Haiku From My Journey

About the Book

What in the world is haiku?

Haiku is a form of Japanese poetry containing only seventeen syllables in each brief poem (five syllables in line one; seven syllables in line two; and five syllables in line three).   Every syllable in a haiku poem is important. Although many haiku poems have references to nature there are no limits to the topics haiku poetry may embrace.

CLUTTER

“Where are my car keys?”

“I cannot find my checkbook!”

“Have you seen my purse?”

Clutter everywhere

Closing in around my neck

I don’t want to drown!

Often haiku poetry reflects matters of faith.

Listening for God.

Waiting, silent, expecting

 a theophany.

Lord, what do you want?

What would you like me to do?

I am listening.

This book contains more than 550 haiku poems taken from the life experiences of the writer. Enjoy them all at once or savor them one at a time. You are sure to find many which speak to where you are.

About the Author

Martha Deever Matteson was born in Dayton, Ohio, and grew up in southwestern Ohio. She graduated from Westerville High School in 1960 and Otterbein College in 1964 with a BS in Ed. Degree.  In 1963 she married Mervyn L. Matteson and they are the parents of four adult children: Mara, Miriam, Michael, and Matthew.  Martha taught first grade for Dayton Public Schools from 1964 – 1966, resigning to become a full-time homemaker.  She worked with Merv as he served churches in northern Ohio and later in Dayton.  In 1983  she accepted a position as a Christian Education Coordinator and entered United Theological Seminary.

            After graduating from seminary in 1987,  Martha served pastorates in Toledo, Pataskala and Maineville, Ohio.  In 1998 she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease.  Since 2002 she and Merv reside in Columbus, Ohio.

            Martha is a fourth generation pastor in her family, and the first woman.  She has served on numerous District and Conference Committees during her years of active ministry.