Slowly the wheel turns 'round and 'round,
defying every superstitious claim;
That only fear surely lies ahead,
as wicked sorcerers have proclaimed.

In a conspiracy of reckless gallantry,
the people appearing restless and tired;
Like the embers flying through the sky,
from a raging, roaring and ceaseless fire.

The clock tells time but no one cares,
to know if the hour has finally come;
When spirits' light or devil's darkness,
will erase the quandaries within their homes.

They sob and pray till their voices falter,
with hopelessness from the perilous days;
Until an angel appears singing out with love,
and a promise their souls will soon be saved.

Feeling worthy now--their emotions quite shaken,
from discovering faith within the realm;
For only charity's gifts can conquer hate,
and horrors dissolve through peace and calm.

The waves of years that carry along,
our ocean of thoughts where memories belong;
Compel us all to do our part,
to ignite the passions within our hearts.

How quaintly do our treasures speak,
like stones that fall along the creek;
In mellow moments we sit and stare,
and wondering if we ever cared.

While looking back upon the days,
which sheltered us from sunlight's blaze;
As falling rain disperses each thought,
in cascading drops to cure the drought.

Our hearts and minds can be uplifted,
from spiritual notions which are gifted;
In heaven-sent moonlight from above,
the craving redeemed by eternal love.

And round and round and round we go,
our illusions parting like melting snow;
Life passes by but we've been blessed,
in ways that soulful winds caressed.

He stood so close to me,
I could feel his breath, smelling of crisp apples,
for it was autumn and we walked briskly through
the winds of change.

His long blue-black hair and celadon eyes,
captured me immediately. The slanted sun touched
his face with a coral glow as we gathered our books
and headed to his dorm.

He stopped suddenly, gently brushing his hand
through my hair,
pulling at the longest strands of auburn, then releasing
them quickly as if he'd gone too far.

I waited to see what would happen next;
the wind caressing his charcoal locks, and
swinging my red scarf in the cold, fresh air.

There was a burst of light snow, fluttering down
on us as we said goodbye. He always called me
"sport" as he knew my love was raging within me,
but he was "spoken for" by the girl back home.

Still, I wonder, if it were a different time and place,
would he have been the one. I cherished my time with him,
brief as it may have been...

And now he's with God, after a lifetime of success and joy
with his girl from home. I'll always feel blessed to have
known him; to have laughed, sung, joked, shared lunches, and cried on his shoulder about life's foibles.

Thank you, dear sir, forever. At 21, you were my guiding light !

The children played through rainy days,
just so they could see a rainbow;
It didn't happen as they'd hoped,
the sky never put on a show.

A blazing sun peaked through the trees,
and the children forgot their mission;
Turning toward their folks imploring now,
could we please have your permission ?

To take a hike into the nearby woods,
where squirrels and rabbits play;
"We promise that we won't take long",
so their elders gave them an "O.K."

They danced about the swirling fountain,
at the entrance of the jade-green forest;
Then took a trip down to the lake,
where they could lounge and take a rest.

When suddenly a burst of lightning,
carved its way through the maple trees;
Wild thunder pounded with all its might,
the wind blew harder with each breeze.

Well, the children hid inside their tent,
until the raging storm had passed;
And waiting for them in the sky above,
was a precious gift from God at last !

A rainbow carved its way across the sky,
red, yellow, green, and purple light;
Magical moments filled their hearts,
as they laughed and cheered in sheer delight.

Remember, when you least expect it,
a rainbow may come into view;
And somehow the chaos of life relents,
for the world will begin anew.

As I glance around my corner room,
a place that I call home;
The walls glistening in pearly white,
bringing peace when I'm alone.

My writing desk of hearty oak,
is carved quite intricately;
With books and papers piled high,
all arranged meticulously.

A tiny table sits by the window,
and placed there with supreme delicacy;
Is my collection of porcelain flowers,
imbuing a sense of serenity.

A Queen Anne's chair near the fireplace,
gleams in a vivid, azure blue;
With a comfy quilt of rosy pink,
lay waiting for me at noon.

The flowing diaphanous curtains,
allow rays of pale sunlight today;
While my tea-tray tempts my appetite,
for luscious tastes of scones and Earl Grey.

I could not ask for any finer things,
to set my eager mind at rest;
What a lovely way to face the world,
with a life that's genuinely blessed !

Where did all the time go ?
with my life in such a whirl;
The daylight mists have worn away,
the moon is red and curled.

Blinking my eyes continually,
in outrageous rhythm to the sounds;
Which perpetuate my lasting frenzy,
and lift my soulless being from the ground.

In twirling amazement the moon changes,
from red, to yellow, then to whitest white;
Inside my heart those colors spark dread,
and fearfully I hide myself from sight.

In blazing fireworks depicting notions,
that came to me inside my mind;
I look out and see a massive darkness,
a blackness seared through humankind.

Then peace becomes a fleeting ideal,
corrupted by the woes and sorrows;
Of everyone who seeks to covet the stars,
stacked against the canvas of bleak tomorrows.

The streets are lined with coal-dust,
the trees stand still and bare;
I wonder if the earth will turn,
it seems no one would care.

Alarming all the citizens,
the trash sits on the curbs;
And people scowl at one another,
whether in the Cities or the 'Burbs.

Is it really worth the struggle,
living days and nights like this ?
Why didn't we listen to experts,
who warned us of the abyss ?

Global warming has taken over,
the sun grows hotter every day;
We swelter in the moonlight,
as the whole world goes astray.

We've yet to learn to make a change,
in how we treat our blessed home;
Overturning the madness before us,
remember--we're not at all alone.

Fervently, we pray for guidance,
from an eternal source of grace;
And if the words are strong enough,
there's a chance we'll rescue this place.

Annoying thoughts can color dreams,
which proselytize their wanton schemes;
Intriguing worlds come into play,
while clouds of perception waste away.

The doldrums of this mournful scene,
can shatter hopes of a life serene;
A struggle lasts beyond the days,
in melancholy moments here to stay.

How do the clouds relieve our pain,
in subtle spaces which shall remain ?
Among the woolly white of fluff,
destructive signals call our bluff.

How soon the notions that perceive,
a chance to grow, a chance to grieve;
For when the night calls to the clouds,
it wraps the daylight in its shroud.

This wretched war of twenty years,
has finally come to an end;
Our soldiers and our pilots know,
coming home is around the bend.

The sacrifices our folks have made,
to bring aid to a foreign land;
With hesitancy they leave this place,
as the U.S. government has planned.

Yet while we save our very own,
many folks are still left behind;
who supported us and fought along,
our forces in this treacherous time.

Please, save the Afghan interpreters,
and those who nursed us when in need;
It's our duty to see they have a place,
of peace and calm--it's in our creed.

Let's cheer them well and bring relief,
from the enemies we've bravely fought;
We're bound by our word, the President said,
or else these heroes will be forgotten.

To higher ground our spirits soar,
when citizens pledge with honor;
For AMERICANS are the fortunate ones,
who live freely each passing hour.

You're still a child who spends her days,
in the solitude of your tiny nursery;
One doll is all you need for comfort,
like you, she's lonely, but feels free.

Inside your mind you're a princess,
who roams the halls of a palace;
With your pretty doll for company,
there's no sadness and no malice.

Yet whenever the sun floats into view,
your heart fills with some remorse;
Secluded still, beneath an azure sky,
time has followed its natural course.

A child is meant to run and play,
to be outdoors to cheer the daylight;
Katrina, please, put your doll to bed,
then open the door to a world of sunlight !

For all the crazy mixed-up days,
that sowed the seeds of future ways;
Gratefully we've said our last goodbyes,
to worn out notions before our eyes.

From those we've learned our very best,
and conquered fears put to the test;
Discovering paths that we should follow,
while reaching out for better tomorrows.

Lying in bed with rambling thoughts,
of ideals that bless our hopeful hearts;
Within our souls we sought to be,
as strong and solid as a maple tree.

And all the stars aligned in style,
urging us through the holy aisle;
Our spirits soared beyond the hills,
as tranquility settled within our wills.

For those who never felt the power,
of encouragement from hour to hour;
Regret is sadly among your fate,
for not trusting the outcome of life's debate.

The naked world defines my sorrow,
and leaves me hungry for more;
Of cherished moments under the sun,
with salt-sea kisses from a distant shore.

While lapis light shoots from the sky,
my heartbreak trends toward the stars;
Which hold my thoughts in shining array,
creating images that carry my scars.

Still wounded and faint I walk alone,
seeking solace from the nightly echoes;
Which color my sadness and regret,
leaving me cold as the winter's snow.

If this is the time I fade away,
then perhaps it's only a dream;
A phantom notion that plagues my soul,
reaches its heights--finally peaceful and serene.

An overflow of salty tears remains,
in hearts that covet love unrestrained;
The faded colors blanched and undefined,
with no more reasons left or undermined.

In quiet rooms that tell the tales beyond,
a world renowned for catastrophic bond;
Rises up and quells the cursed interference,
dismissing painful shadows in adherence.

The awesome glow of firelight brings pause,
to secrets gleaned from past events and cause;
No other sights diminished in the sphere,
dividing worlds of comfort far and near.

In due time these secrets have their way,
of revealing angry voices gone astray;
Yet wonders of the starlit sky commence,
in carrying missives in profound repentance.

Sitting in the nearly faded sunlight,
feeling early summer's warmth--
As its mercurial rays bounce about,
then linger on the wicker chairs,
and soaring upward to the still and stalwart
birch trees--
an occasional breeze dropping leaves on the
red-brick yard below.

Above us glows the day's calm and azure
sky--
Where floating clouds paint a softened view,
and the sun continues to shine on the sea-green
waters of the pool--
Appearing like dancing diamonds.

My arms and legs shift delicately--
to catch the rays of the 'golden god' of the Solstice.
With flushed cheeks I then observe the birds,
nestling among the trees,
preparing for the season--their voices singing
through the white-hot zephyrs.

The stage now set for a glorious afternoon,
as the children jump into the pleasant spring
of celadon waters--splashing, howling, screeching
with laughter--
Enjoying life, as it should be !

Assured and calm the summer rose,
along the bold and steamy land;
With burning rays of sunlight's heat,
the sultry nights of love abandoned.

Sweat poured from my face easily,
as I sat on the wrap-around porch;
With a large tumbler of mint iced tea,
refreshing briefly as the night air scorched.

It was then I recalled the sweet sea air,
where I could run down to the shore;
And with a shout I'd dive into waves,
that cooled my fever to the core.

My mind wandered to that very place,
which brought me peaceful hours;
I'd lie on the sandy beach alone,
with no worries or cares to ponder.

But reality has a way of catching up,
to imagined dreams of heavenly tides;
Taking one last sip of the now warmed tea,
the restless night brought me inside.

And there my lonely bed lay in wait,
no one around to soothe my brow;
The heat brought on a sobering sleep,
escaping visions from the here and now.

The day seems to float like wind-song,
its music carries my heart along;
Today blends wearily into yesterday,
and tomorrow I fear will fade away.

Inside my mind the whistling starts,
a tune which smothers and tears apart;
The waking stream of consciousness,
through mystic strains we all possess.

"Back to basics" seems a somber line,
for the hours spent assuaging time;
Learning how to play life's game,
while sharing moments--all the same.

Admitting things have gone awry,
one kiss and then we say goodbye;
Across the mellow fields of lavender,
we close our eyes and dance forever.

Living in a city devoid of nature's gifts,
I'd escape to the country for a respite;
Here the air was supple and fresh,
lingering softly through the sunset.

I'd skip stones into the lake of emeralds,
where the fish were at home to swim;
And deer would gather for a sweet drink,
before the afternoon daylight became dim.

A long trek to mountains ahead of me,
rescued my mind through mystical places;
It's as if I were miles away from the city,
while I visited these heavenly spaces.

Rushing waters from a nearby waterfall,
awakened me to the wonders of nature;
Their sparkle jumped from stone to stone,
and I watched like a curious wanderer.

This entire adventure made clear to me,
as I rolled out my bedding to sleep;
These picturesque visions would remain alive,
as treasured memories I would always keep.

I've pondered all the dreams that heaven sent me,
and wandered far away to find my home;
It seems my mind is taking me through darkness,
but never do I fear I'll be alone.

The world is such a wonder to behold,
it casts a giant shadow but still remains;
A window to our hearts and souls together,
where nothing fails when hopefulness is gained.

I can feel the tender grasp of windswept rain,
showering me with gems of universal calm;
The sweetness of the water shines within me,
for outside its softness clings like a gentle balm.

Alone I've been--yet never, ever wanting,
for material things which many have desired;
For my walk through life has always been a pleasure,
while inside my bones there burns a raging fire.

It stirs my steady focus through the quandaries,
and the boundaries set by those who stake their claims;
Wilder than the beasts that live among us,
are scores of spiritual yearnings which remain.

Burning high above the clouds,
a late-summer moon on display;
Warns us that our days are few,
'till the solstice will fly away.

In August the moon is wistful,
despite its white hot light;
Reminding us that Autumn's near,
leaving behind a summer's delight.

The nights are still warm and balmy,
as we lie upon the golden sands;
And count the rings around the moon,
while cuddling, hand in hand.

The moon shares all its secrets,
of enduring love and bright romance;
This August moon defines our feelings,
and leads us toward our wedding dance !

I've spent so many hours in this room,
my mother's private place to rest;
She'd read, write, and drink coffee alone,
it gave her time to be at her best.

I know how much she adored her spot,
a cozy chair sitting by the window;
Where she could observe Nature's Glory,
the snow, the rain, the sun's magic glow.

It seemed to inspire her inner self,
the one who was truly literate and wise;
She'd light a cigarette and wistfully recall,
the moments which lingered within her sighs.

Mother's intellect was greatly admired,
as a librarian she was both kind and helpful;
Thank goodness she was always our mentor,
as we struggled with our assignments from school.

This tiny room was her only refuge,
from the noise and chaos of a large clan;
I close my eyes to see her in that chair,
for this is where living and learning began.

Colder and wetter the evening grew,
with bouts of rain sweeping through;
In darkness were all the colors of night,
an opalescent gleam came into sight.

Worrisome thoughts ruminating still,
I tried to shake off the wintry chill;
Wrapped up inside a blanket of red,
while sitting at the edge of my bed.

The hallway echoed the sounds of fear,
I knew that the end could soon be near;
Fragile and weak my hands gripped tight,
as a child I was always afraid of the night.

I reached for a candle to light my way,
toward the bay window in sheets of gray;
One bolt of lightning disrupted my mind,
I prayed to the Lord that He be most kind.

Suddenly I awakened with sweaty palms,
the room was tranquil with an eerie calm;
Had it been a nightmare that followed me home,
or a memory of childhood when left alone ?

God spared me one more frightening event,
it seemed like this peace was heaven-sent;
An angel must have heard my fervent pleas,
So I dropped to the floor--on grateful knees.

The morning casts its light on us,
as we awaken to a brand new day;
You touch my hand and smile sweetly,
I sigh and kiss your shining face.

Tucked under cotton sheets we play,
our game of love 'till we're renewed;
Then gratefully rest upon our hearts,
as time arouses us--right on cue.

How generous is the spiritual life,
the soulful and sensual sights and sounds;
In silence they cast a shadow of faith,
caressing each moment--honor bound.

For love is always something soft,
gently rocking us through the ages;
And quietly whispers blessed words,
from the glow of our story's pages.

Through your vision of lightness,
a miracle glows with brightness;
A collection of hearts define it,
reminding you who's behind it.

A ladder leads up to the sky,
you climb it as if you can fly;
Yet this face is a mere illusion,
so why deal with such confusion ?

Gone away in cloudless moments,
still haunting your memory's torments;
Of pain recalled from past times,
soon erased with poems that rhyme.

And all along this path to glory,
that measures a worthless story;
The face becomes an invisible token,
of fragile words no longer spoken.

In methods shattered by modern rules,
revising all we've learned before;
When ancestors played dangerous games;
with deceitful manners we abhor.

The future is carried in the wind,
cast off in silence yet needing our aid;
The days are numbered when we can change,
our path to freedom while debts are paid.

Thinking we're 'above it all' destroys our souls,
not yet cleansed from past abominations;
We should strive to follow humanity's purpose,
which tells the tale of hope and reparations.

No wonder children are confused and afraid,
they see the world as a fiery storm;
Let's put out the flames with honor and care,
vowing to keep our progeny forever from harm.

Everyone lurked about despite the wind,
which was howling away like a tornado;
Folks displayed their massive rage,
it was reported LIVE on TV and the radio.

Citizens carried flags of dishonor,
our public servants were afraid;
Marching onward with grievous intent,
it was the ugliest of all parades.

No one could predict what would happen,
but the people seemed determine to fight;
Why in the name of God would you ****,
when decency and honor were right ?

Such a sad day for the United States,
while the Capitol was ravaged before us;
Let's stick together with REAL patriots,
as we sing the Hallelujah Chorus !

Seeking a space where I can breathe,
I wander through my bedroom;
it seems so dreary and dark within,
With a sense of impending doom.

Why did I stay within these walls,
when there's a lovely world outside ?
I have always been a reclusive girl,
but now I don't want to hide !

I've wept in solitude for weeks,
while my writing has turned sour;
I can't believe how I denied myself,
causing heartbreak from hour to hour.

Fresh air is what I need today,
not just sitting by the window;
No longer does my pen explore,
or create with a magical glow.

I wrapped myself inside my shawl,
and donned a feathered hat;
Opening the door to the autumn air,
I exclaimed, "Well, that was that" !

I'll learn to discover and make a change,
to how I perceive life before me;
Imagination is fine when you're alone,
but now I'll savor my new reality !

In peacefulness my mind floats away,
to places where I'll find;
Those wonders of the Universe,
which will comfort me through time.

I've always known that worlds beyond,
can inspire soulful healing;
They spin around within our hearts,
and grace us with cherished feelings.

While in the sleepy phase of night,
where shadows of clouds cause pain;
I coast along the gloried river banks,
escaping all that grief can claim.

In deep solace I can see the light,
of those who passed before me;
And reminisce through tears of love,
before awakening to joy and serenity.

He caught my hand as I began to fall,
the smoky night had deceived me;
In shades of gray the horror struck,
I thought no one would believe me.

The words were stuck inside my throat,
yet somehow I emitted a whimper;
His strong arms drew me close to him,
it couldn't have been any simpler.

But frightened as I seemed to be,
his eyes were a light in the dark;
Like clear and glistening raindrops,
they calmed my ravaged heart.

Memories of how I'd lost my way,
then found in swells of empathy;
He helped me see the truth of life,
I'll be thankful 'till my dying day.

The sunlight awakens us as dawn arrives,
in gentle silence glowing;
We yawn and smile our sleepy smiles,
with joy and wonder showing.

Another day to pass the time,
in lazy summer's shade;
To sit and lounge on the front porch,
with crisp iced tea and lemonade.

The blooming florals permeate the air,
with sweet and scented perfume;
We clip rosebuds for the dining table,
oh, how their beauty lights up the room !

Serene and lovely is our summer's day,
as we share in quiet thoughts;
While memories fill our peaceful hearts,
of our years together--never forgotten.

Craving essences of inner thoughts
toward picturesque portraits,
to be created by soulful words--
The Artist lets emotions run rampant
through mystical sounds and touches'
delights--
A heartfelt design from a whirling frenzy
of mindful notions,
framed into a mosaic which carries this message:
"As long as life perseveres,
there will be fables following us
leading us out of the darkness."

My life is a culmination of
a series of miraculous events;
Touched by an angel at birth,
and carried through days of delight;
Where the smell of moist lilacs hangs
in the misty air like clouds of the past,
and wonders of the future;
And the sun beats readily upon the
crystal glass from which I peer,
My roaming eyes examining the magic of
everyday moments, allowing my soul to thrive;
Connecting all that's good in the world,
to rise and comfort me in everlasting glow;
As always, with deep gratitude and amazement.

The lawn is covered in early spring's delight,
by little floral buds of golden hue;
As children we thought they were magical,
not the yellow weeds which can conquer the view.

We'd pick them slowly till our fingers were sore,
and put them together in tiny bunches;
Then bring them to Mom as a heartfelt gift,
and Oh, how she'd fuss while serving us lunch !

They'd sit in the midst of our kitchen table,
as we watched adoringly when eating sweets,
Mother's face would shine like a new penny,
while she doled out our 'after luncheon' treats.

Back into the yard we'd soon run and play,
discovering a small patch of purple violets;
And gathering them gently into our hands,
we'd run to Mom as she came down the steps.

One doesn't need money to please those we love,
a simple gesture of kindness is always the best;
For what is truly beautiful in our short lives,
is what we hold dear in our memory's "treasure chest" !

Growing in the side-yard of our house in Villa Park,
were mint leaves basking in the summer sun--
Sitting in the kitchen with windows opened wide,
the ruffled curtains fluttering in the warm breeze--
I could taste the scented air as I drank my lemonade,
poured from my grandmother Mary's heavy glass pitcher,
artfully embossed with floral etchings.


A porcelain cookie jar shaped like a happy homemaker,
sat quaintly in the corner of our green kitchen counter--
The cotton tablecloth swirled with bright colored birds,
partially shaded by the lowering of the evening sun.
Kneeling at the window I saw a bounty of honeysuckles,
which enhanced the sweetness of summer's breath.


Mom would dish out bowls of butter-almond ice cream,
a delicious treat brought earlier by her cousin Jean--
And often we'd play Scrabble long into the night,
(Mom was the brightest of us all, a winner in every way);
then we'd head outside toward the backyard pool
To watch lightning bugs flitting in delight around
our giant maple tree, catching a few as they floated past us.


Later, from my room, I'd hear the humming of the pool's filter,
and Daddy's reassuring voice practically in rhythm with the sound--
My younger siblings would grab hold of me as we chased our
playful pup down the stairs and onto the front porch--
There, we sat in the twilight watching Dad survey the moon,
with Mom commenting on the twinkling stars above--
And we knew, wholeheartedly, that love surrounded us,
before bedtime arrived and engulfed us in peaceful sleep.

Mounted high upon his mahogany desk,
those papers lined with embellished words;
Disguised with false echoes of majesty,
which tell the tales of fire and swords.

Forgetting all but one parable designed,
to open up a bleeding heart's wounds;
His inspired thoughts would float away,
in dubious flights of sights and sounds.

While caressing the pages so boldly grasped,
reminding him that words could hold the key;
To rescue the world and solve its weariness,
if only his heart would embrace validity.

Now struggling through these manuscripts,
with haunting visions of malice and grief;
His life torn apart from the wanton spirits,
while flowing cautiously toward a sense of relief.

Since living is heaven's gift to us all,
not just a plaything to scorn and toss;
We must carry the torch to higher ground,
despite our sacrifice and inevitable loss.

Barren branches reach toward the steel-gray sky,
the air whistles through them as they sway;
Touching each other with a crackling sound,
as moaning calls of winter birds obey.

With each move their tender limbs try,
to hold themselves up with honor;
Yet as gusts snap twigs to solid ground,
this scene appears to us in horror.

Why now is Nature so bold and brave,
while January's resting and nesting starts ?
Its darkness looms with grave concerns,
for every lonesome and solitary heart.

And the whirling frost will paint its pictures,
along the windowsills each night;
The once fiery hearth seems weary and weak,
as the numbing cold begins to bite.

It was quite different when we lived down South,
which seems like years ago;
But now we stumble over icy hills,
and plow through fields of snow.

While the holidays pass with mirth and cheer,
our souls become unsettled;
Knowing that God has future plans,
that would surely test our mettle.

The strong survive the wicked winds,
the remaining folks just fade away;
Yet when we hold each others' hands,
our misery blows far astray.

Remember the elders on the farm,
telling stories of a reckless season;
Their wit and wisdom brightened our world,
for them--life's challenges had their reasons.

Huddled together in woolen shawls,
with my loving family close at hand;
I pray to the Lord that we all survive,
this bleak and brittle land.

---of love, and fireside romance,
speak to me of all the things we share,
of passing time's urgency to care;
speak to me of sighs, of kisses, and touches
sweet.

Speak to me of forever love, of the way
we go forward from year to year--
And of all the laughs and tears
shed, as our hearts grow in harmony.

Speak to me of the yesterdays,
and all that has led us here--
to eternal bliss--
All we needed was one kiss,
and somehow the angels sang
with delight---that night,
you spoke of our everlasting bond.

Speak to me---how fortunate are we !
precious gifts have set our hearts with glee.
We've carved our initials into that maple tree--
to last for all eternity--never forget to speak to me.

When the stars grow cold and fade away,
the earth becomes a haven;
For the sunbursts of a winter sky,
which warm us from our burdens.

Despite the sweetness of holiday cheer,
the only things we've left to see;
Are the snowy mountain tops ahead,
resplendent in their alabaster sea.

But with the rising of the morning sun,
its glowing face upon us all;
We huddle together and watch the gleam,
as it beckons us through windswept squalls.

So if the day can be revived,
with such brightness shining near;
The frosty stars will take a hint,
soon recovering on a night so clear.

And seeing the sparkle over the hills,
we pray for cherished evenings;
Of love and light within our sight,
with holy songs from angels' healing.

I can hear it in my heart,
a soulless sound predicting sadness--
Yet with all the worldly treasures,
surrounding me in gladness.

Perhaps the whistling will stop,
my mind and ears beseech thee--
To open up your raging heart,
to a place where I can simply BE.

I never heard this line before,
"forever we will fly away"--
But your voice haunts my spirit,
telling me I shouldn't stay.

The last song, and the best song,
should quench the hunger of goodbyes--
Although we once were intertwined,
the chants are carried on our sighs.

The season is merry and bright,
we watch on a silent night;
As children wait for treasures,
they'll cherish heartily forever.

As Santa rides his sleigh,
from a million miles away,
He's happy to be the one,
to deliver such Christmas fun.

While snow falls like confetti,
parents everywhere are ready;
For children's early rising,
with their laughter NOT surprising.

Hot cocoa made by mother,
sharing goodies like no other;
And lying underneath the tree,
Santa's gifts bring so much glee.

Lost forever in a trance,
of love that seems to dance;
The spirit of Christ is here,
we celebrate from year to year !

A quagmire--inside a burst of ideas,
she wrestles with the theme ;
Not to worry---the words will come,
as if floating through her head---in a dream.

Wondering--and seeking at the same time,
colors mixed in awesome glow;
Igniting passion within her world,
but still, the words have nowhere to go.

Cozy lamplight shines beside,
an antique desk from mother;
Oh, how to make her proud,
in sprawling portraits of each other.

Never resting--a futile attempt to grow,
while mindful moments within her soul,
Wear out--looking for a space to hide,
losing all her pride--but wait, her goal,
attained by happenstance, a mere gliding
of the pen across the page--a restless tale decides
to form--no more hiding...
  
as she writes these inspiring words:
"family is everything."
The ghosts of the past now rest,
for she's opened her heart at last.

All across the yard leaves fly,
golden yet limp with rain;
A show of late-autumn's power,
as December stakes its claim.

Onyx clouds bundle together,
filled with frost and snow;
About to pass throughout the sky,
in painted streaks of indigo.

Grasses lay, no longer green,
yellowed and brown with time;
This season has its mellow moods,
as cardinals' songs wistfully rhyme.

Yet early December, I'll always remember,
the blossoming of a childlike prayer;
To cherish the joys of the holidays,
with blessings for peace everywhere.

In moments reflecting wonders,
of mirrored faces biding time;
And songs that play in harmony,
with words which never rhyme--

Crystallized in sudden sparks,
are hopes and dreams delayed;
Despite a promise tried and true,
we tend toward mass dismay.

And what if clouds above us reigned,
like the chieftains of our clan ?
And their rivalry begins and ends,
with notions that are grand ?

We seem to sulk about the world,
in heavy-hearted manners;
But crystallized within our souls,
what's left is all that matters.

A small boat sitting at the harbor's edge,
bobbing up and down with the sea's waves;
Catches my eye on this November morning,
calling me to bring it to a nearby cave.

I sought out the owner of this handsome skiff,
blue and gold shining in the clear ocean's light;
Yet no one responded to my strong, eager voice,
so I ran to the rescue with sheer delight.

Once I finally reached the tiny flailing ship,
I pulled its long rope from the water's edge;
Then bound it and tied it with all my might,
to the flag of its colors which sat on the ledge.

Relieved but exhausted from my ordeal,
I sat up with surprise when my eyes grew dark;
The world became nothing but a swirling brew,
concocted from seaweed, shells and bark.

What I didn't recall was the time I spent,
as captain of this boat many years before;
My head was bursting with pain and confusion,
as I crawled on the sand from the windy shore.

It was just an illusion from my seafaring past,
while missing the voyages we used to take;
I only imagined what had happened that day,
my youthful vision still alive and awake.

(At night I dreamed of that nearby cave,
where my first boat was nearly lost in a wave) !

Glancing outward from my bedroom window,
I can see the old park bench worn with years;
The Autumn leaves have fallen all around it,
some have blanketed the seat like golden tears.

My world inside is filled with warmth and light,
a lovely crystal lamp stands by my bedside;
A few words of love are written to my sweetheart,
then I close my eyes while my heart cries.

The last few days have seemed vague and empty,
no letters have arrived at my front door;
He'd held me close and whispered words of love,
those feelings kept me strong and reassured.

But in this festive multi-colored season,
which usually cheers me through the holidays;
The wonder of it all has vanished quickly,
and sights of amber glow have gone astray.

I guess we sometimes live in a strange reality,
that things will stay the same and love will grow;
Some other time my questions will be answered,
and peace will reign along with winter's snow.

Dear son, I traveled far to meet,
the girl who loved you, soft and sweet;
She spoke of your last days together,
my heart swelled up, we hugged each other.

The sailor you were born to be,
was no surprise, how you loved the sea !
Your fragrant hair with salty spray,
engulfed me in a magical way.

War, so tragic, but you still sailed,
your devotion to country had never failed;
Then the telegram came to me at night,
and sorrowful tears I had to fight.

With renewed strength, your darling girl,
raised me up from a lonesome world;
First father, now you, my joy and pride,
joined together, waiting, on the 'other side'.

But tender and precious as the new fallen snow,
the weeks moved on with a mystical glow;
I now have a daughter to warm my days,
reminding me of your generous ways.

As God took you from the boundaries of earth,
the ocean's waves cast a new-found birth !

The tragic scene before us gives us pause,
to wonder why the universe is spinning;
Above the treetops birds still sing their songs,
but we wonder if the chirping's just beginning.

As Nature unfolds its seasons throughout time,
our restless hearts defy an ancient scroll;
To move ahead through passages of honor,
as every ghastly moment takes its toll.

A daunting task creates the sense of fear,
which permeates the air in sordid silence;
Despite relief which clarifies its meaning,
and endeavors to spurning acts of self-reliance.

Humanity has the opportunity to grow,
into the willing sense of hope for the future;
Discouragement in times of grief is normal,
but generations have shown abilities to nurture.

Floating up into the haze of dawn,
clear words embrace the light above;
Carrying missives that will soon deliver,
their heartfelt sentiments of love.

We follow all the signals there,
the moon, the stars, the coral sun;
Painting pictures that inspire our souls,
like innocent children we begin as one.

Why so high, the calm and stable life ?
with gathering clouds to wash away;
The raging storms which fester inward,
when our thoughts have gone astray.

Look up and see a myriad of stars,
a portrait proclaimed by eager wraiths;
Which hold us in their gossamer hands,
to comfort the hurt and give us faith.

The window seat provides the best view,
totally open and alive with light;
Each sweeping hand of clocks everywhere,
remotely designs the winged flight.

Crestfallen and alone the light grows dim,
while birds of prey circle overhead;
Every likeness corrupts the willing mind,
as cowardly thoughts run through our heads.

In a rain-soaked dawn the cool air beckons,
to follow images savored with passionate intent;
And promises kept are merely remembrances,
of sullen cries scorned through discontent.

An uneasy peace rises as visions before us,
become missives sent down from shadowy skies;
We savor this reckoning with spirits' confusion,
watching conflicts dissipate before our eyes.