Global Haiku • Spring 2022
Dr. Randy Brooks

I AM LOVE

by
Amanda Handegan

As I pack up my things and go — the moon, the stars, failed relationships, failed friendships, and a lot of lessons. I carry with me love for all. I will always love. Wherever I am. Whatever I'm doing. This is my promise. Thsee are ALL love haiku, if you look close enough.

Bio

Amanda Handegan will be graduating this May with a BFA in Musical Theatre. She plans to move to Chicago to pursue her dream of becoming an actor! She would like to thank her best friends for inspiring her haiku this semester and always uplifting her artistry. 

as petals appear
i’ll watch them grow
just to wilt again

i realized today when the sun kissed me
that it wasn’t spring i missed
it was you. your warmth.

the magic
of a shooting star
I forgot to wish too

“it smells like spring”
she interrupts
my complaints disappear

arizona girl
she turns my witch cackle
into harmonious laughter

whisper goddess
i long to hear her
sweet nothings

to live a delirious life
with summer peaches
and music

talk of future plans
what if
I really mean it

a couple yellow tulips
c’mon spring
don’t be shy

starboy
study my freckles
like the constellations

tongue touches
and forehead kisses
your mess is mine

under my waterfall
there’s a hidden message
focus on me

locked in the present
           moment
with you

she fakes a smile
save me
from my own independence

my wings
don’t spread like they used to
but I want to fly with you

the vultures
feed on starlight
I am invisible

weeping willow
thank you for teaching me to float
wherever you are

my tribe
beaming as we dance
under a full moon

my mother creeps in
under the soft flannel covers
and I am six again

please remember
how hard
I make you laugh

she resorts to her usual doodles
afraid
of her own mind

love handles
freckly knees
I want to be friends

delete delete del
when will i learn
to trust my own mind

adulting
a cold beer
in the shower

finally letting go
of our summer novels
with my love scribbled inside

two loving parents
and me
I get chosen to apply her sunscreen

her squeal reminds me
some people
have never made a snowman

out of the ash
I rise with my red hair
and live in the here & now

I give love
I receive love
I am love