The Light
Contributed by Mary Wessling
Beneath the twilight of a million stars,
we lay gazing into their past and living in our present.
They flicker like the fluttering within.
I once surveyed the celestial as the metaphorical metamorphosis of purpose.
The night sky ever changing, the only constant continual existence.
Our lives ever evolving, the only constant continual existentialism.
Then I gazed into your gaze,
and saw the light that never flickers to darkness.
The star that is ever present, unwavering, and bright.
The star that brings warmth and life.
The star that gives meaning to the night.
The Scent of Jasmin
Contributed by V.M. Tackett
As I wait for my love, like so many times before, beside the willow tree near the brook, its water glitters like diamonds in the midday sun. The wind was blowing ever so softly through the trees. The anticipation of her arrival was blissful anguish. Longing to see her once again, to touch her, to hold her filled my very soul. As I hear the rustling of the autumn leaves along the ground, I turn to see my love gracefully walking toward me. Her long flowing hair gave way to the soft unyielding Autumn winds, carrying it to one side, accentuating her beauty. Once we meet, she slides her hands into mine, melting my heart with her smile. As I pull her close to me, the scent of her perfume was captivating, the scent of Jasmin, and then our lips softly touch. However, reality opens my eyes, and she is no longer standing in front of me. Her vision, a product of my past, my memories of a love taken from me much too soon. Her haunting memory fills my heart with joy and overwhelming grief that I will never again smell the scent of Jasmin.
Yes, I Would Build a Wall
Contributed by Ellen VandeVisse
Oh, yes, I’d build a wall
All along our border
I’d grow it full of apples, plums and nuts
I’d seed in grains to fill your larder.
I’d plant a billion berry bushes
And sow continuous tender greens
I’d throw in some watermelon patches
Plus, fragrant flowers and fresh beans.
I’d transplant a multitude of trees
For your shelter and your shade
Come harvest succulent delight,
Then rest in welcoming glade.
The wall would not be that tall
But it would be some miles wide
Crammed full of bio-abundance
And clean camps to rebuild your pride.
My wall would be a political oasis
An international sanctuary, you see
A designated neutral zone
Where it’s safe for you and me.
Did I mention that in this sovereign strip,
No country may own or patrol?
Except to extend a helping hand
No fear of detention or control.
Breathe free from all the demons
All you who run from hunger and strife;
Since my wall guarantees your freedom
Take refuge now and re-start your life.
This neutral zone would bear a sign
May You Feel Peace and Serenity
So, come all refugees, and once again
May you feel welcome and dignity.
Wait, is there punishment for violence?
No, you’ll not be banned
Just spend a lifetime within the wall
Cultivating your food by hand
And let nature restore your soul.
Capsized
Contributed by Robert Lyons
Overwhelmed
Not at the helm
Consumed by fire
Pain, desire, pyre
Delving diver
Life is a lie
Negative image
A stream, a dream
Complete hesitation
Loading my scheme
The wheel turns
We all learn
Downloading reality
Shattering prismatic
Scattered lens static
This plastic realm
I’m overwhelmed
