What stories can I tell now? Nine Haikus for National Poetry Day

I spent half an hour tonight writing these nine haikus for National Poetry Day. If you're not familiar with haikus, don't worry. They are a type of poem that originates from Japan consisting of three lines. Traditionally, the first line has five syllables, the second has seven syllables and the third has five syllables. I hope you enjoy them.

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What a joy to feel

love without feeling frightened

or overexposed.

What a gift to be

able to speak honestly

with someone who cares.

What sorrow, what rage,

I colour and shape because

it needs to be seen.

What a rarity

feeling vulnerable and safe

simultaneously.

What comfort I take

knowing you are there for me—

just in case I fall.

What tranquility

it is to know myself when

I was lost before.

What longings do I

sit with and not act upon

now I know myself?

What stories can I tell

now my tongue is in my mouth

back where it belongs?

What enormity

with a heart that's full of you and

I'm here listening.