Staggering through the ancient doors,
of unknown warriors' repent;
Bravely abiding signals ahead,
despite the shroud of deep descent.

Wondering now what's truly at stake,
when crisscross patterns reject;
The straight and narrow walk ahead,
in the shields' protective ascent.

Crowds which curry fearsome thought,
will soon shrivel up and die;
As slings and arrows pierce the night,
of corrupting phantoms' lies.

A ghost lives on beneath the earth,
its wisdom rules the force;
Which cuddles up to man or beast,
in competition for discourse.

Let others call the crisscross game,
the worst its ever known;
But legal eagles crack the code,
reflected in steel and stone.

And everyone should rue the day,
when miracles have succumbed;
To raging wars that still survive,
in a world that's lost and numb.

The wild winds yielded a tragic tale,
and with it a song of sadness;
It seemed to serenade me along,
the pathway to righteousness.

Opening my heart from pain and hurt,
after such a horror touched my heart;
No comfort there to warm me,
or quell the shadows of the dark.

Sinister serenade with drums beating,
twisted the knife deep down inside;
Musical mayhem leaving me empty,
through the many tears I'd cried.

But then the winds somehow calmed,
as wicked thoughts were soon abating;
And November floated far from here,
with its slate-gray images dissipating.

An eerie calm disturbed the air,
yet the day became drenched in Spring;
With a serenade floating from the sky,
a second song to soothe my aching.

I recall the day this sorrow occurred,
with remembrances of what I'd lost;
But best of all I renewed my faith,
in the spirit of sweet music's touch.

Red and sore--my feet ached badly,
I had run many miles on the road to sanity;
But puzzling thoughts intruded--and sanity eluded,
my ruminating mind and inner decency.

The guards had posted signs at the gate,
if anyone tried to run they'd surely be killed;
Was it not the work of the dastardly devil,
to harden hearts and and destroy our fading wills ?

Bleeding now, my feet resting on the cool grass,
reminding me of life's frailty and profound sorrow;
With mindful energy I took to the nearest street,
not fearing any pain or agony of tomorrow.

I ran along--with panting breath--taking time,
to renew the churning urgency within my soul;
It had truly never bothered me before today,
that I was just half-human and not quite whole.

Fragile--yet I held fast--only to discover,
that sanity would be revealed in mystic layers;
Of holiness, hope and clarity not seen before,
during these many wretched and tiring hours.

I wept--then slept--with a warm sense of peace,
when finally far enough away from danger;
It grabbed my hand, this ghost of my selfish past,
and daringly cast its spell, from which I'd wandered.

There'll be no death when sins are unexposed,
with unmasked evil lurking in the cosmic showers;
From the restless tides among the ocean's depths,
there comes the eternal flame and ultimate power.

It was impossible, it seemed to me,
that twilight came so swiftly;
And with it coolness of the night,
and relief from restless drifting.

Wrapped in a towel of perspiration,
I lay on the desert's mounds of sand;
The crescent moon became my friend,
while watching it curve just like my hand.

But whispering wraiths arrived to haunt,
my vivid dreams of black and white;
Exposed to the darkness up above,
where nothing appeared quite right.

The moon dissolved in silent tears,
while shedding its silver sheen;
And with a touch of Merlin's wand,
gathered waters so clear and clean.

The desert rain fell with intent,
to wash away my mortal dread;
Dripping down from the crescent's mirror,
to reflect upon my earthly bed.

When I awoke it was eerily quiet,
the towel around me had dried;
No longer alone in a desert world,
I reached up and touched the sky.

They locked me up and threw away the key,
now it's quite alone, with only me;
I tried to explain I wasn't that bad,
They just laughed at me as if I had--
broken every law that's on the books,
(you should've seen the hardened looks).

It's cruel to let me languish alone,
paying a price for something unknown;
The ***** room where I was placed,
was cold and harsh, my life erased.

But when I found a corner chair,
I climbed way up to the window for air;
And through this tiny space I'd see,
the world that disagreed with me.

The universe of freedom there,
had startled me beyond repair;
My heart nearly sank as I saw folks,
sitting in the park, just telling jokes.

I had been the biggest fool of all,
to believe one day I'd get the call;
That would free me from my current hell,
my thoughts were frantic, I wasn't well.

But at night the window beckoned to me,
and the glistening stars were a sight to see;
The moon in her silent glory stood,
as if it were an angel, carved in wood.

I'd never prayed before this time,
for heaven was a place in a nursery rhyme;
So I lay my head down on the sheet,
while gentle music to me did speak.

The song was such a deep relief,
for it was very soon I fell asleep;
There in my vivid dreams revealed,
that church bells were about to peal.

Then one soft hand simply touched my face,
and led me from this awful place...

Those visions I saw and felt so well,
have sent me to heaven, far from this hell;
As long as I could trust God's faith,
my life's returned...no more erased.

It was a day of brilliant sunshine,
one that rarely lasts;
And with a sky of deepest blue,
a wonderment was cast.

Just beside the woodshed,
a garden glowed of Spring;
An awesome sight of color,
urging the birds to sing.

Open air and fields of gold,
that graced our tiny town;
Daisies, lilies, and tulips reigned,
as queens of great renown.

Our eyes would delight in early light,
of sheer delicacy and sustenance;
Fanciful thoughts swirled in our heads,
of pixie dust and angels' dance.

And in a childlike vision formed,
a bright clearing upon the land;
Of cherished moments still calling us,
like the sea always meets the sand.

An inexplicable journey through the labyrinth of life,
crawling on my stomach to reach the final stop;
While growing a thicker skin to protect my alibis,
the candle's wick dims and flutters like raindrops.

If someone told me I'd be this lost and dejected,
when making a few wrong turns along life's path;
Perhaps I would've listened more intently,
not incurring this indulgent, hateful wrath.

On a large stone slab appears a missive sent,
through the ages of questionable morality;
Each carved out verse reveals a solemn oath,
which quenches an aching thirst for immortality.

Awkward years of stumbling toward the righteous,
always straying when the sound of thunder's heard;
Profoundly aware of solace found in soothing strains,
of songs supplying melodies without the words.

Wayward years of wandering past the holy gate,
which opens for the just and trusting throng;
I may have only scratched the surface of relief,
as I valiantly rise to seek the pure and restful calm.

Haunted faces from past sorrows,
deflect the pain of new tomorrows;
Which build historic ties with vanity,
while exposing dark tales of insanity.

Already feeding emotions' loss,
the timeless urge sustaining cost;
Of shuttered walls closing in on fate,
as their hallowed halls reverberate.

With every reckless movement seen,
our curious eyes caress the dream;
That powers strong and ruthless take,
whatever evil hearts can break.

Take it all in and breathe a sigh,
like children do after they cry;
The world is numb to wanton fears,
along the path which fire sears.

When in totality discovery reigns,
despite the lonely mountain range;
Which towers above in gilded edges,
yet wields the magic of future pledges.

The long walk to the forest glen kept me on my toes,
a journey of total majesty had assuaged my deepest woes;
Over scented hills of jade all covered with lilacs blooming,
through meadows soft and sweet where honeybees were zooming.

Turning my head I felt a thrill on this lovely April morn,
looking back I could see our house beyond the fields of corn;
But exploring through the ancient trees became my daily routine,
where voices singing amidst the woods rise up peaceful and serene.

I can't tell you how many times I've wandered there,
each footstep blessed by the warm country air;
From emerald-green maples, russet elms, and prickly firs,
singing musical melodies of eternal hope that truly stir.

Birds chimed in a harmony which set my heart to dance,
with tawny squirrels gathered 'round the deer as if in a trance;
Magic whirled around my head with mystical sounds within my ears,
was something special I'd never forget through the many coming years.

I never told my folks or friends about these lovely trips,
perhaps I didn't want to share the promise I had kept;
To Nature all around us where glossy lakes are crystal clear,
that I'd treasure forever this earthly bounty...never letting it
disappear !

All around the world we go,
following a trail of fallen snow;
Keeping within a boundary built,
like a fortress of stark aging stone.

When will we discover peace,
a place to rest our weary bones ?
Where is the proper pathway to,
that place we've never known ?

Such worry brings us to our knees,
with ruminating thoughts of fear and disease;
Among the ruins we bravely climb,
trying to keep our hearts aligned.

Then in one another's eyes we find,
that strength, the Will of humankind;
And with the force of the rising sun,
we finally reach where we belong.

His eyes were moist after many tears,
and his shallow breathing gave me a start;
This lonely sir who had nothing left,
but the dull dreary beat of a broken heart.

Embracing him now I could feel the chill,
his body so lean and limp with despair;
The grief unspoken was worse than his tears,
and the night lingered on forever.

We sat on the bench which he called 'home',
this vulnerable man of little means;
I found him after the storm had passed,
lying alone with his faded dreams.

I took his hand so gently then,
and wiped his face with my scarf;
I knew not his name but still I cared,
and couldn't leave him alone in the dark.

As we walked through the night side by side,
he spoke of his world gone astray;
A sweet lady once loved him with all her soul,
and had promised always to stay.

But when her spirit left this temporal plane,
going back to the Lord who'd created;
Such a beautiful spouse he cherished still,
suddenly his choking sobs abated.

We strolled to the church on the River Road,
to offer heartfelt prayers of peace;
As he paused with grace and gratitude,
an angelic smile crossed his face.

There's only one thing in this world,
that sings of destiny;
The soft and steady beating heart,
brings us home to reality.

As mortals we can live our lives,
and often forget that we;
Have a limited time here on this earth,
to live and breathe like the sea.

Each heartbeat creates a certainty,
of living in the here and now;
And what we do with this blessed time,
assumes an awesome vow.

A baby cries for his mother's touch,
a child reaches for a toy;
While lovers touch the face of God,
expressing endless joy.

Hand in hand and hearts with hearts,
we journey through each day;
Spirits' fire burn with intensity,
finding one another along the way.

We can build our very own destiny,
if we so choose to seek;
The wondrous path to the Lord's embrace,
with adoring angels at His feet.

The stellar light illuminates the galaxy,
in sparkling flashes of silver and gold;
Like a child's painting awash in splattered hues,
with the angel-moon as guardian bright and bold.

An eclectic design by a superior soul,
inescapably translucent and chaste;
Its composition surpasses all boundaries,
a breathtaking canvas sketched by providence.

While here we view from our temporal plane,
this dance of saints at divine elevation;
Enthralled by the image we're witnessing,
as it defies our worldly imagination.

All around us earthly miracles lie,
within nature's triumphant show;
Yet untouched beauty magnified above,
reaffirms what we already know !

The gripping storm relishes its moments,
of creating shadows across our land;
They're wide and high with darkness,
and never let go of the journey planned.

We feel them in the weary night,
as the storm gathers them together;
A harrowing sight looming over us,
as we pray for a break in the weather.

Will we be gobbled up by phantoms,
wandering through our nightly pose ?
Or will we escape the nameless horror,
and settle in for a calming repose ?

Cry for angels who'll tell the tale,
of whirling visions that spread their wings;
Apparitions are cursed to dull the pain,
which relieves the shadows' sting.

As they soon fall in the faded night,
and the raging storm relents;
A faithful choir of heavenly hosts,
will rise up as the shadows repent.

Torrential rains fill river's mighty force,
enlarging spacious depths unto the sea;
With roaring motion's flow enveloping,
the reeling sense of its enormity.

Blowing winds now following the pace,
growing colder in a whirling sequence;
The stealthy waters climb up the hills,
bringing each tree its required sustenance.

Empty and alone the day has been,
blackened clouds erupting full;
Attempting to ward off lightning's wrath,
we hide from nature's awesome pull.

Then we feel ourselves floating forward,
as winds subside with our fears abating;
And the ocean's waves now cleansed and clear,
honoring the infinity of God's creations.

An image of strength and courage,
from a man of lowly means;
Taught me so much about life's trials,
and how music can wash it clean.

He stood on our sidewalk's corner,
while he played his saxophone;
Sometimes walking through the streets,
on a mission he followed alone.

A former soldier who'd lost his sight,
in his service during World War II;
And as folks would drop coins in his cup,
he'd often play their favorite tunes.

I watched him hold his head up high,
as he sported the red, white and blue;
His soulful melodies made me teary-eyed,
through his heart so clear and true.

'Back in the day' there was little relief,
for returning soldiers hurt and maimed;
I'd like to believe we can do much more,
to put an end to our country's shame !

Famous or infamous...a worldly stance,
hungering for that magical dance;
Bereft of love one chases the crown,
but often the planet turns upside down.

While followed by interloping sycophants,
honored with glory and financial status;
You're digging a hole within your heart,
still desperately clinging to sanity's part.

Then watching it all simply disappear,
when those 'hungry' folks retreat to the rear;
An abundance of riches had ruled before,
now there's no path to settle the score.

Gone are all your family and friends,
who would have remained until the end;
But they were cast out by your very hand,
was this the life you truly had planned ?

Well now you can feel the limelight's curse,
depicting how life could grow so terse;
You're shining one day then fading the next,
for sadly, the reign of fame disconnects.

How the laughter rang out through the streets,
singing our praises in hopeful song;
We gathered together to raise the flag,
and praise the country where we belong.

Grasping one another's hands,
hugging each other tightly;
As if a dream awakened us to reality,
both daily and nightly.

We were just children but we always knew,
the future would shine for us
Red, white and blue...
Yet now...can we see the light ?
Democracy seems an endless fight.

The need for a promise to be fulfilled,
the need for a love that's cherished;
We will continue to demonstrate,
that there's no room for bigotry and hate.

Our finest hours may have dimmed,
we're paying for all that we've sinned;
But look up to the sky...stop wondering why,
Simply open your heart to a world torn apart.
Perhaps...we'll sing a song of freedom,
amidst the clamor and sorrow,
There will be a tomorrow...for everyone to share !

To and from the bar in a drunken stupor,
not knowing or caring if I live or die;
My self-worth descends to the lowest level,
while obsessing on the tears I've yet to cry.

Back home again I face an empty page,
no words but my own name and a silly title;
Exhaustion peaks at noon while coffee perks,
but maybe just a touch of scotch to settle .

I feel as If I'm crawling deep within,
an abyss of more self-pity and endless fears;
My senses dulled by alcohol won't revive,
until the soulless spirits disappear.

Looking out the window to the night,
as the harvest moon glows gently in the sky;
And pour my cup of coffee as I gaze,
at this cosmic miracle shining before my eyes.

The darkness seems to halt then dissipate,
bringing hope this stardust scene would last forever;
Then facing scrawls of words which lay before me,
I'm aware the time for change is now or never.

As I stroll along the wayward path,
soured with wicked energy;
Which pours its fateful music,
allowing no road to symmetry.

The scene so dreadfully pale and white,
now wet with the drooping elm leaves;
My kerchief tied around my neck,
in the umbrella of quiet reprieve.

The planet grew surviving blasts,
its voices calling out to me;
I never knew the honor bound,
remained alone yet breathing free.

Looking back to pain and hurt,
feeling cleansed among the shadows;
In tumultuous gusts of eerie winds,
the precursors which deny tomorrows.

It only happens in such dreams,
the fiery depths of many hearths;
Complete the cataclysmic drought,
in ruination of senseless farce.

I only have myself to blame,
for a past that's ravaged and torn;
And here I sit and feel the rain,
in drops of silk from unicorns.

The spirits call us through the night,
and touch us with their heavenly light;
No longer shadows borne of fear,
their loving presence wanders near.

And when the song of love they sing,
lifts us up toward Christ the King;
We're changed in ways we never knew,
our hearts are grown and hence renewed.

With wonders of His angels' tunes,
that wander high beyond the moon;
Our empty souls become fulfilled,
which build a world so calm and still.

It's crystal clear at Easter time,
that hope evolves from ancient rhyme;
And grace provided from His death,
brings countless lives their sacred rest.

So near, so far, then utterly alone--
the wonderment of illusions,
Call out to escape meaning...
without sensing a conclusion.

So far, then near, I feel the fear--
of a never-ending story,
Without the glory seething,
in spiritual repent.

Ruminations wandering--
some have rambled into the brambles,
Where distant hearts live in shambles,
then find their way home.

Nomads all, we seekers fall--
remaining innocent as children,
Lying asleep at night,
our plight--to discover how far,
how near, where magic starts and ends--
Forgives and pretends, but fades away...

Yet..how near, how far, the water's edge--
let me hear your honored pledge,
To be forever bound to lasting love,
watching seagulls up above...so far away.

In morning's light a souls awakens,
with its senses full and keen;
Yet often fearful themes arise,
projecting doubts upon the scene.

As veils of shadows soon appear,
with dark and furious might;
Perplexing thoughts run wild and free,
like phantoms of the night.

Within the heart one can detect,
the torment which assails;
Despite arrival of the dawn,
and the wonders that prevail.

Then suddenly a gust of wind,
erupts in raging force;
And through the room an icy blast,
eases worrisome discourse.

With an eerie calm that follows,
one finds a peaceful claim;
Laid out by angels from above,
whose work was not in vain.

The grace of these holy messengers,
and true faith that still abides;
We can conquer troubles of the heart,
with the Good Lord at our side.

Breezes from the sea-tides relay,
songs of wistful longing near the bay;
Harsh winds shape each mellow mood,
landing at the shore where lovers stood.

Against a backdrop of turquoise skies,
the lovers kiss and share sad goodbyes;
Still recalling how whispers in the night,
enhanced each precious moment of delight.

And on the beach where romance grew,
entwined in hearts that always knew;
Forever was a distant thought to bear,
within their brief and passionate affair.

But watching the sun set in the West,
the cool air blew gently as if blessed;
By answers found from the mysteries,
of hopeful visions carried 'cross the sea.

The sky lights up with sunny smiles,
that shower rays for many miles;
And Nature prospers from its powers,
as gardens bloom with fragrant flowers.

But what still waits in the world beyond ?
a sun that glows can't be undone;
Yet in the darkest hours we see,
the moon replace day's reverie.

In galaxies across the universe,
expanding time repeats its verse;
Of words that gently touch the soul,
while finding truth's commanding role.

So in the space that guides our way,
we seek to live another day;
Beyond the sun where heaven shines,
we'll sit and wait for dreams divine.

Forgive me for prying into your world,
all I have to say for now...
I'm settling scores from years ago,
within a sphere of wondering how.

The rattled brains have long dissolved,
their words painted a tired obsession;
I've run far away from tragic claims,
and fake magnanimous confessions.

As I raise the lantern above my head,
where freedom finds its holy name;
A phantom cry explodes out loud,
impervious to the acid rain.

Now don't bewitch me with your spell,
bewildered promises from the past;
Pushing against your own reality,
eventually surface from the blast.

Good night is all I have to say,
goodbyes can be reckless and harsh;
But soon you'll find me disappeared,
wading slowly through the devil's marsh.

In shadows gray and lonesome,
the day seems dimmer than night;
Your heart cries out for sweet release,
but your spirit will not take flight.

The passing of yearly sorrows,
should rise and open the mind;
And left within each sacred vow,
are answers you seek to find.

Yet still the aching heart decides,
to keep its lonely beat in tune;
While smiles defy each faded tear,
rendering solace from the gloom.

Then hands are touched by others,
to help lighten your heavy load;
And flowers bloom despite the pain,
to brighten your bleak abode.

So weep no more my dearest friend,
your loved one's journey carries on;
Like evergreens that still remain,
fresh and clean from dusk till dawn.

When basking in the early light,
and closing off all doors of night;
Thoughts generate a mighty grasp,
on wondrous imagery of the past.

Enriched by nature's sounds and sights,
we lie in evening's waning light;
The day has come and gone too fast,
and memories break away like glass.

To signify the worth of days,
and nights when angels are at play;
Eternal truth retains its power,
in honest souls from hour to hour.

And rising from a lily pond,
are moments chaste in earnest bond;
No longer lost in illusive rhymes,
reprieved from weariness of our minds.

Time moves along in harmony,
each beat commands a symphony;
Which signifies each valued life,
relieving hearts' intensive strife.

And standing at the water's edge,
self-esteem becomes our pledge;
To honor all that's gone before,
as we enter heaven's open door.

Off in the distance the sun is setting,
while here on the porch I sit regretting;
Each moment that slipped through my fingertips,
especially when I last kissed your lips.

I could have begged for you to stay,
letting my love shine in every way;
But off you went in a misty haze,
leaving me stumbling through the maze.

Not knowing what truly pulled us apart,
and wondering why you broke my heart;
Perhaps life's foibles are a mystery,
with answers buried far beneath the sea.

While watching the colors of a summer sky,
I finally decide to say goodbye;
My eyes are moist from latent tears,
as I vow to conquer lingering fears.

Everlasting love seems hard to find,
with someone who'll live inside my mind;
To grow with me as years move on,
and share the setting of the sun.

Reaching far into the frosty night,
our eyes can view the ageless plight;
Of fading hours in chillest air,
pretending life has been most fair.

Captive scenes of authentic fate,
from glossy stars that contemplate;
Their world in utter darkened gloom,
while wandering off to find the moon.

Descending from the Milky Way,
are sparks of luster gone astray;
And fizzled in disastrous mode,
like blazing fireworks' fierce implode.

In fantasies of awakening thought,
and mindful of the spirits' plot;
Our souls deplete essential schemes,
and struggle to maintain their dreams.

Faces leering from a noiseless past,
of wandering vagrants who've collapsed.
In heavy heaps on wavering ground,
where muted voices make no sound.

Carried off again by anguished fear,
these gossamer ghosts of life appear;
From shadows that masterfully erase,
each wanton missive in mass disgrace.

Unidentified souls which tour the plain,
seeking comfort from such hurt and pain;
Stealing fragments from the earthen core,
while discovering spirits' captive allure.

A crisis brews from those who shatter,
identities which quickly haunt and scatter;
Their claims adorned from angels' choir,
but still remain engulfed in endless fire.

Yet determined to rectify the cause,
within the burning souls' resolve;
In wake of heartened words' lament,
clear waters flow from mortal repent.

Blossoming from roots beneath the earth,
plants emerge in a chorus of solemnity;
And trees grow full with emerald leaves,
that blow like waves across the cobalt sea.

Both man and woman touch with sensuality,
their bodies hunger for complete connection;
The rapture of the sounds while love entrances,
brings warmth and passion into hearts' obsessions.

When Nature tugs at each season's sleeve,
it prompts the Will of Time's most valued source;
And then each day which passes by in glory,
declares a new-found power and eternal force.

The Final Days will demonstrate the meaning,
of both Mankind's and Nature's illusive ways;
While angelic hosts from Heaven gently gather,
to bless our souls while on our knees we pray.

The night wind howled against my roof,
and the windows shook with rage;
I watched the trees bend and twist around,
their branches a trembling topaz image.

Then I saw moonbeams shed their light,
along the walls of my somber bedroom;
Creating fanciful vistas of the galaxy,
despite the wretched sounds of gloom.

I recalled how lovely the day had been ,
cool and bright just hours before;
With crisp breezes carrying autumn leaves,
across the porch toward my front door.

The wildness of tonight's unexpected storm,
varying strongly from the peaceful morning;
Sent me back to the safety of my bedside,
as I heeded nature's powerful warning.

Cradling myself under foamy quilts,
which warmed me through the chill;
I held my breath while sheets of water,
battered my home with an iron will.

Yet sleep finally captured my weary soul,
when the spirit-moon had disappeared;
Nature's miracles revived my restless heart,
as the skies above finally cleared.

Oh, why then had I been so afraid,
to make friends with the sapphire rain ?
Why would I doubt the meaning of,
what God's graces cared to claim ?

I suppose we all have moments that,
bring our mortality into view;
But in the shadows of trembling topaz leaves,
I vow to face the world anew.

It's only noon yet daylight has been expunged,
by the horizontal, slanting rain from the steely sky;
Matchstick brambles bare in the winter woods,
bending to and fro', broomstick reeds shake with ferocity.

Mocha colored waters, coffee-grounded mud beneath,
dim the reflection of the swelling banks above;
Moments later the moss-laden stream angrily tosses,
as each ripple tears a hole within the lonely cove.

Masters of the Universe often question God's existence,
while many of us sit and watch Nature's rousing fury;
We have no doubt of powers wielding far beyond us,
as we view their constant revelations rising clearly.

This scene is only one of many down at Lawrence Lake,
where sunshine glows on the green pastures of summer;
But now as we witness a late-winter's storm's audacity,
our souls fill up with heaven's sheer glory and wonder.

A smile, a song, the waves upon the sand,
we all seek deeper meanings to what we see;
A turquoise sky with streaks of sunny gold,
and the ominous roar of the raging sea.

A vivid painting by Cezanne or Monet,
the dappled canvasses of the natural world;
Their Impressionism is unique and flawless,
creating visions we all watch as they unfurl.

Our very hearts reach out to touch another,
with fervent hopes of conquering the fear;
That somehow a special person is not aware,
of our complex feelings...deep, intense and real.

We all have times when we think we know,
what happens when a hand touches our own;
Often we mistake it for favored friendship,
yet may demonstrate emotions vastly unknown.

As we view our lives through varied lenses,
despite the similarities of experiences we share;
It's up to us to dig further below the surface,
and fully discover the universal truths within our care.

If only some folks would realize,
that the stormy seas bring horrors,
to those who are beyond our borders,
who seek refuge from the clamor...
Of those who rush to judgement,
terrorizing children, ravaging the land...
The evils of mankind can be arrested,
if only our hearts are fully tested.
So arise, fellow citizens, to the light,
let there be no blight...within our souls.
Looking in the mirror, we'll see the truth,
as we vow to give ourselves to one another,
with openness and kindness, sharing our
bounty, our faith...from the America we hold
in our hands, the land of immigrants which God
has blessed time and time again !
                              Give thanks...promote peace !!

The days are shorter but eerily bright,
perhaps because of one Silent Night--
When the Lord was delivered upon this earth,
with kings and shepherds gathered at His birth.

'Tis the season for loving one's neighbor well,
signs of beauty magically casting their spell--
With family and food at the top of our list,
and lovers under mistletoe about to be kissed !

The snow piled high while winds blow free,
we soon carry home our Christmas tree--
All green and fresh it's welcomed within,
decorating each branch wearing hearty grins.

And oh, how we enjoy the lake,
the ice glazed over for us to make--
Our figure eights with our Christmas skates,
which Jolly St. Nick left for us to take !

Yes, these are the many blessings of,
the month of December we've always loved--
While Christ holds our hands we kneel with thanks,
as His star glistens above the snowy banks.

The lonely tree in the courtyard,
seems doomed to live out its years--
Encircled in dust from the baked-clay earth,
with raindrops covering it like tears.

Washing over its dry old branches,
as its leaves turn from green to brown--
From Summer to Fall and Winter,
this sad old tree has grown.

Does anyone ever take notice,
of the loveliness it brings ?
To each and every season,
especially in the Spring.

And if it is an evergreen,
sparkling emerald all year 'round--
At Christmas, no longer lonely,
as it stands at the center of town.

Crystal lights adorn its branches,
as smiling angels rest on high--
A shining star the centerpiece,
reaching up to touch the sky.

In celebration our tree lingers,
as the holidays come to pass--
With gratitude for the chance to share,
its present and its past !

The sea appears before our eyes,
with tides that wash and sanctify;
And lifts our spirits toward the sun,
where golden rays connect as one.

They sanctify our souls within,
with crystal waters erasing sin;
And cleanse the ache of angry ire,
extinguishing all the raging fires.

While resting on the burning sands,
we contemplate our lives' demands;
With hearts aspiring to simplicity,
and Wills designed to set us free.

As we watch the rolling of the sea,
the tides tumbling fast and furiously;
We sense that angels rise above,
to demonstrate God's eternal love.

In faith perceived a chance to mourn,
and learn to love without the scorn;
Of hatred's voices through the years,
which claim the soul in haunting tears.

With peacefulness to rule our days,
we wander together through the maze;
Of tortured anguish that presents,
a force we need to guard against.

The seasons bear the fruits of love,
from heaven's Host who lives above;
In missives sent so loud and clear,
from angels which are flying near.

In stillness of the whitest light,
no longer torn apart by night;
Those ghastly hours melt like ice,
in solemn words relieving strife.

And so the echoed hearts arise,
to chant their wills to thus survive;
Despite the sadness of the past,
we hear the prayers arrive at last.

Peering through the snow-laced windows,
the world awash in alabaster light;
A frosty sky chills this wintry afternoon,
as the North winds whip onward in flight.

Inside, the gurgling sound of my teapot,
lifts up my spirits toward warm renewal;
As icy shards form quickly from the roof,
and I grab the teacup sitting by my stool.

Wrapped heavily in my flannel blankets,
sipping slowly as I watch the matchstick trees;
Their limbs swathed in feathers of oyster white,
lean together with their branches dangling free.

How picturesque a scene from my own window,
reviving memories of how the seasons change;
Although I've neared the end of my life's journey,
this graceful portrait can never be rearranged.

The lovely trees of autumn shine,
in fields of majestic glory;
It's heaven's way to give the world,
a pure and glowing story.

While whistling winds intrude upon,
the corners of our minds;
And the gentle breezes blow afar,
each colored leaf aligns.

As the trembling branches of the trees,
shed all their crinkled leaves;
The bounty of a sacred world,
brings nature to its knees.

The northern winds blow heavily,
with frost and chilly air;
And soon the days of winter rise,
as snowflakes dance in pairs.

Remember how the whistles sing,
a tune of changing seasons;
From God above Who tells the tale,
with faith, and hope and reason.

There's a solemn place, so vast, which reeks,
of emptiness and deepened sorrow;
It's a place where no one can envision tomorrow,
for the day has been shattered into tiny pieces;
From the drowning sounds of tears' releases.

Careless missives scratched upon the walls,
of this cavernous cave where dark dissolves;
Into twilight, no matter the hour, and dreams,
evolve into nightmares of ruin and screams.

There's no escape, unless the heart stops beating,
and every soul among the crowd creates;
An unrealistic reason for their destiny, their fate,
yet honor bound they hold onto what's at stake.

Within the caustic reprisal from devil's doom,
a mystic cloud of gray covers up all faces;
The endless swirling of heavy smoke's revival,
sits upon the heads of those who need survival.

They grasp at hope despite its shallow promise,
to reap the benefits of life without the pain;
And when the sunlight's illusive rays diminish,
the dreary sky pours down its acid rain.

Go ahead and feel the breezes,
brought to us by the wind and rain;
As the rustling leaves tell their stories,
some of joy and some of pain.

They whisper nightly as dark descends,
upon our sleepy little town;
Forgive me now, they'll often ask,
not wanting to be left alone.

Tears drip softly from those trees,
as their leaves let go and fly;
To the yard in which the children play,
in crisp bundles towering high.

Wild laughter permeates the air,
as each child decides to climb;
And the rustling leaves feel solace now,
when finding their place in time.

Crackling red the Autumn glows,
a roaring fire in every tree;
Brisk waters from the rain above,
cannot dampen their energy.

For Nature gives its soul to us,
from visions that often stay;
Within our hearts for countless years,
and never drift far away.

Beyond the creamy ice-milk sky,
where snow-topped mountains reign;
A world of alabaster white,
proudly shimmers in its domain.

The howling winds whirl overhead,
where wintry birds proclaim;
In glorious voices from above,
as they chirp their sweet refrains.

Within a sphere of crystal wonder,
reflecting mirrored shadows from afar;
The whispering sounds of angels' breath,
shower peace from a new snowfall.

A palace shaped by dangling icicles,
where frosty tales of winter's light;
Are coveted in the gentle words,
of poets' profound delight.

Way beyond the hills in the summer's sun,
where linden trees shine like new pennies;
A glittering lake invites young and old,
as boats set out to leave the harbor's levy.

The meadowlark sings a sultry tune,
while he sits and watches the weather;
Pink clouds float along in the aqua sky,
forming a wondrous scene we share together.

With jade-green grasses' soft caress,
we casually lie in wait for the wind;
Which will burn us with its eagerness,
fueling our passionate hearts once again.

This lovely panorama of nature's gifts,
a soothing landscape for our restless minds;
Portrays what makes a difference in our lives,
gently painted by Heaven's most masterful eye.

Overhead the clouds have dimmed,
and sunbursts claim our day;
Each bright new moment comes alive,
with every glowing ray.

It seems a haunting memory,
of loss and troubled times;
Slipped by in lonely rainy days,
till a new world has arrived.

I place my faith in heaven's skies,
the clearest blue that shines;
And brings me hope of better days,
with pleasure on my mind.

It's like a boat has gone off course,
yet finally found its pathway home;
Through open seas of yearning hearts,
where anxious fears have roamed.

Now in the dawn's protective light,
and eyes that open wide;
A fresh new day begins again,
with loving spirits as our guide.

A child of autumn lives next door,
her face glows with amber blush;
Her lovely voice floats through the air,
so soft and tender is her touch.

Just sweet sixteen with freckles,
and bright ribbons in her hair;
With a flouncy skirt of gingham,
as she prances across the square.

She gathers leaves in woven baskets,
then brings them back to me;
This gesture always warms my heart,,
as we share some cinnamon tea !

Her smile is quite infectious,
as she munches on a scone;
But soon she rushes off to see,
her mama and papa at home.

Endearing child of autumn,
forever close in my aging heart;
Your life holds years of happiness,
when from this earthly world I part.

She rose from the ocean waters' depths,
her complexion luminous and gleaming;
With salt-sea spray surrounding her face,
and emerald eyes constantly beaming.

Her long lush hair of auburn glow,
was as fresh as an Autumn breeze;
And the silken strands blew softly,
like Fall's tender, tumbling leaves.

As she moved to approach the shoreline,
in a gossamer sense of wonder;
I started to rush towards her image,
but the waves simply pulled me under.

Once back on shore I saw her there,
a diaphanous specter of light;
Her flowing walk captured my heart,
while she danced like a floating kite.

I looked around and no one else,
appeared on the glistening sands;
Then suddenly she waved my way,
and gestured to take her hand.

A wonderful sleep had engulfed me,
in a most magical dream of delight;
But when I awoke no clue remained,
of the enchantress who graced my sight.  

That lovely dream which felt so real,
of a haunting vision now gone astray;
Reminds me always to follow the sea,
for such illusions to enlighten my days !

Whenever lies defeat our purpose,
we search for meaningful ways--
To find the peace and serenity,
we can attain from God's good grace.

Erupting soon within our quest,
volcanoes of truth emerge--
With golden words of prophecy,
which light our hearts with courage.

A disaster once averted with,
the fragments of hope that fly--
Around our heads in sunshine,
peering from the turquoise sky.

Hearing all the frank commotion,
those candid sparks that set us free--
As revelations take the stage,
in purple sunset's rhapsody.