The clouds seem woolly amid the sky,
while curiously floating past our eyes;
The rumbling thunder rolls on by,
which sets the scene for clouds to cry.

In emerald tears the waters gush,
while folks take off among the rush;
Of shaking trees and slippery streets,
with raindrops falling down their cheeks.

And when the lightning dances about,
the children shriek and soon cry out;
For mother to take their tiny hands,
and keep them safe from Nature's demand.

The story always seems the same,
as turbulence settles after the rain;
And sunshine will prevail once more,
from Nature's promise to endure.

When lives converge in common ground,
the spoken words barely make a sound;
While calling souls away from pain,
with soothing musical refrains.

The friendships borne of ravaged days,
succeed to find another way;
To heal the scars from fiery blasts,
while pulses beat toward heaven's path.

No longer wretched and torn apart,
hands reaching out and touching hearts;
Will rise above the raging horror,
touching one another with truth and honor.

These signs of love will soon reveal,
what casts upon the spinning wheel;
Around and around each life proceeds,
to mend in friendship's honored creed.

Reflections at the water's edge,
paint pictures which indulge;
Cerebral center's multitudes,
of inspiring phrases that evolve.

In simmering scenes of sunsets,
creating wildly impressive views;
Enlighten mindful sparks that fly,
as cryptic words appear on cue.

Shadowy signs in faded hues,
encircle tales of life's lament;
While circadian rhythms bend along,
in sunshine's fiery lambent.

Courting the developed mind,
each word falls from the sky;
Correcting what had come before,
as pure magic before our eyes.

And miracles are performed again,
in mirrored candlelight of love;
Through poetry's profound desire,
to keep following the stars above.

Rising through the sweat of ancestors' fears,
innate suffering leaves me bound;
Despite the black and white of day,
I wearily search for uncommon sounds.

Resting my head upon wisdom's watch
sensing calamity from hollow chants;
As voices within my heart rage on,
curiously whining in rebellious rants.

No longer expecting insanity's game,
(it had possessed me throughout the years;)
The mere notion of reaching back in time,
seals untold tales still rallying near.

And whether candles mark the night,
my faded hope for resurrection;
Bequeaths whatever sails far away,
to enhance the moment's rejection.

With blind ambition tumbling 'round,
in the stark wilderness of the seas;
I say good-bye with a solemn pledge,
while disappearing from the deep abyss.

Asleep or awake the clock ticks on,
playing its same ridiculous song;
Fast or slow my heart is beating,
in motions that seem lost and fleeting.

A mournful night clouds memories,
of daylight hours in succulent breezes;
The wicked winds of darkness gasp,
while stars grow old in moonlight's grasp.

Frightened now I call out in pain,
but no one answers my plaintive refrain;
Warned by shadows of bleakness deemed,
that sleep won't rescue me from this dream.

A sickening feeling pervades my soul,
as forces beyond this scene unfold;
With nightmares of my past mistakes,
which cause my body to quiver and quake.

Yet once the morning light appears,
the episode dissolves in moments clear;
And with the sweat pouring down my face,
are signs of sorrow the dawn has erased.

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.

Wherever one finds the light of love,
the soaring force which captures;
A certain truth that once revealed,
explodes in glorious rapture.

Inspired by the moonlit skies,
and wonders of natural sounds;
We cling to one another's touch,
which turns our lives around.

The moment when the waves unfurl,
and catch us in their mist;
A golden time of ecstasy,
arrives within each kiss.

And when the sun dries all our tears,
of elation burning bright;
We'll risk another chance at fate,
pressing on from day to night.

Bringing me back, those memories of old,
to a place of wonder and beauty;
Calling me, as if in a dream, of mythical qualities.

Yet it was indeed real, life at its fullest;
the pear tree in the side yard glistening
with yellow blooms of autumn;
And the sun's glowing rays beseeching us
to run outside and play.

Even in the rain, there was no more sacred ground;
nothing more precious than the touches and sounds
of family, friends, and Clancy--
the Irish dog adopted by our loving Italian family.

How I adored the smells of coffee and hot cocoa,
wafting through the air on Saturday;
Peppers and eggs, my father's favorite, and every cereal
one can imagine, filling the bowls with sweet milk
Arriving fresh and cold at our back door.

The clamoring of feet, singing out like heavenly choirs;
the hustle to ready ourselves for the football game,
sporting our colors of black and red,
Heartily singing our school song--

And bringing mom breakfast in bed,
a weekend treat that made her smile;
My brother's apple pancakes (don't ask !)
were carried on a tray with steaming coffee--
(it was the least we could do).

Summer...ah...opening the swimming pool,
our friends crowding 'round as it filled,
listening to the humming of the filter,
Getting ready for the next day's delight.

I could go on and on, the joy was immense,
and the years so treasured, though they moved along swiftly;
But in my mind's eye I can slow it all down,
like the beating of my heart, steady and sure--
Of how it was, and what it was, that came to be,
our family's home.

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.

Nightly when you lie upon your pillow,
remember there's a different world ahead;
In mystical motions of your weary mind,
and fields of wonder surrounding your bed.

In fantasy you'll find inspired release,
from daily qualms and troubles of the heart;
While sensing vibrant whirls of saintly images,
embrace you while they play their golden harps.

Dizzying sounds provoke and mesmerize,
when easing deepened thoughts of disarray;
The angelic chorus sings its sweet refrain,
and gently soothes all tendencies toward pain.

These visions of a peaceful life will show,
that through the night the shadows disappear;
As the Lord prepares a miracle for us all,
with dreams of hope which vanquish every fear.

As gusts of air grow swiftly,
and the rain begins to fall;
There are lessons written on the wind,
to find love's everlasting call.

Heartache flies from wavering trees,
and settles down into the soil;
That builds the love of family,
with years of blood, sweat and toil.

Despite the racing clouds above,
as the lightning strikes our souls;
It's sheer wonder to find solace,
and grace that makes us whole.

And as the words fly desperately,
among this solemn scene;
They find a way to touch our hearts,
with a soft romantic gleam.

So if the storm is at your door,
don't run from its missives' mark;
To clean all the wounds of heartbreak,
and revive love's eternal spark.

In phantom spheres of shadowed veils,
the quiet comfort's quest assails;
To open all the magic doors,
where truth's perfections thus endure.

Erroneous to assume a path,
from heaven's hopes to devil's wrath;
When gifted with a starlit space,
which guides the way in mystic grace.

In massive flight the souls regain,
their magic powers' glowing reign;
Among the clouds their dazzling light,
embraces saintly doves' delight.

No longer ghostly shadows' game,
that whirl and twirl where time remains;
As rainbow streams of heaven's love,
will shine in miracles from above.

Where devils dance within the storm,
of caustic rage and sin;
A horror dwells inside each heart,
and soon the sky turns grim.

The trees of knowledge fall to the ground,
in wind-swept whirls of leaves;
And only love can cure the souls,
of the curious and bereaved.

Beware of lasting gusts that fly,
through hollowed arcs defined;
For in the stone-cold solitude,
these images are realigned.

The caution taken then is blessed,
by the calm after the storm;
And by the fire we'll rest our heads,
to keep us safe and warm.

Walking across the grassy fields,
while smoky skies are thus revealed;
Spirits grow solemn in the dark of night,
as sinking hearts unleash their plight.

Coming together in friendship's goal,
our voices chanting as one true soul;
We rise in prayer with wistful sighs,
to see if angels could hear our cries.

The stars align in mystic trance,
as we lift our eyes in mortal glance;
And soon the moonlit skies appear,
in sparks of love beyond our sphere.

How great the world in misty light !
the haze of evening's soulful sight;
And as we look on heaven above,
we're comforted by its infinite love.

When the images of the world seem false,
we wonder if there'll ever be a cost;
For dismissing all the craven features,
as if they're disturbingly wayward creatures.

For once I transported a ragged stone,
where I envisioned would be its home;
The ocean grabbed it from my hand,
I'd never witnessed a gesture so grand !

So I began to believe in a higher power,
which serves our souls from hour to hour;
And the world became a softer place,
where my anger could transform to peace.

The sun would shine and rain would fall,
the days proceeded in rainbow's shawl;
No more to doubt the cursed woes,
that traverse like nomads through the snows.

Oh, to my dear Lord I thank Thee sweetly,
for taking my stone to the ocean deeply;
It stood out among the raging plight,
which made us forget who owns the night.

Vandals overwhelm with beastly intention,
love is lost now--no more connection;
The world is spinning out of control,
and hearts are broken inside our souls.

Captivated by earth's magnetic power,
the vandals grasping hold devours;
Our reasons for hoping and praying still,
despite the fact we could all be killed.

Close to our living quarters they roam,
like demons haunting, throwing stones;
Nowhere else can innocent folks retreat,
slipping slowly, cautiously down the street.

If humankind can muster its will,
to violate the lurking evil's skill;
Then vandals won't stand a chance today,
(but tomorrow is surely another day).

The wind calls out to the snowbirds,
who are searching to settle in;
And leaves of burnt umber flirting,
along with autumn's whims.

Crimson skies above us now,
swirling with velvet clouds;
Cardinals fly to nest in the trees,
chirping songs of love out loud.

Fiery and warm in the woodlands,
sitting upon an orange pumpkin;
Toasting marshmallows with my friends,
and scary Halloween sights will begin !  

This must be a sign of October,
the most glorious month of all;
Though mellow moods may soon set in,
its beauty reigns throughout the Fall.

As zephyrs tell their tales of woe,
with longing to sweep the trials;
Of innocents watching from afar,
while climbing across the miles.

In ruination they must take heed,
of clamoring soldiers at the gate;
As heroes march in bold display,
spreading miracles from the saints.

Standing tall and windswept now,
the children grasp the leaves;
Enthralled by eerie missives blown,
in ragged layers of words received.

But when the scrolls unravel with,
those stories not yet revealed;
Their grandest secrets will lay bare,
for generations to toss and repeal.

But if their meanings keep at bay,
the callousness of our sins;
Our future lies in layers which,
seek to awaken each life again.

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 !

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" !

With notions purely fixed in time,
the antidote to love's own rhyme;
Fulfills each fear of future loss,
divulging depths from wayward cost.

In languid hours of disarray,
a wounded heart has gone astray;
Pretending life has drawn the cord,
away from meaningful accord.

Eventually the souls resign,
to losing faith in thoughts aligned;
With all the mystery at play,
then seek to find another way.

But in the core of every source,
hope still recalls its mighty force;
And when all hearts meet in one place,
their goal is reached...forever graced.

February snowfall displays its beauty,
in frozen alabaster petals from the sky;
Falling delicately they paint an ornate picture,
which reflects its luminosity from on high.

The winter world spins gently as it weaves,
a glowing tapestry of gossamer angels' flight;
The glory of the heavens speaking volumes,
as the sweeping winds call out to their delight.

Suddenly the steely sky brightens overhead,
as the moon appears and shows its pearly face;
To give honor to the goddess known as Amethyst,
with the crystalline shine of royal purple's trace.

Any moment now deep slumber will arrive,
with the dreams of nightfall and its wintry grace;
Where God's angels warm the spirit in abundance,
and soothe all hearts in a memorable embrace.

When society spills its ugliness,
we're somehow all diminished;
It's like a theme that's gone astray,
with its purpose never finished.

Lately words have hurt us all,
from a man in political realm;
We have to listen closely now,
for someone true to take the helm.

No one in this world is perfect,
but deepest crimes of trust relate;
A sullied soul who cannot lead,
so to him we'll close the gate.

While under duress we'll finally know,
the strength our votes can harness;
This election is the chance to seal,
future hopes with heartfelt promise.

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.

Out on the sea we've watched clouds gather,
slate-gray and ominous overhead;
The weather report said all would be well,
but we're shivering now with fear and dread.

The sails are whipping in the gusty winds,
tumultuous with rain like a hurricane;
And waves so high above our heads,
we struggle within to keep ourselves sane.

It's truly a nightmare for us 'amateurs',
who eagerly climbed aboard this ship;
With fools' arrogance and ***** pride,
yet now relenting--regretting this trip !

But the storm surrounding us today,
reminds us of Nature's pure audacity;
For in our souls we fervently pray,
that the storm will abate--setting us free.

That's the story of life in our world today,
a raging storm which feels out of control;
But with patience, time, and faithful thought,
perhaps--we won't be left out in the cold.

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.

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.

Love--the only antidote to death resides,
in every precious corner of our minds;
But angry words dismissive of spirits' gain;
reflect all doubts in dismal hearts' refrain.

Conflicted thoughts arise in worldly manner,
and tread on souls among rebellious rancor;
Illusions grow as visions state their case,
to render prayer upon the human race.

In silent searches' previous rewards,
the world declares the cutting of the cords;
Defending eager songs of life's perfection,
while smiling through a massive resurrection.

As candles flicker in the solemn night,
hearts beat in tune of winged angels' flight;
Awakened now from righteous indignation,
soon purified in love's honored confirmation.

Until recognizing notions of the Divine,
we're set upon a path of wasted time;
While charity sits at highest recognition,
humility invites the voices of contrition.

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.

The halls are echoing old sweet songs,
cascading down like waterfalls;
In dreams and visions that went before,
from the glory days of ancient lore.

Eyes blinking away the melting tears,
while music touches our hopes and fears;
Where memories find a sacred place,
to scatter images no longer erased.

The past sheds light on many reasons,
and carries us all from season to season;
The psyche senses an awkward pause,
within the shell of mankind's walls.

No longer melting in faint disguise,
these moments lapse before our eyes;
As time reflects on what's been gleaned,
from the roller-coaster of life's true meaning.

He stood outside my window wanting attention,
I couldn't believe he'd be so bold;
I looked across the quad with hesitance,
as he shook and shivered from the cold.

It was evening now and snow had fallen,
in curious shapes of winter's delight;
I watched him as he let them gather,
his eyes were dark yet shining like the night.

Oh, truly--how much I wanted to let him,
come into my world for just an hour;
But we had grown apart in many ways,
and our emotions became raw and sour.

It's gratifying to have a college memory,
even though the aching still applies;
I backed away from my dorm window,
and silently spoke the words of our goodbyes.

The restless waters flow unevenly tonight,
across a path of crowded avenues;
They run in torrents like the stormy seas,
and cover ancient scars of past abuse.

While sleep comes and goes in desperate waves,
disrupting all the massive thoughts and fears;
Yet wanting to behold my mind's illusions,
I toss around and feel the falling tears.

How can you sleep within this quagmire ?
why are you still resisting my touch ?
The sweaty sheets between define a memory,
that years ago we lingered in the field of trust.

But when the soulful ache is finally quenched,
no other thought will dwell inside my heart;
You once held me in the arms of acid rain,
yet sleepless, forever drew our lives apart.

We lay naked in our little hideaway,
after exploding with passion and love;
Our touches seemed to set us ablaze,
like fires stirring from the sun above.

You wrapped yourself in my innocence,
entering me powerfully yet tenderly;
The moment seemed to last forever,
and with you I was completely free.

We lingered in the shadows of intimacy,
as the sunlight waned in a crimson dusk;
We kissed one another with burning lips,
pulling us under the crashing waves of lust.

Then we lay in darkness--breathing deeply,
caressing--longing for another drench of rain;
As you entered me, quenching my desire,
we were one with the night once again.

Wherever light dispels the hate,
our poems rhyme at heaven's gate;
We seek the spirit of the night,
to cast away our painful plight.

With Jesus dying for our sins,
His holy wounds a sacred glimpse;
Of fateful death upon the Cross,
to build up hopes despite our loss.

Yet frightened notions may exist,
in minds and souls that still persist;
To turn away from sacrificial love,
and angels flying with the Dove.

Surrender toward the saintly sphere,
where songs are sung and lilies appear;
The glow of light shines into hearts,
which Christ will never tear apart.

Once I threw away the ancient key,
which had opened all the wounds;
Fighting hard and so desperately,
to forget past visions of my gloom.

But somehow reaching back in time,
despite such pain and sorrow;
My heart recalled some moments bright,
and tried to envision new tomorrows.

Locked in memory were the soulful aches,
of deep regret and profound confusion;
I had hoped I would receive some sign,
to help overcome my disillusion.

Yet bold ideas flew through my brain,
despite the captivity of my past sins;
And once more proved the gentle light,
would lead me back home again.

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.

The train chugged slowly along the tracks,
in the southern heat of summer--
Sweat poured from the faces of each passenger,
as they rode together in slumber.

It was late at night but stifling hot,
and the humidity hung in the air--
Moist hands from all attending porters,
carried ice-buckets, each melting faster.

Traveling far away to Charleston now,
for the family's annual reunion--
meant braving the elements for which its known,
to reach that fun-filled communion.

With baskets of goodies laying at the children's feet,
while sleeping soundly in gingham skirts and cotton jackets--
There were fresh cheeses, fruits, pickles, and breads,
wrapped carefully in brown paper packets.

Mother held onto Father's outstretched arm,
donned in her white hat of straw and lace--
She glanced through the window at the sassafras trees,
which lined the trail in sumptuous grace.

Finally rolling toward an easy stop,
the train lurched slightly with determination--
A loud whistle blew as the conductor called,
"arrived safely at Charleston station " !

It was early dawn and the children awoke,
with wild anticipation and sunny smiles--
Soon Grandpa pulled up in a horse-drawn carriage,
which would carry them through town in style.

How lovely to see all the cousins and friends,
gathering near the old willow tree--
The giggles and laughter permeated the air,
as the picnic progressed with sweet tea.

And that was a place of magical times,
when Grandma bustled about with cheer--
The scent of hydrangeas floating through the air,
was something special to embrace each year.

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.

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 mountains' streams of my hometown,
revive our souls each day;
We climb the hillside in the mist,
like children left out to play.

Yet as older folks it's not the same,
the words were clear and bright;
"Come with me now, and settle in,
and watch the heavenly night."

The majesty of a starlit sky,
we could barely catch our breath;
And flickering from the angels' light,
was a message bold and blessed.

"See how the world glows in the dark,
your vision must be the same."
We all held hands and said a prayer,
then sat and rested by the flame.

When the angels' fire grew dimmer,
and they softly flew away;
We felt the earth move underneath,
for we were like children at play !

A weary world needs faith and love,
the innocence of children tells;
And once again this mountain's magic,
stirred us toward the mission bells.

As the embers glow in the roaring hearth,
my mind takes me far away;
To memories of a love so full,
I can feel it every day.

We cherished every moment like this,
warming cozily by the fire;
Our kisses deep as were our thoughts,
with care and intimacy inspired.

Until I knew that kind of love,
my life had never been whole;
And then you came to me one night,
with your happy, joyful soul.

Then years flew by as they often do,
and we traveled across the seas;
Your gentleness and kindness,
were like a welcome autumn breeze.

Then one day you tried to drive,
upon a high and snowy hill;
The blizzard raged and you were lost,
leaving me desolate as I am still.

So I light this fire every single night,
to reach you in the heavens;
But the embers fade and float away,
without your sweet protection.

One day I'll sit and wonder if,
you can see me while I wait;
To join a heart that captured mine,
beyond the sun through God's holy gate.

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.

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 !

Disturbing lines of wicked ways,
break up among the hills that sway;
Beyond the river's flowing path,
where seas of gloom turn into glass.

The smoothest sky will not erase,
the jagged edges from your face;
and in the hazy moonlit night,
each victim craves the wayward light.

While creeping slowly through the day,
emotions fade from shadows gray;
With wounded sounds from enemies,
who've captured voices from the trees.

Shards of glass cut like a knife,
which humble us in pain and strife;
Will hope deliver us from fear,
when raindrops fall like holy tears ?

The mists of evening shimmer in solitude,
desolate and cool the night descends;
Alert and alive--a poet's desired dream,
cascading hearts to miraculous ends.

Wading alone in the lake of divinity,
tossing stones which have called my name;
Floating words melt along the waters,
which soon, I must grasp and claim.

Holding my breath as the Muse gently calls,
in rushing sounds of translucent waves;
Waterfalls of life surround me now,
and the poem starts taking shape.

Left spellbound in the crisp autumn air,
I'm dazzled by nature's delight;
And the words which paint this portrait,
soon explode in magnificent light.

Spending our days in a busy world,
we seldom realize what matters;
Looking to gain one another's praise,
our emotions are often shattered.

Yet within these walls of discouragement,
are remaining fragments of our souls;
And the courage it takes to gather them,
can be such a challenging goal.

There's no use in simply waiting,
for the days of doom to change;
We must lift ourselves to triumph,
where something of value can be gained.

And how do we stop the waiting game,
looking to push ourselves onward to glory ?
One foot in front of the other, they say,
yields dividends for our life's story.

Forging ahead as we pray for release,
from demons lying outside and within;
Will help piece together our broken souls,
while erasing all our troubles and sins.

The hours are filled with ecstasy,
with sunlight washing over me;
I've learned to live in harmony,
with all the challenges I see.

It's just a phase from day to day,
to look for answers while I pray;
With what the shining sun provides,
I can lift my hand and touch the skies.

Yet the moonlight's path is wondrous,
it guides us through night's darkness;
The silvery glow can let me ponder,
words and thoughts of heaven's grandeur.

It seems that Nature doth provide,
a focus for the sweeping tide;
Of questions we all have in mind,
with answers of a glorious kind.

Committed to a life of joy and peace,
how disappointed to discover it otherwise;
Sailing about in the azure waves,
where no one could hear my cries.

Then my skiff is caught in a lightning flash,
a course correction needed to sustain;
From the forceful rocking, reeling and shaking,
then tossing over in the blackest rain.

Tears blending with the salty air,
I manage to get control of the tumbling;
Soaked to the skin I arrive at the deck,
and climb up ahead of a fearsome rumbling.

The wind was whipping around the bay,
then tossing me further into an abyss;
Perhaps I've imagined what was happening,
but I was overwhelmed with sheer bliss.

Light beamed ahead and startled my eyes,
and suddenly there was such relief;
I'd crossed over into the promised land,
no words did I dare to speak...

A vision appeared and calmed my soul,
no more anger, frustration and fear;
The tears dissipated and there I stood,
and my purpose was finally clear.

Keep my head up high and don't regret,
the mistakes of the recent past;
Reject the hurt and chaos of today's world,
and help folks conquer their everyday tasks.

Behold, the resurgence of brilliant stars uniting,
as the Almighty relays His will unto the earth;
The faithful gather 'round in prayerful singing,
rejoicing freely from their spirits' holy berth.

Reaching out to share the massive glory,
of Heaven's spark released upon the ground;
Our minds are touched by saintly prophets' words,
when inspired by soulful melodies profound.

While our Savior is still walking with the angels,
and telling the tale familiar to them all;
His Father sends Him down to help the people,
to spread messages of love and heed His call.

And now we look to honor His Son's sacrifice,
as the world still spins yet suffers from delusions;
Which easily tempt our daily thoughts and visions,
until we find a sacred way through life's confusion.