I don't need fame:
it will tarnish my name

The past might be relevant
but don't make it your point of reference:
the circumstances now aren't the same
the present is an entirely new game!

You asked me then
what I was waiting for
the truth is
I wasn't  sure

I was looking at the sea
from the shore
totally absorbed
an experience I never had before

such moments are rare
beyond what the mind can explore
the Zen of being in silence
with such mystery in store

and now I've grown
gray and old-- on the same shore
that past moment I can't re-capture
vanished is that wondrous sense of awe.

flesh became the silent cathedral
who whispers of bread.

the child's eyes
as black a veil as the Gaza night
have not tasted hope
                                                            ­            
and the multitude of the thin, faces sallow,
ghost the empty cooking pots
that offer Lilies

when hunger falls heavy
the moment before a scream
the sorrow sparrows grieve
what hell waits softly with silent breath.

once upon a time in the Holyland
the earth forgot to morn
and silence wrote the ending.

tip toes to an imaginary line
drawn in the sand,
speaks in shadows,

tenderness, raw and sharp.

raised by wolves
she chews to the bone.

kiss the wind
my love is gone.

I marvel at Nature's wonders--
A rose's scent drifting on the breeze;
I welcome the birds and their warbled words . . .
But I'd rather have Love than these

While strolling the crimson forest
The wind ruffles the leaves of the trees
In their Autumn dress.  My, how they impress!
But I'd rather have Love than these

Puppies and kittens amuse me
As they playfully taunt and tease,
Or when a butterfly catches their eye . . .
(But I'd rather have Love than fleas!)

Snow falling gently at twilight
Helps put my distraught mind at ease;
And the first signs of Spring make my heart sing . . .
But . . . I'd rather have Love than these

For Love is more precious than diamonds,
Or all the pearls in Poseidon's trawl;
But Love's Crown Jewels go unnoticed by fools.
As for me, I choose Love above all!

As daylight fades and the night takes command,
Around your heart hopelessness wraps its hand;
But I'll kiss away each tear that you cry
And ease your  heartache with my lullaby

I sense your unrest, your utter defeat,
But foes have been vanquished --- they're in retreat;
And on wings of Love your sorrows will fly
As I hold you close, singing my lullaby

The love I offer will surge through your heart,
And like startled birds all woes will depart;
But now slumber calls -- the sun waved goodbye;
Be still, close your eyes . . . hear my lullaby

No heavenly choir could mimic this art
Of poetic fealty sung by my heart;
When I hear your call, you know I'll reply --
Bringing love and my healing lullaby

And with each new dawn, hope will be reborn,
For Love conquers all, though your heart be torn;
Some days may still bring a tear and a sigh
But love will prevail . . . . love, and my lullaby!