To my beloved father who's no longer with us; I wish you were here to see me now.
I'm the little girl in a grown up body who grew up to be a woman you can be proud of.
I miss you dearly my beloved father who gets half of the credit for my being on this earth.
I've a great appreciation of your patient and learned words; I followed in your foot steps.

Feel blue at times because you left before I had the chance to tell you how much I love you.
We both know you're looking down and rooting for me as I experience parenting first hand.
I know your job wasn't easy and I understood when you said no; it was with good reason.
But that little girl in me often wishes you were still here for that occasional  heart to heart.

Miss you and always be grateful and never forget what you taught through great example.
Never "ever" saying, "Do as I say kid, but turn blind eyes away from Dad's bad actions".
I'll always be thankful for you showing me integrity in words that mirrored your actions.  
I'm grateful you allowed me to make mistakes and gently guided me with your wisdom.

From you I learned; No matter how much life pushes you to extremes, you keep fighting.
From you I learned; Love and respect of life even when faced with hate born from illogic.
From you I learned; Love self enough to set free all that damages physically & emotionally.
From you I learned; To proudly stand alone when necessary, never to cower; face my fears.
  
Though your life on this planet was cut short, what you taught will last infinite life times.  
You were the kind of dad everyone loved and admired; you brought joy by your presence.
There are so many things I vividly remember about you and shared with my own children
You worked extremely hard to provide for us and showed Nothing worthwhile is ever easy

Happy Father's Day 2013 to my beloved father and all dads every where!

Up early as usually but this time with a mission to complete Halloween Costumes.
Not a pain free day most definitely, but have kids who rely on me to be a good mom.

Everyone has haters; the two faced, "your girls" wanting your guy or envy clothes style,
or randoms you never met, desiring your life, home or new car bought with hard work.

Most days what's posted on sites about me makes not a bit of difference in my world,
I ignore and move on with my life, know haters have nothing better to do than gossip.

No news is good news and nothing from my usual "Town Criers" saying "Guess What?"
One day got messages in text, "You have been labeled Babylon's ***** by Craiglisters!"

Not a "lol" nor "Roflmao" situation. Thinking, What in the world? and How in the world?
Me, Ms. Abstaining and they, who love assuming and posting drama without thought.

Their world; small town America and believers of truth in "all" internet rumors and media,
not willing to give benefit of doubt, once minds, so limited in thought, have been made up.

E-mail inquiries from potential employers I never met from destinations far far away,
asking and informing that person with such low morals shall never be part of their world.

Drama finds me and neither welcome nor do I seek it out, way too emotionally draining,
believer in live and let live, authored "Celibacy" poem to stop jokes made to my kids.

Who knew that trying for your dreams could bring forth bringers or illogical pure hatred?
Who knew that emotions of my children whom I love, would be affected by narrow minds?

After family conference and with full support, by the way, had to explain "*****" to son,
this mom carries on and still on second journey pursuing dreams and making realities.

If I give up dreams it will never be because someone posted bold faced lies on open forum,
it will be because I choose to do it with good reasons and those reasons are mine alone.

Pitfalls? Have been numerous. Will? Strong and still determined to see this through to end.
Tomorrow isn't promised and hear my dad say, "Daughter, go forth and let haters be fuel!"

Retailers hope to net profits with the overlapping of holiday seasons.
Thanksgiving is yet to be history; but, out comes the Christmas trimmings.
No big surprise seeing holiday reminders arriving and filling mail box,
comes with pre-season, this early blitz of commercials on tv now the net.

Early arrival of holiday brings bell ringers standing between shopper's exit,
a failure to repeat and repeat donations, brings looks of extreme displeasure.
Each and every time you enter or exit discount, drug, and many retail stores,
shoppers face not only bell ringers; but, 365 days donate at register requests.

Most can't equal billion dollar give aways by Bill and Melinda Gates' circle.
Most work extremely hard and donate but also choose to live on budgets.
I donate and have nothing against charities; but, how much should one give?
Retailers, putting shoppers on the spot, asking for donations upon check out?

Never a pinch penny when it comes to sharing when there's an "actual" need,
generosity is always a personal choice, I let guilt not be my companion in giving.
Multiple donations to canister's of amnesiac holiday bell ringers? Wont happen!
Nothing against legit charities; but, giving until you're broke, you "will" be needy.

Proud to be celibate and writing "not" from a place called "be ashamed".  
Touchy subject and taboo to most, this discussion of abstinence.
For me it's about keeping most intimate physical part of my being,
untouched by man until heart joins in marriage to the one I love.
Not judging lifestyle choices or anyone who makes personal decisions
based upon their own beliefs and what they feel is right for them.
Times I've been in love? Proud to say, I can count on only "one" hand.
My body "is" my temple and all parts to be shared only with my true love.

You were the rebel, the prisoner, the fighter for a people without rights,
a people who fought valiantly and with hopes and visions of equality.

Such a pity, the greater population of the world lived in ignorance
and denial of the existence of the endless fight and plight of a people.

War in the streets, the blood and bodies of men, women and children
was common sight witnessed and price paid to gain basic rights of human.

After over a quarter of a century and pressures building to gain your freedom;
unconditionally, you arose like the phoenix and emerged to greet sunlight.  

A continuing mission of freedom and liberation of a people oppressed,
remained upper most in the heart and mind of one who would not rest.

You emerged from the darkness, seeing the walls of apartheid standing,
standing strong against your beliefs and be architect of it's destruction.

Who could foresee that the island with bars housing a man with resolve
would foster a journey of a prisoner to wise and great leader of a people?

Engaging in conversation with you renewed distant past memories,
nostalgia's brush strokes painting the enchantment of quaint scene.
Do we, two mere humans, stand a fighting chance against kismet?
Can we rewind to a time of trust, love, serenity and best friendship?
Felt euphoric and wistful catching glimpses of your brazen glances,
same look of longing witnessed in your eyes when we shared our lives.
Fate's timing or did you request the radio station to play that song?
Same dedicated song Delilah played for me at your request in past.
Thanks for the laughs and view of past that brought back memories,
such great  memories that bring to mind why I fell in love with you.

Seven score and eleven years after the Emancipation Proclamation;
I'd like to thank my community for finally acknowledging his memory.  
Wanting to view historical document written by Rev. Martin Luther King,
logged on and took a virtual trip to our ever expanding National Archives.

His views on day of historic speech, "Heartwarming to see this marvelous,
gigantic group of people here from all over the nation to give witness."
I'm giving credit to ABC news for being allowed to hear the man's words
from his own mouth without having to read them in black and white.

There's no argument in regards to race differences and that we the people,
have miles to go before we are at similar mindset in climate of opinion.
Spotlight should shine brightly on how far we've come as we the people,
away with all the negatives of no hopes of ever achieving racial harmony.

If MLK were alive today he'd see many positive changes and would see
his dream is still alive and well though we have miles to journey's end.
Yes, Dr. Martin Luther King, you are appreciated as we honor your day.
I have many reasons to thank you and all who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

My children are allowed to attend any public school they wish without fear.
I can now sit in the front of the bus without fear of arrest or a mob beating.  
There are no laws preventing me from front door entry of public buildings.
Thanks so much! I'm free to date or marry any person of any race I choose.

The list above is just a small sampling of all the changes his life evoked.
I'm thankful he was gifted to our planet in period of time he was needed.
He is missed by the planet and those of us who are grateful that he existed.
Dr. Martin Luther King was true Visionary with foresight to see great things.

Upon waking yesterday morn, the temperature was 8 degrees;
cancellation of events and slippery icy roads, disliking winter!
T'was out driving and dealing with the limited visibility; freezing.
Wasn't fun maneuvering usually two lane streets; turned one.

I'm sitting here wide awake and staring at ice crystal windows,
went to bed last night, temperature was frigid sub zero; No joke!
The furnace had a busy night keeping this old drafty house warm.
My cute little budgie who "was" chirping, is now sleeping on perch.  

Giving a memory of yesterday brief thought and still find it funny.
Went shopping after losing the debate of exiting a warm vehicle.
Over heard a conversation regarding me, based on the "assumed".
The two ladies(without a doubt) read what's posted on net sites.

Standing in the next aisle, ears slightly alert, hearing my full name.  
Should I walk up to say, "hello!" or tell them to mind own business?
Found it amusing and a bit flattering, despite negative words used.
Did they see me enter the store or did they even care that I heard?

If I were indeed the "rumored" witch, I'd melt every inch of snow.
Why did these villagers "presume" I'm holder of necromancer's card?
Defective reasoning of me practicing "voodoo" and casting many spells.
A bit of food for thought; It's one-dimensional and illogical thinking.

Sorry you're not finding it to your liking and to my knowledge,
"Borrowing" isn't the "norm" on this site, it's the exception to the rule.
I read poems; but, far less than what's posted. Who has that much time?  
From what I gather, the alleged person who "borrowed", was a tad upset.
Upset and sought revenge due to comments she didn't agree with at all.
Her revenge; a rapid and endless stream of posting posts by fellow poets?
I am so not into and highly allergic to mentally draining drama. ARRGH!
I'm on daily when I create poetry and my friends are also to lend support.
Does it matter how many hours adults spend on this site or on the net?
Better question; Is it really anyone's business? Short answer; Who cares!
In regards to criticism in general: They're "personal opinions" and that's it.
If you fall apart, get upset or are seeker of revenge over random's comments,
lock yourself indoors, don't go out in public and don't post on the internet.
What's truly impossible; Finding a way to please everyone at the same time.  
Grow a thick skin, roll with the punches and graciously learn to take criticism.

When I was a little girl, having grown weary from braiding countless tall blades of grass,
I lay staring at clear blue sky, listening, repeating verses you set to tune and strummed.  
It was morn of your twenty something birthday, who, but you, knew I was gifted in song?
Uncle, you heard a girl echo your words, then called me over, asking me to sing with you.  

I was thinking of you as I sang one of the songs you wrote so long ago, seems a lifetime.
I think and remember all the good times and when you'd say, "Come on little bit, get it!"
That while you were strumming your guitar and showing me some of your how to's.  
Miss you much, musically gifted with meeting of minds, best guitar walker in the place.

At studio, had memories of you and the happy times and, of what you meant to me,
closed my eyes a few times while running songs with guitarist, sighed, he wasn't you.  
I wondered during session, if anyone but you, would've recognize in me what you saw.
May you rest in peace and wish you had the chance to realize how gifted you were.

I will forever treasure the smart, strong, inovative, loving, caring,(I could go on and on),
men in my life who set examples, giving me knowledge needed to pass on to my sons.
Loved you so much! You were a fellow musician, my protector, my guru, my friend.  
I still grieve your loss and celebrate your life and fact that you always found humor in life.

By the time you read this post I'll be extremely busy as usual.
The kids, long conference calling, mtg with my producer, etc.
It's a fun and exciting life; but, much hard work and long hours.
The hard worker you are knows well the full picture I'm painting.

Thanks so much for sharing and trusting that I'd understand;
in this very public way no less, I do believe you to be truthful.
I read your warning about what she was saying on cl about you.
Rants isn't the only section where people post twisted truths.

Hard to believe anyone is still so bitter after nearly three years.
Did find amusement in her belief she's entitled to your cards.
Been to or know of  many of those places she mentioned; unreal!
Her time would best be served seeking higher wage employment.

To answer your Q regarding: how many marriages and my stalkers.
In prison, one is released, others: now dead like my first husband.
His father passed, he disconnected and became a very broken man.
Been engaged four times and actually walked down the aisle twice.

Being engaged is one thing, me saying the I do is different story.
I've been asked for my hand in marriage countless times.
If you've forgotten my views on celebacy: re-read my poem on that topic.
Hope that answers your questions regarding what you asked.

g2g! Have a good day and w.s.u.i.w.l.m.

From American shores bordering the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic and beyond,
I'm very proud to join the tribute and celebration of Veterans both dead and alive.
You've served this country, our friends and neighbors, both domestic and abroad,
giving so much of yourselves without selfish thought or huge financial rewards.
Joining the salute of "all" Veterans and no words could ever hope to convey gratitude
felt by me and all who appreciate and honor your sacrifice and a job so well done.

Originally posted 10-7-13 Deleted repost*

Forever standing by a princess trapped in the primative land called "Killer of Dreams".
In you "she" sees that light at the end of tunnel of darkness sent from heaven above.
To you "she" is the sun, the earth and all in the galaxy that's right in your world.
To "she" you are that one of a kind and rare being who is deserving of eternal love.

You sit by shore in palatial abode atop mountain but not part of valley's kingdom,
patient like no other since the creation of man brave descendant of Adam's Eve.
Against odds, "she" finds small rays of light in desolate land filled with raw hate.
Jailer dares only visit desolate place of hate briefly but keeps "she" captive resident.

Sharing life's continuing dance of when will she re-start and if he will stop loving?
Enchanted day(music's fading), "she" will at last finally select life's destined partner.
Burning question; Will it be you handsome brave knight who sits upon his charger?
Unknown! She loves you but "she's" the searcher and seeks what feels right to her.

My morning has been filled(thus far) with going about my busy life,
spending time with kids, answering questions only mom's can.
Spent a moment or two reflecting upon the swiftly fading year; and,
realizing I've no regrets, looking forward to coming year and more.

Thankful for my children growing up strong and well adjusted,
thankful they are great students who work hard to make the grade.
Grateful to have male friends who know hi means hi and that's it,
never assume my kindness means, "Hey there! Wanna you know what?"

I have some items on my walls that are meant to inspire or motivate;
favorite quotes: "Great Spirit, grant that I may not criticize my neighbor",
"Never sweat the small stuff, in the end it's all small stuff", when people
are negative, I like coco's,  "I don't care what you think about me!" quote.

Most recent knee treatments give hope that I'll be walking without pain;
if that should happen, Great! If not, what did I lose, had to try something.
Miss wearing my little red dress and that **** gold with fringe number,
I have hopes I'll be that very tiny size and proudly wear both dresses again.  

Extremely happy I have non judgmental friends with accepting hearts.
Am I content being alone? YES! I don't need a man to complete me.
I'm highly content to post poetry on Hellopoetry only occasionally,
I'm happy to be the musefulspirit posting, own thoughts, on blog spot.

Happy New Year 2014 to one and all!




.

As I stared out into the endless darkness from my bay window,
I became suddenly aware  that the stillness of the night
had been broken by raindrops that fall from a sad and crying sky.  

Vitally aware that upon morrow my life would be changed
and  permanently altered in a way that could never be
pleasing to this architect of wonderous thoughts.

Sitting patiently at that window, never daring to move and
barely breathing. Hoping upon hope that some twist of fate
would change my destiny as written in days before.

As the rising of the sun's rays kissed the darkness bringing forth
the break of dawn, hope dwindles, but life as we know it goes on.

Dear Alexander, this isn't another "Dear John" letter! : )
This is my letter to a very sweet guy who is my friend.
You are still my trusted confidant after all these years.
I share with you all the things I never share with most.

Each day I wake and begin my day with positive attitude.
Meditating under darkened skies before light kisses earth.
Feeling cleansed and well rested after meditation session.
Hoping that thing in my tree isn't the Devil from Jersey.

Yes, that large, dark, silent and winged figure visits still.
When I caught sight of him, I actually pinched myself.  
Closed my eyes and he was still there; maybe it's lonely.
Trying to find humor, this isn't covered by animal control.

Sealed with a big hug,

Betty

I admit it, I kinda sorta knew that since childhood,
what your title implies might be the gospel truth.
The day that thought made entry into my head,
was one warm rainy day in my a kindergarten class.

Very content was I playing games with the others,
many young men of age five and six did appear.
Shy were they mainly but some were quite bold.
Said one, "You're pretty Betty, we like your bow!"

The boys went not to far away and along came girls,
who wanted that bow because the boys liked it.
One girl went so far as to take it out of my hair,
my tidy ponytail was no more when it was removed.

Thankful for the boys who acted as gallant knights,
they came and took back bow, then off went the girls.
Later in day I told me my mother about the incident,
she said, "Jealous girls and the boys like you Betty!"

My father was informed, he smiled, kissing my forehead.
He said, "Never change who you are and always be you.
No matter what you gain in life somebody wont like you."
He hugged me then we went outside to look the clouds..

All went well with the producer
g2g, smiles to you and peace out!

Love is never judgmental and is accepting of our short comings, ours stumblings and falls.
Always given freely and sets no terms or conditions to the one who is to be receiver of love.
Love is given willingly, unconditionally, without thought to agendas or materialistic rewards.
Sees wonderful qualities and beauty within and is never repulsed or put off by physical flaws.
Never ending, at times, but level and intensity changes with passage of circumstance and time.
It never deliberately brings forth feelings of being broken or endless depression; love is kind.
Sharing of grievances falls upon open mindedness and ears ready and set to listen and hear you.
Love never takes a pregnant pause or hesitates in acceptance of being who you were born to be.
Knowing no one born of human or other forms on this planet is perfect; include self, is love.
Love inspires random acts of kindness without thought of any form of personal benefit to self.
Realness in love makes you feel as if you can climb the highest mountains and reach it's peaks;  
forever encourages, but never seeks destruction of mutually healthy relationships and dreams.

................................

Early bad memory of writings; teacher accused me of plagiary.
Untruth, but at age eight, was thought words far "too" advanced.
Same holds true with drawings and paintings entered in contests.
"No child her age could create these!" was written to my mother.
"It is our expert opinion that her entries are from someone else."
No interest in turth, but came to me disqualifications; that's life!
With an understanding that you find my words a great read,
your imitations are flattering, but they're not your life or truths.
Writing for me comes easy, been that way seems all my life,
always something happening that inspires just the right words.
Wont ramble on and hoping you will remove and not repeat.

I never let what that teacher said or the people who refused to believe
that I could create art stop me from being who I was born to be.

You were the dream maker lacking impediments and I the wanting of nothing.
Hesitant heart of mine leery of blissful nature of love thou bestowed upon me.
Whilst thou who is handsome of face and perfection of body lay in slumber's state,
took flight in night and prayed I would not waken the keeper of frightened heart.

T'was you my gallant knight who stole  my heart when least I wanted or expected,
t'was you who brought light to the darkness of dreams and made night terrors fade.
You who never questioned where I'd been but sought to bring out the best in me.
Life with you my kindred spirit was near perfection with never a dull moment.

Vous serez toujours dans mon coeur.
Vous serez egalement mon port dans la tempete.
Essayant de ne pas faire trop d'erreurs,
si je le fais, sourire, t'aime mon ami.

Since early childhood I've never been one to actively seek the "dramatic" in life; it emotionally drains, it's a blocker of productivity and, quite frankly, it's stupid.
In the sandbox there's always that little one who is perfectly happy to play alone; that would be me avoiding those in love with all the ups and downs drama creates.

There are no better times in life for me than finding that serene inner peaceful place;
the one I seek out when the world seems to be going mad without base of rationale.
The wise of life have looked within the depths of my eyes and deemed me "old soul";
I was too young at that time to understand until another learned elder explained it.

Was still too young to fathom all entailed or why I was chosen born an aged soul; but knew, even at that age, all things happen for a reason and when meant to be.

As I grow older the passage of time for me seems to quicken; Which made me realize when I was very young, life is brief and is not to be wasted on anything related to the toxic or anyone's energy draining emotional drama.

Because as we all age, we run even faster towards the grave.

I could care less how many hours you spend on the net or what you do when you're on. I have no clue who you are nor do I care to know you. You crossed the line in claiming one of my poems as your own.

Please be advised, It takes only a few minutes to upload electronically to the Library of Congress. Also, please be advised, certificates have been issued under the seal of the Copyright Office that attests the registration of all my poems on this site have been identified as being solely created and owned by me, Betty Ponder. There are stiff fines and penalties for attempting to take credit for works that are not your own.

Below you will find the link to the poem regarding Nelson Mandela I wrote and you get no credit for it being that I don't know you and we have never met or collaborated on anything.

http://hellopoetry.com/poem/untitled-26927/

Betty Ponder