering altering, event whose protagonist I happened to be. Throughout my maturing years, I thought that the essence of life consisted of academic studies and the reading of a variety of books to develop cognitive skills and expand general knowledge. Nevertheless, lately I’ve realized how essential it is to have fun and to surround yourself with acquaintances, with the unique ability to make you laugh out loud or conjure up an honest smile. Such underrated moments are essential medicine that heals a jaded soul. Sometimes I wish I had had the epiphany sooner and hadn’t wasted precious energy in an attempt to be the perfect child. Even if others would refute such a statement, I would not tolerate telling my future offspring that life was boringly lukewarm since I avoided precious chances to have fun and make memories.

Moreover, upon Yosa Boaum’s artistic thoughts, my mind traveled instantly to my recent holidays. When I was a mere toddler, I considered that Christmas consisted of a variety of gifts, numerous decorations, and a range of sweet treats. However, in the wake of my experiences, I started perceiving a more profound meaning of the celebration: the birth of our Lord. On that fateful day, Jesus became the main flame of a credo, the brightest candlelight. His warmth and brilliance transfers to those who truly believe in him. I wish that each living soul would recall the true reason we celebrate Christmas, not forgetting about the marvelous light our savior has initiated.

Besides, this magnificent quote emphasizes inheritance. As an infant, my parents preached about a person’s own identity, as the accumulation of inherited traditions, personal culture, ethnicity and historic past. I have taken their words to heart, since they illustrate the connection among various family members. Were we not bonded with our ancestors, our identity would remarkably differ. Therefore, it might be declared that one’s personality goes back for loads of years, symbolizing generational traditions and culture. Our eldest ancestors are considered the ones with the mildest light but with a plethora of experience, while the new generations are deemed the brightest of flames, fresh into their burning process. They still have to burn down their own path in life, just like a freshly lit candle.

In conclusion, I interpret this haiku as the candle that highlights the potential impact of one’s attitude upon others, and the way one’s behaviour might enhance others’ quality of life and well-being. I hope my recent behaviour has impacted your life in a positive manner. 😊 

Mihály Klára IX. R