There is a popular TV program called “プレバト” in Japan.
In it, Itsuki Natsui, a great haikuist, evaluates haiku written and submitted by contestants and give advice.
There was a time I didn’t like one of the contestants there much, and I hoped he makes mistakes.
But he doesn’t write badly.
Over time I had to acknowledge that he has developed real strengths in haiku.
Now I like all the people on the show.
That reminded me of Olympic games.
Sometimes I wish the opponents don’t gain so much points, but when they are so good, they don’t make mistakes.
At first we may not like the other guy or woman, but when we see their greatness, sometimes they inspire us to awe and respect.
Speaking of respect, I respect my parents now.
When I was younger, I thought my parents were ordinary.
But as I do more work and more house-chores, I realized working every day for decades deserve utmost respect and admiration.