How soothing
The sound of rain
As it trickles across
My rooftop
Reminds me of
The summer day
We danced along
My sidewalk

© JL Smith

You asked if I get lonely
And admitted that you do
Living alone requires bravery
Something I've grown accustomed to

I breathe in the scent of memories
And exhale a new-found freedom
This time alone strengthens my character
God knows it's what I needed

But you asked if I get lonely
And truthfully, I do
Whether together or independent
We all feel it at times, but push through

For Love resides around the corner
Followed by Laughter and its comrade, Joy
You see, loneliness may try to isolate,
But Faith always defeats its ploy

© JL Smith

I've never labeled myself a singer
My voice is rather shy,
But after we spoke
My heart belted an operatic cry

© JL Smith

You may see something in me
That's captivated your heart,
But don't attempt to mold me
Into something you're desiring I'm not

I don't long for a sculptor
Instead, a friend I can trust
I'm complete on my own
And believe in Love unrushed

I'm unabashedly me
Proud of the stories I've lived
For I molded myself through heartache and laughter
And the love I continually give

I won't judge your honesty
I'm magnetized by authenticity
Our pasts shape our present
Autobiographies lacking simplicity

So, tell me your story
I'll stay awake with the stars
Share what has shaped your heart
Individual pasts may form a shared future that's ours

© JL Smith

Let me remind you,
a nomad's observing--
You question your path,
as it becomes increasingly swerving
The pack's grown heavy,
but you must advance
For when you lease expect it,
your actions influence those
who have reached an impasse

© JL Smith

What is love?

It's catching your glance
With everyone's eyes on us,
But no one else speaks the language
Our souls silently discuss

© JL Smith

Come sit with me a moment
Let me reveal your worth
I'll share stories of triumph
After I believed things couldn't get worse

I've caught that glimpse
Of doubt in your eye
When I speak of dedication and success
You hang your head, standing by

You make excuses
"It's just not in my cards,"
But as a player, stop accepting what's dealt
And become the dealer, himself

Don't compare yourself to others
Resist imitating the norm
Embrace your originality
Your God-given power--that of a magnificent storm

When it comes down to it
Your potential bursts to excel
You alone possess capabilities of greatness,
But you must believe it yourself

© JL Smith