Kaleidoscope

Friendship

2009-04-24T01:26:00.001-05:00

A long lost friend is found,
to an oath we are bound,
to always be in touch,
remembering how much
we missed sharing our thoughts,
and how hard we have fought,
to keep each other close
and cherished as a rose

For friendship never dies,
and friends never tell lies,
in each we can confide,
there is nothing to hide.
There's a joy in sharing,
there's pleasure in caring,
you are my special friend
from now until the end.

Emerald Island

2009-04-08T09:22:00.000-05:00

Emerald Island is calling my name,
longing for it causes no shame;
I’m a proud descendent of the Irish,
watching three leaf clovers flourish.

I lose my key chain at least once a week,
a little elf plays hide and seek;
annoyed, I reach for the Irish whiskey,
mood lightens and I feel frisky.

St. Patrick’s Day is a gala affair,
I reach for something green to wear;
good luck and bad luck are in all my thoughts,
people without green will be caught.

The luck of the Irish is in my soul,
returning there soon is my goal;
Emerald Island is calling my name,
longing for it causes no shame.

Envy

2009-04-05T09:55:00.001-05:00

Rumors whirl like shooting stars,
as reputations are marred.
Loose tongues spreading vicious lies,
falsehoods somehow never die.

Thriving on maliciousness,
peeling away all goodness,
envy feasts on daily fibs,
gnawing on juicy, fat ribs.

A glutton goading deceit,
defamation it’ll next meet.
Its cocktail of spitefulness,
boasts of drops of ruthlessness.

Tunneling deep into souls,
spreading green throughout the holes.
Clinging like a parasite,
claiming its evil is right.

Final Trip

2009-03-21T12:28:00.002-05:00

Discard emotional baggage,
move through life with lightweight luggage,
preparing for the final trip,
traveling without bags to grip.

Accept your foibles one by one,
forget the past – what’s done is done,
surround yourself with upbeat friends,
enjoy life to the very end.

Make an effort along the way,
to keep your emotions at bay,
concentrate on self-improvement,
focusing on development.

Be good to others – that is all,
and forgive yourself when you fall,
life doesn’t have to be so hard,
make mistakes – do not be on guard.

The final trip will come some day,
and you will be ready to say,
life was great – let’s see what’s ahead,
as the doctor declares you dead.

Deep Thoughts

2009-03-16T00:51:00.004-05:00

I don’t answer the telephone,
or give the dog a juicy bone.
I don’t think about cooking meals,
or go shopping for steals.

I don’t report to work each day,
expecting to increase my pay.
So people say I’m negative,
and they recommend sedatives.

Psychobabble cannot help me;
empty those drugs into the sea.
I am reflective and searching,
then analyzing while perching.

Deep thoughts absorb my attention,
there’s no need for intervention.
I pursue them seeking their source,
I acquiesce, there is no force.

I want to tap my potential,
meditation is essential.
Mundane chores can be distracting,
while fresh thoughts are interacting.

So carry on and waste your time,
worry and fret over a dime.
Meanwhile I’m setting my mind free,
so that I can grow and be me.

Destiny

2009-03-09T01:03:00.001-05:00

Destiny took control of my life,
fighting, kicking, I opposed the strife,
objecting to life’s roller coaster,
my eye was captured by a poster.

“Roll with the punches”, it simply read,
“Live every minute until you’re dead”.
Yea, easier said than done, I mused,
debating the quote made me confused.

Why should I accept things I don’t like?
Isn’t it better to take a hike?
But I found I couldn’t run away,
destiny always has its own way.

Do Not Disturb

2009-03-05T07:37:00.003-06:00

Genius at work, do not disturb,
I never thought to be perturbed,
with great respect, I tiptoed out,
contemplating this grand man’s clout.

A week, maybe two, came and went,
when I was one more time sent,
the office door was tightly closed,
I knocked then stepped back, smiled and posed.

Patiently waiting for someone,
confident a person would come,
soon I felt foolish standing there,
behind a door and no one cared.

Intending to bang on the door,
I was shocked hearing a man snore,
genius at work, do not disturb,
my hair bristled, I was perturbed.

Labyrinth of Forgetfulness

2009-02-26T09:18:00.001-06:00

In the labyrinth of forgetfulness,
life has lost its luster and playfulness,
the brain and the tongue aren't on the same page,
it feels like thoughts are locked up in a cage.

Names, dates and time have become elusive,
fading as the mind becomes more passive,
anger leaps forward like a trapped jaguar,
positioning itself on a wire.

Daily routines have been turned upside down,
delightful smiles have been replaced with frowns,
frustration and confusion lead each day,
decisions, control are slipping away.

The borders of reality are loose,
illusions step in creating a ruse,
actions forgotten in lucid moments
leaves a sense of emptiness which torments.

In the labyrinth of forgetfulness,
lost, floating in the abyss of darkness,
the mind's inability to recall,
leaves memories suspended in free fall.

A Man's Shadow

2009-02-21T12:03:00.001-06:00

I walk in the shadow of my man,
all my smiles and comments have been banned;
I support him in his weak moments,
I soothe him when he’s hell-fire bent.

His greatness casts shadows on others,
yet, when he glides past, huge crowds gather;
the limelight makes him larger than life,
few know that he is trailed by his wife.

I walk in the shadow of my man,
from a distance I do what I can;
a cliché states behind a grand man,
is a loving wife holding his hand.

Email Message on Valentine's Day

2009-02-15T02:28:00.005-06:00

I opened my email box,
sat motionless as a fox,
disbelieving the message,
which was meant to encourage.

It is a virus I mused,
looking completely confused,
slightly touching the delete,
the motion was incomplete.

Deciding to take the risk,
click, it opened in a whisk,
once again I gaped in shock,
panting like I ran a block.

Tiny tears slid down my cheek,
still through blurred vision I peeked,
a valentine’s card from you,
my deepest wish had come true.

Death

2009-02-12T08:10:00.006-06:00

Tears are streaming down his cheeks, shoulders slumped, he appears so weak.
His black jacket is rumpled,
dress shirt and pants are crumpled.

Weariness pours from his eyes,
he struggles to say good-bye.
His mouth moves but no words come,
beaten, suddenly he's mum.

His roses slip from his hand,
tear stained lying on the sand.
On wobbly legs he trembles,
a lost man, he resembles.

He collapses on the floor,
then removed from viewing more.
His cherished orchid has died,
he just wants to run and hide.

The moment seemed ill-fated,
admitting that he hated,
parting from his dearest wife,
the precious jewel of his life.

Lucky

2009-02-05T22:46:00.005-06:00

Puppy land is where I am,
mesmerized by such a ham,
bringing great joy to mid-life,
I’m a mom as well as wife.

Lucky is her name today,
bringing smiles like bright sun rays.
Sometimes she’s known as Troubles,
but bad deeds burst like bubbles.

Lovingly, big brown eyes stare,
melting the angriest glare.
Forgotten is the torn chair,
or sharp teeth pulling my hair.

Marveling, I watch her dig,
will she discover a rig?
Oil or gold would be so great,
is my couch the hidden gate?

Training is coming along,
she barks and tells me I’m wrong.
I’m now doing things her way,
and she ignores what I say.

At night she sleeps at my feet,
till bedtime when our eyes meet.
Our lives are woven with gold,
I’m lucky too, so I’m told.

Soaring like a Kite

2009-01-30T08:51:00.008-06:00

My body moves to an inner song,
feet tapping, head bopping, all day long.
Sporting a Mona Lisa like smile
causes others to stare for awhile.

Trivial matters are thrown aside,
and I glide on as my instincts guide
me skillfully through each day and night,
I feel like I'm soaring like a kite.

My thoughts have changed at this altitude,
reshaping, forming new attitudes.
Releasing demons has set me free
to be however I want to be.

Life is an Illusion

2009-01-23T00:18:00.001-06:00

"Everything is an illusion."
This thought conjures up confusion.
I repeat and contemplate it,
and then I leave it for a bit.

The world's nothing but vibrations.
Knowledge leads to liberation?
Our bodies and chairs look solid;
our brains think these facts are valid.

Our brains, too, vibrate when we think,
so vibrations are the one link.
Why do you and I see the same?
Because things have been given names?

"There is no time, no space, nothing."
Free yourself of feelings and things.
All in life is an illusion.
Past and future – a great fusion?

Lucky

2009-01-18T23:54:00.000-06:00

Stars

2009-01-13T10:10:00.000-06:00

Road to Heaven

2009-01-11T23:08:00.002-06:00

Cactus

2009-01-09T22:59:00.000-06:00

My first oil painting

Exhaustion

2009-01-09T01:10:00.002-06:00

Beyond exhaustion,
closed to sensation,
all my limbs are numb,
mind registers dumb.

Soft voices float by,
acknowledged by sighs,
no strength to respond,
gazing at the pond.

Demands keep pouncing,
laboring, bouncing,
from one to the next,
working on the text.

“No, it’s not ready!”,
voice sounding heady.
“Finish by midnight?”
The pond is in sight.

A fish is skipping,
my hand is gripping,
pole in hand, I run,
my work is not done.

Fishing till midnight,
gives me great delight;
exhaustion is gone,
I’m nobody’s pawn.

Choices

2009-01-03T00:36:00.000-06:00

Why wrap in dreary colors,
and throw away your dollars,
grovel in dirt and decay,
complaining along the way?

Blindly you wander through life,
inviting worries and strife,
deaf to melodic voices,
making all the wrong choices.

Unhappiness pulls its strings,
tightening, anger it brings;
dark pessimism invades,
the burning flame of hope fades.

You are more dead than alive,
not caring if you survive.
It's time to heed some advice;
listen, it won't be told twice.

Everyone has ups and downs,
and have moments when they frown.
They differ in how they choose,
and they don't have a short fuse.

Life is about attitude,
soaring to great altitudes.
It's simple, be positive,
throw away the negatives.

Harriet

2009-01-01T08:21:00.000-06:00

This painting is my version of a picture of Harriet by Jane Bond.

Coral Reef

2008-12-31T09:49:00.001-06:00

I want to thank you, On The Edge, for encouraging me to post some of my paintings. Because of your kind words and constant support, you have kept my creative side alive! Wishing you all the best in 2009!

New Beginnings

2008-12-29T01:02:00.000-06:00

The New Year is knocking on the door
as old year’s stories from my heart pour,
happy and sad times blur together
then float away light as a feather.

Suddenly there’s a brilliant white page,
new beginnings show no signs of age,
time indeed offers us a fresh start,
throw old baggage on a passing cart.

Happiness dances across the stage
celebrating life, stomping out rage,
toasting 2009’s designs,
breathtaking patterns of life entwine.

Fireworks, confetti – signs of what’s near,
signal January first is here,
with open arms we embrace the day,
guided by hope we search for the way.

New Year's Day

2008-12-25T23:02:00.000-06:00

I have to be ready for New Year’s Day,
I’m soul searching while walking near the bay.
It is difficult to try to improve,
I must get psyched up, get into the groove.

Last year’s resolutions are forgotten,
thinking about it makes me feel rotten.
But this year will be better, I promise,
certainly my pledges won’t go amiss.

For the New Year wipes the slate shiny clean,
as if all transgressions were never seen.
I am a new person on New Year’s Day,
on a new path seeking a better way.

Joy Ride

2008-12-23T22:18:00.001-06:00

Express gratitude,
ignore platitudes;
bliss is in small things
like hope a friend brings.

A loyal pets love,
warms you like a glove,
and kissing a child
makes problems seem mild.

A walk in the park,
removes all the dark
thoughts, fears and worries,
you can't feel surly.

It's the little things
that makes your heart sing;
chasing importance
gives life no substance.

Be thankful each day;
be prepared to say,
life is a joy ride
to embrace, not hide.

Work of Art

2008-12-19T01:32:00.000-06:00

Life is a tapestry
woven with pastry
of sweet and bittersweet,
tasteless to distinct treat.

Colors add unique spice
speckled with silver ice,
flavors flow in a stream,
scrumptious beyond a dream.

Intertwined is glitter,
dabbing out all bitter,
camouflaging gray hues,
presenting brighter views.

Life – a novel weaving,
like clouds coming, leaving,
indeed a work of art,
each stitch comes from the heart.

An Echo in the Night

2008-12-15T23:03:00.000-06:00

Written for my favorite musician.

Stand tall and tell all,
you have met an amazing girl
who makes your head whirl.

Don't hide, don't hide a special thing,
accept it in your life and hope it brings
happiness and bliss,
bliss that you'll surely miss,

the moment she's out of sight,
the moment she walks out into the night.

I don't stand tall.
I don't tell all.
I hide. I hide! Why do I hide?

Something is wrong; something is not right
as I watch her walk out into the night.
When she is a silhouette in the distance,
every muscle in my body becomes tense.

My heart cries out don't go.
Don't go.
Don't go.
It's only an echo.

My lips still tremble from her kiss,
if that's not bliss, what is?
Come back, I plead,
please come back!

The words float in the breeze,
and bounce off the trees…
an echo in the night,
only an echo in the night.

Friendship

2008-12-11T00:55:00.002-06:00

A long lost friend is found,
to an oath we are bound,
to always be in touch,
remembering how much
we missed sharing our thoughts,
and how hard we have fought,
to keep each other close
and cherished as a rose.

For friendship never dies,
and friends never tell lies,
in each we can confide,
there is nothing to hide.
There's a joy in sharing,
there's pleasure in caring,
you are my special friend
from now until the end.

Santa's Reward

2008-12-05T22:47:00.001-06:00

Tick tock, tick tock,
chimes the old clock.
Swinging in time,
is Santa's sock.

Beaming faces,
to bed they race.
Sleep eludes them,
as reindeer pace.

On the rooftop,
out Santa hops.
Down the chimney,
the toys he flops.

Twinkling lights,
makes the room bright.
Spotting the tree,
toys are placed right.

Santa's reward,
is the wayward
children changing,
listening, believing.

Christmas

2008-12-04T09:32:00.004-06:00

My Mom and sister just got
their tree...

A warm glow comes over me,
when I view my Christmas tree,
glistening red ornaments,
laced with silvery adornments,
multi-colored lights blinking,
background laughter, glasses clinking,
the familiar melodies
being sung by the ladies.
It is truly a season
to throw away all reason,
and give in to emotions,
swelling like waves in oceans.
‘Tis the season for feelings,
magic in the air, blessings.

Extraordinary View

2008-11-28T00:32:00.000-06:00

You would be jealous if you knew,
what an extraordinary view,
presents itself daily at dawn
while I sip my coffee and yawn.

Treetops gently wave and whisper,
it's as lulling as a cat's purr.
Their splash of green on rainbow skies,
sets all the wrongs right in my eyes.

I watch the birds flitter, flutter,
listen to sweet sounds they utter,
accompanied by the dogs' choir,
my gaze moves higher and higher.

Rosy clouds float across the sky,
I shake my head and wonder why,
I never noticed such beauty,
straining to fulfill my duty.

Once I see, I am never blind,
I have limitless time to find
bliss in all that nature offers,
I dance through life thinking of her.

Disharmony

2008-11-24T07:16:00.001-06:00

Family reunions,
result in confusion,
reverting to childhood,
some control, others brood.

Innocent intentions,
ripen into tension,
accusations are hurled,
bouncing around the world.

Brothers and sisters part,
with disappointed hearts,
swearing to never meet,
yet saddened by defeat.

Don’t dream of global peace,
when family feuds don’t cease,
are we truly modern?
When old lessons aren’t learned?

Devil

2008-11-20T07:42:00.000-06:00

I met the devil in the parking lot,
he lurks in the most common spots.
Shaped like a man, possessing a black heart,
sneering, grabbing evil from carts.

Smiling, approaching, extending his hand,
he lured me into the quicksand.
Trapped, and realizing that I had been tricked,
panicking because I had been picked.

I did not succumb to his desires,
his eyes turned red like huge fires.
Sinking, sinking, I recited some prayers,
sand crept up layer by layer.

Dancing in delight, spreading wickedness,
sure I’d follow his waywardness.
Suddenly a white cloud wrapped around me,
a bright light flashed and I was free.

The devil vanished in black puffs of smoke…
heart racing, sweating, I awoke.
It took awhile to shake the bad feeling,
still praying, my head was reeling.

Mantra

2008-11-15T01:33:00.000-06:00

Mantras of others
annoy and bother,
not settling well
with nothing to tell.

My heart must find one
that's cheerful and fun,
lifting my spirit,
loving to hear it.

Days passed, so did weeks.
I knew I should seek
a mantra for me,
but what could it be?

Then driving one day,
enjoying sun's rays,
it's all about love
was worth thinking of.

My mantra was mine,
it was the right time,
to sing from my soul,
it made me feel whole.

It's all about love,
It's all about love,
To repeat, repeat
It's all about love.

Dawn

2008-11-14T00:30:00.001-06:00

The world is sleeping as well as the sun,
a couple of hours before it runs
across blackened sky trailed by colored streaks,
nature’s sunrise displayed for all to seek.

Sniffing aromas of perking coffee,
the black liquid opens eyes so puffy,
then creative juices begin to flow,
if writer’s block doesn’t deal its harsh blow.

Tranquility soothes in golden silence,
the writer and sun are in compliance,
simultaneously creating art,
until light illuminates and both part.

Culture Shock

2008-11-10T09:10:00.002-06:00

Living in a foreign land,
strangeness barking its demands,
lost, lonely, feeling bereft,
confidence snatched, from a theft?

Different customs to learn,
weak, powerless to discern,
what to know, what to ignore,
must I now sit on the floor?

Questions and doubts crowd my mind,
answers are tricky to find;
tired and agitated,
life here is overrated.

Screaming I want to go home,
resounds from the villa's dome;
resolved to catch the next plane,
I feel I’m once again sane.

I Want

2008-11-07T00:43:00.000-06:00

I want to live on a star
and bathe in silvery light.

I want to float on a cloud,
snuggling in fluffy white.

I want to capture sunrays
and bask in their warmth at night.

I want to bounce on the moon,
soaring to the highest height.

All of my wants will come true
when I close my eyes so tight

and dream.

Centuries Old Song

2008-11-05T04:06:00.000-06:00

Resentment bubbles up,
spilling out of the cup,
a noxious gas scatters,
leaving paths in tatters.

Monstrous feelings emerge,
rancor, envy converge,
heart hardens like a stone,
strange – no longer your own.

Volcanic forces rage,
like tigers in a cage,
focused on escaping,
spectators are gaping.

In a destructive mode,
snubbing ethical codes,
a centuries old song,
a love story’s gone wrong.

New Start

2008-11-02T02:45:00.000-06:00

I think I’m too serious,
I’d rather be curious,
learning new things every day,
seeking, exploring new ways.

A lighthearted view of things,
makes me want to dance and sing,
I want to shed my old skin,
forget old places I’ve been.

A new start should make me part,
from strings restricting my heart,
free to try and free to fail,
with wind guiding my boat’s sail.

Now I wonder aimlessly,
enjoying all shamelessly,
I taste the sweet and the sour,
and blossom like a flower.

Smitten

2008-10-29T07:01:00.001-05:00

I'm gazing at you from afar,
I saw you last week in a bar.
Your hair gleamed in the golden light,
while dancing to music that night.

You don't even know who I am.
Probably wouldn't give a damn.
I looked at you and was smitten,
shaking like a timid kitten.

Did you see me, you glanced my way,
or were you looking at the bay?
I take two steps toward you and stop,
few ladies want to date a cop.

I face danger with confidence,
but meeting you makes me feel tense.
Lovely lady, you make me feel weak,
and I can’t afford to be meek.

Senior Moments

2008-10-25T02:07:00.000-05:00

Why do wrong words pop out of my mouth?
It tends to send my self esteem south.
The brain is aging, becoming weak.
Dementia… what lies ahead looks bleak.

I pause to think why I'm in this place,
losing my thoughts is what I must face.
The answer's at the tip of my tongue,
I stop, concentrate, but for how long?

There is relief when I remember,
senior moments have lots of members.
What can I do to strengthen my mind?
There must be a way out of this bind.

Do something different every week,
is the medical advice I seek,
and eat healthy foods, get enough sleep,
add brain food to the top of the heap.

If I can recall what I should do,
I'll be so healthy, as good as new.
What am I supposed to do each day?
Where am I going, is this the way?

Artistic Side

2008-10-24T01:42:00.001-05:00

I'm searching for my artistic side,
but it's buried deep and wants to hide.
Amateur world is where I belong,
is being a beginner so wrong?

I have to accept I'm not Mozart,
but his music can be in my heart.
Magnificent paintings are Monet's
but his style, techniques can guide my way.

I'll never be a professional,
leave ego in the confessional.
Pure enjoyment is the attraction
when my talent is a small fraction.

My work takes me to another place,
freed from life's demands and rapid pace.
Totally caught up in the moment,
the thought of stopping causes torment.

Life's Lessons

2008-10-21T10:56:00.002-05:00

Life's daily lessons are easy,
once I open my eyes to see.
There's a reason why I am here,
a purpose as my time draws near.

I need to accept differences,
stop all negative references.
My heart needs to radiate love,
transcend pettiness, rise above.

Forgiveness is on the top list,
to emerge through an angry mist.
Then there's the call for compassion,
a new way, make it the fashion.

Balance work, family and friends,
soul mends, a winner at the end.
Throw out materialism,
return to spiritualism.

Well, life's lessons aren't so easy,
as I open my eyes to see.
I have to improve my outlook,
follow what's written in God's book.

Why do I shy away from roads,
built to handle heavy loads?
I opt for the off beaten tracks,
carrying loads that break my back.

My life's path can be direct, smooth,
or painful like pulling a tooth.
It's up to me to make the choice,
select well, so I can rejoice.

Now life's lessons can be easy,
once I open my eyes to see.
I grow, become a better me,
evolving to what I must be.

Pioneers

2008-10-20T00:46:00.000-05:00

Pioneers throughout time,
heard a different rhyme,
not following the crowds,
they held their heads high, proud.

Born with inventiveness,
born with creativeness,
they didn’t fit the mold,
their ideas were new, bold.

Picasso broke the rules,
was scoffed and called a fool,
he didn’t study art,
he painted from the heart.

Howard Hughes, engineer,
tested planes, tasted fear,
aviation’s wonder,
woke the world with thunder.

Dr. Blalock’s vision,
enabled decisions,
daring, brave, radical,
medical miracles.

Pioneers in our time,
hear a different rhyme,
strong-willed because they’re sure,
they create new futures.

Spirit of Halloween

2008-10-17T05:14:00.001-05:00

Jack-o-lanterns with crooked smiles,
line the streets mile after mile,
orange and black balloons hang from trees,
casting dark shadows in the breeze.

Vampires and bats congregate,
this is a night to celebrate,
glowing red eyes burn in the night,
the devils are ready to fight.

Steam rolls up from the witches' brew,
while mixing concoctions for you,
whitish streaks flash across the sky,
stillness is broken by ghosts' sighs.

An eerie feeling fills the air,
coupled with chilling screams so rare,
vampires, bats and witches fly,
as devils raise pitchforks and cry.

One step, two, your heart skips a beat,
time to flee but where are your feet?
You're rooted in place like a tree,
unable to escape, be free.

You beg, cry for someone to come,
terror fills your veins, your brain's numb,
head swirling, you're ready to faint…
Happy Halloween, the stars paint.

I Was Tagged

2008-10-13T12:18:00.006-05:00

On the edge has asked me to address the following:
Please describe to us how you paint with words, a picture so clearly.

On the edge, your question has led me to discover that I have been searching for that answer for years. It is reflected in my work, so I will share it with you. I don't think it's the answer that you're looking for, but I also don't think I can provide that kind of answer because I don't know.

Brief Encounter

I met you in nineteen ninety one,
at a doctor's office with my son,
out of the blue you spoke to me,
those comments have never let me be.

"You have poetry inside of you,
and surrounding you is a white hue."
I stared at you in disbelief,
a stranger reading a tea leaf.

I don't recall saying a word,
acting like I had not heard,
to this day I don't know your name,
maybe we'll meet so I can explain.

The impact of that brief encounter,
I relive often as I saunter,
through life’s shadows and sunny spots,
to date I think of your words a lot.

How can you unravel what’s inside,
when it is buried deep and hides,
you saw a decade ahead of time,
predicting my interest in rhymes.

Reason

Infection was flowing through my veins,
fever was raging ever so high,
numb from the illness, I felt no pain,
there’s a reason why I didn’t die.

My strength was slowly ebbing away,
strangely, I wasn’t afraid of the end,
I’m too young, I attempted to say,
"the crisis is behind, you will mend".

I heard the doctor’s voice in a haze,
weakly I opened my eyes to see,
I was struggling to leave the maze,
where my sluggish mind had taken me.

I did indeed recover in time,
I knew there was something I should do,
yet it was important not to pine,
for I was to begin life anew.

I'm patiently waiting for a clue,
while remaining open to my fate,
pondering what I'm supposed to do,
waiting for that significant date.

I have a suspicion what it is,
then I doubt if it really could be,
yet my mind keeps whirling in a whiz,
my destiny is in poetry.

Words

I don’t want to work,
I just want to write,
isn’t that all right?
Too many words lurk
in darkness waiting,
wanting to appear
so people can hear,
before abating.

The words want to share
their meanings to all,
standing proud and tall,
showing that they care.
The message is clear.
the feelings are warm,
protecting from harm,
imposing no fear.

Paper is my friend,
keeping forever,
never to sever,
words that will not end.
And ink is the link
that captures all words
needed to be heard,
valuable as mink.

Fields of Words

My mind is never a blank screen,
even in my fanciest dream,
I plea, I cry for some relief,
it’s not written on my tealeaf.

While my husband snuggles in bed,
word’s creep and crawl into my head,
never giving a moment’s rest,
seeking nourishment from the breast.

Once on paper they thrive and grow,
spreading their seedlings as they sow,
many fields for words are ready,
acquiescing I feel heady.

Sleepless nights seem to be my fate,
words and I have numerous dates,
holding pen and paper in hand,
as they acquire and plow land.

The current global situation is tense and complicated, so my poetry is simple. I think modern readers are not in a frame of mind to attempt to unravel deep and complicated messages.

Writing poetry is a hobby which keeps a smile on my face.

Serena

Halloween

2008-10-13T09:04:00.001-05:00

In the spirit of a child,
imagination runs wild,
feeling free to jump and run,
a special day to have fun.

A holiday of mischief,
a skull on a handkerchief,
remind us of Halloween,
where pirates and queens are seen.

Crying, laughing and joking,
follow innocent poking,
playing a trick here and there,
stirs up the pot everywhere.

Let's celebrate playfulness,
and embrace all impishness,
push serious ways aside,
behind masks, we all can hide.

Put laughter back in our hearts,
step forward and be a part,
of a time to live out dreams,
in the world of doubts and screams.

Candle lit pumpkins on trails,
ghosts whispering spooky tales,
send shivers up and down spines,
evil's lurking at each sign.

Fright seeps in from head to toe,
in the darkness all are foes,
a whirl of wind, what was that,
beyond belief, vampire bats.

Hearts thumping, legs wobbling,
dead silence turns to sobbing,
who stole the moon and the stars,
the sky is as black as tar.

Abruptly a light comes on,
and all frights and fears are gone,
Happy Halloween to all,
yell witches as their brooms fall.

Email Message

2008-10-09T08:37:00.000-05:00

Lyrics - I've Given In To Love

2008-10-07T12:45:00.001-05:00

Broken trust and shadows of doubt,
lead me down the heartbreak route,
why did you break my heart, I shout,
but the words fall idly about.

I'm wrapped in a blanket of pain,
as tears pound my cheeks like rain,
slowly the door to my heart locks,
and is shoved behind a concrete block.

I've given up on love…
I've given up on love…

Then you appear in my life,
and melt away my fear,
I feel safe in your embrace,
each kiss makes my heart race.

One moment I'm floating,
the next I'm crashing,
memories descend on me like an ugly mist,
reminding me of the last goodbye kiss.

And that I've given up on love…
I've given up on love…

I gaze into your eyes,
wishing to see inside,
is love now on my side,
or is what I hear all lies.

My head swirls as you whisper in my ear,
suddenly your voice is all I can hear,
how can I give up on love when you are near,
I can't give up on love when you are near.

I've given in to love again…
I've given in to love.

Bad News

2008-10-05T09:55:00.001-05:00

A telephone call delivered bad news,
automatically I reached for the booze,
a friend’s husband was killed in a plane crash,
I was off to console her in a dash.

Five somber faces were looking for Dad,
not understanding, they were getting mad,
the little ones sensed that something was wrong,
the night was going to be painfully long.

Tears flowing freely, I hugged my dear friend,
a grief-stricken look acknowledged the end,
one day a wife, the next day a widow,
shocked, hysterical, she almost let go.

I felt helpless during this tragedy,
is it enough to offer sympathy?
Then I remembered that there is prayer,
providing strength layer upon layer.

My friend and I faced the night together,
strength and courage kept grief on a tether,
the blackness of night faded into dawn,
the morning dew sparkled on the front lawn.

The comforting sun’s rays brought her new hope,
she became confident that she could cope,
in her heart her husband would have his place,
cherished memories she would soon embrace.

Colors

2008-10-01T04:03:00.002-05:00

Before I drift off to sleep
vibrant colors dance and leap
changing shapes and racing off
disappearing in a puff
to reappear instantly
teasing me blatantly
rose melts into pink than blue
not leaving the slightest clue
of what marvels lie ahead
while colors dance in my head.

Dig Deep

2008-09-30T02:06:00.000-05:00

My eyes are open but I do not see,
details slip and slide and elude me,
outer appearance is not important,
skin deep beauty is irrelevant.

I can tell you about a person’s mood,
and if his intent is bad or good,
I know if he’s willing to go great lengths,
I am aware of his foibles and strengths.

What is inside excites and intrigues me,
remove the wrapping paper to see,
is he a person to treasure and keep,
or perhaps I’ve uncovered a creep.

Discerning what’s true and fake takes its toll,
but eyes do indeed reflect the soul,
penetrate his eyes to his very core,
you will find what you are looking for.

Quote to ponder

2008-09-26T23:13:00.000-05:00

I find it fascinating that most people plan their vacation with better care than they do their lives. Perhaps that is because escape is easier than change.
- Jim Rohn

Feeling Bereft

2008-09-24T10:27:00.000-05:00

Commotion surrounds her life,
she is wilting from the strife,
distraction, noise fills the air,
she kicks and rears like a mare.

Wild eyes shift from right to left,
revealing feeling bereft,
she lunges forward and darts,
fleeing from racket, she parts.

Solitude envelops all,
tension eases and she falls,
soft grass welcomes and comforts,
her fingers caress soft dirt.

Thinking opens to clarity,
unfolding to hilarity,
most try to escape their thoughts,
but her thoughts are what she sought.

Quote to ponder

2008-09-21T23:09:00.001-05:00

The way to gain a good reputation, is to endeavor to be what you desire to appear. - Socrates

Mad Men

2008-09-20T23:16:00.000-05:00

Sitting at the heart throb of power,
refusing to relent or cower,
are the mad men in the universe,
spreading their warped ways like a curse.

The span of their reach cast dark shadows,
flowers wither and die in meadows.
All laws are changed to benefit them;
the masses hide money in coat hems.

Trust has vanished in this lawless land,
possessions are buried in the sand.
Chilling cries for help fall on deaf ears,
no one speaks of what they see or hear.

Fear is embedded deep in the soul,
an abundance of worries take their toll.
Black clouds of despair hover above;
hearts feel dead, there is no room for love.

Ocean

2008-09-18T10:56:00.000-05:00

When I step in, you embrace me,
tender lapping waves push and pull,
lazily I float and feel free,
happiness seeps in until full.

You send friendly fish to amuse,
their splendid colors attract me,
teasingly chasing, they accuse,
I've invaded their privacy.

You adorn the shoreline with shells,
I collect spectacular ones,
each has its own story to tell,
caressing all, I know I’ve won.

You send a soothing breeze my way,
it tosses my hair in the air,
lightly dancing, it wants to play,
joking that we make a good pair.

You sing a song of contentment,
the lulling sound puts me to sleep,
shoving away all resentment,
I slip into a slumber so deep.

My eyes open to a painting,
its beauty splashed across the sky,
brilliant colors rearranging,
your friend, the sun, has said good-bye.

Shadows appear to end the day,
and it is time for me to go,
we exchange smiles before I say,
loving you keeps away all woes.

Baby Blue Jay

2008-09-15T23:36:00.002-05:00

Abandoning the nest
seemed a mighty test;
my wings were not strong,
everything appeared wrong.

I peered over the edge
then gazed at the ledge
where my mother perched
as her intent eyes searched.

Suddenly she swooped,
pecked the ground then looped
around me giving food
that tasted, oh, so good.

I sighed in relief;
felt proud in my belief;
my mother was the best
and I could stay and rest.

Living Each Moment

2008-09-12T03:01:00.001-05:00

The warmth of the sun warms my back,
as my mind wanders and looks back,
but there's nothing there to dwell on,
good and bad memories are gone.

The warmth of the sun warms my back,
as I realize that I don't lack,
my own personal history,
my past isn't a mystery.

It's not repressed causing me pain;
I purport that I am still sane.
It's simple, I released my past
and everyday life is a blast.

It was work to send it away;
it had a voice with lots to say.
I struggled, fought, to let it go;
now I'm free from unwanted woes.

The warmth of the sun warms my back
as I put future in a sack.
The present is all I have got,
and it was the one I forgot.

The warmth of the sun warms my back,
embracing the moment, I pack
for my life 's journey in the now,
my new found spirit tells me how.

Joy

2008-09-09T23:40:00.000-05:00

It gives me joy to make you cry,
it sounds strange but I’ll tell you why.
My words send your spirit soaring,
from you happiness is pouring.

Elatedly I work some more,
seeking laughter that makes you roar.
For there is no greater reward,
which a writer could surely hoard.

It gives me joy to see those tears,
reading my work makes you so dear.
A writer seeks an audience,
appreciation lends credence.

So write I must and write I will,
typing from dusk to dawn until,
I can elicit no more tears,
and tears and laughter turn to jeers.

Lyrics: God Created a Masterpiece

2008-09-05T23:44:00.009-05:00

God created a masterpiece and it's you
It's reflected in all you do
I'm so happy to be with you

God created a masterpiece and it's you
Each moment is precious and new
I'm so lucky to be with you

Your heart's a waterfall of love
And pure as the whitest dove
You were sent to me from above
I know you were sent to me from above

Your smile is brighter than the sun
Dispersing warmth to everyone
Around you life is always fun
I relish that I am the one
for you...

Chorus:
I thank God on bended knee
That you were sent to me
It's enough for me to be
By your side forevermore

I treasure all that we share
I want you to know I care
Let's walk together if we dare
What we share is extremely rare

Let's walk through life hand in hand
Leaving our footprints in the sand
We will travel across the land
and entwine our journeys in dreamland

Chorus:
I thank God on bended knee
That you were sent to me
It's enough for me to be
By your side forevermore

God created a masterpiece and it's you
It's reflected in all you do
It's so wonderful to be with you

God created a masterpiece and it's you
Each moment is precious and new
I want to spend my life with you

Joy from the Soul

2008-09-05T23:36:00.004-05:00

Today I sat down with a blank page in front of me as I often do. Initially nothing came to me. Then I wrote Joy from the Soul. I was putting my notebook away when I had another idea which led to the lyrics God Created a Masterpiece.

I sit and wait for inspiration,
my masterpiece, my creation.
The page is blank, reflecting my mind,
not a single idea can I find.

Pen in hand and ready for action;
pen on paper ready for motion;
nothing comes, no creative juices,
there is no contact with my muses.

I accept there's no masterpiece now;
tomorrow I'll try once more I vow,
to combine words into something fun,
or write a song as warm as the sun.

And, if I don't, I will recover,
since my dreams push me to discover,
the final product isn't the goal,
it's writing that brings joy from the soul.

A Circus of Errors

2008-09-05T03:46:00.002-05:00

A circus of errors
keeps tumbling from the air,
inconsequential ones,
harmless, amusing, fun.

Others are elephants,
huge, can’t fit in the tent;
they need to be addressed,
worked out and laid to rest.

A circus of errors
keeps tumbling from the air;
jugglers can toss them high;
send them across the sky.

Flash lion tamers' whips
to ward off those that rip,
through hearts destroying all,
a deadly cliff-dive fall.

The circus of errors
has vanished from the air;
everything’s been put right,
only brightness in sight.

Burned Out

2008-09-03T23:33:00.001-05:00

Inspiration eludes me,
burned out, I do not feel free;
too irritable, frowning,
caught in a whirlpool, drowning.

Life is nothing but demands,
I don’t want to hear commands;
caught on a high speed treadmill,
life’s a blur, nothing is real.

Desperation overcomes,
overwhelmed, all limbs are numb;
exhausted, routine controls,
like a ball, if pushed, it rolls.

My mind screams, my body moans,
I work to pay off the loans;
is this all there is to life –
pain, suffering, and more strife?

Cowboy

2008-09-01T22:35:00.001-05:00

It’s all in the song,
how often he longs,
for bright starry nights,
to provide the light.

Moving on horseback,
few clothes in a sack,
he crosses prairies,
he never marries.

He was born a cowboy,
handguns were his toys,
horses were his friends,
childhood to the end.

Fun is riding bulls,
roping calves to pull,
always on the move,
with nothing to prove.

A guitar in hand,
he lives off the land,
building a campfire,
mending a wire.

Roughness is his name,
gentle when calf’s lame,
resisting limits,
free as time permits.

Do you hear him sing?
Loud melodies ring,
downing a few beers,
never knowing fear.

Lyrics: I want to laugh, I want to cry

2008-08-30T07:56:00.004-05:00

This is a song that I wrote. Sami composed the music for it and sang it.

I want to laugh
I want to cry
Not say goodbye
Not say goodbye

You are my life
You are my hope
I can not cope
I can not cope

Call and say no
Please stay, don't go
I need you here
I need you right here

It's a song of joy
and broken heart
Why must it be?
Why must it be?

Then take me too
Don't say we're through
I can adjust
I can adjust

I'll take your hand
To foreign lands
Together strong
Together strong

Call and say no
Please stay, don't go
I need you here
I need you right here

It's a song of joy
and broken heart
Why must it be?
Why must it be?

I want to laugh
I want to cry
Not say goodbye
Not say goodbye

You are my life
You are my hope
I can not cope
I can not cope

Call and say no
Please stay, don't go
I need you here
I need you right here

It's a song of joy
And broken heart
It needn't be
No, it needn't be.

Quote to ponder

2008-08-29T05:49:00.001-05:00

The road to success is always under construction.
-- Arnold Palmer

Winds of a Dying Star

2008-08-29T05:46:00.000-05:00

In the winds of a dying star,
a purple light flashed from afar;
it touched me in my dream-like state,
assuredly it changed my fate.

I walked the lucky path of life,
released from worry, pain and strife;
people commented on my glow,
pouring the way waterfalls flow.

Each sunset I gazed at the lights,
sparkling in the blackness of night;
feeling part of the universe,
sharing the wealth from nature’s purse.

A star died but I was reborn,
bathed in star dust, a life adorned;
with goodness and richness galore,
I’ll be thankful forevermore.

Quote to ponder

2008-08-28T09:44:00.001-05:00

The surest sign that intelligent life exists elsewhere in the universe is that it has never tried to contact us.
-- Bill Watterson

Usual Stuff

2008-08-27T02:36:00.000-05:00

Monotony invades my bones,
I pace in my gray encased zone,
mumbling about nonsense, guff,
just doing the usual stuff.

After work, the kids await me,
with their stories, tears and scraped knees,
being responsible is tough,
just doing the usual stuff.

At last I can kick up my feet,
as the moon and stars smile and greet,
my time vanishes in a puff,
just doing the usual stuff.

Dawn’s light flickers over my eyes,
it’s time to tell dreamland good-bye,
work calls but waking up is rough,
just doing the usual stuff.

Quote to ponder

2008-08-27T01:36:00.000-05:00

Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the universe.
-- Albert Einstein

Quote to ponder

2008-08-26T00:11:00.002-05:00

The monotony and solitude of a quiet life stimulates the creative mind.
--Albert Einstein

Pandora's Box

2008-08-25T09:25:00.000-05:00

I dug up my Pandora’s box,
out leaped jealousy like a fox,
followed by hatred and anger,
I could hear their threatening purr.

Insecurity strangled me,
impatience kicked me in the knee,
gasping for air, moaning from pain,
pelted in poison, left in the rain.

Soaked, frightened, shivering from cold,
depressed because I was not bold,
I threw up my arms in despair,
ugly feelings growled like a bear.

I suffered their brutal attacks,
lacking the courage to fight back,
weakness, illness crept through my veins,
I welcomed death, was I insane?

Enveloped in blackness, I screamed,
tunnel of light, was it a dream?
The light wrapped me in a warm coat,
dark emotions jumped in a boat.

I watched as they drifted down stream,
realization dawned, my eyes gleamed,
instead of burying my fears,
I dug them up and faced the tears.

Ugliness cannot surface now,
to my freedom I bow and bow,
weakness has been replaced by strength,
I’ve no regrets, I’ve come great lengths.

In The Wild

2008-08-24T01:18:00.000-05:00

Enthusiasm flows through my veins,
bliss bubbles forth, I loosen the reins,
jumping excitedly like a child,
dancing about, embracing the wild.

Vibrant green leaves decorate my hair,
as wind gently whispers that it cares,
sun spreads a rosy glow on my face,
blossoming rose buds open like lace.

Glistening tears flow like waterfalls,
expressing delight like bouncing balls,
no greater joy could ever be found,
or surpass lying on nature’s ground.

Grass tickles my back, ants march along,
butterflies land, I feel I belong,
clouds form and change shapes to entertain,
the wild is where I wish to remain.

Quote to ponder

2008-08-23T01:52:00.000-05:00

If you want the rainbow, you've got to put up with the rain.
-- Dolly Parton

Hidden Talent

2008-08-22T03:12:00.003-05:00

"Dr. Chapman's office, may I help you?" The reception desk faced the waiting room. The patients and I could easily exchange questions or information.

"Mr. Hughes", Caroline the chiropractic assistant read from the file in her hand. He left the waiting room and followed her to a treatment room. A quick sweep of the room revealed that one patient remained. I smiled at her as our eyes met.

"Your aura is white.
You have lots of poetry inside you.
You were a nun in your previous life."

I just stared at her. What was she talking about? My numbed brain was incapable of formulating a response. What is aura? My past life? Poetry?

**
I have so many hidden talents. The key word is hidden. The problem is they are so well hidden that I don't have a clue as to what they are or where they are. One of them is becoming a writer. Either it's an undiscovered talent or there is red ink on my forehead that is invisible to me but clearly visible to others. They simply read what's written on my forehead, which is when are you going to write your book?

The first time that question was presented to me, my eyes reflected confusion. Where did that question come from? Why is he asking me? I've never said that I want to write a book. Maybe it was a joke. Some months passed and another person popped the identical question. Guess he read it on my forehead.

If you believe in The Secret, you can concentrate on your deepest desire and send that thought out to the universe. The universe will deliver like a genie. Your wish is my command. I cannot recall consciously sending out thoughts of becoming a writer. I can recall consciously sending out thoughts of becoming rich. I guess these thoughts have to travel a great distance because the universe has not responded and I am still waiting.

Greatly inspired by the motivational speakers sharing The Secret, I went into a meditative state to concentrate fully on my request for prosperity. Daily I asked the universe to send prosperity. Daily I waited and waited and waited. The universe didn't smile on me.

Discussing The Secret with my sister Loraine when I was at a low point of believing in it, she pointed out that there are different kinds of prosperity. The universe responds to specific requests. So I'd been oblivious to the kind of prosperity the universe was sending me. From that day forward, I was careful to send out thought waves requesting financial prosperity. I even put a hundred thousand dollar bill on my screensaver so I could visualize it numerous times daily. I'm still waiting!

On the other hand, a not-so-favorite relative showed her cat's claws. I'm sure she has never heard of The Secret, so she has decided to fight over inheritance. In a way it's comical because there is no inheritance to fight over except the house. You should have seen her shouting and demanding that the inheritance laws be changed because "they weren't fair".

I wonder who has a better chance. I want the universe to rain hundred thousand dollar bills on my head. She wants to change inheritance laws.

**
The Atlantic Ocean and The Mediterranean Sea separated my husband and me. I was in The States; he was in Libya. Maybe absence does make the heart grow fonder because my eyes opened wide at two in the morning and a poem was on the tip of my tongue. Groggily, I reached for a pen and pad and jotted it down. Happily, I drifted back to sleep.

When my eyes were tickled by the early morning sunrays, the poem was like a mirage. Was it real or an illusion? There was a notepad on the nightstand so I glanced at it. Allure caught my eye. I continued to read:

Allure

During the peaceful hours of the night,
I hear The Mediterranean Sea calling me.
As I awake to the early morning light,
The Mediterranean Sea is calling me.

I am far away from this glorious sea,
while visiting my friends and family.
Yet my heart skips a beat, and I jump to my feet,
turning to meet the whispering of this sea.

For it’s not a call that I can ignore,
or a sound that can be stifled by closing the door.
It’s like a magnetic pull drawing me.
to this majestically crystal blue sea.

Willingly, I acquiesce with a smile,
to travel the thousands of miles.
The Mediterranean Sea
is calling Me.

That was the beginning of hundreds of poems that sprung to life. Was this a hidden talent? I was doomed. Who reads poetry? Who writes poetry? There is no market. I don't even read poetry! Where did this come from? A bemused expression formed when I discovered that thousands of poets were posting their creations on The Internet on a poetry website. People do write poems, but who reads them?

What remains the most perplexing is who was that lady who sat in the waiting room at a chiropractor's office eight years ago and told me that I had lots of poetry inside me? I have never forgotten this mysterious lady's words. "Your aura is white. You have lots of poetry inside you. You were a nun in your previous life." I had no idea what she looked like, but her message was etched into my memory never to be erased. I used to jokingly tell people that I was a nun in my past life, and I couldn't even to that right, so here I am again!

**
When are you going to write your book? I've decided it's a thought sent from another galaxy. Once the message is delivered, it bounces off my forehead and returns to sender like a boomerang. Is it another mysterious message in my life?

To appease these caring friends and relatives whom have uncovered a talent that I have no knowledge of possessing, I sit down at my computer to "write my book". I stare at a blank page. Aren't I supposed to have an idea?

**
When are you going to write your book?

Aaahhh! Can you hear me screaming in your dreams?

A quote to ponder

2008-08-22T00:05:00.000-05:00

People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is light from within.
-- Elisabeth Kübler-Ross

A quote to ponder...

2008-08-21T08:29:00.000-05:00

Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared.
-- Buddha

Bookworm

2008-08-20T09:39:00.000-05:00

“Your nose is always in a book, bookworm",
he spat out the words, holding my arm firm.
Helpless, not knowing what to say, I froze.
He never noticed my tears as he rose.

Heartbroken, I watched him slither away.
I would never see him after that day.
He wanted me to change but I couldn’t,
or an honest account is I wouldn’t.

As painful as it was to let him go,
it was blatant that it had to be so.
Why should I give up what is dear to me?
Reading opens doors and sets my mind free.

Ten years have passed and maybe you can guess,
books in all corners, everywhere a mess.
Buried under books is my handsome man,
furnishing as many books as he can.

Mother Teresa's Wisdom

2008-08-19T01:43:00.003-05:00

This is the first time that I post something that
I did not write, but I find these words inspiratonal.
I read and reread them as a constant reminder.

People are often unreasonable, illogical and self-centered;
FORGIVE THEM ANYWAY.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives;
BE KIND ANYWAY.

If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some true enemies;
SUCCEED ANYWAY.

If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you;
BE HONEST AND FRANK ANYWAY.

What you spend years building, someone could destroy overnight;
BUILD ANYWAY.

If you find serenity and happiness, they may be jealous;
BE HAPPY ANYWAY.

The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow;
DO GOOD ANYWAY.

Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough;
GIVE THE WORLD THE BEST YOU'VE GOT ANYWAY.

YOU SEE, IN THE FINAL ANALYSIS, IT IS BETWEEN YOU AND GOD; IT WAS NEVER BETWEEN YOU AND THEM ANYWAY.

50th Birthday

2008-08-17T01:15:00.001-05:00

Counting down to my 50th birthday,
a splash of depression overcomes me;
looking back on a half a century,
reveals I have nothing profound to say.

Dismally time slips out of my hands,
my youthful ideals have fallen astray;
motivating dreams are now castaways,
I am chocking and sinking in quicksand.

I have sought a purpose that eludes me,
I do not feel wise, I feel exhausted;
I cling to time that before I wasted,
the crystal ball is cloudy, I can’t see.

A tiny voice shouts this is outrageous,
giving in to doldrums is not the way;
fight to keep ugly sensations at bay,
avoid dark feelings which are contagious.

I listen to my tiny voice of hope,
the black mood lifts and I feel like dancing;
on my 50th I will be prancing,
at my party no one will see me mope.

Bereft

2008-08-15T01:00:00.000-05:00

Pill Popping Society

2008-08-12T01:24:00.000-05:00

Anxiety, anxiety,
a pill popping society,
antidepressants are the norm,
new personalities are formed.

Blank faces in crowds, dressed in stress,
sport their uniforms freshly pressed,
drifting through days without feelings,
boasting of their half-baked dealings.

Worry, never stop worrying,
on the move, always hurrying,
time is the biggest enemy,
fading like smoke from a chimney.

Want to heal? Take another pill.
Robot-like is an immense thrill.
Anxiety, stress and worry,
endorsed by the masses jury.

Work Place

2008-08-08T06:42:00.000-05:00

Funeral parlors are more upbeat,
than the atmosphere where we meet;
wearily our feet drag along,
somewhere our heart has lost its song.

Team spirit folded long ago,
colleagues treat the boss as their foe;
biting comments intend to hurt,
greetings are impolite and curt.

The boss invited all this strife,
fights at work, his tongue like a knife;
known for his partiality,
lacking perceptibility.

Informers mingle amongst us,
deceivers that daily we cuss;
welcomed in the boss’s circle,
glimpsing them turn faces purple.

The undesirables will fall,
but always there will be a wall;
damage done cannot be undone,
the work place will never be fun.

Fate

2008-08-07T09:47:00.002-05:00

Standing majestically tall,
bearing fruit for all,
sways the leaves of the palm tree,
inviting me,
to indulge in the sweetness of its dates,
while pondering my fate.

I close my eyes and savor the taste,
eating each without any haste;
when an enveloping peace sweeps me,
into a dream that I clearly see.
Thousands of palm trees
are smiling and singing:

You married a man from the country
of the dates,
to live in his country
is your fate.

Tiers to Heaven

2008-08-06T12:48:00.001-05:00

I will bake a cake with tiers to heaven,
you can climb in increments of seven,
at each gate stop and perform a good deed,
for rich and for poor that is all you need.

Do you want to climb now, no not today,
you’re not quite ready to start on your way,
knowing if you climb and fail, you will fall,
the cake looks overwhelming, it’s so tall.

Every seventh tier offers new splendors,
including what your good deeds have rendered.
Get on your way! What are you waiting for?
Do your good deed and tap on that gate’s door.

Rusty

2008-08-05T08:42:00.006-05:00

God called Rusty home on July 25.
His wife Janice asked me to write
a poem to express her gratitude to
all their friends who have provided
comfort and support during such a
difficult time.

How do I express what is in my heart
since God called Rusty and we had to part?
The love pouring forth from our dear friends' eyes,
gives needed strength for the final goodbye.

I feel blessed to be surrounded by friends,
reaching out to comfort while my heart mends.
All your thoughts and prayers, flowers and letters,
shower kindness and make me feel better.

But what gives me the greatest happiness?
You were a part of Rusty's life and miss
all the little things that made him stand out,
and cherish thoughts of what he was about.

Words seem inadequate to say thank you,
so I will send love to all of you who
keep Rusty's family close in your prayers,
as we slowly heal layer by layer.

Latest Craze

2008-08-04T01:07:00.001-05:00

Cyber love is the latest craze,
hearts pounding, minds are in a daze,
imagination is alive,
as appearances are contrived.

Lonely, I race to my keyboard,
investing time, I can afford,
anticipation is thrilling,
if once again he is willing.

A smile widens, he is online,
nimble fingers are feeling fine,
sexual innuendos bounce about,
lust is in the air; there’s no doubt.

My words fly across cyberspace,
to a person without a face,
that is cool, it’s fun to ponder,
at his end, he also wonders.

Cyber dating is contagious,
even though it sounds outrageous,
love is floating in cyberspace,
attacking at a rapid pace.

Growing Old

2008-08-03T01:29:00.004-05:00

I slipped and fell and bounced down marble stairs,
rickety bones groaned, bruises everywhere,
“You clumsy fool” replaced “how are you hon?”
Who in the world said growing old is fun?

Who’s that staring at me in the mirror
with wrinkles and eyes reflecting fear?
Wisps of grey hair escape from a French bun,
who in the world said growing old is fun?

My weight shifts to an undesired place,
many gowns, too small, display yellowed lace;
I hate to admit that I’ve gained a ton,
who in the world said growing old is fun?

Restlessly I flip and flop every night,
my tired eyes are blinded by sunlight;
exhaustion strikes like a shot from a gun,
who in the world said growing old is fun?

“A penny for your thought” cost me a dime,
my memory fails me most of the time.
What’s your name boy? Did you say you’re my son?
Who in the world said growing old is fun?

I can’t see small print or hear the doorbell;
I forgot the hole and fell in the well;
limping through life, I can no longer run,
who in the world said growing old is fun?

Layers of clothing fail to keep me warm.
Where am I? In a hospital or dorm?
Am I young or old is life’s greatest pun,
who in the world said growing old is fun?

Desert

2008-08-02T00:36:00.000-05:00

Mesmerized by sand dunes
as the wind sings its tunes;
shapes shift repeatedly
as sand soars regally.

What breathtaking beauty,
guarding it, a duty;
nature’s best creation,
sparks imagination.

Colors splash the dunes’ peaks
that the sunset rays seek;
sand sparkles like crystals,
casting light on thistles.

The day fades into night
which parades stars so bright;
listen, the desert calls,
warmly welcoming all.

Glimpse

2008-08-01T01:04:00.001-05:00

Pink and yellow polka dots,
appear as florescent spots,
shining in the morning dew,
spreading wings to show their hue.

Butterflies make me marvel,
I gape at them and shovel,
petals of roses and mums,
while listening to bees hum.

Enveloped in richest scents,
a glimpse of heaven is lent,
I’m at peace at this moment,
knowing complete enjoyment.

Daily Dose Of Nature

2008-07-31T00:46:00.000-05:00

Mists of Indecision

2008-07-31T00:39:00.000-05:00

Immersed in mists of indecision,
riddled, stifled by inhibitions,
sprawled out on the sofa inert,
I ignore rude comments that hurt.

Exhaustion seeps deep into my bones,
no responses come except for moans,
drowning in torrents of pelting words,
cruel, cutting, I wish I’d never heard.

Attacking cannot force me to change,
seeing options in a wide range,
hundreds, thousands, dancing in my head,
they’re weights on my chest like heavy lead.

Indecision is my curse in life,
which constantly aggravates my wife,
I want to decide but cannot,
perhaps there’s a choice I haven’t sought.

Like A Moth

2008-07-30T05:40:00.000-05:00

I have no glorious tale to share,
nor can I brag about friends who care;
success remains out of reach for me,
yet my life is great because I’m free.

Friends drain energy with their demands,
social obligations are commands;
be jovial, witty and sincere,
it’s necessary to please your peer.

Struggling to obtain lifetime goals,
is akin to walking on hot coals;
stay focused, driven, competitive,
sleeping requires a sedative.

Destiny is woven in my cloth,
ordinary and brown like a moth;
but fluttering randomly each day,
free to relish joys along the way.

Take Time To Notice

2008-07-29T01:05:00.001-05:00

Wisteria

2008-07-28T01:31:00.000-05:00

Her car offered solace from the graveyard,
leaving her beloved there was so hard;
she was overtaken by hysteria
when her eyes focused on the wisteria.

Clusters of purple flowers on the vine
had a calming effect greater than wine;
tears ceased to flow and shaking subsided,
she took wobbly steps towards the curbside.

At the grave she sobbed her final good-byes,
bombarded with thoughts of why did he die?
Time was eternal in her world of grief,
thirty years of marriage was way too brief.

Suddenly she was in the flower store,
insisting on purchasing even more;
wisteria’s scent lingered on her jacket,
there was no need for pills in her packet.

Woody vines now cling to her weathered fence,
displaying flowers in clusters so dense;
aromas offering serenity,
a tranquil fragrance for eternity.

Every week she cuts flowers from the vine,
and takes them to his grave under the pine;
she promises him no more hysteria,
as long as they both share the wisteria.

Kitty's Song

2008-07-27T00:40:00.001-05:00

The knee replacement was painful,
I gave up feeling resentful,
until Kitty plopped in my lap,
snuggled closely to take a nap.

Kitty came because I was hurt,
love in her eyes when I was curt,
amazingly my feelings changed,
somehow my life was rearranged.

Extraordinary results occur,
cuddling a kitten that purrs,
wrinkles and frowns evaporate,
great love chases away all hate.

Burdens of life have disappeared,
an obstructed road has been cleared,
softly stroking her snow white fur,
I will always be there for her.

Together we take the first step,
very aware of renewed pep,
illness won’t keep me down for long,
while listening to kitty’s song.

Nature's Beauty Surrounds Us

2008-07-26T09:36:00.001-05:00

Free To Be Me

2008-07-26T02:09:00.000-05:00

I am forever free to be me,
whatever in the world that might be,
standing proud and tall like an oak tree,
pointed eagerly skywards to see.

Imposing limits can’t pin me down,
I can act as silly as a clown,
roaring laughter rubs away deep frowns,
while doing cartwheels around the town.

Free to be me – music to my ears,
I dance through my days not knowing fear,
I wonder why others fret so much,
immensely worried, troubled and such.

Are they blind? It’s great to be unique!
Differences are not to be critiqued!
Dance to your own drum and joy will soar,
start anew - shred the old coat you wore.

Dream State

2008-07-25T01:27:00.000-05:00

Lying on a fluffy cloud
in a field of wild flowers;
butterflies floating so proud,
gliding to golden towers.

Unknown colors dance to time
while muses create sweet sounds;
poets cite verses in rhyme,
and a famous sculptor pounds.

I cuddle in the softness
without a care in the world;
treasuring the peacefulness,
catching candies that are hurled.

The beauty of the moment
tantalizes the senses;
exceeding known enjoyment,
leaping the highest fences.