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.

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 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.

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.

The alley which runs behind Main St.,
is a hidden space of dark reality;
For those who have no other home,
it breeds life's dismal hospitality.

From the emptiness of aging buildings,
where falling bricks frame this gritty site;
At every corner stands a broken soul,
each staring blankly at the moonlight.

Young folks slinking along the corridor,
smoking cigarettes and drinking beer;
Their words are boisterous and crude,
taunting the homeless with their jeers.

The ladies pull down their faded dresses,
trying to hide their obvious shame;
As one glanced at the teens with anger,
who then called her a filthy name.

Suddenly sirens blared from the boulevard,
and all the youngsters scattered about;
Leaving behind the wretched squalor,
of the city's poor and rejected crowd.

This is a portrait of grief and sadness,
lying far beneath a starlit sky;
Where heartaches find their only home,
when a blinded world rolls quickly by.

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.

Nearer to the wall I carry this torch of fire,
from beastly growths of toppled weeds to open meadows;
Its flame creates a lightning rod of strength,
and from the earth our time streams fiercely as it glows.

When will we encounter sweet seasons flying high above ?
(the question speaks more of anger than of sorrow)--
When walls close in and crush the ancient flow,
our fleeting days will search for new tomorrows.

With profound compassion and mercy heaven sends,
a prophet with another torch to lead;
Yet somehow in the darkness I relent,
and wander off to find the open sea.

Then gathering all the rivers to follow me,
wraiths float among the wild and challenging the winds;
How solemn the lonely nights ahead appear,
filling clouds with sights and sounds of angels' wings.

As I sit and watch the sands of time,
sift through this hourglass of mine;
A tune keeps running through my head,
reminiscent of all the words unsaid.

We had plans to make our future bright,
until you left me all alone one tearful night;
And when you finally called from far away,
I knew your faithful love had gone astray.

Did I ever lie to you, to cheat or to complain ?
when stumbling through our anguished days of rain ?
And when you lost your job that fateful year,
wasn't it I who demonstrated heartfelt cheer ?

You never warned me of your deep desire,
to explore another life without this fire;
Of passion that I thought we'd always shared,
so now I'm left with nobody to care.

The words remained unsaid just like the sands,
were wicked wounds which ruined all our plans;
Yet with this hourglass I still recall the time,
when I was only yours--and you were mine.

Uneven as the limbs of a tree reaching out,
in chaotic patterns, a tormented version of a
scarecrow's domain--
How is it that Autumn presses against my skin
like shimmering opals' serenity diffused by
the mountain rain ?
Only the amber leaves left on the ground,
wet and worn, alone and somber, could tell
the tale of a fractured world...and so it goes...

Flailing, bitter wind passes through its lowering
branches,
keeping shadows at bay, forlorn and captive--
Carefully, each candle-lit carousel of angels dips
deeply into the heart of human existence,
moving relentlessly toward resolve...and so it goes...

Yet, the cold dark winter arrives in a burst of
alabaster snow, an orchard of white light amid the
coal-streaked sky--
Ironically, a peaceful resistance to the haunted echoes
of mindful thought, aroused then placated, determined to
find respite in the glancing waves of light--
Only tomorrow will arrive with its relinquished dreams,
all for nothing, everything subverted--
Then somehow the serenity of closed wounds refreshes
the flourishing gardens with misty roses blooming,
their unleashed and aromatic perfumes permeating the
crisp air--
Such pleasantries still prevail..and so it goes...

Alas, Spring and Summer seem to mesh in twinkling
stars worthy of my gaze--
My voice would whisper gently to the gods
to envelop me in an umbrella of truth, wisdom and
future aspirations--
Enchanted by the dancing diamonds in the sky,
I breathe a sigh of wonder, while the balmy nights
enhance the restless thoughts of  youth...and so it goes...


But October is the best of times, its extravagance wrapped
in cinnamon and cloves, melancholy in its stance,
yet powerful in its essence--
A menagerie of coral, bronze, and burgundy,
with pearly frost laying upon the pumpkins--
Restless souls embark on another seasonal journey,
through this picturesque tranquility and solace--
And so it goes...

But when will the dawn keep its word ?
Why does it shun our desire to walk along the waters
of Divinity ?
The rippled lake seems colored with confusion,
the azure sky mirrored on its face,
Where waterfalls crash into a heap of helpless tears
of humanity...and so it goes...

While mankind's Will senses its destiny ahead,
the finite meets the infinite, the chaos dissipates
in shallow graves,
and the scarecrows rise above the winds of change--
The world, still uneven, yet the universe waits while the growing tension leaves our souls,
flying away toward that starlit sky where life keeps
its eternal secrets...and so it goes...

The way I feel about her now,
brings teardrops to my eyes;
We were so close then fell away,
because of silly words and lies.
Honesty, integrity, best policies, we say,
But the rules of life simply fell apart;
and our friendship didn't stay.

Now I watch those yellow roses,
opening up in my backyard;
I once heard they meant love of friends,
but they nearly break my heart.

Life's too brief to quarrel,
yet often we just do;
If only a rose could solve the hurt,
we'd always see it through !

Yellow roses are a gift from God,
and we should never shun;
The chance to heal the painful stain,
to start again, shining in the sun !

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.

Come to where heather-strewn meadows lie,
and valleys deep with lake-water sigh--
Villages filled with bonny lads and lasses,
where church bells ring out to soothe the masses.

Climbing over steep hills of mossy green,
watching a rugged horseman gather his team--
Winding down earthen paths of beauty foreseen,
where crisp rains fall softly--swift and clean.

Stone cottages built for the sturdy life,
flower-boxes under windows settling strife--
Of careworn faces in the kitchens and fields,
who bring crops of fruit which generously yield.

It's just a small sample of what I know,
about Scotland, its castles, and legends of old--
One day I'll be sailing across the sea,
where ancestors' spirits run wild and free !

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.

Along the path of righteousness,
rising notions that are limitless;
Promote the lights of love and cheer,
rejecting minds encased in fear.

Inside a world that's mostly gray,
a friendly shadow shows the way;
Into a place which comforts all,
and spirits answer worthy calls.

Among the shadows that reappear,
are those which banish anguished tears;
For when the road seems quite insane,
a peaceful shadow takes the reins.

My shadow falls across the land,
preparing me to take a stand;
To help the lowly victims of,
the evil which destroys all love.

And when the dreams of angels die,
a second shadow fills the sky;
Where empty hearts can soon recover,
with vows to cherish one another.

Checking all the doors before I sleep,
locked up in a cage of apprehension;
The clock soon chimes at midnight's hour,
with only sounds of hostility and dissension.

In my mind I struggle with the truth,
which eludes me in a breathless manner,
The souls of hell surround my weary stance,
and awaken nerves releasing raucous banter.

How did I wind up here in mass rejection,
instead of wandering toward the holy grail ?
And believing I was wise beyond my years,
such arrogance had prompted me to fail.

With age and life's experiences we can learn,
that hopeless situations won't be endless;
And pressing onward toward enlightened paths,
our Wills absorb the fears of wanton pretense.

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 ?

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 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.

The night was reflected in yesterdays,
of perilous haunting's spheres;
Which wandered into my current days,
through ominous waves of fear.

While shaking off my deep despair,
forsaking my soul's desire;
Looking forward sent me into the clouds,
erasing the present's ire.

The future seemed an awkward spot,
that never reckoned with the past;
While intently watching worlds collide,
sending sparks from a cosmic blast.

So where should I go from here?
are the darkest days now gone?
I'll close my eyes and wander alone,
as my arms reach toward the sun.

But the captive heart freely understands,
its place within Time's plight;
In rising above the stormy clouds,
I finally escape from the bleakest night.

The church was crowded with lonely souls,
while winds swept through its stained-glass windows;
An uneasy fog seemed to engulf the faithful,
as flickering candles emitted an eerie glow.

The altar dressed entirely in sacred white,
now completely enveloped in the misty haze;
Each penitent watched as outside grew dark,
an oncoming sign of the near-evening's phase.

While asking the Lord in His generosity,
to bless everyone and keep them safe;
The carillons began ringing a holy chime,
emanating peace throughout this saintly place.

Each person then felt like a child of God,
songs of angels flowed through the room;
When the whole congregation joyfully joined,
reaffirming their vows as sweet voices in tune.

What a gift to share in the mystical ways,
of the blessed Lord and His most humble flock;
Each soulful connection between God and mankind,
will remain strong and steadfast as a ticking clock.

We seek benediction when our hope seems lost,
yet we're promised the world won't implode;
The path to heaven shall awaken our hearts,
with new-found courage to travel His honored road.

Growing in the side yard of our old house,
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,
from grandma's crystal pitcher 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 added to the sweetness of summer's breath.

Mom would dish out bowls of butter almond ice cream,
a delightful gift brought earlier from her close cousin Jean--
And often we'd play Scrabble long into the night,
(she was the brightest of us all, a winner in every way)--
Then we'd go outside by the pool and watch lightning bugs,
as they flitted around the giant maple tree in delight.

From my room I'd hear the humming of the pool's filter,
and Daddy's reassuring voice in rhythm with the sound--
My younger sister and brother would grab hold of me,
as we chased our playful pup down the stairs toward the porch--
And sat in the twilight with love surrounding us,
before bed-time arrived and engulfed us in peaceful sleep.

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.

The carved words and pictures in the cave,
left by honored ancients bold and brave;
Speak of gods with powers from the sky,
placing glints of admiration in faithful eyes.

Abandoned in cryptic missives on the wall,
these sketches demonstrate the rise and fall;
Of civilizations long past throughout the years,
while portraying their daily hopes and fears.

People weren't really much different then,
from today's authors using a pencil or pen;
With lives which depict work, stress, and play,
through what artists' souls seek to convey.

Finding lost messages that teach us to grow,
from helpless children to those who know;
That ancestral stories stand firm and tall,
from clever carvings left upon these walls.

As the summer's scorching heat fades nightly,
a gentle mist arises in a massive haze;
It highlights all the unseen figures there,
with translucent whirls of gossamer portrayed.

While watching moonlight glow in magic dance,
our eyes become accustomed to its wonder;
And ghosts of light enchant us as we pray,
for all who've passed beyond to heaven's grandeur.

I have felt the simple softness of their essence,
with pure serenity and calm they've floated by;
My dear family and friends were fully present,
as I heard their fainted whispers and deep sighs.

Then joining with the hosts of feathered angels,
these souls became engaged in carrying forth;
A holy message of miraculous proportions,
which helps dissolve anxieties here on earth.

They've wandered far to this unholy realm,
to keep us safe from harm and wicked sin;
With charity and hope their forceful missive,
will grant our faithful hearts a chance to win.

The evolution of a purposeful life,
begins on the pristine path to glory;
It's an ever-changing movement through,
each heart telling its own story.

We often fall and fumble through,
the world's most challenging times;
Yet we search to find the answers,
traversing many paths and climes.

If only we would trust ourselves,
to hold onto that intimate faith;
With a willingness for surrender to,
a life that's blessed with grace.

How does one find the proper path,
the place where one can find;
Some peace inside a troubled soul,
and a forever turbulent mind ?

Look ahead to where we'd like to be,
instead of wallowing in the past;
the grief we feel will lessen when,
we surrender to time and space.

Know thyself, the scriptures say,
and follow your instincts with pride;
As we raise our eyes and voice in prayer,
we can feel angels by our side.

The hallowed halls reflect a certain paradigm,
which tells the tale of reaching creatures' prime;
And casts a shadow on the future of the realm,
with no one left behind to grasp the helm.

Then intuition soon evolves with caustic voices,
that turn in countless ways to make their choices;
Forever lacking from the margins of inequity,
trying to fulfill empty dreams of our divinity.

Designed to chase away the cluttered nightmares,
with the rising and the falling of the breakers;
A seaside image flattens then floats away,
when keeping precious promises at bay.

Overblown egos rise to dispense their justice,
while writing laws that thoroughly disgust us;
No queen or king can shake the hearts of man,
and if they try all creatures will take a stand.

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 !!

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.

The shrillest cry of wound's refrain,
reverberates in haunting pain;
Without a lifeline to sustain,
the truth renounced within its reign.

Whenever puzzles go unsolved,
their secrecy of words absolved;
And honest measures are dissolved,
by eager minds' deceptive cause.

Yet returning to the power source,
where positive energy shows its force;
Through images that stay on course,
uplifting spirits from guilt's remorse.

Finally the truth has found its place,
by raising consciousness of grace;
While no one's soul becomes displaced,
each mindful error has been erased.

The delicate curl of my favorite flower,
reminds me of days long ago--
When I held you in my arms, a weeping child,
caressed your burning cheek--
and sang a song of innocence, the cadence slow, sweet,
as my own tears fell softly onto your tufts of hair--
I had to say goodbye to you, my precious one, my treasure,
my heart--
We were set apart--by circumstance, never had the chance,
to be the flame of love, forever yours--
I wonder where you are now,
As I plant more hyacinths along the path where you
had vanished, on that tragic day--
so very long ago.

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.

Often my mind takes chaotic turns,
every thought in a frantic whirlwind;
Engaged in memories which seem unreal,
and futuristic images casting spells unkind.

The piercing voices provide awkward relief,
with their influential yet boisterous tones;
At times I'm afraid they'll turn into whispers,
on their path through the maze of the unknown.

Songs are soothing but some seem reckless,
a vortex of broken wishes once recalled;
Slithering sites cast upon the remnants,
of fragmented night time dreams unfulfilled.

The darkness envelops my inner being,
while through the mirror of life I'm scattered;
Daylight will rescue me from this--I'm certain,
yet wondering if my dusky visions mattered.

There in the corner lies a quilt,
of dazzling colors and ancient lore;
Through heritage we salute our flag,
from every mountain and every shore.

And this tribute symbolizes our faith,
in people who have lived before;
The honored works of pioneers,
have built castles that we adore.

Yet long before our ancestors came,
courageous folk with skin so dark;
Were huddled together on the plains,
protecting their land from shotgun's spark.

The fights between the White and Red,
spurred on the legacy of hateful minds;
Many years passed before our hearts,
reached out to the first Americans' sign.

And still it goes 'round and 'round,
with refugees suffering at our border;
No way to escape their turbulent lives,
they came to us for some law and order.

We shouldn't shut the doors on them,
compassion rules through our daily bread;
And so just as the Natives have claimed,
we still carry on with hearts of lead.

Once I sat and watched the night,
calling me from a dangerous height;
Wrapping itself about my head,
and curling around with smoky dread.

I never welcomed such company,
and looked everywhere but could not see;
The front porch light above my eyes,
or the birds which sing their lullabys.

Paralyzed with shock and horror's woes,
my heart beat in a thousand blows;
And raced until I caught my breath,
while darkness fell upon like death.

So solitary in this time of crisis,
my blood ran through my veins like ice;
Yet somehow I sustained my calm,
and moonlight surged with a soothing balm.

Tears dripped down my cheeks and chin,
as goodness triumphed from where I'd been;
Now darkness unravels its fading force,
while Sister Moon can steer the course.

The painful circulation of deadly schemes,
its catapulting crime that denies dreams;
Lost from view when vaporized and shattered,
leaving merely shards of seashells scattered.

Left alone to contemplate the surging tides,
while the sea envelops mindfulness of pride;
Studying each mood that swings in random,
awakening as the beach's fearsome phantom.

In vacant eyes' disquieting adventures,
caressing lengths of dusky evening's pleasures;
The circle bound to saintly words discovers,
a swirling of the ocean's waves recovered.

Alas, no hope to gather heaven's grace,
to set upon this hapless time and place;
Futility embarks with countless measures,
as crazed and cowered spirits cast off treasures.

Then basking in the light of all that's chosen,
the movement of the waters tightly frozen;
Roundabout on high the gulls proclaim,
that life begins and ends without disdain.

Beware of the urge to hide your face,
from the forces of manipulation;
Mere perception is often misguided,
in camouflaged transformation.

Where sloping canyons breed epiphanies,
revealing a haphazard gathering of trends;
Of the soulful apparitions' revelations,
conquered triumphantly toward gallant ends.

So hearken forth with feigned delight,
breaking boundaries of earthly fences;
While frivolous fables diminish emotions,
of carelessly unmasked pretenses.

Each quest for authenticity surpasses,
a road through the canyon's harbors;
Outwardly disguised in chaste aura,
as arrogance rages onto placid shores.

When life's choices appear eclectic,
in random complacency borne of desire;
Then unmask the will of silent torment,
while in a trance one walks through fire.

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) !

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.

In stinging refrains each haunting voice,
from loosely held remembrances of love--
fuels conquering dreams in robust intervention,
and awakens the stillness from stars above.

As cosmic spirals bequeath their missives,
to land upon the holiest of aspirations--
Then changing course from worthy conventions,
with notions comprised of lyrical definitions.

Still recounting memories in moments of solace,
and meandering thoughts rising from the heart--
Grabbing hold of ideals which covet the ages,
as the missives relent in worlds torn apart.

The tossing aside of images now projected,
while connecting with ancient spells deferred--
Those visions reflected by heavenly wonder,
bring glorified moments from reality spurned.

Suddenly awakening before the dawn,
with emotions spinning like a wheel;
Gray skies misty with drizzled tears,
make suffocated voices strong and real.

The room still dreary from the night,
which is engulfed by the sullen sphere;
As hearts beat with strange imaginings,
through words one can barely hear.

Then sitting up promptly in my bed,
with lightning shattering in beams;
Shooting along the walls like comets,
which have appeared in cosmic dreams.

Wildly unsettled by a fevered pitch,
are the loosely painted faces;
Strung along the many mirrored walls,
forming shadows that time erases.

Behind the mask of violent rage,
there still resides a saintly cause;
As terror strikes within the soul,
God's angels seek a silent pause.

Bringing daylight with its welcome shine,
ridding the world of all its pain;
With their holy forces striking out,
delivering hope from Heaven's domain.

Rambling thoughts run through my mind,
ruminating, stirring, creating chaos;
I've awakened to these many times,
and wondered if I was still dreaming.

But looking around I see the truth,
of the inescapable boundaries here;
And cause my wanderings to appear,
as strange revelations outside my skin.

The walls close in around my eyes,
the ceiling becomes a monstrous roof;
Which suffocates me inside a world,
of wasteful moments of pain and fear.

Then--a sudden spark within my soul,
lifts me up through all the haze;
As confidence wins its rightful place,
and Divinity placates my troubled home.

My eyes will see what they're meant to see,
and I'll live this day most peacefully !

Emotions reigned in loving thought,
with gestures kind and sweet;
A sudden rush of tenderness,
ran through me, head to feet.

Translucent faces shining from,
the children in the park;
Their smiles evoking memories,
that held a mystic spark.

Once as a girl I wandered far,
into a field of gold;
Where other children gathered,
with wondrous stories to be told.

We laughed away the hours,
in sincerest company;
Our hearts were light as feathers,
inside and out, we felt so free.

While witnessing these moments,
from the children of today;
My mind recalls those sunny days,
when life was only play.

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.

The Christmas holidays are over now,
and the days are getting much colder;
It seems each year the melancholy,
grips us with a hand that's even bolder.

The tree limbs are bare and broken,
the wind whistles around the fence;
Pine cones fly through the frosty air,
we cuddle close to a hearth-fire that's intense.

The warmth is subtle but somewhat soothing,
as we watch snow falling softly to the ground;
The stillness around us is like a misty dream,
that shatters our world without making a sound.

And soon the fire begins to burn away,
as sleepy-eyed we rest in comfortable silence;
It's a picture-perfect scene of winter's repose,
inside a cottage filled with a hopeful presence.

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 !

Rambling thoughts run through my mind,
ruminating, stirring, creating chaos--
I've awakened to these so many times,
and wondered if I could still be dreaming.

But looking around me I see the truth,
of the inescapable boundaries here--
Which cause my wanderings to appear,
as strange revelations inside my skin.

The walls close in around my eyes,
and the ceiling becomes a monstrous face--
Which suffocates me within a world,
of terrifying moments of pain and fear.

Then suddenly a spark within my soul,
lifts me high above this web of darkness--
As confidence wins its rightful place,
and Divinity placates my troubled home.

My eyes will see what they need to see,
and I'll live this day most peacefully.

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.

The world spins and twirls with incessant churning,
never falling--merely floating--across the horizon;
The magic cornerstone of our daily existence,
despite the pull from many parts unknown.

Once a small child flew up into the galaxy,
wandering with curiosity and inner trembling;
Stars ignited their own fire to warm her heart,
and comets scoured the sky while reassembling.

But then her cries were heard by heavenly angels,
to soothe the fears within the child's soul;
Scrambling onward to create the healing powers,
which sent words of light and love which was their goal.

Yet when the lonely child was hence recovered,
from the blackened night by the awesome Grace of God;
A sparkling zephyr propelled her through the whirlwind,
where she landed blessed and safe upon the ground.

As if falling from the highest hill,
breathless and disconcerted;
While the earth revolves so rapidly,
its motion a forceful assertion.

My thoughts are jumbled in disbelief,
of this quizzical dilemma;
The longest mile I've yet to climb,
sets forth an improbable agenda.

Just another shadowed episode,
in a sorry life of mass confusion;
For days the tricks have played upon,
my troubled soul in sorrowful delusion.

How do I survive these lonely times,
when my destiny seems quite uncertain?
While an undecided mission lies,
far behind a darkened curtain ?

So often lives are tossed about,
like tiny boats on a stormy sea;
Yet strength of will soon guides us,
from a spiritual source of energy.

For now I'll cease to wonder if,
my future will ever be realized;
While I plant my feet on solid ground,
with a burning hope I can survive .