Moments of Gold

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Truth or dare? Truth ... I came of age when I was twelve, (Janie, sixteen), In one of the most amazing summers of my life, 1970 ... Oh, I was much-and-far too young, and it confused me so. Life was intensely more difficult after that, in many ways, And I stumbled through puberty in painful fits - Episodes of passionate unease and awkward humiliation. Thus, a great deal of time passed before it all became evident ... real, Before a tender and patient spirit led me to apperception, And the exquisite joy of sharing myself in the deepest way ... Before that fear and fluster was changed to warmth and covenant, By a blossoming soul who decided I was worth her patience and care ... A sweet, adept girl who saw my genuine intent as malleable desire. The seventies were undeniably the most difficult years of my life, But also the most intoxicating ... the most rewarding and wonderful! For the chaos and turmoil and struggles of those teen years, Were the fires that burned away the chaff of innocence and naivete' - The hammer that pounded raw emotion into capability, And brought forth the mettle ... from the wee lad. For its value in course and occasion, that decade was, indeed ... my treasure. * SECOND PLACE in the "Where Were You In the Seventies?" Poetry Contest, Line Gauthier, Sponsor. *

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Connie Marcum Wong

Date: 4/18/2018 10:11:00 PM

I enjoyed reading your coming of age in this fine poem that examines the turbulent teens in all their glorious ambivalence! I want to read all these 70 poems...I am behind. Congratulations on your wonderful second place win Greg! : )

Gregory Richard Barden
Date: 4/18/2018 10:29:00 PM

Thank you so much, Connie, I'm pleased you enjoyed my "expose'", lol ... I generally don't share much about such things, but it was cathartic and positive in the long run, and I'm happy I did so now. I think many people go through such confusion when it comes to sexual/emotional development, and perhaps someone will relate. Blessings, my friend! :-) (I'm behind, too, on things here AND music - seems there's not enough days in the week!) :-) <3

Sandra Haight

Date: 3/12/2018 8:31:00 AM

Yes, that was quite an era, Gregory. It was nice to read about your journey living through it! Wonderful poem and congratulations on your fine 2nd place win! Sandra :)

Gregory Richard Barden
Date: 3/15/2018 11:07:00 PM

I'm so pleased you enjoyed this part of my journey, Sandra ... I have lived an extraordinarily exciting life. Much of it has been tragic, and much of THAT my own doing, but I believe ALL we go through is for a positive purpose and glory to a higher power. I have few regrets, thankfully ... I am blessed, and not remotely worthy of the blessing, and that's a miracle in itself! Thank you, kind friend! <3

Viv Wigley

Date: 3/11/2018 1:58:00 AM

A fine write on the awkwardness of growing up, Gregory. Over here, it was called 'true,dare,kiss,promise,got to or command'. All very long winded when all you really wanted was a snog.... Congrats! Viv

Gregory Richard Barden
Date: 3/11/2018 4:36:00 AM

Thank you so much, Viv, I'm pleased you enjoyed it, my friend ... blessings! :-)

Eve Roper

Date: 3/10/2018 2:11:00 PM

Congratulation on your win! Hugs Eve ~`*

Gregory Richard Barden
Date: 3/10/2018 2:34:00 PM

Thank you very much, Eve! :-) <3

Line Gauthier

Date: 3/10/2018 10:15:00 AM

Thank you for entering your Truth or Dare poem in my contest. Congrats on a well deserving write, Gregory.

Gregory Richard Barden
Date: 3/10/2018 2:34:00 PM

Thank you so very much, Line - I am humbled by my placement, and honored to be on a list with such wonderful writers! Blessings, my friend! :-) <3