The Two Hundred Twenty Seventh, August 15, 2011

the world needs communicators
but we end up with just talkers
not many seem to be listening
have we heard too often before?

The Two Hundred Twenty Sixth, August 14, 2011

time to take a moment
and step outside the box
gaining new perspective
on the same old things

not needing that much
perhaps something small
like the tilt of the head
presenting a new angle

or closing one eye slowly
observing the changes
playing simple little games
keeping the process fun

the how is not important
it is the what that is key
discovering the changes
giving the chance to grow

The Two Hundred Twenty Fifth, August 13, 2011

days can change
in the blink of an eye
clouds roll on in
cover the blue sky

the day turns dark
sun fades from view
water begins to fall
rain, long over due

quick as a wink
rain has stopped too
as clouds drift away
sky is now blue

I know some people
that are just like that
changing themselves
at the drop of a hat

The Two Hundred Twenty Fourth, August 12, 2011

another exercise in futility
expecting logic to exist
seeking rational thought
in a clueless environment

constantly tripple checking
use of double standards
to single out another
as being the weakest link

some are not reflected
in the mirrors they hold
or perhaps it is the hands
holding them backwards

I accept my responsibility
the blame for my mistakes
it is part of being rational
why can't you do it too?

The Two Hundred Twenty Third, August 11, 2011

clouds drift past
floating on the blue
imagination plays
shapes come and go

the fun of the game
laying back on the grass
laughing with joy
a day of pure fun

it may be harder
to get safely down
and harder back up
age makes me slow

but always a child
not so deep within
loving the simple
keeping life fun

The Two Hundred Twenty Third

Ears Painted On

never listening
never understand
never changing
ears painted on

begging to be heard
seeking change
desperate for hope
voices cry out

ignoring reason
deaf to the truth
hiding in silence
ears painted on

loudly singing songs
filled with laughter
resounding of cheers
happy sounds live

wasting away alone
lost in private hell
never took the time
ears painted on

The Two Hundred Twenty Second, August 9, 2011

feel the thrill of it
the roller coaster
rising slowly higher
before the rapid fall

up and down again
jerking side to side
wind in the face
making eyes tear

moving so fast
lifting from the seat
slamming back down
bouncing like a ball

we end up battered
beaten and bruised
hurrying back round
waiting to ride again

if only I could be
that eager in all trials
happy for the encounter
and eager to continue

learning a life lesson
laughing through it
jumping up excited
ready to face the next

The Two Hundred Twenty First, August 8, 2011

mind does not wander
trapped within itself
unable to shift outside
prisoner of thought

walls surround me
keeping me safe within
cut off from reason
living the illusion

cannot break free
solitary confinement
holding notion captive
restricting creativity

locked away from me
as well as the rest
stagnating within
the prison in my mind

The Two Hundred Twentieth, August 7, 2011

I hear talk of global
global economy
global society
wonderful globalization

I wonder whose vision
who decides
who chooses
what if I disagree

talk of these freedoms
claimed for everyone
the right to choose
what if I choose no

why can't I be different
and cherish that
reveling in the me
rather than being you

the ego of the mind
if I wish it to be
then everyone will
defying every logic

nearly 7 billion souls
each with that right
the beauty of chaos
we are not the Borg

The Two Hundred Nineteenth, August 6, 2011

a vast sea of head
bobbing on waves
of pedestrianism

faces flicker past
each one different
each still so alike

eyes glazed over
with vacant stares
looking but not seeing

angry conversations
held with emptiness
only one sided anger

and a whimsical smile
with ears covered over
lost in a private concert

that mus be a tourist
deer in headlights panic
feeling completely lost

over there is the hippy
still lost out of time
and not caring at all

all shapes and sizes
colors and shades
pressed together

each face is unique
all blend into one
the face of a city

The Two Hundred Eighteenth, August 5, 2011

the soft breeze drifts

stirring the pressing heat 

playfully teasing drafts

lifting devils of dust

bare dirt soaks the sun

heating like a skillet

feet roasting slowly

as shoes become ovens

trickling chill taunting

as sweat evades fabric

finding its way down

making the spine itch

sun blinds the eyes

turned to the heavens

seeking small orbs

finding a large one

the smell of leather

of fresh mown grass

pop corn and hot dogs

summer in the nose

brilliant green grass

meeting pale blue heavens

dark green wall divides

separating earth and sky

anticipation mounts 

pulse begins to quicken

lower the mask and crouch

here comes the call

PLAY BALL!!!!!!

The Two Hundred Seventeenth, August 4, 2011

well yes,of course I am
the center of the universe
as if you can have doubts
I will prove it to you now

when I stand on my head
the whole universe notices
and quickly jumps in line
turning itself upside down!

The Two Hundred Sixteenth, August 3, 2011

dark gray sea tosses
lines of white caps
defining wave and sky
as thunder rumbles

gentle rain still falls
hardest passed on
sands now brown
mud comes visiting

and through the gloom
brightness flashes
children laugh and smile
dancing barefoot

white teeth gleaming
like the caps of the waves
showing the darkness
it has no power here

The Two Hundred Fifteenth, August 2, 2011

Gm 2 u
ty! u2!
hw r u 2 day?
gud, tx, n u?

m gud hr 2
lol, brb, phn
kk, hb!
bk but gtg
kk, cu, tc!

and we wonder why we can't read....

The Two Hundred Fourteenth, August 1, 2011

there are places I remember
as well as times I can recall
I can see faces in my mind
I hear sounds of yesterdays

hauntingly clear at times
or vague as winter's fog
always there are spaces
where nothing seems to be

that used to make me worry
something in me was wrong
to have so much missing
the moments lost in time

now I see things differently
there is nothing defective
I am not meant to look back
but to see the path ahead

too much road lies ahead
to have eyes looking back
I am meant to make memories
to enjoy when the path ends

for now I find contentment
recalling the bits that I can
shaping the joys of today
with tools given yesterday

tomorrow is time enough
for recalling the steps taken
until then I look forward
sure there will be no lament

The Two Hundred Thirteenth, July 31, 2011

small streak of midnight
streaking through the noon
glimpses of liquid darkness
then stillness once again

slowly falls the stillness
forgotten the shadow fear
danger passed by this time
peace is slowly restored

...........

faster than thought it comes
absence of light descends
terror like obsidian lightning
striking with cold malice

fight over before it begins
the heart of darkness pauses
gloating in his triumph
Kitten wins again!

The Two Hundred Twelfth, July 30, 2011

Whisper on the Wind


in the still small hours
day breathes first breath
the silent world awakens
calls for life to join it

softly the voice drifts
never intruding on any
subtly seeking entrance
stirring desire to waken

softly eyes flicker open
kissed by young sun rising
life renewed once again
by a whisper on the wind

The Two Hundred Eleventh, July 29, 2011

I said
you said
he said
she said
we said
they said
everybody said

but who is listening?

The Two Hundred Tenth, July 28, 2011

have we any privacy
did we give it away
sell it to highest bidder
or let it be stollen

this is a gift from me
sharing freely with you
a glimpse of whats inside
my last private place

the world grows louder
people living their life
exposed for observation
sharing bits of themselves

ignorant calls of outrage
that an agent may overhear
a conversation on a cell phone
held in a checkout lane

it is not the agent to fear
but the id thief listening
the gossiping neighbor
spilling your secrets freely

remember when speaking
what other ears may be close
and think before you do
because I do not want to hear

The Two Hundred Ninth, July 27, 2011

I want to take a ride

want to get away

hop on a balloon

see where we go

its a nice day for it

sun shining bright

light breeze to carry

could go a long way

a blue sky beckons

if only I could go

a feeling of floating

lost in nothingness

clouds roll in quickly

blue fades to gray

my eyes turn back

dreams fade once more

The Two Hundred Eighth, July 26, 2007

The Greatest Art

if I asked you the question
from where do poems come
what would you answer?

what of a play, a story
what of a dance, a painting
or the full symphony?

some seek to credit a muse
others some devine touch
from some great mystery

art comes from within us
each of us our own way
even if we do not see

some do magic with words
others with sounds or sights
in movement and colors

but the greatest art of all
is that of the observer
appreciating for what it is

not the high pompous words
of some self labeled expert
but those from within

finding that which pleases
your own inner taste
is the greatest of all arts

The Two Hundred Seventh, July 25, 2007

I close my eyes
I see you

I cover my ears
I hear you

I close my mind
I sense you

I hide my heart
I feel you

you are with me
always here

I do not understand
I just know

You are not outsider
you are me

The Two Hundred Sixth, July 24, 2011

with the rise
of each new sun
new hope dawns
new life begun

past put behind
future still unknown
step bravely forward
on the path we are shown

hope for a smile
hope for a song
hope in a friend
to help you along

the sun still shines
even when its gray
it is in the same place
so turn your head that way

feel the glow inside
you do not have to see
know it will be brighter
my wish for you and me

The Two Hundred Fifth, July 23, 2011

there are times in life
for nearly each of us
when nothing fits
and sense is cast off

ashes fill the soul
in depressions' grasp
emptiness so vast
it consumes all else

despair has a firm grip

cold claws of doubt 

dig deep into the spirit

seeking total control  

fears assail in the cold

draining our hopes

stealing confidence

draining the goodness

is the path still here
even in the void
that leads the steps
back into the light

can we find it alone
will we need a guide
a hand to lead us
can we trust them

this journey has turns
twists and valleys
mountains and seas
each a new obstacle

I wish I knew how
to pass through each
and share the wisdom
with all that follow

but once more the time
to turn forward a new
step into the next
and learn from the past

hold on to the memory
learn the lessons of each
trial and tribulation
continuing on to the light

I need to remember
remaining dedicated yet
to this road I am taking
to discover my true self

taking the next step slowly
but still I am moving
one step at a time
the journey continues ...

The Two Hundred Fourth, July 22, 2011

take a pill for this
and another pill
to take care of that
one more needed yet?

yes, one to handle
the greater risk of...
is that really a risk?
why would you ask?

the first does A
the second does B
the third counters
both A and B adding C

it would take others
like D, E and F
to counter the extra
of the wonderful C

so tell me Doc, why?
if A+b = C, do I want C?
I know I do not want D
there is no choice

Gods bless the medical system.... it needs it

The Two Hundred Third, July 21, 2011

hesitation
slowing progress
delaying failure
defeating success

need to react
it is time to respond
right or wrong matters not
take a chance and trust

there is no room now for delay
time has past to wait
put aside disagreements
and do the task at hand

The Two Hundred Second, July 20, 2011

I look in my pocket
and nothing is there
perhaps in the other
still empty hands

where could it be now
for I know it was here
somewhere close by
never out of reach

not on any of the tables
didn't get left on a chair
the dogs won't take it
so where could it be

I hate losing my train of thought....

The Two Hundred First, July 19, 2011

how would you describe yourself
if you were given just one chance

would you be strong and sturdy
like a great and powerful oak tree

would you be kind and gentle
like an early morning spring rain

would you be loud and overbearing
or would you be meek and timid

I want to stand tall and straight
strong before the winds that come

providing shelter from the storms
and shade from the heat of the day

like the mighty oak in the forest
never loud but always there

The Two Hundredth, July 18, 2011

tomorrow will soon be yesterday
and yesterday was once tomorrow
but what does this really mean
when I am stuck here in today?

I make my plans for yesterday
never sure there will be more
no sense worrying about it
when it will change as needed

now is the time to relax a minute
and listen to the sounds of silence
reminding me there is nothing
that is worth the worry anyway

I will let tomorrow have its way
not interfering with it in any way
as now I can clearly understand
it doesn't matter, it will never come

The One Hundred Ninety Ninth, July 17, 2011

do we ever really know
who our truest friends are
until the trouble comes
and they are still beside us?

can we judge the hearts
the strength and promise
held within another
before it is called upon?

the nature of a friend
will truly be revealed
when least favorable
for them to admit us

it is my deep hope
that should you need me
in those darkest times
you will find me there

The One Hundred Ninety Eighth, July 16, 2011

success in defeat
for it matters not
winning the race
but that you ran

in completing it
you have won
for your race
is not with man

The One Hundred Ninety Seventh, July 15, 2011

I miss my memory
can't remember why
can't remember who
no idea when either

too much on my mind
too many threads
unable to weave them
fraying at the seams

stress creating gaps
leaving me floundering
adrift in rough seas
seeking safer waters

perhaps to just relax
or better organized
better preparations
longer term planning

who am I kidding... I am just losing it.

who am I kidding... I'm just losing it

The One Hundred Ninety Sixth, July 14, 2011

I am grateful for my nose
I do not care how large
it matters not how small
I am thankful it works

the pleasures it brings
of scents so wonderful
fresh brewed coffee
cooking bacon and bread

of a gentle spring rain
fresh mown lawns
wood fires in October
newly bathed babies

so many aromas abound
stirring my memories
reminding me of my life
yes, I am grateful for my nose

The One Hundred Ninety Fifth, July 13, 2011

dawn crosses the border
bringing along a new day
sun knocking on eye lids
bidding to come join the fun

many long protracted yawns
slow joint popping stretches
and low muttered groans
complete the daily process

out into the world once more
a day that lasts forever
seemingly no end in sight
how long a summer day

desire to be free from walls
out playing in the sun
distracting the concentration
unable to heed the call

at last the time has come
impatience hurrying feet
eagerness making clumsy
stumbling finally out the door

into a living wall of heat
beating down, up and sideways
wrapping in total humidity
holding on like a lover

gone the dreams of play
no visions of running
only seeking a shady tree
or back into the chilled air

sun slowly lowers west
dipping below the edge
but the heat stays around
wanting to party all night

so much for sleeping
no comfortable spots
tossing and turning
how long can one day last?

The One Hundred Ninety Fourth, July 12, 2011

how great the man
that needs no platform
but speaks his heart
reciting his thoughts

how great the man
that finds no blame
that looks for praises
but only for others

how petty the man
who thinks he rises
by lowering others
for he never gains

let not the petty man
control your heart
dominate your mind
or mold who you are

seek rather to be great
standing on your beliefs
speaking your heart
seeking to be true

The One Hundred Ninety Third, July 11, 2011

there is a hissing sound
not the sizzling of bacon
nor the crackle of static
but one softer than those

the sound of thirst sated
as rain soothes dry earth
easing plants sufferings
while renewing growth

but not soft this time
a hammering of nature
pounding the ground
driving the water deep

lightning flashes bright
flashbulbs freezing time
capturing the moments
like God's own paparazzi

thunder booms applause
long rolling ovations
cheering rain's triumph
the angel's in box seats

no faint little kiss is this
no gentle warm embrace
but hard and furious
battle waged not romance

and still the earth hisses
welcoming the deluge
opening arms to embrace
seeking solace in the flood

The One Hundred Ninety Second, July

what is that you are doing

asked the bright eyed child

looking at me curiously

as I pondered what to say

I am searching for a poem

seeking the words that fit

to express deep thoughts

or show the gentle feelings

the small face scrunches up

the child lost deep in thought 

a gentle shaking of the head

I don't think I understand

I am only playing a game

using words instead of balls

but it isn't very easy today

I think I am out of vowels

with further contemplation

the wisdom has arrived

don't worry so much he said

you can sometimes use a Y

The One Hundred Ninety First, July 9, 2011

there is a pleasure
in family reunions
seeing your past
looking at the future

seeing your face
twenty years ago
beside your face
twenty from now

generation mirrored
looking back in time
personalities pass on
hereditary confirmed

I see the beginning
ancestors living on
constantly reborn
in the children's faces

The One Hundred Ninetieth, July 8, 2011

isn't the internet grand?
hold the world in your hand
and with a smart phone
we are never alone
not even sitting in the can!

The One Hundred Eighty Ninth, July 7, 2011

days drifting past
a leisurely warp 6
just far too slow
yet already by us

how can something
be oh so sluggish
and lightning fast
at the same time?

tomorrow is so far
and today soon gone
is there any balance?
simply enough time?

we need to change
slow down today
never rush tomorrow
be in the now first

live in the moment
however it may be
not in the future
which may not come

The One Hundred Eighty Eighth, July 6, 2011

mine mine mine mine
gimme gimme gimme gimme
mine mine gimme gimme
gimme gimme mine mine

mine gimme mine gimme
gimme mine gimme mine
mine gimme gimme mine
gimme mine mine gimme

mine mine mine gimme
gimme gimme gimme mine
gimme mine gimme mine
mine mine mine mine

greed looks rather silly now, doesn't it?

The One Hundred Eighty Seventh, July 5, 2011

the world is filled with make believe
something we never really out grow
telling ourselves it is childish games
even as we seek our next big thrill

the games that excite us change
rules begin to shape the paths
though imagination is still the key
without which stagnation wins

they use words like grow up
or when will you act your age
seeking to steal away our happiness
because they have sold their own

dreams can be stolen from us
fragile shells shattered like crystal
dropped with savage cruel intent
and so they feel they have won

hold on to the memories though
cherish them in secret if needed
never stop pretending in your mind
for imagination keeps you free

The One Hundred Eighty Sixth, July 4, 2011

oh the pondering of deep deep thoughts
slowing the mind in sluggish confinement
bearing all of the attention on one concept
but still unable to decipher the secret code

perhaps it is not really meant to be resolved
but merely serves as an exercise for growth
a way to sharpen and direct the awareness
enabling us to better resolve the others

but yet there comes some anxiety from this
as the internal desires cry out for resolution
needing closure to satisfy the personal ego
unable to admit sometimes we just won't know

The One Hundred Eighty Fifth, July 03, 2011

Books: Rare, Medium, and Well Done


finding buried treasures
without using a shovel
a pile before me stands
discarded cast off relics

the dreams of yesterday
set aside to wait again
collecting on shelves
spilling over to the floor

the store sits sweltering
an oven in the summer
unseen by passers by
itself seemingly forgotten

onward into the furnace
chance the select few
called by the voices
of the forgotten dreams

whispers calling them
beacons in the darkness
drawing those who seek
until at last "eureka!"

The One Hundred Eighty Fourth, July 2, 2011

I enjoy the excitement
of being in a new place
of seeing all new sights
of not the same old things

moving through my mind
exciting all of my senses
new sounds dancing with me
scents floating to enfold me

every experience is new
like being born again
but aware of it this time
living a life filled with firsts

while this is so very special
it reminds me of my world
and how much I miss in it
that make it fresh each day

not homesickness you see
but rather understanding
that ever day is unique
if we simply look for it

The One Hundred Eighty Third, July 1, 2011

here we stand once more
stranded by our own deeds
looking out upon raging seas
waves threatening to engulf

how did we we end up here
losing our way amid dreams
following the wrong lights
believing the falsehoods

too late to try a swim for it
no ships are out there to help
it is only our perfect storm
we must face it on our own

it is time to stand tall
face forward and start
attack the waves head on
feel them on our ankles

accepting our responsibility
for the actions we have done
is the first step in honor
be honest with yourself

The One Hundred Eighty Second, June 30, 2011

I very much want to be happy
but education ruined my life
changing things forever
robbing me of my bliss

I can't enjoy television
I seek deeper meanings
critiquing the deliveries
questioning the motives

forget Hollywood too
I analyze every plot twist
seeing flaws that annoy me
where before all was good

I can't listen to people now
I wonder at their agenda
picking apart their words
looking for invalid arguments

thinking critically enlightens
but it deprives you as well
they say ignorance is bliss
then knowledge is sadness

The One Hundred Eighty First, June 29, 2011

politicians are but children
playing petty little games
I'm king of the mountain
pushing all others down

He said, she said games
did, didn't, did, didn't
you started it, no, you did
and no one really cares

just bullies and elitists
just trying to feel better
about their own failings
exposing petty weakness

please stop the bickering
grow up and act your age
except you that are too old
you can just go take a nap

The One Hundred Eightieth, June 28, 2011

looking at the plate
feeling rather sad
not the lunch I want
but this one isn't bad

diets really truly suck
removing the pleasure
depriving of the joy
stealing all my treasure

just simple and green
no great aromas lifting
even with dressing
it isn't very uplifting

wanting corn chips
salsa loaded with salt
with a flavor so good
making the heart halt

sometime I wonder why
live healthy live longer
eat a proper diet each day
make your heart stronger

but there comes a point
where the balance tips
and healthy gets a shove
as flavor passes the lips

who wants to live forever
if it is always so boring
sitting to your meals
and ending up snoring

I need something bad
fattening starches today
loaded with those carbs
it is not coming my way

The One Hundred Seventy Ninth, June 27, 2011

is it really asking too much
for someone to tell the truth
offer all the important details
regardless of any agendas?

let the people hear the facts
impartially presented please
for each to decide as they will
and not as you want them to

there are two sides of a coin
but not limited by only the two
remember the edge still counts
and that is how the coin rolls

The One Hundred Seventy Eighth, June 26, 2011

stil quiet moments settling the spirit
calling the mind to rest slow the pace
easing the tensions that restrict us
opening the pathways deep within

feeling the flow slow and drop deeper
settling in for a comforting visit
wondering where we will look today
exploring the whys that guide choices

if not for these expeditions into self
I do not know where I would be
for I find them to restore identity
realigning the who and where I am

time to sit and be nothing for now
tune out the world around me
dwelling in the me I want to know
the who that dwells within

the journey continues on....;.

The One Hundred Seventy Seventh, June 25, 2011

decisions weigh upon our lives
should I do that which I should
or do that which I want now
knowing how tomorrow waits

impatient for its own turn
chomping at the bit to run
not wanting residual tasks
wanting to have its own fun

I must procrastinate today
the procrastination I wanted
until tomorrow comes calling
in hopes of having time then

The One Hundred Seventy Sixth, June 24, 2011

pants not fitting today
feeling a bit too loose
waist sliding down
not trying to be fashionable

my belt is cinched tight
holds the pants in place
not wanting to trip again
how can they wear them so low????

The One hundred Seventy Fifth, June 23, 2011

Advice

offers of advice
will often go unheeded
not for being bad
but because they are not needed

take no offense
if it seems I ignore you
I am wrapped up
trying to seek my own little clue

I do not care
if no one listens to me
it is one sided
offered from just what I see

it isn't the words
that are the biggest part
but that we listen
with the ears of our heart

The One Hundred Seventy Fourth, June 22, 2011

who has the control
over who we truly are
over what we can think
over what we can say
over what we can feel
over who we feel for
over who is right
over who is wrong
over what is right
over what is wrong
over what we can believe
over how we believe
over should we believe
over how we should live?

only I will decide for me
who will decide for you?

The One Hundred Seventy Third, June 21, 2011

Turns in the Road

some change is good
some change is bad
some is just change
serving no purpose

rearrange the furniture
shake your head a bit
change it back again
and still not happy

no real need for some
the wheel works fine
but always improve
just look at the tire

but avoiding evolution
because of inner fear
not only restricts us
it can stagnate as well

stand steadfast in you
retaining the person
let the changes come
and know who you are

changes can often hurt
but they can also heal
opening new avenues
to find our inner peace

I shall strive to embrace
those changes I must
welcoming the growth
while praying for the best

the journey continues...

The One Hundred Seventy Second, June 20, 2011

You have what's yours
and I have whats mine
they say to each his own
and that suits me fine

and when it comes time
for each of us to share
I will gladly give of mine
for I don't really care

its only things after all
not really all that much
trinkets and baubles
pretty things and such

but others cannot see
they grasp on so tight
unwilling to let any go
and that just isn't right

it isn't for a purpose
to satisfy some need
perhaps not even selfish
blamed upon sheer greed

sometimes it is more
a case of inner fear
if I let go of it now
will it ever reappear?

perhaps it won't return
would that be so bad
you are at least alive
though feeling quite sad

so if it comes tomorrow
that its your time to give
remember this message
and how we should live

give what you have
to another in need
if it comes your turn
never ask for with greed

only what is needed
is all we should seek
not for too much
as to make others weak

there is enough for all
if we can just share
let's start with the basics
clean water and air

The One Hundred Seventy First, June 19, 2011

WORDS

we each hold within
the keys of magic
a source of power
mighty strong vast

power to do good
power to do evil
to make others strong
or to destroy them

misplace one sound
alter with a synonym
even reverse orders
meanings can change

perhaps unintentionally
being lost in translation
but sometimes intended
meant to confuse another

yet deep inside these
a simple plain meaning
that all should clearly see
I love you, Dad!

Happy Father's Day!

The One Hundred Seventieth, June 18, 2011

exhaustion holds me close
drawing me toward sleep
though the night is young
I am feeling so very old

it is the illusion effect
the double bladed truth
my age is not extreme
but more than I imagine

a day well spent in fun
felt like twenty years ago
the super man for hours
now too soon wears down

The bliss of being older
knowing the vast truths
the misery of it as well
in not being able to do

despite how it may feel
stiffness will soon fade
feeling better very soon
with the memories forever

it was indeed a good day!

The One Hundred Sixty Ninth, June 17, 2011

wouldn't it be wonderful
if we could just sort of fly
not into the clouds above
no need to go that high

but just above the roofs
to see our lives below
understanding the walls
seeing how far they go

we could find the path
a trail through the maze
leading to the outside
and all the future ways

only to see whats there
never to try and cross
going too far too soon
could lead to tragic loss

perhaps its best we can't
and must continue blind
stumbling along the path
not sure what we will find

I will not put on the wings
and will stay down here
living it all day by day
stepping forward, no fear

a branching in the road of my life

The One Hundred Sixty Eighth, June 16, 2011

fluid flows of words
dancing from the tongue
faling like gentle drops
drops of sweet rain

enveloping the senses
saturation for the mind
bathing the ears with joy
offering visions of wonder

finding personal pleasures
in the decadent delights
of those magical sounds
the wonder of poetry

The One Hundred Sixty Seventh, June 15, 2011

a lead weight rests
in the center of my chest
dragging me down
oppressing and draining

my spirit grows weak
hollow and empty
drained of my joy
punished for feeling

I have done nothing
committed no crime
yet feel guilty inside
in need of redemption

but it was only ONE donut!!!

The One Hundred Sixty Sixth, June 14, 2011

you say we disagree
we are too far apart
we will never agree
forget compromise

I also say we disagree
so we are in agreement
juxtaposition rising
compromise is near

but how can this be
can we close the gulf
finding common ground
without one's surrender?

hold out your hand
I will hold out mine
where our fingers touch
is where we begin

The One Hundred Sixty Fifth, June 13, 2011

its all down hill from here
thats a good thing they say
it means its getting easier
so downhill is what we want

right?..... RIGHT?
now I am really confused

once the bottom fell last week
on the whole real estate market
it was all downhill from there
was really NOT a good thing

please make up my mind!

The One Hundred Sixty Fourth, June 12, 2011

innovation
experimentation
exploring new avenues
finding something
new to me

so much new
others know well
yet undiscovered by me
old becomes new
life is fun

share yours
the things you like
with those around you
let them discover
and we grow

a new day
a new experience
moving outside my zone
a great beginning
happiness!

The One Hundred Sixty Third, June 11, 2011

it is not easy to be profound
at the drop of a figurative hat

it is not easy to find creativity
with the turning of each stone

it is not easy to express unique
day after day after day after day

I know this very well indeed
because I cannot do it very well

perseverance and dedication
rising to my personal challenge

growing more within myself
finding my limits and pushing

extending my boundaries
finding new wonders beyond

becoming a bit more each time
is an educational experience

it is also rather tiring... nap time

The One Hundred Sixty Second, June 10, 2011

the road has continued on
up some long twisting hills
through some dark valleys
heavy cold rains have fallen

I have not

dreams have faded before me
hopes have turned into mists
tattered by life's harsh storms
have been scattered by the winds

I have not

the road continues to reach out
still only one step at a time
still only one direction to take
always forward into the unknown

I continue my journey

The One Hundred Sixty First, June 9, 2011

today the well seems to be dry
nothing more coming up now
the old bucket looks so empty
can't even hear Timmy yell

only a breeze rustling grass
a few loud birds chirping too
no calls for help echoing up
not even that yapping Lassie

guess I will go back home
without tapping the well
open my dear fridge instead
and drink a nice cold beer

never liked that old well anyway...

The One Hundred Sixtieth, June 8, 2011

I am sorry to say
I don't understand
explain if you can
how is it a good thing?

you feel government
should be run how?
like a business, you say
interesting concept

may I ask a question?
as you look around you
and see your neighbors
please think long on this:

do you really like the way businesses treat their employees????

The One Hundred Fifty Ninth, June 7, 2011

yes, I heard what you said

I just did not respond to it

it begs I ask the question

did you hear what you said?

The One Hundred Fifty Eighth, June 06, 2011

you know... life happens
sometimes its a good thing
other times not so much
but yet it keeps happening
sometimes everything is clear
other times you just can't see
prepared for it or not
it is there until it isn't
thats what makes us real confused

The One Hundred Fifty Seventh, June 5, 2011

my back hurts

my feet hurt

I have a sunburn

I feel wonderful

stiff muscles 

stiff joints 

too tired

feeling energized

tears of sadness

tears of loss

tears of joy

I love Relay!

Thanks to the team for another great year!

Thanks to the city of Troy for hosting us again!

Thanks to the committee for the hard work!

Most of all, thanks to those that gave; time, money, prayers and support!

The One Hundred Fifty Sixth, June 4, 2011

some days hold more meaning
as a collection of events come
call it alignment of the stars
or simply a good day to happen

this date is one of those to me
holding several keys of my past
that are important to only myself
providing my private little smile

so if you see a twitch of my lip
a small curling up at the corners
and you wonder at my thoughts
keep wondering, I'll not share

today I walk with my memories
some happy others not so much
but each a part of my life now
all precious for me on this day

I leave you now with this thought
nothing should be more important
than living the life you are given
as completely as each day permits

make each day a fond memory
worthy of personal small smiles
remembering to be true always
to the person you are inside... and smile!

The One Hundred Fifty Fifth, June 3, 2011

dedication to a cause
calling the spirit on
it is time to stand up
this is a call to arms

we forget our pains
as they soon fade
we remember theirs
a pain that does not

for those that suffer
we suffer as well
without sacrifice
understanding fails

I pray to never know
I pray no more will
I pray this dies a death
worthy of its crimes

tomorrow I will walk
seeking to find a cure
for all those in need
may it ease their pain

This is why I Relay, family, friends, loved ones passed away, may their memory inspire me and keep me going until the cure is found.
DAMN YOU TO HELL CANCER!!!!!!

The One Hundred Fifty Fourth, June 2, 2011

my heart is warmed
because you are there
my days are brighter
for having you in them

there are no words
to describe properly
what friend means
when you are involved

you have my friendship
my love and affection
and my gratitude as well
for calling me your friend

The One Hundred Fifty Third, June 1, 2011

better living through chemistry
improving the world we live in
through one tiny pill at a time
happiness, thy color is ______

The One Hundred Fifty Second, May 31, 2011

oh the rambling drone
drawing my thoughts
leading them astray
kidnapping my reason

a wordless conversation
my ears stopped transfer
I hear nothing but a buzz
I fear my brain is melting

time passes like cold tar
I feel myself growing older
and still the noise remains
my mind has left me

and it isn't campaign seasons yet

The One Hundred Fifty First, May 30, 2011

remember them this day
giving thanks to them all
let none live yet forgotten
repay them their sacrifices

give back of your freedom
sacrifice of your time
reach out, say thank you
be worthy of their pains

remember that the fallen
are not only on the field
but fallen from society
homeless on the streets

tucked away in hospitals
carelessly overlooked
out of sight and mind
remember them as well

too all those that fought
not for rhetoric party lines
but for freedoms held dear
my gratitude is yours

may I always remember to say thanks

The One Hundred Fiftieth, May 29, 2011

roast the grains
crack the grains
soak the grains
drain the grains

heat the water
pour the water
stir the water
change the water

drain the wort
boil the wort
chill the wort
ferment the wort

enjoy the beer!

The One Hundred Forty Ninth, May 28, 2011

sleep, how cruel you are!
either too nice to end
or too hard to find
either way you torment

as for a lover long lost
I cry out for your embrace
desperate to hold you
as the day draws closed

elusive, temperamental
even evasive at times
yet I seek you daily
to ease my weariness

when at last I find you
you can be so gentle
soft and sweet comfort
bringing great happiness

you can be so cruel
with haunting visions
dancing in my mind
torturing for my sins

in the end casting me away
discarding me as spent
into the harsh coldness
of reality once more

I am addicted to you
though you spurn me so
leaving me confused
dazed, seeking clarity

I miss you too often
once you have left me
wishing only your return
but I must wait for you

I am helplessly yours
a toy for your whims
I feel shamed by my need
yet I will always return

sleep, how cruel you are!

The One Hundred Forty Eighth, May 27, 2011

I am lost once more
wandering aimlessly
seeking a hint of logic
seeing nothing close

too focused on today
to hold on to dreams
nothing else matters
instant gratification

feed the need of now
satisfy personal greed
only priority that counts
until it becomes too late

lost moments stay lost
hopes cast aside fade
tomorrow will come
and find us empty

but we had a good time today.....

The One Hundred Forty Seventh, May 26, 2011

I had a dream
a wonderful dream
everything made sense
then I woke up and was here

so much for that one

The One Hundred Forty Sixth, May 25, 2011

a kiss
gently falls upon my cheek
small chilled wet
a kiss from God
it touches the ground
a flower grows
it brushes a child's face
dancing in puddles begins
the gift of life
held in each drop
the world lives on
life continually renewed with
a kiss

The One Hundred Forty Fifth, May 24, 2011

have I told you lately 

I love and adore you

that you fill my life

with sweet happiness?

have I mentioned to you

the warmth I feel inside

each time you smile

or give me a big hug?

do you know inside

I think you are sweet

wanting to be beside you

and hold your hand?

did I tell you lately

that I am thrilled by you

and cannot imagine 

you not in my life?

Yes, but never often enough....

The One Hundred Forty Fourth, May 23, 2011

I strongly require a nap!
the secret to success
comes from being happy
and that comes from a nap

recharging the energies
clearing the cobwebs
reclaiming the peace
just what the day needs

do not tell the boss
maybe close my door
like my eyes are now
hope that I don't snore.

the One Hundred Forty Third, May 22, 2011

TAINTED

The end is near
the end has past
where are we now?

was I left behind
not meet the minimum
inferior or tainted

or was the mouth
calling the claim
unfit to speak?

I am relieved
glad to still be here
I like my life

so I missed the boat
it seems so did he
the second time

I am glad I am still me... are you?

The One Hundred Forty Second, May 21, 2011

Today was the day
that the world was to end
So I grabbed my cash
and went out to spend

no need for tomorrow
it won't come anyway
so time to have fun
living just for today!

that's when I realized
I have what I need
to enjoy this "last day"
more would be greed

if I don't make the cut
for life's second round
I will be content anyway
at home I'll be found

and so if you stay too
and you are feeling alone
you know what to do
just pick up the phone

come over to visit
and stay for a while
after all, if its over
we could all use a smile

See you tomorrow..... or not!

The One Hundred Forty First, May 20, 2011

in my car, I am king
this is my world
I alone am in control
you are unimportant
you do not count
you are not even in my world
I drive
changing lanes because I can
you must move
this is my road
you do not exists
answer a call
conversation is all that matters
there is no traffic
this is my world
speed limits are for others
they do not apply to me
horn honks
my finger raises in salute
this is MY road
you need to stay home
radio plays my favorite song
I need to dance
drifting across lanes
I can
it is my world
you need to move
only I matter
red lights flash
I stop
what did I do wrong, Officer?
clueless and self absorbed
the hell of traffic

The One Hundred Fortieth, May 19, 2011

I stopped to smell a flower today
the fragrance lightly floating by
subtly captured my attention
drawing me irresistibly toward it

mind numbed by its presence
to the worries of the day ahead
settling into a simpler place
a world of peace and comfort

such a small thing as a flower
a brief moment spent enjoying
the memory my companion
through the rest of the day

too often I pass flowers by
thinking of sneezes if at all
far to rare are these moments
time I slowed down once more

tomorrow I need to stop and smell a flower......

The One Hundred Thirty Ninth, May 18, 2011

today I said goodbye
to my friend Errol
though only a bird
he was still family

he came as a gift
stayed for a while
almost 12 years
I miss him already

the wind is yours
at last you can soar
fly free, dear Errol
as freely as my tears

The One Hundred Thirty Eighth, May 17, 2011

why do we laugh
what makes us smile
how can we hold it
and share it with all

the world needs it
a laugh and smile
to chase away hate
and wrap us in love

a Coke won't do it

The One Hundred Thirty Seventh, May 16, 2011

can we truly excuse
deliberate ignorance
or abusive bickering
as acceptable today?

you say, I say, they say
too many words said
not enough heard
and even less done

time means very little
the status quo remains
keep sliding down hill
let tomorrow find hope

you can feel no blame
for actions left undone
as long as you claim
it was only their fault

I say end the excuses
place the fault at home
with us for we reelect you
there is the true ignorance

The One Hundred Thirty Sixth, May 15, 2011

Sunday

sedate
unhurried
narcissistic
decadent
altruistic
yede

The One Hundred Thirty Fifth, May 14, 2011

Gray heavy oppressive
from sky to earth, filled
a burden pressing down
draining away happiness

rain drifts lightly to earth
kissing the grass hello
quenching their thirst
as they wait on the sun

it is from this gray day
comes the joy of flowers
birds washing loudly
happiness abounds

I only needed to change my perspective....

The One Hundred Thirty Fourth, May 13, 2011

lost thoughts drift
technical difficulties
thoughts expressed
technical difficulties

yesterday is missing
technical difficulties
created and eaten
technical difficulties

hope it will return
technical difficulties
I feel I lost part of me
technical difficulties......

The One Hundred Thirty Third, May 12, 2011

wandering in my mind
looking at the scenery
feeling a bit confused
where did that come from?

collections of things
boxes of old dreams
trunks of past ideas
mind filled with clutter

these are who I am
pieces that make me
when all put together
to complete the puzzle

none will be cast off
even though I try
they cannot leave me
these are who I am

wandering in my mind
admiring the scenery
feeling rather proud
understanding who I am

The One Hundred Thirty Second, May 11, 2011

silence

long
cold
drawn
oppressive
heavy
contemplative
thoughtful
deep
warm
tender
soft
gentle

needed

The One Hundred Thirty First, May 10, 2011

we often confuse
worry for thought
deluding ourselves
they are the same

we worry too often
think not enough
troubles grow larger
hope drains away

time to face reality
admit when it fails
stop needless worry
force deeper thought

worry makes haste
faster and faster we go
desperate for answers
which slip farther away

thinking helps us to slow
creating a calmer mind
answers are more stable
solutions can be found

it is time I remember this
breathing deep and slow
letting true thought rise
leaving worry behind

The One Hundred Thirtieth, May 09, 2011

I do not see what you see
I do not hear what you hear
I have traveled my own path
and you have been on yours

we know different worlds
as we stand side by side
watching the same events
seeing distinct phenomenon

perhaps similar enough
that we can recognize them
perhaps so uniquely altered
as to be a from a new world

how can one ask another
to blindly be like themselves
without altering the vision
and limiting the wonder?

imagine how dull it would be
if there was only one vision
if there was only one sound
if there was only one truth

I am not you, you are not me
this is why living matters
to create our own worlds
and live the lives we are given

Be unique, be original, be who you are

The One Hundred Twenty Ninth, May 08, 2011

Mother


unconditional
from first breath beyond our last,
Mom, the name of love