Padawan and Master

by Elizabeth Abernethy

Here is my fourth Jedi Poem. It is rated G. It is from the prospective of a council member and an observer. No spoilers. Hope you like it. You may archive it in M/A and both mirror sites. Anywhere else and you will have to ask. Well, here it is.

       Padawan and Master

After being given this unusual task,
the Padawan of his Master asked,
"Master, what am I to do
just for you?
May I ask
why I have been given such a task?
I don't understand
your plan 
or what of my is asked.
How do I do what I have been commanded?"
The Master, his attention demanded.

Words of wisdom from his lips spill
and until
his Padawan can comprehend
and his task begins.

His task is not easy
by far
nor are
the instructions simple to master.
The task before the Padawan set,
his Master does not regret
demanding something so hard
for this is yet another 
learned lesson
for the one he feels is like a son, a brother.
Yet, like a player holds close his hand,
the Master his secrets closely guard.

Once it is complete
in competition they will compete.
For when the blade is done,
we shall see who has won.
We, others of the council will be
those who over Masters, Jedi, the Academy
have the task to oversee.

Heed the words here,
a Jedi knows no fear.
When the Padawan asks why, 
it is up to his Master or I
to guide the student
and let him come to his own mind know.
And so,
Padawan, keep up the questioning.
Never cease to be curious
Though you should avoid being furious.
Mind well the wise.
Young one, open your eyes!

Not only does the Padawan
ask, "How must I do this?"
but also why
and "it is I
thought when you could do better,
my Master
without creating a disaster.
I don't understand."

His Master chides,
his time he must bide.
"Patience, my Padawan.
You're not the only one
who has been set such a task.
Now, my Apprentice, do as I have asked."

For the first time in a while
I begin to smile
as I watch them be
as I once was
and it is because,
you see,
I was once a Padawan too
who asked what this one does.
I, too, puzzled at the task
I had been asked.
I got through
as this Padawan
no doubt will.
But still,
it is educational just to watch.

A little longer watch will I keep,
to them I will not speak.
There is no need.
I've seen all I need to know,
now I will go
and to the others report.