Off The Cuff - Chuck's Poems

[CellarDweller]

Hey y'all!







Decided to neaten up my blog a bit, so I'm copying my poems here.  As of this date, any and all poems that I write will be placed here.


Looking forward to responses and feedback, so don't hold back!   Let me know what ones you like, and what ones you don't.

I'm not moving anyones comments from the original blog, so as to not interrupt any convos that took place, so if you've already commented on them there, don't feel pressured to move them here, they are fine where they are.  

[CellarDweller]

The Empty Frame

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I wake up, and turn off the alarm
look at the pictures in my room
all the friends that are around me
and the empty frame
waiting to be filled

I drive to work, and look to my right
at the empty passenger seat of my car
wishing there was an indentation in it
from where someone was sitting

I walk through my day at work
processing paperwork
while the woman at the desk next to me
is making dinner plans with her husband
and I have to go to other people's desks
and see pics of wives and husbands

I go to the park for my jog
and work up a sweat
as I watch couples hand in hand
taking in the sunset
while I run by unnoticed

My family is away, so I make myself dinner
for one
and listen to mindless chatter on tv
no messages from friends on my machine
they are all busy
with their husbands or wives

I sign onto my personal ads online
and go through the replies
another rejection....oh well
there's always tomorrow

Getting into the bed
sliding between cold sheets
even a single bed can feel like a king size
when you are alone in it
set the alarm and look at the empty frame
wondering when I'll have a pic
to put in it.

[CellarDweller]

In the Shadows

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In the shadows is where I stand
As I hold my heart in hand
Wishing you would come to see
That what you want is here with me

I make you laugh, I make you smile
We talk for hours, we walk for miles
You tell me dreams, you tell me plans
But what I want is to be your man

Good times for us would never end
But when you see me, you see "friend"
For you, I feel there is no other
But you say I'm like a brother

So I hold back how I feel
not being 100% real
'Cause I'd rather have you as a friend
Than scare you off in the end

Some days it's fine, don't really care
That it's just friendship we share
And other days, well, let's just say
I wish you'd come around to stay.

In the shadows is where I stand
As I hold my heart in hand
I sense you are a special guy
But waiting for you makes my heart cry

[CellarDweller]

The Crush

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It seems the crush I had on you
Has finally reached an end
For me to say feelings go on
Would only be pretend

It was a crazy time for me
To that, I will not lie
I used to wonder “why not me?”
Stay up at night and cry

You had no idea I felt this way
I never let it show
I kept the feelings to myself
So that you wouldn’t know

I’ve opened up my eyes, quite wide
And finally see the light
And realize now that us ‘hooking up’
Just would not have been right

I prayed to God every night
That you’d let some feelings show
Now I see He answered those prayers
But what he said was “No”.

But that’s ok, I’m not “crushed”
Though some might think I’ll be
We’re two very different people
I’ve finally come to see

I hope the man you’ve fallen for
Loves you until “the end”
And you’ll always have a place in my heart
Because I call you friend.

[CellarDweller]

Night visitor

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Your face above mine
as we lay in the bed
Your eyes convey messages
that for now are unsaid
you move closer and I feel
your weight on my chest
whiskers tickling my neck
this feeling's the best
your hands on my shoulders
and then they're on the move
you're a man on a mission
with something to prove
I can smell your musk
your scent makes me high
Your lips on my lips
your hands on my thigh
and then they move over
and I feel your grip
Your motions are sure
and I bite my lip
I feel like I'm going
into overload
and then, next to us
a sound does explode
I sit up in bed
to see you are not here
and the sound of the dj
is filling my ear.


That PHUCKIN' alarm clock!

Aww man, the sheets are sticky now! 



 

[CellarDweller]

And Feed The Birds

--------------------------------------



What day is it today
I wonder
As I sit with my friend
And feed the birds

I look at my clothes
And laugh to myself
All dressed up, Sunday best
And no place to go

Every day we come
My friend and I
And sit at this bench
And feed the birds

Living life at a snail’s pace
And no desire to change it
Truth be told
No desire for much of anything

Polite conversation
And some drags on our cigars
And we share some laughs
And feed the birds

Missing our wives
Who have gone on to God
And left us alone
All we have is each other

So we keep each other company
And lean on each other
Together killing time
And we feed the birds

[CellarDweller]

Moving On

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All my life you bought me hell
but now I've grown and wish you well

All my life you made me cry
but now I look up to the sky

All my life you made me doubt
but now I've got it figured out

All my life you gave me pain
but now I've made it through the rain

I took your blows, I took your strife
dealt with all the ways you tried to ruin my life

Now look at me, somebody new
not that tired little loser
who you once abused

I've succeed in many ways
that you will never see
'cause I'm surrounded now by friends
who taught me to love me for me

All my life you gave me fears
beat me down and gave me tears

I'm glad you're not around to see
the person i've turned out to be

Through the sadness I have sailed
all of your attempts have failed

Now I turn, and I move on
and from my memories, you're gone

[CellarDweller]

Worth

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Making myself someone new
and now I know just what to do
tired of feeling lost and hollow
change the outside, inside will follow

starting to work on myself
change my physical and mental health
build up energy for the fight
see myself in a new light

I see success, It makes me high
but now I question myself why
why did I wait so damn long
to bring myself where I belong

I spent my life walking around
letting others put me down
let them have their way with me
to the point I could not see

Just how special that I am
Now I know "It's time, to jam"
gonna let myself have fun
spend my time out in the sun

Learn from the old me, it's his time to go
never let anyone hurt you so
look back on your life, from birth
realize just how much you're worth 

[CellarDweller]

My poem is one I wrote about a year and a half ago.....my mindset has changed since then, and some of the things I mention are not part of my thought pattern anymore, but since I wrote it, and it was what I was thinking at the time, I'm posting it.









Wasting Time

_______________________

Sitting alone by the computer
as the clock ticks by the minutes
I am being kept company
by the refridgerator
as it's moter drones on and on
and I wonder
how much of my life I've wasted
trying to be what others wanted
and not doing what I needed to
to make myself happy

thinking back to childhood memories
of playing house and being a dad
with my friend across the street
imagining what it would be like
to be an adult
Never realizing that
I'd reach 37
and still feel like I don't know
what it should feel like
to be an adult

Sitting here thinking
that  I've made so many strides forward
in the past 8 years
but even though I was moving forward
wondering if I haven't moved fast enough
and that I have lost the chance
to find love
and to be a father

The clock ticks, and I realize it's past 1
and I'm sitting here
wondering if writing things down
will help me move on the path faster
or if I'm still wasting time

[CellarDweller]

Wasting Time- Chapter 2

_______________________

Sitting alone by the computer
as the clock ticks by the minutes
I am being kept company
by the hum of the modem
and the occasional "beep" of my YIM system
while I carry on conversation
and put my thoughts onto my blog

So much has changed since "chapter 1"
and it can be surprising
how what was so important to you before
can seem so insingificant now
and make you question
your thought processes and priorities

I find my feelings of fatherhood to have disappeared
and the appeal of travel taking importance
seeing the world instead of
setting up home
and wanting the freedom to go as I please
without having to worry about the care of a young one

I know I have not missed out on love
had it in my life before
much to my surprise
and I know i will have it again
it will be mine, and I'll hold it with both hands
tight enough not to lose it
but gentle enough not to bruise it.

My writing is taking shape and form
but I still question if it is ready to be seen
and if there is an audience for it
and if I have the talent to put it out there
and the strength to face the rejection that will come
wondering if I should've started this much earlier
instead of at almost 40.

I've accomplished much in the past 2 years
more than I thought was possible
but I feel that a part of me
will never be satisfied with that
and always convinced that
I waste too much time

[CellarDweller]

The Sneak


----------------------------------------------------



yesterday you first came around
often appearing and making much sound
unfamiliar face in a big crowd
creating mystique when speaking out loud
another new friend, so it seemed at first
now I see you are acting your worst
trying to comment, and push me away
save your strength, honey, those are games I don't play
creating some drama by moving your mouth
apparently thinking you'll make me run south
rotten to the core is how I see you
every day I see it, it shows more, through and through
mighty do fall, it's a lesson to learn
every person who's sneaky one day will get burned
fill up your gun, and your ammo you'll spend
run from you I won't do, I'm here to the end
over and over you'll try to smear me
maybe one day, you'll wake up and see
bitch, i'm too strong, so play if you must
my friends know who I am, and it's me that they trust

[CellarDweller]

the Undone Puzzle

_____________________________________

Sitting here, thinking that life makes no sense
It’s all jumbled, like the letters on the keyboard
That is in front of me, at work
All out of sequence, and meaning nothing
I type, and force them to fit, to make sense
Put them into sequence, and into form
So why is it I can figure out this “puzzle”
But my life feels like a jigsaw
That has been carelessly poured out of its box
Into a pile on the floor
And then left there, a mess to be figured out later
Because it is too hard to make sense out of right now

What does not kill you makes you stronger
I believe that
But strength has limits
And I’m getting tired of having mine tested
While I put on a happy face
So that no one will be concerned
Besides, if it’s my life, and I can’t figure it out
How can anyone else do that for me
And doesn’t that defeat the purpose of living anyway
To learn as you live
If you have someone else giving you the answers

Still sitting here, while there is a pile of work
Sitting next to me, to be processed
While I look for motivation to get it done
Instead of letting my mind wander
And go where it should not
And be where it should not
Is it “go home” time yet?
I want to walk in the park
And at least feel like I did something today
That was to my benefit
Other than just sitting here
Doing nothing
And wondering if I’m on the right path
looking at the pile
needing to get the puzzle together

[CellarDweller]

Trouble Maker


as I sit and watch you
my mind starts to think
you once seemed so nice
but now, you stink
people I care for
are talking to me
about the trouble you've caused
that you think they don't see
I'm sure you don't know this
but my eye is on you
watching over all
that you say and you do
your purpose in life
to cause others distress
gives me the impression
that your mind is a mess
brain slightly off kilter
like an uneven table
mentally confused
and emotionally unstable
taking your spoon
and stirring the pot
better be careful
it's contents are quite hot
and when your efforts backfire
we'll see if you've learned
that the ones who start trouble
are the ones who get burned
when the end does occur
and the pieces do fall
I hope you're alone
in the middle of it all
and while the rest walk away
with their heads all held high
I hope you find out
what it feels like to lie
in the bed that you made
by your own design
with intentions so cruel
all efforts to malign

[CellarDweller]

Snake In The Grass



sitting on the computer
and look what I've found
a snake in the grass
that came back around

and then you approached me
that I could not believe
you slithered right over
thought to make me your "Eve"

toss me a line
throw me some bait
hope for a nibble
sit back and wait

well, you fooled me once
I was too dumb to see
you won't fool me twice
there'll be no "shame on me"

and you gave me your numbers
in case I want to call you
well don't hold your breath
'cause you might just turn blue

try to play your games
you will not succeed
there's a new man in my life
and he's all that I need

sure you can talk to me
go ahead, spend that dime
but don't be surprised
if I don't have the time

there's someone else for me now
and he'll always come first
he shows me the best
you show me the worst

you are here for a purpose
it's a lesson learned
you tempted, you succeeded
I let myself get burned

won't happen again
eyes wide opened now
but karma bites back hard
and you'll get yours somehow

[CellarDweller]

Your Music


Sitting in the basement
hearing the clock tick
I place the cd in the computer
the one you hid in my bag
as a surprise

The music begins
it wafts out of my speakers
filling the basement with your music
and my head with memories

I see you, sitting there
at the keyboards
hitting differnet buttons and switches
in frustration
trying to make magic

and then, you play
and I can see your fingers
lightly touching the keys
and the notes fill the living room

ebony and ivory
bending under your will
and your talent
filling the room with sounds
where before there were none

I sit in the corner
and listen to the melodies
as instrumental music
religious and secular
floats through the living room

You turn off the keyboard
and get up and walk away
expressing dissatisfaction
at imperfect pieces

but I stay in the corner
and close my eyes
as the music still floats through my head
with the image of the man who put it there

[CellarDweller]

Today's poem was a challenge to me in November of last year, to write a poem about homelessness.





An Effort To Live

Morning comes and I wake
to the rhythm of the rain
landing on the top of my cardboard box
and a shiver runs up my spine

I take the newspapers
that served as my blanket last night
and stuff them into my shoes
to keep my feet as dry as I can

I grab the plastic bag, which holds my wardrobe
and a cup, which is my bank book
and hit the streets
in an effort to live

You see a garbage can on the corner, I see a buffet
discarded soda, french fries, sandwich
barely enough to stop the growl in my stomach
but it does make it better

Walking around town, shaking my cup
being looked at by strangers
who think I'm crazy, or strung out
not realizing my life has crumbled around me

Sunset, time for bed
that dumpster is my real estate agent
and the cardboard box is my new shelter
hopefully, it won't start raining again

I find an alley and set up house
fetal position to keep myself warm
I close my eyes
and pray that tomorrow will be different

[CellarDweller]

Daddy’s Little Girl

------------------------------------------

Good things come in small packages
I never believed that
Until the day you arrived
And I held you in my arms

How can I do this
Be all that she needs
And take care of her
For the rest of my days

I’m just a man
I’m supposed to feel strong
But this tiny bundle of life
Has turned me upside down

So much to teach you
To walk, talk and play
School work and home work
Boys, life, and love

Please remember I’m flawed
And though I’ll try my best
I will make mistakes
So please don’t lose faith in me

I’ll always be here
To hold you and love you
From your very first breath
To my very last breath

And though someday a man
Will be your new number one
Just keep this in mind
You’re always daddy’s little girl

[CellarDweller]

My Arms

-----------------------------------------------------------


My arms outstretched
they can be strong
and with them I try
to do no wrong

My arms outstretched
they are quite hairy
I can use them to help
your burden, I'll carry

My arms outstretched
won't try in vain
when I place them around you
to comfort your pain

My arms outstretched
can accomplish much
so step up and reach out
they'll respond to your touch

My arms outstretched
can do much, you see
but right now they feel useless
they're empty, you see

[CellarDweller]

The Sun Will Rise

---------------------------------------------



I travel now in silence too
Sometimes happy, sometimes blue
You look at me, and I see you
I know that we will get  through

I won’t look back with regret or fear
Been through many changes this year
Put hands to my tear filled eyes
Look at the ceiling and shout out “whys”

Hurt does pass, and so does time
Move on to better things we’ll find
This time of year we both feel sad
But don’t look back on the year as bad

New people have come into our heart
And because of that they’ll never part
They offered us a chance to grow
And ourselves to better know

Our special someones are still here
And while not in the way we want, I fear
When we talk to them, they’ll hear
And to us they will always be dear

Happy days are meant to be
Sadness never lasts, you see
The darkness leaves, the silence dies
A new day comes, the sun will rise.

[CellarDweller]

Pulling Teeth

---------------------------------------------



anesthetized
feelings have been lost
and I sit and wait
nerves crackle like electricity
anxious beads of sweat
form on my brow
as I wait
the figure approaches me
and begins its procedure
then it starts
the first tug
a twist, a turn
feeling like I'm being jerked about
strange sensations and sounds
was that a crack
bits and pieces fall from me
will it be over soon
it feels like it's taking forever
slow motion movment
and then, it's done
there is a space now
where there once was something
the figure departs
and I'm alone in the room
my muse is gone for now
and the bits and pieces are on the screen
forming the words of my poems
sometimes this process
is just like pulling teeth

[CellarDweller]

Adrift


Being adrift
Sounds so peaceful
But how can something so peaceful
Bring such stress
And uneasiness

What I was once so sure of
Has abandoned me
Leaving me adrift
Without direction
And no oars

A friend once told me
Those who wander are not lost
So why do I feel lost
On a sea of uncertainty
While others sail on

Adrift and alone
Once again
I should be used to this
So why do I feel
So confused and lost

One thing is certain
I won’t go on this way
So please excuse me
I must turn my attention
To finding the oars

[CellarDweller]

Untitled


-----------------------------



your life can be more
outrageous, you see
unique and exciting
abstract and complete
ready for it
expect it to improve
no more hiding so come
out and get into the groove
told that, yes we were
and so we believed
life would get better
once we no longer deceived
now here we are
everything has not changed
freedom still restricted
reaching out, and
in vain
every day a new challenge
not so easy, it seems
don't give up, keep moving
step up, reach for your dreams

[CellarDweller]

I wish I could express to you
with words just how I feel
but the words, they seem to fail me
they can't describe what's real

2006 is about to end
and though I should feel tall
the new year makes me anxious
and I find I'm feeling small

There is one thing I'm sure of
it's that I have a big heart
and all of you are in it
you each take up a part

You've made me laugh and smile
you've held me when I cried
caused me to think about so much
you made me feel alive

2007 will bring good things for us
of that, a part of me is sure
but a part of me is still afraid
to walk through the open door

My head keeps me in the clouds
my feet are on the sand
but I'm uneasy on the inside
will you hold my hand

[CellarDweller]

Brotherhood


------------------------------------------


take those in life, and hold them close
or one day you may have regrets
my oh my how time flies by
you should make sure you don't forget
bonds that were formed between each other
may sometimes not feel so strong
but brotherhood is always there though no
real blood makes you belong
on through life in forward motion
sharing thoughts and fears with me
you feel afraid, then turn and look
over your shoulder, and there I'll be
understand that life's not simple
real life can beat us down
extend your hands out to the others
they'll help turn you around
here's to friendship and brotherhood
each person raise a glass
because it's time to toast to us
every single lad and lass
so put your arms around me tight, hold me close to your heart
treasure each and every moment, so we'll never be apart

[CellarDweller]

The day after Christmas, 2005
had just seen a movie, made my mind come alive
two cowboys in love, but could not make it work
gave my mindset a shove, gave my life a strong jerk
could not just go on, letting things be
time to make changes, and start them with me
grow up, shed my skin, leave the past behind
get myself healthy, in body and mind
heal my heart, and mend my soul
trust myself to take chances, and let myself grow
open my mind, so my muse can inspire
let my talent run free, like it was wild fire
start to travel around, new people to see
open myself up, and let them touch me
cry on their shoulders, funny stories to share
I hope they all realize, just how much I care
accept what fate gives me, dealt out from above
celebrate life, take risks to find love
the future is mine, in the palm of my hand
so it's time to go grab it, and I know that I can
so now I move forward, there's no turning back
and it's due to the story of Ennis and Jack

[CellarDweller]

Celestial Sparkle

---------------------------------------------

End of day, and I lay in my bed
Thinking the best that will happen
Is a night’s sleep
Suddenly, I’m surrounded by an aura
Pale green light envelopes me
And I levitate from the bed
And out of the window.
It must be a dream.

I find myself in a room
Surrounded by stainless steel
Or so it appears
With flashing lights, and an audible hum.
And it feels like the entire room is moving
Suddenly, sliding doors open
Revealing my hosts

They stand in front of me
And they make me think of polar opposites
Short in stature, but large in intellect
Skin an iridescent opal, eyes as dark as onyx
The eyes of God? No, but close….very close

They take my hand, and I feel a sense of peace
And they lead me to the main deck
Of their craft
I look out the window and see Earth far below.
I’m surrounded by a beautiful scene
Lights and colors beyond my comprehension
Celestial sparkle laid out
Against an inky backdrop of black
I look back down to Earth and realize
I have left the realm of man
And am now in the realm of God
Beauty beyond compare

One of my hosts approaches me
And touches my inner arm
There is a mild burning sensation
And everything goes black

I wake the next morning
And find myself back in my bed
A dream, it must have been
But what a fantastic dream
Then, I look at my arm and see it
A mark left behind from where my host touched me
A crescent moon
A reminder of my fantastic journey
And that I have experienced something special

Why I was chosen, I don’t know
But I will always be grateful, and never forget it.

[CellarDweller]

Monster's Prayer


-----------------------------------------



Monsters and goblins
And zombies galore
Rise up from the pits
And lurk across the floor
Witches, grab broomsticks
And take them to flight
It’s what we’ve waited for
It’s Halloween night
Covered in blackness
This night is so rare
Legitmate times
To go out and scare
The humans that live
On this delicate sphere
Move onward, lurch forward
Go out and strike fear
In the hearts of men
Who think they're so bold
Just wait to they feel
The touch of the cold
Hand from the grave
With wide eyes they’ll see
Vampire bats
Descending to feed
The humans will run
They’ll scream and they’ll yell
But we’ll keep coming on
From the deep pits of hell
They won’t be able to stop us
Though they’ll try as they might
We’re far too strong
And it’s Halloween night

[CellarDweller]

Come Back

-----------------------------------------------

kindness is what you deserved
everyone who knows you knows that
life of the party is what you are
laughter follows to where ever you’re at
yet someone decided to step to you
call you out for a remark that you made
off of the handle that person flew
maybe they made you feel afraid
excuse me, but who are they
butting in where there is no need
acting holier than thou
cutting you and making you bleed
kvetching about what you said
fretting about what is assumed
obnoxious right up to the end
rash acting, it has them consumed
get back here, to where you belong
everyone will be so relieved
to see you smile and your face
that you’re gone, it can’t be conceived
hope the trouble maker soon shuts their mouth
alone is how they’ll be in the end
talking to no one but themselves
bemused that no one is their friend
I ask that you hold your head up high
to be proud of the things you did, dear
can you please come back to your friends now
hell, don’t let yourself be run off in fear

[CellarDweller]

Size?


--------------------------------------------------------




So I sign onto the 'net, for something to do
I log into a chat, to see who is who
I create a profile, I put up my pic
I started to chat, I met people, really quick
In under 5 minutes,  was messaged by 3 guys
and the first question they asked was, "what is your size?"
That was their first question, right after the "hi"
wanting to know what was, between the thighs
No "what's your name", or "how are you",  nothing else to say
Just wanted to know,  if I was up for a quick lay
I wanted to say,  "can't you show some class?
do you know that,  you made yourself look like an ass?"
Did you look at my pic,  and think you'd push your luck
he looks like a guy,  who'd give me a quick fuck
I really do hope,  I don't come off like a prude
but I just have to say,  I find your approach rude
"Hey, how's it goin'?,   My name is Nick,
if you've got some spare time,  would you suck my dick?"
No "do you want to meet?",   "Do you like to dance?"
your only thought was,  to get into my pants
well here's a news flash,  I don't do casual sex
if you're looking for that,  go call on an ex
If you want it go get it,  go for yours boy
I hope you find someone,  who will let themselves be your toy
I've got no problem with you,  go do what you can
but I have higher standards,  because I am a man.

[CellarDweller]

Here we sit in silence
no sound breaks through the night
and even with the candle lit
there isn't enough light

the heat, it is so stifling
the humidity is worse
here we sit in our uncomfort
it's enough to make me curse

Here we sit in silence
not quite sure what to do
hoping for relief soon
so we can see this through

In the silence and the darkness
Nothing feels quite right
hoping that together
we will make it through the night


DAMN THE POWER OUTAGE!!!!!
DAMN THE POWER OUTAGE!!!!!


*written after the 2003 power outage that hit the East Coast*

[CellarDweller]

Thank you!


------------------------------------






Sometimes it feels like there is more I should say
but I shut my mouth, and keep the words at bay
do you even know, you gave my heart a touch
you're such a great person, and you've done so much
you've lifted my spirits, and made me feel strong
that things will be right, after they have gone wrong
the talks that we've had, and the feelings you've shown
have made me feel like, I'm not quiet all alone
you give me support, and hand out kind words
I want you to know, that your advice has been heard
the laughs and the jokes, we share through the day
and it always seems like, there's much more to say
I feel I can trust you, with any information
As we push each other on, to our lives' destination
On this journey we're on, if the seas should get rough
It's cool to know you'll be there, to help me be tough
and so we move forward, we're doing just fine
and I can't wait to see you, as we cross the finish line

[CellarDweller]

Candlelight



------------------------------------------



I strike the match, use candlelight
now I know, it will be tonight
I see you there, I'll take this chance
as I watch, our shadows dance.
I'll take the steps, the waters I'll test
I place my hands, upon your chest
I let my fingers move along
the radio plays song after song
I look to your eyes, there's excitement there
I can feel the energy in the air
you grab me hard, playing tough
my skin gets scratched by your facial "scruff"
I hear your heart beat from within
I love the feel of your skin on my skin
your breath comes fast, your kisses sweet
the room is hot from our body heat
Your arms around me, feel so strong
I feel this is where I belong
there is no place I'd rather be
I let myself go, and give you me
On my body, your lips, your teeth, your hand
tonight is going just as we planned
Your passion, your heat, makes me feel new
I'm glad I gave my all to you.

[CellarDweller]

Body Betrayal.

----------------------------------------

We've heard all the sayings
you should treat your body
like it's a temple
If you are good to it
it will be good to you

I treated my body like trash
and didn't care about it
and finally realized one day
that I needed to fix this
when I ran out of energy dancing
at the wedding of some friends

The next day, changes started
Heathy food in, and energy out
being rewarded with losses
shrinking weight and waist
and suddenly to my surprise
energy that I never had before

So imagine my surprise
when I woke up to find out
I had been betrayed by my body
even though I'm doing as I should
and I have yet
to reach the goals that I've set

feeling like a bowl of cereal
as my body "snaps" "crackles" and "pops"
and walking around with doubt
as my knee feels better now
but I know it's a bomb
ready to blow at any time

Keeping myself stocked with pain killers
just in case
and a knee brace in my bedroom
and in my workout bag
so I always have one, if needed
I don't want to be caught by surprise

I started this lifestyle change
because I wanted to dance
and with each step I take
I hear my knee crack and I wonder
If I'll be able to dance
when my own wedding day comes.

[CellarDweller]

Going gets rough, sometimes that's true
Lasts as long as you want it to
Always open hearted is how you should be
Don't close heart or mind, please let yourself see
You have something special, somehthing others wish for
Outside looking in, those people are poor
Useless is the anger, that can rip you apart
Work to maintain a space in each other's heart
Overcame the difference, after a talk
Relaxed once again, as friends you will walk
Keep the bonds intact, it's worth the fight
Excellant that you made what was wrong, right
Doubted each other, perhaps for a while
I knew you'd fix it, grudges aren't your style
Together as friends, the bond, it will grow
Others wil see, your friendship does show
Undone, this friendship will not become
Try to spread it around, give everyone some
Fantasticly handled by you two men
Rather than acting like spoiled children
I am feeling happy that this you achieved
Ended it, and a deep sigh I heaved
No more estrangement, it came to an end
Destroying a friendship, I can't comprehend
So hold on to what you have, a trustworthy friend

[CellarDweller]

Although I know I can’t see you
You’re watching everything I do
Always here throughout the day
Listening to what I say
Around the corner do you lurk?
While I’m in my cubicle at work
Making sure your cover’s not blown
Trying not to make your presence known
You just tried to sneak on by
Caught you out of the corner of my eye
You may annoy others when you weave and bob
I know you’re just doing your job
Keep me safe, like hand in glove
My guardian angel, from above

[CellarDweller]

You all had your fun
Over on my blog
Undefended me
Went out for a jog
I came back, what did I find
Lurking on the 'net
Lots of silly comments
All waiting to be met
Lots of typing went on
Lots of posting, too
Gee your all so funny
Exactly what should I do
Timt to set a plan
You may want to pray
Oh my, oh my, guess what
Undefended is in the mood to play
Revenge is a dish best served cold
So that's what I've been told

[CellarDweller]

She's just a few hours drive from me
she lives on the same coast
a woman that we all hold dear
and who would frequently post
to the forum where she made friends
where she'd spend parts of her day
and little did she know
she touched our hearts along the way
with the way she shared her feelings
and the way she talked to us
free with her time and her emotions
and she never raised a fuss
I'm sure that Jackie knows
that we're praying for her now
and we'd take this pain from her
if we truly just knew how
so let's hold on to each other
while we pray to God above
focus now on Jackie
and we'll send her all our love




we love you, Jackie!

[CellarDweller]

Life is never easy
although we wish it were
it can run by at breakneck speed
we only see it as a blur
we wish for only positive
we only wish to gain
but we feel like we're in darkness
it seems we only feel the pain
weight of the world upon us
it seems too much to bear
we cry, we scream, we shed the tears
feels like our hearts will tear.
the world can be such a harsh place
that's something that we're told
so let's reach out to one another
grab a friend to hold
darkness and hurt will always fade
no matter what the size
so let's climb the mountain side by side
and wait for the sun to rise

[CellarDweller]

I'll See You At The Gate


You were a special person
too special for this place
always had a song in your heart
and a smile on your face
opened up your home to friends
and opened your heart too
always ready to share some laughs
and talk to friends when they were blue
a bubbling personality
so brightly your light shone
I would've talked to you much more
but you were always on the phone   
and then your last day comes
with the sadness that it brings
but you really couldn't stay here
you had to go and get your wings
you're up among the angels now
there's no more pain and no more hate
and when my time comes to cross over
I know I'll see you at the gate

[CellarDweller]

Fork in The Road


-----------------------------



come upon a fork in the road
how to turn, and still carry your load
on your own, feeling unsure
often feeling insecure
seeking answers on your way
existing for more, day by day
clutching to part of your past
almost like a sail to a mast
remember the past may hold you back
excusing it to cut others some slack
forward moving is what you need
unless you pick up greater speed
love that you seek may never be reached
lonely and regretful, your happiness breached
your hopeful future may end up dead
because you refused to look only ahead
in forward motion is the way to be
go on to the future and wonders you will see
back to the past, it may cause you pain
regrets could be many, resources may drain
only you know what is best for you
think with a clear head, and choose what you should do
happiness for you, that is what you seek
either path lay in front of you, don't you feel weak
rewards must be earned, they aren't handed to the meek

[CellarDweller]

A City Boy's Mentality, With a Cowboy's Soul


------------------------------------------------



a city boy's mentality
and a cowboy's soul
and where do I go
when I want to feel "whole"
the city's my home
where I was born and bred
the sights and the sounds
are all up in my head
but the mountains and crisp air
they can bring me peace
I would go there in a heartbeat
when I need the noise to cease
the sounds of a club
where I could dance all night
the smell of the food
that I cooked by firelight
the crowded stores
that use sales to tease
the rustle of leaves
from a cool autumn breeze
a New Jersey breakfast
that's second to none
the Colorado mountians
under the midday sun
both settings do suit me
I guess that is my role
to have a city boy's mentality
and a cowboy's soul

[Shakesthecoffecan]

I like your poems Chuck, I can identify with the conflict between the city and the country.

[loneleeb3]

A City Boy's Mentality, With a Cowboy's Soul


------------------------------------------------



a city boy's mentality
and a cowboy's soul
and where do I go
when I want to feel "whole"
the city's my home
where I was born and bred
the sights and the sounds
are all up in my head
but the mountains and crisp air
they can bring me peace
I would go there in a heartbeat
when I need the noise to cease
the sounds of a club
where I could dance all night
the smell of the food
that I cooked by firelight
the crowded stores
that use sales to tease
the rustle of leaves
from a cool autumn breeze
a New Jersey breakfast
that's second to none
the Colorado mountians
under the midday sun
both settings do suit me
I guess that is my role
to have a city boy's mentality
and a cowboy's soul

Awesome Chuck!
I love the pic too!
Beautiful poem!

[CellarDweller]

why thank ya kindly, Big Bro!

[CellarDweller]

The Full Plate

A familiar feeling, that I've come to hate
realizing I have, too much on my plate
I want some peace, I need some rest
I want to be away, that would be the best
but instead what I have, in my cluttered life
are unwanted situations, causing me strife
giving me trouble, and causing much tension
these outside forces, all calling for my attention
affecting my heath, affecting my mind
affecting my moods, putting me in a bind
I refuse to give in, and let it all get to me
and once again I find out, just how strong I can be
I'm not one to give up, and so now I must fight
right now things are dark, at tunnel's end, there is light
and when it's all settled, a new "normal" is in place
that I will adjust to, in my personal space
I will sail through, all this storm, and this din
rest for the weary will be found, and I'll breathe again

[CellarDweller]

cows come home
at the proper time
it seems they wait
for church bells to chime
they turn around
and give a "moo"
for that is what
good cows will do
slowly mosey
through the field
perhaps they should
carry a shield
for the cows have a danger
between you and me
our very own Sal
want's to toss them, you see!

[dejavu]

Good poem, Chuck, and a very cute pic you found for it!

[milomorris]

That dancing cow is just what I needed to start my day. Too funny!!

Milo

[Shakesthecoffecan]

Who is Sal? Did he hook up with Guido?

[CellarDweller]

Who is Sal? Did he hook up with Guido?

Sal is short for Sally, better known as "Tigs" on Dave Cullen Forum.


She used to work on a farm in UK, and was always surrounded  by cows.  When she was having a particularly bad day, she would say "I'm going out to toss some cows around." and her signature line read "Tossing cows over hedges".

So that's who Sal is, and why she's a danger to cows.

[Shakesthecoffecan]

I would like to see someone pitch a cow over a hedge, sounds very Python-esque. 

[milomorris]

Has anyone here ever gone cow-tipping?? Some friends and I tried it back in high school, but the cows were awake that night. i think our drunken giggling woke them up. Do they really fall over??

[dejavu]

 

My grandfather had cows on his little farm, but I never heard of that.

My guess is they'd wake up before they fell over.   

[CellarDweller]

What does it mean to be gay
So many answers one can give
How you act, how you talk, how you dress
Perhaps it’s the way that you live
There is no one answer that fits the bill
“Gay” has many facets, like a gem
And each person that you ask
Will give an answer that suits them

“Gay” is showy, with lamé and boas
Shaking their ass in a parade



“gay” is the carpenter building a house
Using his hands for his trade



“gay” is the banker in a button down shirt
Working in the corporate setting



“gay” is the person working out in the gym
Doing is reps and is sweating



“gay” is the drag queen up there on the stage
Putting his heart and soul into the show



“gay” is the farmer in his jeans and boots
Planting crops after the snow



“gay” are the ones who are dressed to the ‘nines’
Ready to party all night



“gay” is the one who finished cleaning his house
On the couch, with his partner to his right



Every person you ask will give a reply
That they base on the experience they know
And each answer you get, it will be correct
So I guess that this just goes to show
No one definition can fit the answer
And ya know what, that’s fine, it’s okay
So the next time someone should ask that question
Look up and smile and say “I’m what it means to be gay.”

[loneleeb3]

Chuck, that was awesome!
You are such a talent!!
I love you!

[Shakesthecoffecan]

That was a really good one Chuck, and so true.

I like all of them.

[CellarDweller]

Drained


Is it morning already
the start of a new day
but I'm sure it will be a repeat
so why bother getting up
I'll let myself recharge
after last night

a very different face
in my usual place
so I approached him
and opened myself up
made my impression
gave him some laughs
thought there was a connection
and took him back to my place

today I wake up
and find that he's gone
alone in the bed, again
I'm finding myself emotionally drained
after another familiar night
with an unfamiliar face
his image in my brain
but his name escapes me

why do I do this to myself
lonely nights that are too quiet
only to do a 180, and bring someone home
to find out he was a psychic vampire
sucking my heart dry of emotions
using me for his amusement
and then leaving before the sun comes up
an empty spot on the bed
and an empty shell laying next to it

I want to find a partner
but instead find myself a "trick"
waking up empty after giving away
my emotions, laughs, intellect and more
in the hopes that he would still be here
and want to learn more about me
It's time to get up
and wash the rejection off me
get through the day and brace myself
for the next lonely night
and try to avoid
being drained once again

[CellarDweller]

It's Happened





The day has arrived. it's happened at last
they signed on the line, the law finally passed
I feel so elated, a joy I never knew
I get to stand up and say out loud, "I Do"
we picked up the tuxes, finalized the plan
and now all that is left, is to marry my man
shined up the boots, buttoned the vest
my hat is on right, I must look my best
here comes the limo, to take me to the hall
my friends and my family, they're here, one and all
it feels like forever, we've waited a long while
and now I get to, walk up the center aisle
he's standing there waiting, my special guy
I'm feeling so nervous, I'm starting to cry
under the trellis, the priest's speaking now
we look at each other, reciting our vows
it's passing so quickly, put the rings on our hands
nothing too fancy, just simple gold bands
and then we lean forward, our first married kiss
it feels like we've waited forever for this
the priest turns and smiles, releases a dove
it's happened, I've married the man that I love


Dedicated to all the gay couples who now have the right to get married, and to those of us still waiting.....

[CellarDweller]

You think you're so clever
but what you don't see
is how people see you
when you try to slap me
do I cringe, do I cry
your comments are null
you try to be cutting
but your edge is quite dull
carry on if you must
get it all off your chest
think you can insult me
it's been done by the best
guess what, I'm still here
and those people did fail
and when compared to them
your actions do pale
so go on, act the child
step to me and disrespect
your silly little comments
truly have no effect
but if it makes you feel better
than do as you must
I'll give my attention
to those I love and I trust.

[loneleeb3]

You think you're so clever
but what you don't see
is how people see you
when you try to slap me
do I cringe, do I cry
your comments are null
you try to be cutting
but your edge is quite dull
carry on if you must
get it all off your chest
think you can insult me
it's been done by the best
guess what, I'm still here
and those people did fail
and when compared to them
your actions do pale
so go on, act the child
step to me and disrespect
your silly little comments
truly have no effect
but if it makes you feel better
than do as you must
I'll give my attention
to those I love and I trust.

Anybody slaps you they gotta deal with me! 

[CellarDweller]

Anybody slaps you they gotta deal with me! 

 


Appreciate that, big brother!  Love ya!

[dejavu]

Hi, Richard.

Nice poem, Chuck.

[loneleeb3]

Hi, Richard.

Nice poem, Chuck.

Hey Debbie!
How have you been?
I hear you have been doing some travelling. Hope you have enjoyed your summer!
I can't believe it's October! Whatthe hell happened to August (September too for that matter)!
 

[dejavu]

Yes, just a little traveling, Rich.     Hardly been home all summer.  Some to see Brokies, and some to take care of Mom and her house.

Can't believe it's October, either.

I hope you are well.  Maybe someday we will be at a gathering together again.

[underdown]

Those are beautiful poems, Chuck.

Like you. 

[CellarDweller]

aww gee!

thanks Rob!   

[Brokeback_Dev]

What beautiful poetry you write.  Wow thanks for posting the lovely poetry Chuck. 

[CellarDweller]

I Forgive You Today

They say to forgive,
That you must forget
A fresh chance to start over
A time to reset
But I don’t agree
That the sentiment is true
because though I can forgive
I will not forget you

The lies that you told
To further your cause
The blood that you let
Can’t be stopped with just gauze
I say I won’t forget
You think that’s a sin?
I stand here and say
I won’t be your victim again

I bear you no ill will
As you go on your way
But that doesn’t change
How I feel on this day
I hope you are happy
And do well till the end
But that doesn’t mean
I will now call you friend

If you want it, I'll say it
I forgive you today
but you would be wise
to stay out of my way
I have things on my plate
I have to get through it
there's no more room
for what you'll add to it.

I’ve been deceived
Too many times in the past
So now I put my foot down
And say you are the last
If this hurts, well so be it
You’re entitled to feel bad
Just like I’m entitled
To protect myself from being had

[loneleeb3]

That was awesome! 

[CellarDweller]

glad ya liked it!

[Lynne]

Those are some powerful words, Chuck, well-constructed.

(((((Chuck)))))

[CellarDweller]

Articulate and intelligent
those were the words I read
it took a minute to register
as they floated through my head

Those words, they were applied to you
I truly don't know why
I guess that someone else has placed you
on a pedestal way up up high

they can express their opinion
that truly is their right
so now I will express mine
on how you appear in my sight

I find you to be angry
and evil like a witch
ugly through right to the bone
you enjoy the role of bitch

you play the role so perfectly
it fits you like hand in glove
looking down your nose at us
as you've placed yourself above

tossing cruel comments about
do it without a care
the meaner the better, it's for attention
no one's feelings to spare

The sad aspect about it all
is this for you is not a "part"
I really believe you feel this way
right to your soul and heart

I've NEVER said this to anyone
but tonight I feel I'll be brave
and say Ms. Coulter, I hope the day does come
where I can dance upon your grave.

[Meryl]

Chuck, Wordsworth could not have said it better!  Right on, dude!     

[Aloysius J. Gleek]

Chuck, since my stroke (and the attendant aphasia), poetry, sadly, is almost a closed book to me (seriously).

But I can still dance!!


Thanks for the post!


(Hey Chuck: can you animate this gif? Well, just thought I would ask....)

[Lynne]

Nice work, Chuck.  You captured my own sentiments pretty darn perfectly, bud.

 

[loneleeb3]

Awwwww!
Poor Ann!

[CellarDweller]

This Mountain

----------------------------------------------


I feel as if I'm before a mountain
and it's my job to get to the top
which is so impossibly high above me

In reality, I'm in my home
faced with what seems to be
endless responsibilities

Indecison and anxiousness
make their way through my thoughts
inhibiting my progress

It's not supposed to be this way
damn it, I'm an adult
and should be better at this

Yet somehow I feel like I fail
stuck in a trap that I've created
with no one's hand to hold

This isn't what I wanted
I expected better for myself
yet somehow, it didn't happen

I can't go around this mess
as much as I would like to
so it's time to take action

So I make a silent prayer
and focus my attention
and take my first step

Things will get better
but before that can happen
I have to climb this mountain

[loneleeb3]

Brother, you will ALWAYS have my hand to hold!
I love you and am here for you! 

[CellarDweller]

The day is bad
I want to cry
ya see, my man
he said "good-bye"

he gave me love
he soothed my fears
and now he's gone
and left me tears

the love he gave
was the strongest I've had
and now I'm alone
and feeling sad

The day is bad
I want to cry
ya see, my man
he said "good-bye"

[Front-Ranger]

 

[CellarDweller]

Shit Talker

Running your mouth
everywhere that you can
talking your shit
realizing your plan
everything you discuss
and everything that you say
taking pot shots at others
objecting to their ways
rejection does suck
reality sets in
everyone has moved on
from your God awful din
utilizing your time
shit-talking about others
except you'd be here if you had your druthers.

[CellarDweller]

Intensity


I look up and feel shocked
Taken aback by you
And the intensity
That plays across your face

Your eyes stare through me
And turn vivid blue
Matching the shirt
That you currently wear

Your brow is furrowed
And you mouth an even line
Where calm usually resides
Tension now reigns.

This isn’t the man
That I’ve come to know
This is some sort of mask
And it’s my job to remove it.

I slowly approach you
Place my fingers on your chin
And let my thumb
Trace circles on your scruff

Then I slowly lean in
And place kisses on your neck
The spell is now broken
And your smile has returned

[CellarDweller]

Needy


I’ve never met someone
As needy as you
You can handle most tasks
But others throw you
So things pile up
Until you delegate
Too much done at once
A situation I hate
You truly believe
You can’t do this yourself?
If that’s really the case
Then perhaps you’re beyond help
How have you managed
To get yourself this far?
You can’t do it yourself
Yet think you’re the star
So you walk on through life
Remember tasks that you’ve braved
But the reality is
You’re on paths someone else paved
So you simply strolled
Across even ground
And the ones that have helped you
are no longer around
And as you move forward
I take it in stride
‘cause I’m sure at the end
You’ll feel empty inside.

[CellarDweller]

Free

So this is how it feels to be free
My feet are on the ground
Yet I feel like I’m soaring
Like I’ve slipped from the fetters
Attached to my ankles
And I’m soaring above it all
Embraced by the light blue sky

The burden on my shoulders and heart
Partially self-imposed
Partially placed by others
Has suddenly been removed
And it feels like I can break the laws of gravity
So I throw caution to the wind
And let myself be swept up and away

I’ve heard that anything worth having
Is worth fighting for
And there will more fights in the future
But for now, I relax and enjoy
Brushing aside fears and concerns
Letting the wave of freedom
Sweep over me and cleanse my soul

When I return to the ground
And gather my senses
I’ll return to the fight
So that others can feel this way too
Because once you’ve felt this way
You will suddenly realize that
You never want to go back.

[CellarDweller]

What’s In A Name


You turn and you ask me
“So what’s in a name?”
Not important to you
So it is just a game

So easy to say
When you are the one
Who fits in “just right”
For you the game is done

The names that are given
For you they are right
Together they show progression
With no confusion in sight

You start with a girlfriend
Moving forward through life
Next step is fiancé
And then she’s your wife.

For me it’s quite different
I can’t be the same
I have different choices
To make in this “game”

I start with a boyfriend
This step is just like you
We can agree on this
No matter your view

My relationship may progress
But we can’t marry
So what happens now
Well, the choices will vary

We decide to commit
Is he my fiancé?
Well, since we can’t marry
“no” is what some will say

So is he my “lover”
Well, yes, that is true
But sex is just one part
Of all that we do

Don’t call him my “partner”
Too business-like for me
We’re not running a company
We’re a couple, you see

My husband or spouse?
Not according to law
Your relationship is quite simple
For me, there’s a flaw

Significant other
Is bandied about
But who really uses this
For me this one is out

There’s no simple way
For me to play this game
And why it’s so important
To know what’s in a name.

[Sason]

I like them both, Chuck. But you already know that.

[milomorris]

I like "Free" very much. Mostly because that's how I've been feeling lately. Back in the fall, I left a job that was starting to eat at my soul. And part of that was my fault. Sometimes I just give too much. But that's over now, and I'm free to sing, help non-profits, work on my house, and let my relationship grow to the next level. Feels great.

"What's in a Name" brings up an ongoing question. For me, I don't particularly like the term partner to describe David. But do realize that people understand what that term means, and I will use it in formal communications for the sake of clarity. Generally, I simply refer to David as my man. Obviously, we're not spouses since there is no legal arrangement between us. Spouse is gender-neutral, and very official. I doubt I'll ever use it in conversation. Most people don't. And even if we were married, domestically partnered, or civilly united, the term husband would be inadequate to describe either of us. Husband means "master of the house," and since there is no such dynamic in our relationship, the term doesn't apply.

[CellarDweller]

Thanks Sonja and Milo, I'm glad you like them.

Milo, I was never aware that husband meant "master of the house," very interesting.

The poem was inspired by a chapter in a book written by gay author Michael Thoms Ford.  He does romance novels now, but has 4 or 5 books that would be defined as comedy.  The chapter is titled "Name Calling" and deals with this subject.  At the time he was with a man named Patrick, and said he would just refer to him in conversation as "Patrick" and when someone who was unfamiliar with them would ask "Who's Patrick" he would (depending on his audience) alternate between "boyfriend", "partner", "husband" or "stud-beast".

[milomorris]

The poem was inspired by a chapter in a book written by gay author Michael Thoms Ford.  He does romance novels now, but has 4 or 5 books that would be defined as comedy.  The chapter is titled "Name Calling" and deals with this subject.  At the time he was with a man named Patrick, and said he would just refer to him in conversation as "Patrick" and when someone who was unfamiliar with them would ask "Who's Patrick" he would (depending on his audience) alternate between "boyfriend", "partner", "husband" or "stud-beast".

BWAAHAAHAAHAAA!!!

That's GREAT!!! That reminds me of a fellow singer who decided to start using "booty pirate" in place of "gay." We worked together in Memphis, and you should have seen the reactions he would get. It backfired one night. We were at a bar doing karaoke, and a drunk woman started mauling him. When he said, "Honey, I'm a booty pirate," she told him that she liked anal sex. The rest of us laughed about that for the rest of our time in Memphis.

[CellarDweller]

 

Milo, that's hysterical!  "Booty Pirate!"  I wish I could've seen your faces when that woman made her statement!

[CellarDweller]

Twinkle


My mind comes back from outer space
Look to my left I see your face
And while I glimpse what do I spy?
There is a twinkle In your eye

I turn my head, I look away
The twinkle reveals what you won’t say
Your devilish side is pushing through
And now I wonder just what you’ll do

I will not move, nor turn my back
If I do that you may attack
To keep my cool is becoming hard
I seem unfazed but I’m on guard

I glance again like I don’t care
I see that twinkle, it’s still there
I’m remaining calm, but you’ll burst that bubble
That twinkle there, only means trouble

Suddenly you stand and walk away
Without a single word to say
I wonder now if I was mistaken
And why I let myself get shaken

And then it happens, and I’m a wreck
Your super-chilled hands upon my neck
Ice cold water you just drank
And then decided to pull your prank

You hear me shriek and you feel proud
And then I hear you laugh out loud
And while I was “got” there was no real surprise
Your plans were revealed by the twinkle in your eyes

[Sason]

LOL! That's a cute one!

At some point halfway through I had the thought it was about a dog.

[dejavu]

Good to see some new poems, Chuck.

I liked them all, but especially "Free."   

[CellarDweller]

She stole my heart, she stole my shoes
I never thought, my love she’d use
But now I lay here, feeling pained
My mind, it reels, my heart is drained

She took me to her love zone
Made me feel like hers alone
Then cut me to the bone
Been denied her love zone

She was hot as lava, and then turned cold as ice
I thought I’d win at love, and so I threw the dice
But I should’ve known, that she would always win
And so I’m left alone, feel the guilt of my sin

She took me to her love zone
Made me feel like hers alone
Then cut me to the bone
Been denied her love zone

[Front-Ranger]

Women! 

[CellarDweller]

Women! 

Actually, that one was inspired by yesterday's horoscopes.  My supervisor read her horoscope, and it said her "love zone" would be busy, which made us all laugh, and I said we needed to write a song called "Love Zone" and my supervisor gave me the first line, "she stole my heart, she stole my shoes".

Within 5 minutes I had the above poem written.

[CellarDweller]

Where is My Muse?


It's been five years
since I've been here last
I can't believe
all that time has passed

the talkative one
with nothing to say
I wonder why
my muse went away

no strokes to the keyboard
talent output suspension
perhaps someone else
required her attention

so she had to leave
and inspire another
perhaps my needs
left her feeling smothered

reread some old poems
viewed with a new light
stirred something within
and I started to write

My muse has returned
she's no longer away
and I truly hope
that she's here to stay

[Jeff Wrangler]

The Poet Laureate of Bettermost has returned! 

[Sason]

[CellarDweller]

2020

------------------------

Where are your gloves?
Where is your mask?
I can not believe
that you're making me ask

Did you get extra water
perhaps toilet paper
snuck yourself an extra bundle
like it's some criminal caper

stress levels are climbing
tension thick enough to see
and now we are mourning
the Notorious RBG

No sports to be seen
no punter or batter
taking part in the protests
set up by Black Lives Matter

refugees captured
hurricanes hit the coast
murder hornets invading
while politicians boast

everyone is watching
and everyone fails
while our leaders drive
our country off the rails

storm surges crashing
up under the docs
while racists come crawling
from under their rocks

times are feeling bleak
please don't give up hope
though it feels it, we're not
at the end of our rope

So go light some sage
or meditate or pray
soon we'll be sending
this awful year away

the darkness will fade
with the rising sun
hoping for a better
and brighter 2021

[Front-Ranger]

I hope you are finding 2021 more hopeful. Do you have any poetic insights for this year?

[CellarDweller]

I haven't put any thought into it.  Perhaps I should.

[Front-Ranger]

What was it Jack said when Lureen asked why husbands don't want to dance with their wives?

Something like, "I don't pay it no mind."

[CellarDweller]

I believe you are correct.