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Jul 2022 · 2.2k
Garden
Ann M Johnson Jul 2022
I think that I want to plant a garden in life
I want to start with lettuce; lettuce be helpful
lettuce be kind,
lettuce be thoughtful, I hope you don't mind.
This garden I plan to share and you can join me if you care
Keep in mind that we need to ****: **** out anger,
**** out strife that threatens to choke out our delicate plants
Next, maybe we can try some squash out prejudice, squash out greed, and help
those in need. It doesn't always take money to lend a helping hand. Just lend a listening ear or any special way only you can, and perhaps we will all grow in a more peaceful land.
Maybe if we all work as one it will matter to many people and they too will help us plant this garden, And don't forget the water which joins us together in this garden of life, For the water is love.
I hope to meet you in the garden, there is always room for more understanding and together we can discover what great things this garden can bring.
Feb 2021 · 739
Longing for springtime
Ann M Johnson Feb 2021
I long for spring to warm me up after the sub zero winter chills.
I long for spring to come and take away my ills.
The asthmatic weezing is getting old as well as the snow and cold.
Spring please come my way soon I pray.
I long for better and warmer and sunny days
Spring come and please stay awhile
I know that your very presence will make me smile especially when the trees grow leaves again and the flowers bloom
The birds will come back and sing you a tune
My heart always makes room for you too.
Feb 2021 · 822
Valentine Serenade
Ann M Johnson Feb 2021
Valentine Serenade
I am not able to conduct a parade
I would not want you to catch a chill
in the icy cold winterland
Lets stay inside where it is cozy and warm

Let my warm up your heart with songs
old and new as I serenade you
I hope the songs sung for 45 minutes
take you to the Top Of The World
because Baby Baby, you mean so much to be

I hope you will get to know me better As Time Goes By
and know that I am with you through both your laughter and your tears
I hope you will learn it more as i get Close To You throughout the years
You are My Funny Valentine that is for sure maybe that is why I Can't Falling In Love With You more each and every day
After years of darkness now I See The Light as it is shining in your eyes
If you Kiss Me in the moonlight it will be a truly Wonderful World.
I am singing for a Valentine's celebration in the Apartment building were I live and there will be a potluck afterwards. My guy friend heard me practicing and got an early Valentine's serenade. The songs I am singing their titles are woven throughout the poem. Here I share this poem, with all you Hello Poetry friends.
Nov 2020 · 402
The writing games
Ann M Johnson Nov 2020
I some times lose when playing some writing games. I will site some examples ,for instance when I was playing tug of war with my writers block, just when I seemed to gain some ground the block took me by surprise and to my demise knocked me back.
I played catch with some rhymes but just as I was about to catch up with them they sprinted away.
When I tried to find the right words to draft a poem the harder I tried the more elusive the words became.
  I  made a decision that next time I will not try to chase after the right words but instead wait for the right words to find me, If I don't try to force them out they will be free to flow naturally.
When I get writers block it is so frustrating.
Nov 2020 · 433
Escape
Ann M Johnson Nov 2020
I feel the need to get away to another place in time
I indeed have you on my mind
If I am in the mood for romance I will dance to your tune
I hope to meet you again soon
If I need to spice up my life with mystery or suspense you will me my guide
When I need to learn a historical fact  you will happily oblige
The sky is the limit of the adventures in store for me when I am with you
I have had the joy of discovering you at a young age
You sometimes appear alone
You sometimes come in trilogy's
You sometimes are contained in many volumes
You share with me some sonnets, poems or prose
You are held within a blanket of various colors and textures
  You are at times  in pristine condition or weathered and worn
  You are at times leather bound no matter how you are arrayed
   I have not strayed from my love of the written word
    I will take another look and pick up and read my favorite book
Oct 2020 · 652
Magical Moments
Ann M Johnson Oct 2020
Magical
The first snow fall
Sparkling like diamonds
Even though it comes year after year
It seems magical

A newborn babies first cry
The look of Love in the parents eyes
It seems magical

The excited expectation glittering in a small child's eye on Christmas Morning that lights up a room more than the lighted tree
It feels Magical

The seasons changing from fall to winter
Spring to Summer
The preparations it brings
It seems magical
The blooming of flowers after a harsh winter
The fragrance they bring to the air
Makes me stop for a moment and stare
It seems magical

The first sunrise of each day
The rays of the sun
The moon at night to light our way
The starlight sky
So beautiful I could cry
The feeling that anything is possible
It seems magical to me, does it seem magical to you too?
Jul 2020 · 340
What Scares Me Most
Ann M Johnson Jul 2020
These are the things that scare me most:
What I fear most are not the things that go bump in the night.
The things that frighten me are often times things that at first you can not see.
These things that first start with someone else thoughts can too often be turned into negative actions. These things can seemly spread faster than any virus,infecting the heart. What may start out as a passionate thought, or cause, can too quickly turn into a destructive action. This is why I fear insensitivity, crude jokes,  and apathy.
Other things I fear, are people that talk without thinking about what they are going to say first, or about how others might interpret what they are saying.
I fear selfishness, which may lead to uncaring actions.
I fear crude jokes that do not respect ones fellow man, or women, because it could subtly desensitize ones perception of those around them. They may get defensive and say it is just a joke.
The constant violent images on the news and on television, may further desensitize others to think that violence is normal or okay, or worse still, that it is a normal part of life. It don't have to be perceived as normal, we can chose to limit our own exposure to violence on television. We can let others know that we don't condone violence, whether it is on television, or in reality, or in our own community.
I fear all these things that at first hide inside the deepest darkest recesses of someones mind, long before it is publicly seen. This realization of this hidden darkness,makes me cry, or scream, if I thought about it all before going to bed. I would cover my head and sleep with the lights on, and every noise would make me jumpy.
This is why I fear those things that I can not see the most.
May 2020 · 231
Count the Minutes (Revised)
Ann M Johnson May 2020
I count the minutes
I count the minutes until we can be together
You are missed my friend
  My first love
  I knew it from the moment I first picked up a pen
You never judge me
  You seem to always love me
You make sense out of  my every silly thought
  In fact at times you turn the weirdest ideas
  Into an inspired work of art
  For these reasons and oh so many more
  I will love always love you
  I will come visit you soon  
   When  I get to take a  break because things are so hectic right now
   Hopefully soon for my sanity's sake
    You except me even with all my mistakes
   Lets plan for June
   I will meet you again soon
   I will bring a notebook and pen
   My love and friend
    Your name is like a sweet melody we all sing to your tune
     Hello Sweet
    POETRY <3  
I never want to say Goodbye to You!
This is dedicated to  ALL OF YOU< POETRY FRIENDS
Who also love the written Art of Poetry!!!!
Apr 2020 · 193
Fear
Ann M Johnson Apr 2020
Fear stay far away from me
I want to make it clear
I don't want you near
You are not needed or wanted
Best not be heeded
You are not invited
You are a robber
trying to take what is dear
You do what you can to force your way in
Trying to invade my thoughts or dreams
You don't care about what I really need
You are an enemy
Your animosity against peace and serenity is atrocious
Your a bully you expect me to stand and take notice
You are indeed a brute I will not salute
I will stand my ground I don't want you around
You need to be evicted you don't give you only take
You did not get permission to try to live rent free in my head
Fear  I will not shed any tears
I will forget about you as I head to bed.
Thoughts from this isomniac
Ann M Johnson Apr 2020
Ann M Johnson ( Note,Oct 2015, original copy)
On The Day the Earth Stood Still (revised 2020)
The Market crashed as the people dashed
   All the banks closed down
   the people frowned
   Natural disasters were all around
   Stock brokers quite literally took a dive
Sickness abounds
   Many people died
   On the day the earth stood still

    The daily grind
     The worry over bills
      Was replaced with the need to just survive
       Some people rioted just to get something to eat
       On the day the earth stood still
        
       Some people screamed
        While others cried
         Some people looked down looking for someone to blame
Some people selfishness stood out hoarded things others need
         Still others looked outward and sought ways to help out
        Some people banded together to keep each other and their neighbors alive
        Some people looked up
       While some people prayed for wisdom for themselves and others
        to get through this trial
        Some people looked within only and felt all alone
        Still others thought of this as a test of their will
        On The Day The Earth Stood Still
        
         I wonder if we were faced with this crisis
         would we stand together
         or fall apart ?
         perhaps the answer is found already in our hearts
         If we are lacking a strong network of family and friends
          Now is the time to start
          We don't want to be found slacking if the world falls apart
                     Sometimes things happen in a blink of an eye
I just ran across this older poem of mine. It seems kinda eerie in light of this current Global Covid-19 crisis. My local banks lobby is closed by appointment only. Stores having a strict limit on food and supplies. People hoarding toilet paer whilee others have to do without. It was also mentioned that stores where low on 22 cartridges. Things are chaotic right now.
Apr 2020 · 235
Life in the moment
Ann M Johnson Apr 2020
How many times have plans been carefully made
then drifted away when faced with the problems of
real life.
What good does it do to worry or fret it takes away from what I can do today.
When I watch the news I feel the blues
I can choose to limit my exposure to maintain a sense of serenity
I don’t need to plan every moment after all
I can choose to let go of some of the stress before I become a mess
I don’t have to continue setting myself up with such a hurried pace
It can be such a waste draining too much energy
I need to breathe and think
Talk to friends and reconnect with family that I have not talked with in awhile
Take time to laugh when something tickles my funny bone and smile
Take time to cry and grieve when I need to.
My Contentment can be found when giving up on previous plans
and taking things one day at a time and living in the present moment.
After all, I don't know what joys or sorrows tomorrow will bring.
I can choose to live life in the moment this day.
I can choose to make the best of this current social distancing take time to slow down and live in the moment today.
Jan 2020 · 1.5k
SENSITIVE (revised) 1/ 2020
Ann M Johnson Jan 2020
Sensitive  

   I am just sensitive enough to cry to a sad song  

   I am just sensitive enough to sing along to a song that touches my heart

   I am just sensitive enough to cry while watching a Hallmark movie  

  I am just sensitive enough to listen to other’s troubles and either empathize or sympathize with them  

  I am just sensitive enough to be a shoulder to cry on

  I am just sensitive enough to be a good friend  

  I am just strong enough to not feel like apologizing for being sensitive because it is a part of who I am

I am hoping that you are sensitive enough to except my sensitivity as part of my unique character and personality.
My poet friends feel free to comment and/or offer feedback.
As always I appreciate you all.
Ann M Johnson Oct 2018
Stained Glass
We all have a story to tell.
We can stand alone or become part of a bigger picture together.
We come in different shapes and sizes.
We are all part of a kaleidoscope of various colors like individual gems.
We are each unique but we can band together and become part of a masterpiece.
Some of us maybe smoother than others.
Some of us maybe a little bit jaded.
Some of us may have more lines than others.
While some of us are shapelier than others.
We can choose to shine alone or shine together like precious gems to become a masterpiece of stained glass if we join together and let the light shine through us.
Let your light shine.
The above poem was Published in The October  2018 issue of The Sr. Perspective Newspaper LINDBERG  edition in the Poet's Corner Section.
Aug 2018 · 751
The recipe for life
Ann M Johnson Aug 2018
The Recipe for a good life
Count your blessings not your problems
Value people not possessions
Keep in mind that nothing lasts forever , so make lasting memories
Try to give more than you receive
Give to those in need
Have more friends than regrets
Be grateful for the start of each new day
It is a chance for a new beginning
Stir in kindness compassion and understanding
Share generously  with those you meet
Serve with a smile and with gratitude
Double or triple the recipe by seasoning it with Love
Watch it grow in yourself and others.
Jun 2018 · 411
This Moment
Ann M Johnson Jun 2018
Sunshine and sipping ice tea.
Visiting with family and friends.
Reminiscing  while creating new memories .
This is what I call  life at it's best.
Time to rest and relax.
All seems right with my world at this moment.
I need to savor this time because time too quickly passes away.
Spending time this weekend with Family and Friends that I have not seen for awhile.
Jun 2018 · 952
Stressed (25 word)
Ann M Johnson Jun 2018
Some days are tough bringing me to my knees
Some days I just need to remember to Breathe and believe that this too will pass.
Jun 2018 · 554
A Status Update
Ann M Johnson Jun 2018
Hello to all my Hello poetry friends. I hope that you are all doing well.
I am so sorry that I have not been on here posting yet this year. The reasons that I have not posted are as follows. My mother passed away in late November 2017. I recently went to a funeral for a friend that died from injuries sustained in a car accident. Another friend recently told me to hat her son who is only in his thirties is diagnosed as having pancreatic cancer. A lot has happened since I last posted.  On a happier note in February a poem I had posted on here a few years back got published in a local edition of the Sr. Perspective in the poetry section of the newspaper. I wish you all a good and healthy summer.
Nov 2017 · 1.8k
INK Well
Ann M Johnson Nov 2017
There are times when words seem to flow effortlessly unto paper.
At other times it seems to be quite a struggle. The ink runs low or is in short supply.
My quill seems ill, or worn and damaged.
  The ink on the quill threatens to dry up altogether, then a simple truth occurs to me.
  I need to renew and replenish and restore my quill by taking a dip in the ink well.
  I need the ink well to fully function. I was running dry trying too ******* my own.
  My quill takes a dip in the ink well .May creativity flow from the ink well and fill the quill up to the appropriate capacity.
If an extra drop of ink should occur it should be available to share with another quill in need of refreshment.
If you find a friend who is need of encouragement don’t let their ink dry up.
Instead help them take a dip in the ink well. Where together inspiring words can have an endless supply.
Sep 2017 · 2.7k
Stained Glass
Ann M Johnson Sep 2017
We all have a story to tell.
We can stand alone or become part of a bigger picture together.
We come in different shapes and sizes.
We are all part of a kaleidoscope of various colors like individual gems.
We are each unique but we can band together and become part of a masterpiece.
Some of us maybe smoother than others.
Some of us maybe a little bit jaded.
Some of us may have more lines than others.
While some of us are shapelier than others.
We can choose to shine alone or shine together like precious gems to become a masterpiece of stained glass, if we join together and let the light shine through us.
Let your light shine.
Sep 2017 · 763
Masks We Sometimes Wear
Ann M Johnson Sep 2017
Masks we sometimes wear
Wearing a happy face when we want to cry
why do we disguise what is truely inside and hide behind these masks we wear?
A comedy mask to hide the pain and tears that we still prefer not to face after all these years
the true tragedy that we endured is buried deep beneath
We can become slaves to fear and let the mask turn to a horrific one if we let the fear overcome us.
We can be so afraid of rejection instead of seeking protection from fear itself or instead of letting someone know us for who we really are.
It is better to be real with those around us then to be suffocating behind the masks we sometimes chose to wear
It can be so freeing to just except ourselves and let others see our unique real qualities instead of a masked altered identity.
I used to some years back not let people know how I really felt and hide my feelings. In doing so I became one of my own worst enemies. It was like holding my own self in an emotional prison.
Aug 2017 · 630
When The Storm Rolls In
Ann M Johnson Aug 2017
Things to remember when the storms of life are raging.
It's true, that at times life throws us a curveball, at those times it is best to swing the bat and not just drop the bat and give up, but to keep swinging and giving all I have got to keep living life one day at a time.
In life sometimes my problems seemed too numerous and burdens so hard to bear it felt like the end of everything.
Later on I came to realize that it was just  simply a start of a new chapter in my life. A new beginning not the end at all.
I just needed to look at things differently and gain a new perspective. In life problems come and go. They seem to rowl in and out like a tide. It is best not to get caught in its current or get swept up in a tidal wave but instead to make the most of everyday. To look for and appreciate even the smallest of blessings.
Jul 2017 · 735
Just A Note To Thank You
Ann M Johnson Jul 2017
Just a note to let all of you. My Hello Poetry friends, know how much I appreciate you reading and/or following my poems or posts for the past  5 years ( for some of you), Wow, the time has sure gone by quickly. Futhermore, you have all made such a positive impact on my life that I can not picture my life without you all in it. When I count up my blessings in life ,I count you all twice. You have been so nice to know! Thank You, so much for being part of this online community! You make a difference in my life and the lives of others too. Keep writing!
With Sincere Gratitude,
From Your fellow poet friend,
Ann M Johnson
May 2017 · 2.0k
Your Steadfast Love
Ann M Johnson May 2017
Your steadfast love

Your steadfast love O Lord never ceases to amaze me
My mind is in a state of awe at the vastness of your love
The vastness of your love could cover mountains at just a
Thought from you

If I were to count the amount of love you have for your children it would outnumber the stars and outweigh the grains of sand.

Just to think that your love existed before we came to be
If all your love was revealed, if all creation declared it if all nature proclaimed it, the oceans would drown in your love for your love is far deeper and your love is wider than the sky, for the sky is but a mere breath in comparison to your love.

Therefore, it is more magnificent than a mountain waterfall and furthermore. it never runs out. Yet it is always contained in your hand and freely poured out.

Hearts shout for joy with even a touch of your love for your love is warmer than a summer day.
Your love is steadfast and is a fortress forever to those who place their trust in you.
This poem I wrote quite a while back but it had been lost in an old notebook. I found it recently and I am finally posting it. I hope you like reading it my friends. If you like it feel free to comment, as always I appreciate your feedback.
May 2017 · 589
What Love is ( For Mom)
Ann M Johnson May 2017
What Love Is
Love is caring
Love is sharing
Love is taking time to understand another s need
Love is responsible
Love is wise
Love rejoices It also reaches out to comfort the heart that cry's
Love flows  in the heart peacefully like a mountain stream
It is more beautiful than any dream
It lives it grows with each new day
It folds it's hands to pray
Love is reflected in a mother's caring ways
A glow on a father's face
A sparkle in a child's eye
Love is the greatest treasure
It's worth you can not properly measure
My Mom had this poem on display on her refrigerator for many years. Thank Yo, Mom, for encouraging my writing. Happy Birthday to You , Mom.
May 2017 · 1.2k
After
Ann M Johnson May 2017
After too much noise we learn to appreciate the silence
After  experiencing chaos we embrace peace
After the rain, we search for the rainbow
After a long cold winter, we look forward to spring
After we experience heartache, we learn to appreciate the happiness of love if we experience it again
After a long solitude, we enjoy the company of a few close friends
After we truly appreciate all the little things
We can more fully experience the bigger things that life may bring.
I wrote this  awhile back but I recently found an old notebook with this poem in it. I hope you like reading it my friends.
Apr 2017 · 2.3k
Blurred Lines
Ann M Johnson Apr 2017
When heroes are perceived as villains and villains are considered heroes our perception is skewed
Once too many lines are crossed and boundaries are removed. Then cauos ensues and is thus free to rule.Would this even be displayed on the 6 o clock news?
Or would it just be considered necessary collateral damage?
Who would still be left to calculate the final cost on all of us?
I recently watched a movie at a friends house in which the villains were precented as the good guys. That got me to thinking and writing this as a result. I would appreciate your feedback on this poem, my friends. Thank you for taking the time to read this poem.
Ann M Johnson Mar 2017
( Appeared In the Sr. Perspective Lindberg Edition March 2017)
                      Written by Ann M Johnson

Carpe Diem
Let us treasure today
We are not promised tomorrow
Let us seize the day: Carpe Diem

Let us dance like there is no tomorrow
Let us do things today instead of
putting it off until tomorrow
Let us cherish the moment
before it rushes away
Let us seize the day: Carpe Diem

Let us tell our family we love them
Let us call our friends and tell them too
Let us create some memories
and write them down
Let us not take things for granted
Let us not waste today
Let us seize the day: Carpe Diem
My friends, Carpe Diem
Hi to all my Hello Poetry family and friends. I wanted to share this moment with all of you. I feel blessed by knowing you all and I am a fan of you and your poetry accomplishments too. I sincerely believe that you all encouraged me to get up the courage to submit this poem of mine ( as well as other ones in past years) To the Poet's Corner section of Sr. Perspective.  You remain my favorite poetry community and comrades in the poetic arts. I want to Seize the day and express how much I care for all of you <3 You touch my heart and put a smile on my face. I am so blessed to call you fellow poets and friends too!!!!
Mar 2017 · 3.1k
Burdened (15 word)
Ann M Johnson Mar 2017
Why do I lay my burdens down only to go and pick them up again
I have recently been facing some prolonged medical issues.
Jan 2017 · 8.8k
Temptation ( 10 word)
Ann M Johnson Jan 2017
Opportunity gently knocks
  Whereas temptation demands to be let in
Can be applied to being on a diet, or other situations as well.
Jan 2017 · 1.1k
One Of Those Days?
Ann M Johnson Jan 2017
Have you ever had one of those days when everything seems to go wrong?
Have you had one of those days when you felt anything but strong?
Have you had one of those days when it seemed like you were a human ping pong?
Have you had one of those days whenever you tried to move forward things went backwards way too fast?
One of those days are not meant to stay but will to quickly pass, be encouraged this kind of day will not last.
This present day itself will be gone before you know it. Please, hold on a little longer.
One of these days when the current hardships are over you should wake up feeling a little bit stronger.
Inspired by having one of those days.
Dec 2016 · 1.3k
Faith, Hope & Love
Ann M Johnson Dec 2016
Faith believing in things though unseen
Hope expecting only the best thus giving faith wings
Love is interwoven throughout faith and hope and stitches them  together to  make them complete
What wonderful things can happen with Faith Hope and Love truely a gift sent from above.
Wishing you all Faith, Hope & Love during this season and always.
You are all such a blessing my Hello Poetry family & friends!
   Thank you for reading my postings :< )
Ann M Johnson Dec 2016
My black hole theory is not profound
I just want what is lost to someday be found
I have a theory there are many series of black holes
somehow linked to the big one
They all have their own gravitational pull
They seem to have an innate hunger for whatever is shiny or new
They seem to **** it all in like of vacuum taking it away from me maybe even from you
There used to be some sort of portal through my couch , to try to stop it I removed the couch from my house
A strange thing happened it is all true, stuff started disappearing from my purse especially anything shiny or new
That can be very problematic if you are at the store and reach in your purse to pay the teller and all your change is gone, no more to be seen
It made me feel like crying, or maybe scream
The logical person that I try to be thought there must be an explanation, so I emptied out the contents of my purse in the store's bathroom,  I carefully checked the purse lining for any holes
I found no holes and none of my change too, I just had picked up a new roll of quarters from the bank and that was gone too.
Henceforth, I was quite perplexed when I pondered upon what happened next. I washed clothes and then dried them and took them out to fold them and put them away just like any day. I just can’t understand why I end up with so many mismatched pairs of socks. Then I had a possible revelation many there is a black hole, or perhaps even a vortex that one of each pair of socks gets ****** through. I still feel a bit blue about my socks missing their perfect mate. I confess I also did not like to lose one of the socks of my favorite pair with a picture of an M&M; along with the saying “Who’s Your Candy”, maybe it seemed too irresistible to resist. If it happened in a science fiction movie maybe some guy would exclaim “Beam me up the M&M; socks”.( I seem to lose one of them each time I dry them). The curious thing is the holes left in the mismatched socks that were left behind.
I  pondered the situation later that day and thought of my little black hole theory , the little black holes somehow linked to The ******* Hole and ******* my stuff in, I know I am no scientist, but if someday The Black Hole lost its gravitational pull, and my stuff and maybe other people's else's stuff to started raining down,  perhaps my theory would take hold in the scientific community and hold some ground, or maybe Inquiring Minds, will want to know of my theory.  That is not what matters most of all to me ,theory or no theory, I just want all my lost stuff to be found.
Nov 2016 · 801
Memories
Ann M Johnson Nov 2016
Memories they linger on the recesses of my mind
If you could see them some are sweet some are bittersweet.
Some vie for attention turning into dreams at the end of the day.
Some like to play and fill my mind with daydreams at the start of the day.
Memories seem to have so much power.
Is that because I give them so much because I don't want to lose touch,with those I have loved both past and present?
I want to continue living life and collecting more pleasant memories and live life more fully.
Nov 2016 · 2.7k
First Snowfall
Ann M Johnson Nov 2016
The snow is falling
The traffic is crawling
The world looks all calm and bright
If only for a moment everything looks pure under the freshly fallen snow and the glow emitted by the  first snowfall of the season
My mood is happy I hope it lasts all season and throughout the new year too.
Nov 2016 · 1.1k
Autumn Sun
Ann M Johnson Nov 2016
The sun is shining brightly while the last of the leaves fall gently
it makes me feel like breaking out in spontaneous song, all seems calm and right under the light of the autumn sun.
Oct 2016 · 689
What I Fear Most
Ann M Johnson Oct 2016
What I fear most are not the things that go bump in the night.
The things that frighten me are often times things that at first you can not see.
These things that first start with someone elses thoughts can too often be turned into negative actions. What may start as a passitionate thought, or cause can too quickly turn into a distructive action. This is why I fear insensitivity, crude jokes, apathy.
Other things I fear are people that talk without thinking about what they are saying first, or how others might interpet what they are saying.
I fear selfishness which may lead to uncaring actions.
I fear crude jokes that do not respect ones fellow man or women, because it could subtlely desensitize ones perspection of those around them. They may get defensive and say it is just a joke.
The constant violent images on the news and on television, may further desensitize others to think that volence is normal or okay, or worse still that it is a normal part of life. It don't have to be perseived as normal we can chose to limit our own exposesure to violence on television. We can let others know that we don't condone violence, whether it is on television, or in reality, or in our own community.
I fear all these things that at first hide inside the deepest parts of someones mind, long before it is publically seen. This realization of this hidden darknes,makes me cry, or scream, if I thought about it all before going to bed. I would cover my head and sleep with the lights on, and every noice would make me jumpy.
This is why I fear the things that I can not see the most.
Ann M Johnson Oct 2016
The Ghosts Of Yesterday

Today I saw some fog rise up above a pond
It reminded me of a specter floating in a scary movie
It got me thinking of stuff that haunts us
I am haunted sometimes by, I should have done this
or I could have said that
or I should have done this better
The ghosts of yesterday can cloud our vision today
To live in regret is not a good way to live
We can let go of the past and our vision can be clearer
Things can get better and our emotional fog can lift away
Freeing us to have better days
Let us not be haunted by the ghosts of yesterday today
Instead, let us live in the present and live each day to it's fullest!
Oct 2016 · 805
Change
Ann M Johnson Oct 2016
Change can fall upon us gradually like leafs changing colors in the fall.
Other times it hits virtually out of nowhere and unexpectantly like a hurricane.
Sometimes it tosses us to and fro causing us to scramble to get a firmer foothold.
Other times change can appear more subtlely like a warm gentle breeze such as gradually falling in love.
Change can both bring about both fear or anticipation dependent upon  our perception of the outcome.
The winds of change will blow that is something over which we have no control it is part of life.
However, change can either strengthen us or weaken us the choice is up to us regarding our attitude and reaction to changes in our lives.
Aug 2016 · 12.5k
Life Is A Rollercoaster
Ann M Johnson Aug 2016
Life is a rollercoaster filled with many ups and downs.
Life is a rollercoaster it can sometimes be scary to be swept off the ground.
Life is a rollercoaster there are moments can sometimes be exciting.
Life is a rollercoaster there are moments where you get knocked off balance and feel sick.
Life is a rollercoaster sometimes all you can do is hang on for your dear life and scream.
Life is a rollercoaster sometimes you reach out for your dreams no matter unpractical they may seem.
Life is a rollercoaster filled with little loop de loops that spin you around and hurl you around in a different direction.
Life is a rollercoaster filled with chaotic moments that make us feel blue.
Life is a rollercoaster, I don't know about you but at times it seems for many the ride ends too quickly without enough time to say goodbye.
Life is a rollercoaster filled with heartache and moments that make us cry.
Life is a rollercoaster and it is best to just face it instead of trying to hide.
Life is a rollercoaster it is good to take a supportive hand as we round the next bend.
Life is a rollercoaster we have this moment today to try to live life to the fullest and remember that it is best enjoyed with our friends and family by our side.
Life is a rollercoaster I am grateful that I have this opportunity to ride this ride.
Life is a rollercoaster so I'll do my best to take bad moments in stride, and focus more on the good moments that are held within each new day if I just choose to look around.
Aug 2016 · 1.3k
Little Princess (see notes)
Ann M Johnson Aug 2016
Little princess it just does not seem fair that your life was so tragically cut short.
Little princess, who was so full of love
Your life was ended at such a young tender age do to someone so full of hate.
Little princess whenever I see children at play I will think of you.
Little princess you passed away shortly before what would have been your fifth birthday.
Little princess who will live on in the memory of your grandma and your mother and your siblings.
Little princess I never got to know you personally but I know your Grandma and how you impacted her life with your love.
Little princess, you remind me how life can be way too short so we need to appreciate each new day.
Little princess, you remind us all to show kindness on our journey called life.
My neighbor's grandaughter who had been shot on the reservation while at play in front of her 6-year-old sister. She died just right before what would have been her 5th birthday due to what is considered a hate crime. Please show everyone as much kindness as you can in memory of this little girl. See also: Through The Eyes Of A Child (see notes)
Ann M Johnson Aug 2016
Through the eyes of a child,there is wonder and amazement
Through the eyes of a child, ordinary things become extraordinary
  Through the eyes of a child, there is expectant hope and dreams and faith in a good future
Through the eyes of a child, there is innocence and love and caring and sharing
  Through the eyes of a child, there is forgiveness for both big and small mistakes
  Through the eyes of a child, much strength and wisdom can be found when looking at life through the eyes of a child.
This poem is dedicated to my neighbor's granddaughter who is only 4 years old and is currently in the hospital fighting for her life after being shot down at the reservation where she lives at due to a hate crime. Please keep this little girl in your thoughts and prayers.
Aug 2016 · 748
You Are Only A Poem Away!
Ann M Johnson Aug 2016
The distance between us at times seems to be too many miles away
Yet in my heart, you always remain the same
I take solace in the fact that you are only a poem away

If I am lonely I reread every line
My heart seems to beat in time
It reads like a spoken word
even when you have not uttered a word
Your poem plays in my mind like a verse in a favorite song
When I am weak it makes me feel stronger encouraging me to press on
because you are really only just a poem away

The distance seems to suddenly become so thin
as I begin to read your poems again
or as I personally jot down yet another line as I feel more inspired
Lifting me up much higher
It feels like a drink of cool water on a hot summers day
Yet I still at times desire some real face to face time with you
You are unique and special and absolutely no one else can take your place
For now I must slow my mind down into a more patient pace
It seems,like just at the right time, you write another line
Then you once again, become just Only A Poem Away
We are bonded by both blood and by our love for words as
You Are Only A Poem Away!
This Poem is dedicated to My daughter, Gwen, who some of you here on Hello Poetry know from her poetic works that are posted on here. I love You Gwen so much! Thank you to all my Hello Poetry friends for reading Gwen and my poetic postings. I appreciate it so much!
I know you are such a busy lady. Your encouragement gives me inspiration and gives my heart wings and makes me feel like singing.
Love Always, from Your Butterfly Mom.
Jul 2016 · 963
3 Little Words
Ann M Johnson Jul 2016
3 little words can be the easiest to say or be the most difficult of all.
3 little words we all have heard them.
3 little words can have the potential to have the most influence and meaning and impact others for many years to come.
3 little words work best as a verb.
3 little words can not just stand alone but need some action to back them.
3 little words can become meaningless and empty, without the necessary action, they can be too quickly discarded and forgotten like yesterday's news.
3 little words can produce either happiness or regret dependent on what actions follow. If the meaning is hollow broken promises can follow. Leaving broken hearts and shattering lives like an emotional earthquake in its wake.
Only 3 little words but consider how much impact they really have. Please remember words are a powerful influence either to a positive or negative degree.
3 little words what a difference they can make when spoken wisely and backed with the proper action they can be fulfilling instead of empty.
3 little words should only be used with caution, beware of the power of the tongue and please choose your words carefully.
The choice is up to you and me what impact we give to 3 little words.
Jul 2016 · 990
The Struggle (see notes)
Ann M Johnson Jul 2016
The Struggle
  ( inspired by the quote: No man is an island onto himself)

         It hurts to not find the right words that you want to say.
         It hurts when you see mostly clouds of gray.
         It hurts out to be caught out in pouring rain.
It hurts to be in constant pain.
It hurts to smile and not complain.
It hurts to feels stuck in the desert while desiring to climb a mountain top instead.
Sometimes it is difficult to just get out of bed.
It hurts to be sensitive in the midst of an uncaring world.
          It hurts to ask for help when preferring to do tasks by yourself.
          It hurts to be hanging on while needing to let go.
          It’s a struggle because through surrendering you can open up the heart to a new level of Love, joy ,and peace that you may have never experienced before.
          You don’t need to be a lonely island kept away and isolated all by yourself.
           You and I don’t need to walk all alone on this journey called life.
inspired by the quote: No man is an island onto himself.
Also, see my recent posting: Offline
Jun 2016 · 879
Offline
Ann M Johnson Jun 2016
I regret to inform you, my friends,
that I may be offline for an extended period of time.
Due to intense visual migraines.
I will Greatly miss you all and your wonderful poetry.
I plan to return when my health improves so I need to
temporarily bid you  adieu.
Jun 2016 · 741
Positive Note
Ann M Johnson Jun 2016
Music is medicine
Music is food for the soul
Music transcends beyond time and space
Music lifts you up much higher
Music inspires
Music brightens the day
Music is the perfect ending to a day while watching the moon and the stars
Music and poetry are perfect company
Music and poetry work  together to end the day on a good positive note!
Jun 2016 · 678
Searching For Inspiration
Ann M Johnson Jun 2016
Searching for inspiration where can it be found?
Searching for inspiration while glancing on the ground when
deep in thought.
I look within to see what I might find coming up empty
I continue this quest
I desire only what is best.
I look in the face of family and friends
I glance above and seek strength
I read your poems to see what message they hold my poetry friends.

I suddenly realize that I'm not all alone in this poetic sea
true inspiration is not all up to me.
It surrounds me but often seems unseen
It is found in the wind, earth ,air and sea
It can be found while we are awake or asleep.
It can be found above or here on earth.
It can be found in both public
or in solitary places.

It can be found in the loving faces of family or friends.
It can be found in poetic pages or in printed books.
It can be heard in favorite music that lifts you up.
It can be found in an inspiring speech.
It may be found in the words of a favorite teacher that is remembered throughout the years.
For some, it may be the words of a favorite preacher that offers encouragement and is inspirational.
For others being out in nature in a natural cathedral provides ample poetic inspiration to last for years to come.
It can be found in heartbreak or emotional turmoil that inspires you to turn your scars into stars that shine brightly for others to see.
It may be found through both love and loss.
It can be found despite the cost to you and me.
May inspiration help us weather all the storms that this life holds.
May inspiration be found in all of us  may it continue to strengthen and help us grow not only as writers but in life too.
Jun 2016 · 1.3k
Missing Youth
Ann M Johnson Jun 2016
I miss the time when I was young and thought that I knew all the answers.
  Now that I am older I am confronted with more and more difficult questions that I never seem to have the answers to.
I  sometimes miss my youth when I thought that I had all the answers and ignorance seemed like bliss.
Jun 2016 · 887
Overslept
Ann M Johnson Jun 2016
Had such a busy week
so exhausted I could barely speak
Needed to get up early on Friday for an important appointment
much to my disappointment my alarm glitched
maybe even caused by a power outage
Instead of making it to the appointment I was dreaming about it while
asleep in my bed.
Perhaps maybe I needed the rest really bad and that is why I overslept.
It might be my body's way of saying that I needed to slow down a bit.
May 2016 · 5.8k
Fragrance
Ann M Johnson May 2016
The lilacs are blooming spreading their fragrance throughout the air it's scent is fresh and crisp and cheerful.
May we be like the lilacs may our life be pleasant to those around us.
Let us create positive relationships that will inspire others and be like a lasting fragrance  that will be remembered long after our season on earth is through. Let us leave those lives that we touch much better off than when we first found them. Let us strive to build each other up on a daily basis and be a cheerful and encouraging presence to those lives that we touch. Be a lasting fragrance starting today!
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