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In frigid shadows of a broken vow,
My heart, a prisoner, in silence cries.
Forced to yield, unseen chains bind me now,
Where love's cold absence breeds a storm that sighs.

She walks unburdened, draped in self-made light,
A queen unstained by tears my spirit weeps.
My yearnings mocked, a one-sided plight,
Betrayal's embers where true passion sleeps.

A barren wasteland, where our dreams lay slain,
Hope's fragile bud choked by a loveless rain.
My silent screams unheard, a whispered pain,
Lost in the darkness, love's deceptive chain.

Isolation's grip, a serpent's cold embrace,
Tightens around me, fueled by her cold grace.
I reach out, grasping for a fleeting trace,
Of the love we once shared, now displaced.

Invisible chains bind me to the past,
Memories haunt me, can't escape at last.
Like a ghost, I wander lost, outcast,
Trapped in a love that couldn't ever last.

Each link in the chain is a bitter regret,
Moments lost forever, I can't forget.
I'm shackled to a love I can't reset,
Tangled in a web of love and debt.

The weight of the chains bears down on my soul,
A heavy burden I can't control.
I long to break free, to finally be whole,
But the chains hold tight, taking their toll.

Unseen chains, invisible but strong,
Bind me to a love that's gone so wrong.
I'm trapped in a cycle, where I don't belong,
A prisoner of love's haunting song.

I search for a key to unlock the chains,
To free myself from these loveless pains.
But the chains remain, a reminder of stains,
Of a love lost in sorrowful refrains.

I long for freedom, for release from this plight,
To soar like a bird in the clear, free light.
To break these chains that bind me so tight,
And finally find peace in the still of night.

But until that day comes, I'll endure the pain,
Of living with these unseen chains.
Bound to a love that's left me drained,
Haunted by memories that still remain.

Unseen chains, a burden unseen,
A weight that crushes all my dreams.
But I'll keep on fighting, despite how it seems,
For one day, I'll break free from these loveless schemes.
This was written once I discovered that after 3 years of separation, I was in a loveless marriage.  She had forsaken and abandoned me but kept me around to do her bidding, the mundane things that some think that a husband is only good for.  Living in separate homes, paying for both.  I realized the worst, that it was irrevocably broken, unrepairable, but that I had been shackled to it.  This poem acknowledges that pain, suffering, and shame, and that I need to find an escape, no matter how painful and hurtful it became.
144 · Jan 22
Love and the Sea (2023)
Jiāwén Liú Jan 22
The sea, vast and mighty,
A love so deep and true,
With crystal blue waters,
And vibrant reefs that bloom,
Life abundant and colorful,
A swarm of the sea, dancing in tune.

I am drawn to the swarm of the sea,
The diversity of creatures that call it home,
From the tiny fish to the majestic whale,
Each one with a purpose, each one free to roam.

But even amid this watery delight,
I find myself captivated by a woman in sight,
With ebony hair that falls like silken strands,
And amber eyes that seem to understand.

She carries a dragon upon her back,
A symbol of strength, of courage and tact,
Yet in her presence, I feel only grace,
A sense of serenity, a gentle embrace.

Her movements are elegant, her touch so soft,
A warmth in her gaze that whispers aloft,
She exudes sensuality with every step,
Leaving me breathless, feeling inept.

Her presence is sensual, intoxicating,
I am mesmerized by her every move,
She is the calm in my tempest, the light in my darkness,
In her arms, I find solace, I find my groove.

Love knows no depth, it is unfathomable,
A mystery that we can never truly grasp,
It can be a tempest, unpredictable and wild,
Or it can be serene, a gentle clasp.

Find the one who brings you joy,
Who warms your heart with their gaze,
Who makes you feel safe and secure,
And brings balance to your days.

For love is a force,
A power beyond measure,
It can lift you up high,
Or bring you to your knees in despair.

But when you find the one,
The one that brings you joy,
Whose love matches your own,
You'll know true happiness.

In a world where love is shown,
Search for the one who warms your heart,
Who makes you feel safe, secure in their arms,
Who brings balance, extinguishing all alarms.

In the end, love is all that matters,
In all its forms and shapes,
For love is what makes us human,
It is what gives our lives their purpose, their stakes.

For love is a gift, a treasure to behold,
A bond that is precious, more valuable than gold,
So I seek the love that I have for thee,
In the depths of the sea, in the woman I see.
The Dragon year, a vibrant hue,
Now fades, a memory, bittersweet and true.
Solitude's embrace, a winter's chill,
Gave way to warmth, a love that time can't ****.

The Rabbit year, a sorrow's bitter sting,
Left scars unseen, a wounded spirit's wing.
The Dragon's dawn, a fragile, timid bloom,
Seeking solace in life's quiet room.

But destiny, with gentle, guiding hand,
Revealed a soul, a kindred understand.
Beyond the surface, deep within her core,
The anguish seen, and wounds forevermore.

A solace offered, unexpected grace,
Two souls entwined in a warm embrace.
The spark ignited, a love beyond compare,
Mending the broken, easing every care.

Now hand in hand, they journey to the Snake,
A new beginning, for love's sweet sake.
Heart to heart, a balance they will find,
Forever bound, in love's embrace entwined.
2023 Year of the Rabbit
2024 Year of the Dragon
2025 Year of the Snake

This poem was written about our Chinese Lunar New Years (29Jan2025) and the bringing the Dragon to a close, embracing the Snake, but the Journey that my love endured from the end of Rabbit to the beginning of Snake.
134 · Jan 23
Hues of Blue (2025)
Jiāwén Liú Jan 23
I am lost in the dark
The cold absence of light
Drifting through the space of my mind
Deaf, Dumb, and Blind

My heart lies dormant
The rhythm silent
The spark gone
Cracked, Cold, and Shattered

The stone in my chest
The weight of this soul particle
With the density of a collapsing star
Crushing, Smothering, and Dying

Silence in the dark,
Deafening,
I scream to be heard,
Unseen, Unknown, and Unwanted.

No sunrise, only darkness
The light once so bright in my life,
Extinguished.
Colors are only a memory, as the grey fades to black.

The memories start to erode,
Colors of despair,
Blue, Indigo, Midnight, Space
At my end, I see only the Hues of Blue
Days of melancholy, of morose, of loneliness at times. Those days are fewer and farther between, but they will always persist, as it is human nature as emotional beings.
130 · Jan 24
Thoughts of You (2025)
Jiāwén Liú Jan 24
In the quiet of the evening, under a blanket of stars
I find myself lost in thoughts of you, my love
The way your smile lights up your face
And the gentle touch of your hand on mine

Our love is like a gentle river, flowing steadily
Through days of sun and nights of moonlit skies
With each passing moment, our bond grows stronger
And our hearts beat as one in perfect harmony

I am captivated by the depth of your eyes
The way they hold a thousand unspoken words
And in that silent gaze, I find solace
Knowing that our love will withstand any storm

You are my rock, my anchor in the stormy seas
My shelter from the harsh winds of life
With you by my side, I am whole
And together, we will conquer the world

So let us dance under the moonlight
And whisper secrets to the night sky
For in each other's arms, we are home
Our love a flame that will never die.

I am forever grateful for the love we share
For in your arms, I have found my paradise
And in your heart, I have found my home
My love for you will never fade, my dear.

We walk hand in hand, under the stars,
Lost in each other, forgetting our scars.
The world fades away, just you and me,
In this moment of pure ecstasy.

I feel your heartbeat, steady and true,
A rhythm that only beats for you.
You are my anchor, my guiding light,
In this sea of darkness, you make everything right.

I cherish every moment we share,
For in your arms, I have found my solace and care.
You are my love, my partner in crime,
Together we'll conquer all, one heartbeat at a time.

So let's embrace this love we've found,
With every heartbeat, let's make a sound.
For in this world so full of chaos and strife,
Our love is the one constant in this beautiful life.
In love, you can find your anchor that will allow you to weather any storm.
Jiāwén Liú Jan 23
Soft glow, a flicker, shadows dance,
Whispers soft, a gentle hand,
Eyes that meet, a tender gaze,
Lost in love, in an endless maze.

Candlelight casts a warm embrace,
Time stands still, in this sweet space,
Hearts entwined, a silent vow,
Love's pure flame, forever now.

As the night deepens, stars above,
Sealed with kisses, born of love,
In this moment, time takes flight,
Candlelight's magic, burning bright.
I was listening to the song Romantic Candlelight, a relaxing Jazz Piano ensemble, staring at the candle burning on my desk.   This poem sprang to life from that moment.
As protector and guide, the roles of a father
Stands tall and proud, his love for his daughter
Radiating from his eyes, a love so pure and true
Wishing her the world, in all that she'll pursue

He works hard day and night, for her bright future
To give her the best, to encourage and to nurture
His sacrifices, his struggles, all for her happiness
His joy, his pride, in her success and greatness

He holds her close, in his arms so warm
Protecting her from the world's harm
He whispers in her ear, words of wisdom and care
Guiding her with love, every step she'll dare

He watches her grow, with a heart full of pride
Seeing her bloom, like a lotus beside
The river of life, flowing with grace
Her laughter, her smile, lighting up his face

In her eyes, he sees the reflection of his love
A bond so strong, like the heavens above
He dreams of her happiness, in every waking hour
For her joy, her well-being, is his greatest power

As she spreads her wings, and flies away
He looks up to the sky, and silently prays
For her happiness, her success, her light to shine
In this world, in this life, for all of time

So here's to the father's love
A love so deep, like the stars above
May his daughter find joy, in all that she'll do
For his love knows no bounds, forever true.
This was written for my love's father, as he couldn't convey the words he wanted through his illness.  So I lent him my pen, my heart, my words to bend and mold to the words to his only daughter, whom I love dearly.
114 · Jan 22
Endurance (2025)
Jiāwén Liú Jan 22
You are,
The wind in my breath,
The sun on my face,
The love in my heart,
The scent in my nose,
The whisper in my ear,
The sweet caress on my lips,
The embrace in my arms,
The ground beneath me,
The hand in my hand.
You are all of these, and more,
My dragon, my tiger, my protector, my love, my friend, my partner, my Yin to my Yang.
Two parts that make a whole,
Inseparable and yet contradictory.
Self-perpetuating.
Being apart from you is one of the most difficult parts.
Yet I will endure.
96 · Jan 23
Life’s Path (2025)
Jiāwén Liú Jan 23
A crooked path, not straight,
life's journey unfolds,
twists and turns, a testing fate,
a story to be told.

Obstacles rise, a daunting sight,
pushing limits, testing might,
unimaginable trials appear,
a challenge to hold dear.

But in the shadows, a guiding light,
love and respect, shining bright,
trust and support, a steady hand,
a refuge in shifting sand.

Through every storm, we find our way,
together we weather the fray,
large or small, the tempest blows,
but steadfast love surely grows.

When the dust settles, calm descends,
the sun's warm embrace extends,
a new dawn breaks, clear and true,
a future built anew.

For in the end, it's love that stays,
the bond that lights our darkest days,
those who lift us, hand in hand,
this is the truth, forever to stand.
The journey through life is not a straight line, learn from the past, reach for the future, and embrace eternity.
89 · Jan 21
Imagination (2025)
Jiāwén Liú Jan 21
Poised quill in hand,
Tip in the ink-well dipped,
Page by turned page,
Words paint a picture,
Stories unfold,
Imagination unleashed.

Cleaned brush in hand,
Bristles mixing colors,
Hues emerge upon the palette,
Strokes create a story,
An image takes shape,
Imagination into a masterpiece.

Sharpened pencil in hand,
Sketching upon the tablet,
Circles and lines create form,
Fingers smudge lines,
Subject unveiled,
Imagination into portrait.

Ink pen in hand,
Page filled with lines,
Time and key,
Notes create a melody,
Score of emotion,
Imagination of music.

The artists are unbound,
Author of fueled stories,
Painter of fueled images,
Illustrator of fueled portraits,
Composer of fueled music,
Artists with one commonality,
Fueled by the Power of Imagination.
The city sleeps, a hushed and gentle sigh,
but in my heart, a constant flame burns bright.
For you, my love, my artist of the soul,
whose colors dance across the canvas of my dreams.

The world may spin, a dizzying array of trials,
and shadows lengthen, casting doubt and fear.
But know this, my love, through every storm we face,
my heart remains a steadfast anchor, holding you near.

The weight of the world, it presses down, I know,
the burdens you carry, the battles you fight.
And though distance may stretch between us,
my thoughts, my prayers, they find you in the night.

If ever darkness threatens to consume,
if weariness pulls you into its deep embrace.
Remember this, my love, a whispered promise in the dark,
my love is a constant, a refuge, a safe space.

In the quiet hours, when sleep eludes,
and worries whisper secrets in your ear.
Know that I am here, just a call away,
a comforting presence, banishing all fear.

Through every trial, every tribulation,
through every labor, every tear you cry.
My love, my heart, my very being,
is forever bound to you, until the day I die.
My love has a dark past, of pain, hurt, and like anyone, buries it.  It was before us, but regardless of how much support I show, she doesn't open up about it.
I was listening to XM today, and Middle of the Night came on the radio.  The chorus struck a chord.  I listened to it again, while thinking of my love.  And this poem, is the result.
Jiāwén Liú Jan 22
The Milky Way, a silver ribbon,
drapes across the velvet night.
Stars, diamonds scattered on black velvet,
twinkle, a celestial cacophony.
We, two amorists, beneath this grand display,
find solace in each other's gaze.

The moon, a pale pearl,
casts an ethereal glow,
illuminating the path
that leads us to this Elysian field.
Here, beneath the ancient oak,
our souls intertwine,
a nexus of love,
born under the watchful gaze of the cosmos.

Comets, with fiery tails,
race across the inky canvas,
leaving trails of stardust
in their wake.
These celestial wanderers,
like our fleeting moments,
burn bright and ephemeral,
leaving behind a trail of memories.

Planets, distant and mysterious,
orbit in silent symphony,
a cosmic ballet
unfolding before our eyes.
In this vast universe,
we find our own orbit,
bound by an invisible force,
a love that transcends the stars.

The universe, a vast and indifferent entity,
yet it conspires
to bring us together.
Under the watchful gaze of the cosmos,
our love story unfolds,
a testament to the enduring power
of human connection.

And as we gaze into each other's eyes,
we know that our love,
like the stars,
will forever shine bright,
a beacon of hope
in the vastness of the universe.
I am not sure about this one.  I've been sick this past week, and I wrote this one this morning, but my brain still feels foggy.
Jiāwén Liú Jan 24
As a young artist, I found myself drawn,
To his warmth and wisdom, dawn to dawn.
An older man, with stories etched deep,
A connection formed, a love to keep.

His words, a melody, a guiding light,
Encouraging me to soar so high.
To explore my thoughts, my deepest core,
And express myself, forevermore.

Drawn to him, in ways unknown,
A connection, a love to own.
Beyond age, a bond so true,
A love that grew, a passion new.

Not just admiration, respect alone,
Something more, a love to own.
A connection, transcending norms,
A love that bloomed, a sweet perfume.

I looked forward, with eager heart,
To our meetings, a special part.
His smile, a warmth, a guiding light,
His eyes, a beacon, shining bright.

Seen and understood, a precious gift,
A person, not just an artist, adrift.
Dreams and fears, passions aflame,
A love ignited, a burning flame.

As feelings grew, a love so deep,
I knew I had to give, to keep.
To show him, his presence, a guiding star,
More than mentorship, a bond so far.

A portrait painted, a heartfelt plea,
A reflection of our unity.
In hues of love, gratitude, and grace,
A love so pure, a loving space.

As I presented, his eyes held tears,
A moment of truth, dispelling fears.
Age, just a number, a fleeting sight,
Love has no bounds, a guiding light.
As expressed by my love, Àihàn Liú
Jiāwén Liú Jan 23
A digital chasm yawns between us, a void that echoes with longing.
A thousand miles stretch, a physical distance mirroring the emotional.
In this absence, I feel a slow descent, a sinking beneath the surface.
The world, once vibrant, is now muted, a canvas devoid of color.
Each passing moment, a grain of sand slipping through an hourglass,
counting down the seconds until I can once again bask in your presence.

Without your radiant smile, the sun loses its warmth.
Your laughter, a melody that once filled my days, now echoes in silence.
In the quiet nights, your absence casts long shadows,
a haunting reminder of the love we share, yet are separated by.

I yearn for your touch, a gentle caress that soothes my soul.
Your voice, a whisper, a lullaby that calms my restless mind.
But now, I am adrift, a solitary vessel on a stormy sea.
The waves crash against my fragile heart, threatening to drown me.

I cling to the memory of your love, a lifeline in this endless night.
It’s a bittersweet comfort, a painful reminder of what I’ve lost.
Yet, hope flickers, a tiny flame in the darkness,
ignited by the promise of a future where we are reunited.

Until that day, I’ll wander through this digital labyrinth,
searching for a glimpse of you, a sign of your love.
A love that transcends distance, a love that defies time,
a love that keeps me tethered to the shore, even as I’m pulled beneath the waves.
All long-distance relationships will have their ups and downs.  In this digital age, we seek a quicker mode of communication.  And when one goes silent, the mind and heart can perceive a growing rift, but alas, patience will eventually bring clarity or left you fall.  But is your love that anchors you, even on the precipice, to stand fast, and weather the seas of uncertainty.
Today, September 27th, will have been my father’s 80th birthday. Eighteen years have passed since his departure, yet his memory remains as vibrant as ever. I recall with fondness the countless lessons he imparted, the guidance he offered so effortlessly, and the unwavering integrity he instilled within me.

Though he is no longer physically present, I feel his presence in the values he left behind. His love for his grandchildren was boundless, and they, like me, miss him deeply. As they prepare to become parents themselves, I can’t help but wonder how he would have guided them through this new chapter.

As I approach the age my father was when he passed, I find myself grappling with my mortality. The uncertainty of the future can be overwhelming, and sometimes, it feels like I’m merely going through the motions. Yet, amid this introspection, I find solace in the memories of my father. Every aspect of my life seems to echo his influence, reminding me of the man he was and the legacy he left behind.

Perhaps it is fitting that his memory should be so intertwined with my journey. His love, wisdom, and unwavering spirit continue to guide me, even as I navigate the uncharted waters of my own life. And as I look ahead, I find comfort in the knowledge that his legacy will live on through me and through the generations to come.
Not necessarily a poem, but a reflection I wrote on my father's birthday in 2024.
Whether nostalgic or just the sadness creeping in after 18 years.  Just thoughts and feelings to paper
The world, a canvas of alabaster, stretches forth,
unblemished, save for whispers of last night's snow,
a pristine expanse beneath the pre-dawn hush.
From our haven, a cabin snug, a haven built of love,
we watch the firmament begin its slow reveal.

A blush of rose, crepuscular and faint, begins to stain
the eastern sky, a promise whispered on the breeze.
The tundra, hushed and still, absorbs the nascent light,
each crystalline flake a prism, catching hues unseen,
reflecting back a spectrum, ethereal and bright.

Then, vermilion streaks the horizon's edge,
a fiery kiss upon the sleeping land.
The world awakens, slowly, stretching limbs of light,
as shadows shrink and melt beneath the sun's ascent.
And in this shared awakening, our hearts entwine anew.

Cerulean hues then paint the heavens high,
a backdrop for the drama of the rising sun.
The world is bathed in gold, a transient, fleeting grace,
as day ascends, its vibrant reign begun.
We watch, content, our love a constant in this change.

The apricot and peach now blend and swirl,
a symphony of color, played across the snow.
The tundra breathes a sigh, releasing winter's chill,
as life stirs gently, putting on its show.
And in this moment, timeless, our love feels ever strong.

Secure within this haven, built of trust and care,
we face the day, whatever it may bring.
For in each other's eyes, we find a love so deep,
a bond that strengthens as the wild birds sing.
And as the sun climbs higher, our hearts find perfect peace.
Good Morning
Jiāwén Liú Jan 23
I see the world through your eyes
The brushstrokes on your canvas
Telling the tales of your heart; Joy and sadness
I see you, behind the masks, through the façade you project

I see you, in all your beauty and imperfections
The serpent lay in protection across your arm
The three-toed dragon upon your back, granting you strength
White ribbon, a bow tying back your ebony hair.

The script of your culture lay bare upon your slender neck.
The twinkle in your eyes, as they smile back at me.
The curl of your lips just before you laugh.
The gentle biting of the bottom, enticing mischievous thoughts

You are a friend, who became more.
One whom you allowed to walk in your garden.
One whom you confided in, who let me comfort you with words of encouragement.
You are someone I fell in love with, as I learned you fell for me too.

Can’t you see, my love
You are the one, the one who makes me whole
You are the one, the one that makes me dream again
You are the one, The Shape of My Happiness
For those who have read my other works, if you can't tell by now..... this woman whom I love, and reciprocates that love, is my muse, the center of my world, the balance in my life.
As night descends and stars softly gleam above,
Weaving dreams in the tapestry of our hearts,
She comforts me, a beacon in the dark,
A kindred spirit, in whom I find solace.
Her gentle touch, a soothing, soft caress,
Chasing shadows, bringing happiness.

Once, it was I who soothed her restless soul,
Now the roles have reversed, a sweet exchange.
In this dance of whispers and tender embraces,
We discover the true essence of our bond.
A silent language spoken heart to heart,
A masterpiece where souls play every part.

Kissed by moonlight, our souls intertwined,
A new beginning unfolds before our eyes.
In loving oneself, we find strength and grace,
A symphony born of passion and self-love's embrace.
No longer bound by fear or self-doubt's chain,
We rise above, where true love will remain.

Laughter echoes through the chambers of our hearts,
A melody of joyfulness that knows no bounds.
In being ourselves, we find completeness within,
An interconnectedness that transcends time and space.
Our spirits soar on wings of pure delight,
Bathed in the glow of love's ethereal light.

So let us dance in the realm of dreams and love,
In this sacred union where we are truly free.
Embracing each moment with hope in our eyes,
We write a romance that defies all expectations.
A tapestry of moments, precious and rare,
A love story beyond compare.

And as the dawn breaks, painting skies anew,
Our love remains, steadfast and ever true.
Through whispered dreams and starlit, soft embrace,
We find our haven, a tranquil, loving space.
Forever bound by an unbreakable tie,
Our love will flourish, reaching for the sky.
Part of my Whispers Collection to be published
75 · Jan 21
Across Time (2024)
Jiāwén Liú Jan 21
Souls fill the void, a cosmic dance,
Free orbits spinning, a distant chance.
Yet now and then, two paths collide,
A binary orbit, side by side.

Together, yet apart, a cosmic pair
Hues intertwining, beyond compare.
Love, admiration, joy, respect,
New vessels born, a comic sect.

Separate, yearning for their mate,
Hours to days, a cosmic weight.
Decades to centuries, time's relentless flow,
The cycle endless, a cosmic show.

Yin seeks Yang, across the void,
The sun, the moon, forever employed.
Rarely glimpsed a fleeting sight,
Soul in search of soul, a guiding light.

Different times, across the globe,
Until one day, a chance to probe.
A sparkle in the eyes, a scent so sweet,
Something familiar, a cosmic feat.

The vessels react, a newfound grace,
A cosmic dance, a loving embrace.
Heart bursting, with joy untold,
A millennium of longing, now unrolled.

Across the heavens, beyond time's reach,
Soul finds soul, a cosmic speech.
Eternally united, a cosmic pair,
A love so pure, beyond compare.
A theory, souls as cosmic particles, some in harmonic resonance, a positive and a negative, attracted. a push-pull orbit, in sympathetic frequencies.  leaving their quantum signatures upon one another.  intertwined - quantum entanglement..... soulmates across the universe, throughout time.
In dreams, she appears, a vision so bright,
A gentle touch that sets my soul alight.
Her laughter echoes, filling up the night,
We dance in fields where stars take flight.

Kisses sweet as honey, moments divine,
In her arms, true love's path I find.
A new beginning, our spirits entwined,
In self-love's embrace, pure and kind.

She makes my heart sing with joyfulness untold,
A melody of passion that cannot be controlled.
In every kiss exchanged, our connection bold,
In being ourselves, our love will never grow cold.

Like a playful symphony of dreams come alive,
We twirl through life, hand in hand we strive.
To cherish each moment and the love we derive,
In the beauty of us, forever we'll survive.

Through sun-kissed days and moonlit, starry skies,
Our love's a garden where true feeling lies.
With tender whispers and heart-to-heart replies,
Our bond strengthens, as time gently flies.

No shadows linger, no doubts take their hold,
Just pure affection, a story to be told.
In this sweet haven, our spirits grow bold,
A love like ours, more precious than gold.
Part of my Whispers Collection to be published
Jiāwén Liú Jan 21
A palette of blues on white,
Accents of gold that shine bright,
Upon the branch, she lies,
Claws on display,
Flowers surround the Dior Tiger.

Darkly beautiful,
Her body lays back,
Adorned in gold,
Upon a sea of black,
Behold the Gold Vessel.

Sea of gold,
Lions at rest,
A pride of two,
Who protects who,
In The Riches of Love

White Dragon proud and poised,
Upon the mount, coiled and vigilant,
Upon a sky of red, ever-watchful eye,
Once she was broken, but whole once again,
She is what was asked for, the white dragon restored.

Background of Cloud,
Bodies of color,
Deep Periwinkle against Iridescent Gold,
Entwined in a lover's embrace,
Artist meets Bard
A poem to my artist, how she has inspired me.
High Moon ascends,
Full and resplendent,
Sky ablaze,
Orange, red, a haze,
Year anew.

Moonbeams dance,
Over the mountains,
Valley aglow,
River reflects low,
Moonlit scene.

Lanterns alight,
Candles flicker bright,
Villagers throng,
Honoring the long,
Yearned-for peace.

Riddles abound,
Joyful sounds resound,
Notes on the stream,
Ancestors' dream,
Lanterns gleam.

Currents so mild,
Gifts drift wild,
Spirits guide,
Down the tide,
Protected all.

Water roars loud,
Mist shrouds the crowd,
River descends,
Spirit extends,
Power revealed.

Over the fall,
Lanterns enthrall,
Updraft takes hold,
Celestial fold,
Spirit ascends.

Soaring high,
Heavenward journey,
Serpentine flight,
Guardian of light,
Palace awaits.

Duty complete,
Spirit retreats,
River's domain,
Pure and serene,
Sleep descends, rain.
The Lantern Festival, also known as the Yuanxiao Festival, boasts a rich history dating back to the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD).
With the New Year looming tomorrow, I dug up this old poem of mine.
In some regions it is a celebration where riddles are written upon lanterns.
In other regions they are floating tributes and prayers.
In others, it is a lantern that takes to the sky like a tiny hot air balloon taking those prayers to heaven for their ancestors.

In this poem, I tried to touch on all three as a unique festival, in which the celebration flows from the village to the river, and over the falls taking flight.  I hope it conveys my thoughts and wishes of prosperity to those of us sending prayers to our loved ones.
In the quiet moments before his departure,
She watches as her father prepares to return
To the land of his ancestors, to China,
A journey back to the roots of his existence.

She loves him dearly, her father,
Her heart heavy with the knowledge
That he will not be there for the special moments,
Those milestone occasions that mark a life.

No father to walk her down the aisle,
To give her away to the man she loves,
No father to see the children she will bear,
To hold his grandchildren in his arms.

But she wants to reassure him,
To let him know that the man by her side
Is not a replacement, but a reflection
Of his love and devotion, his strength and kindness.

She weeps as she speaks, her voice thick with emotion,
For she only wants him to be proud of her,
To be happy for her as she has found
The family she always longed for.

A family that mirrors and exceeds
The love he gave her growing up,
A family built on trust and respect,
A family that will stand the test of time.

Her father listens with a heavy heart,
Regret clouds his eyes as he realizes
That he never told her how much he loved her,
Never expressed the depth of his feelings.

But he accepts her choice,
He blesses the union,
Knowing that the man she has chosen
Will never abandon her, will never hurt her.

And in that moment, as they stand
On the threshold of a new chapter,
Father and daughter embrace,
Their love transcends words.

For, in the end, it is not the words we say
That matters most, but the love we show,
The actions we take, the bonds we forge,
That truly defines who we are.

And as her father walks away,
She carries his love in her heart,
A beacon of light guiding her path,
A reminder of the love that will never fade.
I wrote this one, as my love watched her father and family depart for Shanghai, their ancestral home.  His final journey, for his final rest.  Though they appreciated this... it broke something in me to write this.
The cadence of the drill sergeant, a ghost in the present,
echoes in the rhythm of my pen.
Discipline forged in the crucible of steel,
now fuels the fire of my art.
The enemy then, the fear, the loss,
a distant memory, yet the weight of loyalty remains.

My love, an artist, paints with colors I cannot name,
capturing the essence of the soul,
a symphony of emotions, a dance of light and shadow.
She is the muse, the inspiration,
the reason this heart still beats with a fierce, protective rhythm.

The scars run deep, both physical and unseen,
reminders of battles fought and won.
But the greatest battle, the one that truly matters,
is the fight for her, for our love.
This fragile, precious bloom,
deserves the fiercest protection.

The Marine within, dormant yet ever-present,
would rise, a silent guardian,
against any threat, any darkness that dares to touch her.
His loyalty, once sworn to the Corps,
now belongs to her,
a love that transcends all boundaries.

In the quiet moments, when the world fades away,
I see her eyes, reflecting the stars,
a universe of emotions, a love that knows no bounds.
And in that reflection, I find my strength,
a renewed sense of purpose,
a love that would die for her, a thousand times over.

The poet and the Marine, two sides of the same coin,
bound by a love that defies definition.
A love that heals, that inspires,
that gives life new meaning.
And in that love, I find my peace,
a solace that surpasses all understanding.
I wrote this as a testament to my love.  The old Marine in me isn't gone, just dormant, and I will fight for her to the end, because of the love.  In the end, isn't that what we are all fighting for?
72 · Jan 22
Celestial Love (2024)
Jiāwén Liú Jan 22
Pinpricks in the velvet night,
Stars, your eyes, a guiding light.
Each twinkle, a promise kept,
Your love, a beacon, forever adept.

The moon, a silver crescent, gleams,
Chasing the light, a poet's dream.
Your guidance, a steady hand,
Dispelling darkness, across the land.

The sun, a golden orb, so bright,
Warming the day, with all its might.
Your warmth, a comforting embrace,
Chasing away, the darkest place.

In every star, a piece of you,
In every moonbeam, a love anew.
In every sunrise, a hope untold,
In every sunset, a story old.

Forever present, in my mind,
A love so pure, so truly kind.
Lost without you, I'd surely be,
A wandering soul, adrift at sea.
Flotsam adrift in the sea that is life.
72 · Jan 21
The First Thing (2024)
Jiāwén Liú Jan 21
Morning sunshine wakes me from my slumber,
The first thing I see is you,
The first things I touch, I feel, I hold...
Is you.

My heart sings with the warmth and joy, a melody of compassion,
A love that you have so generously bestowed upon this old soul,
A smile that fills my face, my eyes wide,
Capturing every beautiful detail of your face.

Sunbeams form rays to light your sleeping form,
Tickling your cheek, sparkling through your hair,
The first thing I reach for is you, caressing your cheek with the back of my fingers,
Brushing the hair from your eyes.

The first thing I smell is the enticing scent of a woman,
Peach blossoms and rose oil fill the air,
The first thing I kiss is your soft pouty lips; blushed and supple,
The first thing I see .... is you.
My first poem, inspired the by my one true love.
In the stillness of the night,
Underneath a blanket of stars,
I find myself lost in thoughts of you,
Aching for your presence from afar.

The distance between us feels infinite,
Yet I feel your spirit close to mine,
Whispering sweet nothings in the wind,
Reminding me of the love we intertwine.

As I gaze up at the starry sky,
I am reminded of how vast the universe is,
And yet how small and insignificant I feel,
Without you here to share in its bliss.

I remember the last time we were together,
The way your eyes sparkled like the stars above,
How your laughter filled the room with joy,
And how my heart swelled with love.

But now you are miles away,
And all I have are memories to hold onto,
I find myself crying in the darkness,
Longing for your touch to see me through.

But in the quiet of the night,
I have a revelation so clear,
No matter the distance that divides us,
My love for you will always be near.

I pledge my devotion to you,
Across the expanse of time and space,
For you are the beat of my heart,
The light in my darkest days.

In the hush of darkness, beneath the starry gaze,
I find solace in the echo of your voice,
Across distance vast, my heart still ablaze,
Longing for the warmth of your embrace, my choice.

I find solace in the thought of you,
And the thought of us together again,
Building a future filled with love and laughter,
Where every moment is worth the pain.

Each night I wander through the midnight sky,
Gazing at the twinkling stars so far above,
Their light a reminder of our love's sweet lullaby,
As I whisper to the heavens all about my love.

So as I lie beneath the starry night,
Missing you with all my might,
I know that our love will endure,
Through every trial and every fright.

Tears fall freely like raindrops in the night,
Mingling with the gentle breeze's soft caress,
Aching for your presence, yearning for your sight,
In these moments of solitude, I confess.

For in the distance that separates us,
I find strength in our connection,
And with each passing day,
I know that our love will be a resurrection.

A devotion unyielding, a flame that burns bright,
An epiphany in every whispered prayer I send,
For in this distance, amidst the silent night,
I find strength in a love that will never end.

So let the night sky be our guide,
And the stars our witnesses,
As we navigate this long distance,
And emerge stronger from its mysteriousness.

Oh, how my heart aches with each breath I take,
With memories of our passion etched deep within,
Yet in this longing, a bond we cannot break,
As we dance together under starlight's gentle kin.

In the end, we will be reunited,
And our love will be brighter than any star,
For in the stillness of the night,
I know that you are never too far.
Part of my Whispers Collection to be published
67 · Jan 21
The Journey (2025)
Jiāwén Liú Jan 21
Breaking the cycle, a new chapter begins,
Two hearts beating as one,
A love so pure, a love so true,
Together, we have overcome.

The past is behind us, a distant memory,
Filled with pain and sorrow,
But here we stand, hand in hand,
No looking back, no more tomorrow.

With each new day, a fresh start,
As we journey on this path,
Side by side, we face the world,
Together, we will laugh and laugh.

Gone are the days of loneliness,
Of heartache and despair,
In your arms, I find solace,
With you, I have no fear.

You are my everything, my rock,
The one who holds me close,
With you, I feel complete,
In your love, I am engrossed.

So here we are, a new beginning,
A chance to start anew,
Breaking the cycle of the past,
A love so strong, so true.

As we walk hand in hand
Towards a brighter tomorrow,
Our love will guide us through,
A new chapter begins, no more sorrow.
A Journey from mutual heartbreak, into new frontiers.
66 · Jan 23
Brushstrokes (2024)
Jiāwén Liú Jan 23
She looks at the canvas
Blank, taught, pristine
Background decisions
All in the mood, how does she feel?

Oil, water, spray, or acrylic
So many choices, to let her soul lay bare
Subjects to paint, what will it be
Endless options, What does she see?

In her paintings, a dragon often revealed
Sometimes, fragile
Sometimes, fierce
A self-portrait of sorts, How is she revealed?

This is how I saw her, how I fell in love.
Tiny brushstrokes, her heart for those to see
But only to those who knew how to look.
Beyond the brushstrokes, beyond her veil.

But I lay distraught, this is not an easy love
Like our mutual favorite, I stare into the Starry Night
Sometimes I feel the despair, the doubt, and I am unsure
Hoping I fair better than the ear in hand

Her brushstrokes are upon me, like paintings in her hall
Hidden hearts, separate and removed
She paints me, a poet with her hand
I accept her, and her brushstrokes upon my heart
I realize that some of my poetry is happy, some sad, but all is from a place of love. As I weave the tale of how this artist captured the very thing I thought I lost. Or am I merely an idea upon her canvas, each brushstroke, a gentle nudge upon my beating heart.
Jiāwén Liú Jan 23
In the depths of 30 years gone by,
Buried feelings, stoic, never seeing eye to eye.
Pulled in multiple directions, a weighty load,
Like Atlas, the world upon my shoulders bestowed.

Three relationships failed, a heart left torn,
The pain of one affecting those I have sworn,
To protect and shield myself from my despair,
Alone I must stand, solitude is my only prayer.

Leaving my family behind as an act of protection,
In the darkness of uncertainty, seeking connection.
Hoping to find a lifeline in this barren land,
To light my way or be consumed by darkness grand.

Abandoned by hope, anger festering within,
Anxiety grips me tight under the shadow's din.
Confusion reigns as I navigate this desolate space,
Fear and frustration etched on my weary face.

In this dystopian world rife with disappointment and failure,
I wander lost, swallowed by the void's dark allure.
Hopelessness and pain echo through the silent night,
The stress of solitude chokes out all light.
I struggled with this for 30 years.  Always doing for others, never myself, but now, that is in my past, and my future is mine.
I tried,
I struggled,
I succeeded,
I failed.

I supported,
I ridiculed,
I hugged,
I yelled.

I ignored,
I watched,
I comforted,
I taught.

But mostly,
I loved,
I nurtured,
And I was there.

I finally get it,
I am not perfect,
Far from it,
I am my own mistakes.

Lessons taught,
Morals instilled,
Guidance provided,
Of society norms.

And yet, I heard,
A quote that cut me to the core,
And urge you,
Break the mold, be your own.

It was never your part my child,
To teach me who you were,
It was my responsibility,
To learn who you ARE.

I am sorry if I wasn’t enough.
When the children grow up, think they know better, and in the heat of things, say something hurtful that cannot be taken back.
60 · 6d
Brokin (2024)
The pill didn’t make you larger
The pill didn’t make you small
The heart lay battered
The heart lay bruised
Images of innocence lost
The pain remains

Turmoil, and pain
Resolute not
Heart lies broken
Colors to canvas
Therapy of brush strokes
Yet the pain remains

Down the rabbit hole
The walls go up
Can’t let them in
Only to be hurt again
Crumpled on the floor
Tears run freely
Still, the pain remains

The images vibrant
The vision clear
The tormented soul
Colors to canvas
The world to see
Embracing the pain that remains
I wrote this after reading an article from 2018, about a young artist, and her winning painting in watercolor that she titled "Frustration", but retitled later as "Brokin".
In the article, it goes on to say "She captured her raw
emotions from a bad breakup in her watercolour piece
Frustration. She painted a fluffy creature peeling out of its
skin to reveal despair and sadness. The canvas, she said, “is
my friend. It’s therapy and it’s a good way for me to articulate
my thoughts.”
This poem, is dedicated to her work, and what I see in her art.
Red dress, modern cut, a nod to tradition.
Not gaudy, not simple, a balance found.
Her hand, offered, a father's blessing unspoken.
Pride mixed with sorrow, a future he won't see.
Love, honor, cherish, the groom's vow, a solemn oath.
Protection promised, a father's final duty.

Tears fall freely, a river of emotions.
Vows exchanged, a seal on a lifetime's journey.
The kiss, a declaration, a new chapter begins.
Then, a flutter, a swarm of butterflies descends.

One lands on her nose, a Blue-Spotted Crow, rare and bold.
Wings unfurl, a vibrant blue against her pale skin.
A message, a whisper, a father's presence felt.
She raises a finger, the butterfly shifts its perch.

A silent conversation, a daughter's tribute.
Prosperity whispered, protection assured.
Love remains, eternal, a bond unbreakable.
The Blue-Spotted Crow, a constant, enduring reminder.

The gesture, her father,
The promise, prosperity,
The honor, protection,
The Love, forever.
The Lunar New Year, and my dream last night was poignantly clear.  I had listened to my love, what she wants on our wedding day.  Ties to culture, but embracing the modern..... this dream was so vivid.
And at that moment, butterflies.  I had to sketch what I saw when I woke.
In the Chinese culture, butterflies at a wedding are special, but also spiritual in some beliefs of loved ones revisiting our plain, to offer their love and well wishes to those left behind.
Hell, it may hold some truth, or could be me losing my mind.
Either way, it was a nice dream, and spurred this poem above.
Enjoy.
In the darkness of the night, beneath the weeping sky,
Whispers in the rain, a love that never dies.
Age difference divides us, a worry in our hearts,
Apprehensive of the future, unsure where to start.

Like ships sailing in a storm, our souls intertwined,
Chaos and uncertainty, our love defined.
But amid tears, in the pouring rain,
We found solace in each other, during pain.

The clouds above us, heavy with sorrow,
But our love, a ray of light, a hopeful tomorrow.
Memories of laughter, of joy and of love,
A bond so strong, it fits us like a glove.

The sea of life, ever-changing and vast,
But with you by my side, the storm will not last.
Soulmates in the darkness, shining bright as day,
Our love transcends all, come what may.

Each drop of rain, a symbol of our tears,
Yet each rainbow that follows, dispels all fears.
Your inner beauty, a light in the dark,
A beacon of hope, a delicate spark.

I am older, you are young,
But age is just a number, our love is strong.
Fear not the difference, worry not the time,
For our souls are entwined, in rhythm and rhyme.

I may be gray, you may be gold,
But together we make a love story untold.
Passion flows like the rain, wild and free,
In the whispers of the night, you are my melody.

In the silence of the storm, we find peace,
In the rhythm of the rain, our worries cease.
Happiness like a wave, crashing on the shore,
In your arms, I find solace, forevermore.

So let the rain fall, let the sky cry,
For in your arms, I find my paradise.
Whispers in the rain, a love that never dies,
Soulmates in the darkness, under weeping skies.
Part of my Whispers Collection to be published
54 · Jan 23
Jade Stone (2024)
Jiāwén Liú Jan 23
By any other color
My green eyes pierce
Into the soul of my love
Like the Jade Stone

The scent of bamboo
the soft murmur of the pond
Midnight Blooms
A love blossoms as morning looms

My dragon sees me
Drawn to me as I am drawn to her
She is protective and kind
She coils around me, a gentle embrace

My soul and hers
A yin yang
Of white and green jade
A unity of prosperity and love

Two parts as one
Stone is stone
Hues compliment
The stone ring, a bond unbreakable
In the root of Asian culture, Jade is a sacred material. To me, it represents a spiritual connection to the culture, and my love. Mostly it is the iconography representing Unity, Harmony, Balance, Eternity, and Inifnity, all together as wholess and completeness.
All things that solidify this feeling and bond I have for this woman I love.
52 · Jan 21
Through it All (2024)
Jiāwén Liú Jan 21
The canvas of our lives, a year of shades,
Of stormy hues and shadows deeply laid.
But through the tempest, hand in hand we stayed,
Our love a beacon, fear and doubt allayed.

You, my artist, with colors bold and bright,
Painted resilience, bathed our world in light.
Your strokes of courage, turning darkest night,
Into a dawn where hope and love ignited.

My sweetest addiction, your soul, a vibrant hue,
My strongest inspiration, forever seeing you.
There's no mountain high, no challenge we can't subdue.
As long as you are mine, forever and anew.

For you, my love, I'll climb the highest peak,
A loyal guide, the work my heart will speak.
My best friend, my confidante, forever meek,
Whenever you may need me, I will never forsake.

I'll cherish every moment, every whispered phrase,
Your laughter, your tears, the love that softly sways.
Each passing day, my love for you ablaze,
A fire burning brighter in a wondrous haze.

The world may dim, but with you, my love's aflame,
Chasing shadows, whispering your name.
A dream come true, erasing every pain,
My sweetest addiction, forever and again.

I'll hold you close, my love, a tender embrace,
Never letting go, this love with find it's place.
In every sunrise, every moonlit space,
My love for you, a timeless, sacred grace.
My original submission poem
52 · Jan 21
Rediscovery (2024)
Jiāwén Liú Jan 21
In the beginning, there was betrayal.
A sharp knife plunged into my back,
By someone I trusted with my whole heart,
Leaving me wounded and bleeding,
Lost in the darkness of deception.

I stumbled through the wreckage,
Of shattered dreams and broken promises,
Each step heavier than the last,
As I tried to make sense of the chaos,
That had become my existence.

Heartbreak washed over me,
Like a tidal wave of sorrow,
Drowning me, morose and in pain,
As I struggled to find solid ground,
In a sea of anguish and despair.

I wept for what was lost,
For the love that had turned to ash,
For the future that had crumbled to dust,
Leaving me adrift in a void,
Of emptiness and regret.

Loneliness became my constant companion,
A shadow that clung to my every step,
Haunting me with memories of what once was,
And what could never be again,
A silent reminder of all that I had lost.

I built walls around my heart,
Towering barriers of stone and steel,
To protect myself from further pain,
From the treachery of those who sought to harm me,
From the cruelty of a world that seemed intent on breaking me.

Distrust became my shield,
A sword that I wielded with practiced skill,
As I kept the world at arm's length,
Refusing to let anyone close enough,
To hurt me as I had been hurt before.

But in the darkness, a light flickered,
A beacon of hope in the endless night,
As a new friendship bloomed,
Like a fragile flower pushing through the cracks,
In the walls I had so carefully constructed.

A spark of something new ignited within me,
A glimmer of warmth in the cold expanse,
As laughter and kindness filled the void,
And I felt myself beginning to thaw,
From the frozen depths of my solitude.

Slowly, tentatively, I reached out,
Taking a chance on something unknown,
Feeling the stirrings of something more,
As the walls around my heart began to crumble,
And I allowed myself to hope once more.

As friendship blossomed into something deeper,
Sparks of romance ignited between us,
A flame that grew steadily brighter,
As we danced on the edge of something new,
Something fierce and undeniable.

Passion flared like a wildfire,
Consuming us in its fiery embrace,
As we surrendered to the depths of our desire,
Losing ourselves in the heat of our connection,
In the sweet frenzy of our love.

And in the midst of it all, I found solace,
In the arms of the one who saw me,
Who understood my pain and my fear,
Who held me close and whispered,
That I was not alone.

Together we forged a new path,
One guided by trust and understanding,
By kindness and compassion,
By the knowledge that we were stronger together,
Than we could ever be apart.

And in each other, we found our home,
A place of peace and belonging,
Where our love could flourish and grow,
Into something timeless and true,
And everlasting bond that would never fade.

So, I walk this new path with you,
Hand in hand, heart in heart,
Knowing that through betrayal and heartbreak,
Through loss and loneliness,
I have found my way to you,
And to the endless promise,
Of a love that will never die.
This is something I wrote a year ago, when after multiple failed relationships by betrayal after betrayal.... I found someone, when I wasn't looking.  They also had pain, we found each other, we truly saw one another, through the facade and masks we hid behind.
The future is in our rediscovery of love.
49 · Jan 22
Sepia Tones (2024)
Jiāwén Liú Jan 22
In a world once muted, sepia-toned and grey,
Your vibrant canvas painted a brighter day.
A riot of colors, a symphony of sound,
Chaos and order, beautifully bound.

Your world, a sanctuary, a passion's flame,
Each brushstroke a story, a heartfelt claim.
Colors reflecting your soul's desire,
A window to your thoughts, a burning fire.

More than just colors, a language untold,
Silent spaces captured, a story bold.
The tension before the spark ignites,
Electricity humming, a sweet delight.

A monochrome existence, dull and plain,
Your technicolor world, a joyful strain.
Hues and shades, a perfect blend,
A world transformed, a loving friend.

Emotions poured, a canvas bare,
Dreams and fears, a loving pair.
A puzzle to solve, a story to tell,
Confessions revealed, a magic spell.

Desires and ambitions, a hidden art,
Deepest thoughts, a loving start.
Intricate patterns, a swirling maze,
Stories waiting, in endless days.

Delving deeper, a new sight,
Eyes opened wide, a guiding light.
A world transformed, a vibrant hue,
A colorful mosaic, me and you.

Years carry less, a foundation strong,
Youthful audacity, a righting wrong.
Irony stings, a sweet surprise,
An old man captivated, beneath his eyes.

Limitations fall, a newfound grace,
Endless possibility, a loving space.
Art, a way of life, a guiding hand,
New eyes to see, across the land.

A sleepwalker, drifting through the night,
Now wide awake, a shining light.
Brushstrokes speak, a silent plea,
Untold stories, wild and free.

Drawn into the depths, a loving art,
Swirl of colors, a beating heart.
The world through your eyes, a different view,
Contrasts and contradictions, ever new.

A mirror reflecting, a soul laid bare,
Confronting fears, a loving care.
Self-discovery, a journey's start,
Liberation and transformation, a loving art.

A kindred spirit, a fellow friend,
Artistic journey, without end.
Exploring boundaries, a daring flight,
A place to belong, a guiding light.

Unleashing colors, a wild display,
A world transformed, a brighter day.
A masterpiece, a loving art,
A bond that unites, a loving start.

Forever changed, a new-found grace,
A part of something, a loving space.
A world alive, with possibility,
Eternally grateful, me and thee
Let the world be filled with color, delight, inspiration, and the grey fade in lieu of the bountiful colors of life.
48 · Jan 23
Why? (2024)
Jiāwén Liú Jan 23
I tried to show you,
But I think you don’t know
Through my red eyes
You don’t know, I couldn’t tell you

Then like a fragrance on the wind,
Flowers in bloom,
My heart pounds like it’s in a cage
And when I see you, I feel like I may cry

Time passes, sands that standstill
My heart in my throat
I realize what is happening
Something I tried so hard not to let happen

You have become something precious to me
Why?
I dream, and it’s of you
Why?

Tell me, why do I feel the way I do?
How did this happen, I tried, thought I was careful
Not only for my sake, but yours as well
As I don’t want to be hurt any more than I want to hurt someone

But I fell for you, I did
Why?  I could give a thousand reasons, any one would suffice
Then the unexpected, you fell for me
Why?  I didn’t plan this, I didn’t see this

Why do I love you?  Does it need to be defined?
The only thing that is of note, is that I do; with everything I have.
Why do you love me?  Again, it doesn’t require an answer.
It is what it is; you love me, I love you.

We will be together for years,
Loving each other endlessly, unconditionally, forever
Does the question need to be answered – no.
The only answers are to the only questions that mean anything.

Do you love me?  Always and Forever.
Will you marry me?  Yes, what took you so long?
And do you take me, faults and all, to cherish and love forever as husband and wife?
Which will always be a resounding, “YES”
Sometimes you need to ask why. I was no different. In the end, the question pales in comparison to the answers.
Jiāwén Liú Jan 22
In the quiet of the night, a projector's beam,
A canvas painted with memories, a life's supreme.
Ektachrome slides, a flickering show of time,
A journey through the years, a life sublime.

A child's laughter, pure and bright,
A mother's love, a guiding light.
Triumphs and joys, a colorful hue,
But beneath the surface, a darker view.

Defeats and sadness, a somber tone,
Tears that fall, a heart alone.
Loved ones lost, a poignant sight,
A bittersweet echo, fading light.

More people lost than gained, a lonely path,
A heart heavy with grief, a soul's aftermath.
Yet through the shadows, a glimmer of hope,
A resilience that endures, a spirit that soars.

In the quiet of the night, the projector's beam,
A life's reflection, a bittersweet dream.
Ektachrome slides, a testament to time,
A journey through the years, a life divine.
Reminiscing of the past, slides of the past, a history that unfolds.
Jiāwén Liú Jan 23
I find myself, alone this Christmas
My love is a thousand miles away
And they are alone too
Is it too much to ask for a Christmas Miracle?

Through the cold brisk winter night
The freezing rain begins to fall
Too warm for snow, too cold for rain
The season seems to fight against us

I often wonder, is she thinking of me
Or a least thinking as much as I do
The very thoughts linger, like the warmth of her kiss
The feelings fresh in my heart, this longing

I don’t deserve her, don’t know how I got this lucky
She is an angel, no – Celestial Dragon
My benevolent protector, she mends my heart
I’m hers, her Stoic Knight, I rescued her heart

Yet I feel sorrow on this winter’s night
Sleet stinging my face, tears freezing to my cheek
The pain of the distance creeps in, but I maintain hope
The beat of my heart, felt many leagues away.

We share the light of our hearts
We share the warmth of our kisses
We share the comfort of our embraces
We share a love beyond the distance.
The holidays can be lonely for those away from family and loved ones. I am no exception. Find someone, Hold someone, and share the warmth of the Holidays with those who seem lost and alone.
39 · Jan 23
So Far Away (2024)
Jiāwén Liú Jan 23
I have this overwhelming feeling
A loneliness I can’t escape
Long days, with thoughts of you
I’m falling in love with you again

I don’t know if you will ever know
How it is to have someone forever in your thoughts
You consume my existence
As my heart cries out, hoping you will hear

Morning hues, a sunrise that brings me light
Remind me of you, your palette of choice
Your brushstrokes upon the canvas
Tells the tale of your heart

Can you feel,
The warmth of my heart?
How it beats for you?
The longing that is deeply engraved upon it?

I am so very lonely
Yet my feelings remain unchanged
An overflowing cup that never empties
As I fall in love with you, again, every day anew

The sun sets, the night sky
Your darkened palette
Brushstrokes painted by the pale moonlight
As the end grows near for the long day

You are So Far Away
My feelings are eternal, never letting go
As I wake every morning to your colors
As I retire every evening to darkened skies

My heart yearns for thee
Unchanged feelings
Can you feel my love across this distance?
The quantum entanglement of our souls?

I have fallen in love with you, every day
A year of longing
Ten months of love-filled thoughts
So far away, but always in my heart
I wrote this during the holidays, being away from the one I love.  Trying to cope with the loneliness, the longing, and yearning of my heart.  Love sometimes can consume you, and in the silence of the distance, sometimes clarity eludes you.
37 · Jan 23
Unworthy (2001)
Jiāwén Liú Jan 23
In memory of the fallen heroes, I stand
A US Marine who bore witness to war's hand
Bravery and sacrifice, are etched in my mind
As I carry the weight of the ones left behind

Medals shine brightly on my chest
But they feel heavy, a constant test
For I did not earn them, not truly
The real heroes are gone, so unruly

Gallantry, Valor, Honor, Hero
These words now feel so hollow
For it was my brothers who truly deserved
To be honored, respected, and preserved

I fought in battles afar, and I survived
While they lay on the battlefield, deprived
Of the chance to come back home
To their families, where they truly belong

I am unworthy of these accolades
For I live, while they lie in their graves
Their memory lives on in my heart
As I carry their legacy, I am never apart

So here lies a US Marine
Proud to have served, yet still unseen
For the real heroes are the ones who fell
Amid the battle, where they dwelled

Rest in peace, my brothers in arms
For you are the true heroes, with all your charms
I will never forget the sacrifices you made
And I will honor you, until my final day.
In the windmills of my mind
Lies a battle yet to be defined
A constant struggle between heart and mind
Love's challenge, should I tilt or should I withdraw

The windmills turn, creak, and groan
From the force of emotions unknown
Should I take the plunge, embrace the unknown
Or retreat and keep my heart stone

Like a ship caught in a storm
I toss and turn, my thoughts forlorn
Should I let love's flame burn bright
Or douse it out, retreat into the night

The windmills of my mind spin round
A carousel of emotions, leaving me bound
To the whims of love's fickle hand
Should I stay or should I withstand

The winds of change blow fierce and strong
As I navigate the path of right and wrong
Should I follow my heart's sweet song
Or cut ties, bid love so long

The windmills turn, a never-ending dance
Of love's sweet seduction, leaving me in a trance
Should I surrender to its tempting call
Or build walls, protect my heart's fragile wall

The windmills of my mind whisper and sigh
A symphony of doubts, fears, and why
Should I risk it all for love's sweet embrace
Or play it safe, protect my heart's delicate grace

The windmills of my mind
A labyrinth of choices, intertwined
Love's challenge, should I tilt or should I withdraw
Only time will tell, the answer I shall unearth and draw
23 · 14h
Discord (2007)
In the dark depths of Tartarus, where chaos reigns
Eris, the goddess of discord, dwells in eternal pain
Tortured and tormented, she weeps in despair
Her laughter turned to madness, her beauty marred by care

Once a radiant goddess, beloved by all
Now a cursed figure, doomed to fall
Her mischief and schemes, her lies and deceit
Led to her downfall, her ultimate defeat

In her twisted realm, where shadows dance
The sailor ventures, seeking chance
Lost in the labyrinth of her twisted mind
He faces the demons of his own kind

Whispers of betrayal, echoes of fear
A chorus of voices in his ear
Eris watches, with twisted delight
As the sailor succumbs to the endless night

His ship sails on a sea of black
Caught in the web of Eris's attack
His crew whispers of mutiny, of doubt
As discord spreads, inside and out

The sailor's dreams are haunted by strife
His past mistakes, his wasted life
He longs for the light, for a way out
But Eris's grip is strong, there is no doubt

In Tartarus, time stands still
A prison of torment, an endless thrill
Eris laughs, in her twisted glee
As the sailor falls, on bended knee

But in the darkness, a spark ignites
A glimmer of hope, a flicker of light
The sailor rises, with newfound strength
To face the goddess, at any length

He confronts Eris, in her twisted lair
Her eyes gleaming with a malevolent glare
But the sailor stands tall, unyielding and strong
Defiant in the face of all that is wrong

With a roar of defiance, he breaks free
From Eris's grip, from her twisted decree
He sails out of Tartarus, into the light
A hero victorious, in the eternal fight

And Eris, in her twisted domain
Is left to ponder, in her eternal pain
The sailor's courage, his unwavering will
A flicker of hope, in a world so still

For in the darkness, there is always light
In the depths of despair, there is always fight
And the sailor's victory, his triumphant way
Shines brightly in the endless day.
In the still of the night, I sit alone
With nothing but my thoughts to keep me company
The darkness envelopes me like a shroud
And I find myself lost in its depths

I watch as the stars twinkle above
Their light so far away, yet so comforting
But it is the aurora that catches my eye
Dancing across the sky, a beautiful display

But even as I gaze upon its beauty
I can't help but feel a sense of loneliness
For you are the light in my life
Yet the darkness surrounds me, suffocating

I long to reach out to you
To feel your warmth and love so true
But you are far away, out of reach
And I am left here, drowning in my thoughts

I think of all the moments we shared
The laughter, the love, the joy
And I realize how much I miss you
How your absence weighs heavy on my heart

I close my eyes and imagine your face
Your smile, your eyes, your touch
And for a moment, I am at peace
But then the darkness creeps back in

I try to push it away, to banish it for good
But it lingers, like a shadow in the night
And I am left feeling lost and alone
Yearning for the light of your presence

So I sit here, staring into the darkness
Searching for a glimmer of hope
A sign that you are thinking of me too
That I am not alone in this vast emptiness

But until that moment comes
I will continue to fight against the darkness
To hold onto the memory of your light
And to keep you close in my heart forever more.
Beneath the scorching sun of despair,
Desert sands stretch like a cursed prayer.
Lost in dunes of endless solitude,
A lone soul tormented by internal feud.

Through the fog of war, a monster lurks,
Fear gripping tightly, shadows smirk.
Lost brothers haunt the restless night,
Rage of war fueling the inner fight.

In the abyss of self-destruction's embrace,
Lies loneliness, a chilling empty space.
Death whispers secrets of failure's toll,
A war-torn heart trapped in its own hellhole.

Betrayed by fate and drowning in chaos,
The soul battles demons with unyielding loss.
Evil shadows dance in the fiery light,
A haunting reminder of humanity's blight.

Memories poison the mind with bitter taste,
Madness grips tighter in this desolate waste.
A realm of uncertainty and insecurity bound,
In solitude's grip, screams remain unheard sound.

The darkness within mirrors the outside strife,
In the dystopian canvas where monsters thrive.
Tormented by nightmares and fighting through the haze,
The descent into madness, a relentless maze.

Visions of the past haunt the broken mind,
Echoes of screams and battle cries bind.
The line between reality and illusion blurred,
Swallowed by the darkness, a tragic word.

Shadows dance in the flickering light,
Whispers of demons in the dead of night.
The soul, a prisoner of its own creation,
Falling deeper into the abyss of damnation.

Each step taken leads further astray,
Lost in the labyrinth of mind's decay.
A descent into madness, a frightening sight,
A battle for sanity in the dead of night.

The mind, a battleground of twisted thoughts,
A warzone of memories that cannot be fought.
Haunted by specters of the past,
The descent into madness, a shadow cast.

In the depths of despair, hope fades away,
Madness consuming the light of day.
The soul, a vessel adrift in the sea,
Lost in the turmoil of insanity.

Beneath the scorching sun of despair,
Descent into madness, an endless snare.
A journey through the darkest night,
A soul consumed by eternal fright.

In the realm of darkness, chaos reigns,
Madness grips tighter, driving one insane.
Lost in the labyrinth of twisted dreams,
Descent into madness, or so it seems.

Each step taken leads deeper within,
A descent into madness, a battle to win.
Haunted by ghosts of the past,
The soul struggles to break free at last.

In the realm of shadows, demons wail,
Descent into madness, a chilling tale.
A journey through the depths of night,
A soul consumed by eternal fright.

The descent into madness, a dark abyss,
A journey through the mind's twisted mists.
Lost in the labyrinth of endless despair,
A soul tormented, beyond repair.

In the darkness, whispers of the lost,
Descent into madness, a heavy cost.
The mind, a prisoner of its own design,
Lost in the echoes of time.

In the heart of darkness, a soul cries out,
Descent into madness, filled with doubt.
A battle for sanity, a war within,
Lost in the shadows of eternal sin.

The descent into madness, a twisted fate,
A soul consumed by internal hate.
Haunted by demons of the past,
The soul descends into madness, the die is cast.
In the labyrinth of confusion,
I stand at the edge of oblivion,
Peering into the abyss of grief,
Lost in a maze of despair and disbelief.

Love's deception led me astray,
Into a sea of tears, I slowly fade away.
Desolate and abandoned, my heart cries out,
For the light that once shone bright, is now in doubt.

The weight of my sorrow is too much to bear,
As I journey through this realm of despair.
I find myself alone, lost to all time,
In a darkness where even the stars won't shine.

The echoes of my pain reverberate,
Through the winding corridors of my fate.
I search for a way out, a path to redemption,
But all I find is endless deception.

Judgment awaits me at the precipice of despair,
As I confront the demons that linger there.
The truth of my heart is laid bare,
In the labyrinth of confusion, I am ensnared.

The love inside me has long since died,
Leaving my soul withered and dried.
I reach out for a lifeline, a thread of hope,
But all I grasp is the fraying rope.

Desperation grips me, as I sink deeper,
Into the mire of sorrow, where nothing is sweeter.
I long to break free, to find my way,
But the darkness surrounds me, leading me astray.

I am consumed by the abyss of grief,
Trapped in a cycle of endless disbelief.
The ferryman beckons, his hand outstretched,
To lead me away, to a place beyond death.

I take his hand, my fate sealed,
In the labyrinth of confusion, my wounds never healed.
I drift into the darkness, where light cannot reach,
A soul adrift, lost in the depths of the breach.

The sea of tears swallows me whole,
As I surrender to the depths of my soul.
I am lost to all time, a mere whisper in the wind,
In the labyrinth of confusion, my journey begins.

— The End —