Best Introduced Poems
I am from Great Britain – it’s not a rumour
I always try to write with a sense of humour
In 1996 we moved to live in the Isle of Man
I can say with hand on heart that I’m Jan NOT Stan
Work with youngsters who have ‘special needs’
Very rewarding occupation - but challenging indeed!
I am short in stature – guess I have low ‘elf esteem’
Tall greying men I adore – I love to see them in my dream
I love to eat plain chocolate – don’t need to watch my weight
I’m really quite petite – my hubby thinks I’m great
Met my husband Bob at Radio Lollipop
Both were volunteers – he loved my low cut top!
Love to listen to music and go to hear a live band
Best gig ever was ‘Queen’ - the best band in the land
I have a wonderful son he is my pride and joy
He’s at university now – no longer my little boy
Started to write poetry when my husband got cancer
To get my thoughts on paper to me it was the answer
My friend Jenny Brewer introduced me to poetry soup
Took me a month to join but I’m so glad I joined this group
Wrote thirty poems with Darren as Jadazzle United
When Daz returns to good health I will be so delighted
I am happy when with friends but like my solitude too
Try to do my best in everything I do
The past 14 months have been so challenging for me
With writing I can escape and set my emotions free
Now my dad has passed and mum is in a care home
I am now ‘free’ and my self-confidence has grown
12th April 2015
Contest: Bio of a Poet Tammy Reams
~awarded 1st place~
There’s an old river course with beginning and end,
now the river runs straight without this river bend,
where the water is still and the reeds do grow strong.
New life has taken over in a billabong.
The mat rush is spreading replacing the sedge,
and old fallen gum trees lean in from the edge
creating a haven in the shelter below
for smelt or gudgeon, and the common minnow.
There’s a ring on the water, so danger is nigh,
and life is now over for one caddis fly.
Dragonflies hover on their predator flight,
so mosquito and midges best keep out of sight.
There is many a song around a billabong
to break up the still with an assembly throng
from birds of the forest, and wading birds too,
so the billabong offer is there to pursue...
... for blue heron and egret, coot and the teal,
and for the banded rail that the bulrush conceal.
In the billabong shadowed by gum and ti-tree,
bellbirds are tinkling; wattlebirds disagree.
An oft-diving grebe keeps on searching for food
for the striped downy chicks of its latest brood,
and a hunting kingfisher waits keen for its prey
from a twig of a gum tree it frequents all day.
There is many a scent around a billabong,
filling the air with the perfume quite strong,
from black wattle and mint bush, or mistletoe
cascading from gum trees where only they grow.
Painted lady butterfly flit upon flowers,
and blue banded bees keep on working for hours
on lilies and orchids, heath, sweet appleberry
and clusters of flowers on a native cherry.
Ribbon weed, nardoo spread out in the shallow,
with buttercup, duckweed; an introduced mallow,
struggling for survival near the water line,
aiding coral pea that does lightly entwine.
The banks of a billabong are dangerous too
with predator snakes not so often in view,
but they are aware, that the growling grass frog
will climb from the water onto an old log.
But tigers and copperhead, red-bellied black
often lay in the sun on an overgrown track,
where the wombat or wallaby travel along
to graze on native grasses near the billabong.
So life still carries on around the billabong
where water looks stagnant, a bond is still strong
with a river now rushing it’s way to the sea,
past the billabong living, where the course used to be.
When I saw that young muscular man
standing, hand on hip, in the driveway
four flights down from our balcony,
I was instantly attracted before I
realized it was you...my sweetheart,
so unaware of your electric presence.
You were speaking to our neighbor,
and though I couldn't quite hear your
conversation, I heard your laughter.
You were just being your dynamic
friendly self, one of the many reasons
I fell in love with you so quickly; your
passion for life, your willingness to
aid anyone who needed a helping hand,
and a sensual presence larger than life.
All my female friends I introduced you
to secretly called you a 'handsome hunk',
meant in the most complimentary way.
I reminisce on cool spring nights like this
and when you smile or laugh I still see
that handsome young man I married so
long ago when our time was not fleeting,
and we were both in the prime of our lives.
© Connie Marcum Wong
Five thousand years before the sky was introduced with the sea
It was at that time, that God wrote your name adjacent to me
I wandered through the world, seeking a mind that felt like home
a quiet soul who studies life the way the curious often roam
someone whose gentle thoughts align with questions I once knew
and in that search, my heart kept hoping it would somehow lead to you
Then suddenly you appeared, half-hidden in a tender light
your olive skin aglow, soft as dawn breaking through night
your glasses framed a gaze observant, calm, and wise
as though you carried galaxies behind the quiet of your eyes
My restless heart fell silent, finding rhythm in your tone
as if two thoughtful wanderers had finally found their own
in that moment time surrendered, letting destiny unfold
and our scattered stories met like truths waiting to be told
We stood upon fate’s station, unsure of where to go
carrying unanswered hopes we rarely chose to show
yet side by side we stepped toward a path both strange and true
guided by a gentle pull that stitched my soul to you
I never was a poet, nor had I mastered art or rhyme
until your presence filled my verses, line by line
your steady gaze, so tender, each drew me near at last
turning every fleeting moment into echoes that will last
For in heaven, God made everyone perfect lovers
But we were lucky to find each other in this world
For Five thousand years before the sky was introduced with the sea
It was at that time that God wrote your name adjacent to me
22 December 2018
Out at sea, facing a dark heartfelt storm.
Heading for a lighthouse, taking him home.
Looking at a lit place, over the Hill.
Music and laughter, the night was not still.
In a mood for company, He went in.
Walked to the bar an ordered a Tonic and Gin.
Slow music playing as He sat alone.
Finished his drink and was headed for home.
A lovely lady walked over to him.
Introduced herself, and smiled with a grin.
A once in a lifetime moment in time.
His love had arrived, could this be a sign?
Feelings he felt his heart couldn't keep pace.
He looked in her eyes, and heavenly face.
"Oh what desires you created in me."
"I was a lonely seaman out at sea."
You were the lighthouse that I searched for.
Holding you close and forever adore.
Michael Tor
6/12/2023
Away to Vermont on a Dr's appointment. Coming back and riding the Ferry to New York my wife Judy and I decided to stop off at Panera Bread for lunch thru the Drive thru. I notice a man counting his few dollars by the drive thru. His long hair and beard caught my attention.
His face looked sunburned, and he looked withered and dry. Sadly I noticed that
his tan pants had a large brown streak down his rear side. Looking at this broke my heart.
As I went thru the drive thru I ordered an extra sandwich, a lemonade and chips. My wife looked at me not knowing my thoughts and said ,"Michael your hungry today."
As I came around after picking the food, I looked for that man. He had disappeared. I drove around on a mission to find him. At last, I saw him, he
had gone into the restaurant. I parked the car and told my wife what my plans were. She was surprised and was very supportive.
I walked through the door and introduced myself to him. I said I have
something for you. He looked up smiling and said, "God bless you." I said, "God bless you." I asked him where he was from and he said, " Willow Alaska." He shared with me he was looking for his parents in Upstate NY. He said he suffered
from mental illness and that he was a minister. While talking to this stranger I felt an incredible love resonating through him, it is hard to explain.
I said good bye my friend and felt guilty because I wanted to do more for him. His name was Robbie.
I shared the story with my wife and my brother Gus and they said that God puts angels in this world and Robbie might be an angel you cared for.
There is not a better feeling than helping someone in need.
I made a new friend today, a homeless man named Robbie.
I encourage everyone to reach out to those less fortunate and make a difference in their lives. Even saying hello, or asking them how they are doing. So many people are silently suffering, and any act of kindness will help them cope better. God bless those of you that do...
Michael Tor
6/12 2023
Four “Golden Girls” seated at a table
Grey streaks our hair, but minds remain stable
Convention is underway
Michael has something to say
He opens our meeting with a fable
It’s about a tortoise that beats a hare
Some of the “fast writers” begin to glare
Joyce, Francine and Barbara know
It takes time for verse to grow
We’re the queens of rewriting; this we swear
Iolanda’s introduced to read her book
“Lava of my Soul,” no gobbledygook
We’re mesmerized by each line
At the end we toast with wine
Joyce says, “Now those words took some time to cook.”
It’s Karen’s turn to read “Silent Whispers”
We see tears falling into John’s whiskers
“Tears of joy,” Francine exclaims
For Karen’s Best Seller fame
Applause rings out from grateful listeners
After the “meet and greet” it’s nearly dawn
The crowd starts to thin as our comrades yawn
Joyce, Francine call it a night
But Barbara still sits upright
We two remain when most others are gone
One poet called us “Late Night Cockroaches”
This indignity did not encroach us
We call ourselves “LNCs”
Awake in wee hours with ease
Waiting for our princes to approach us
That’s when the James Brothers draw near
Peranteau and Fraser, to make it clear
With two erotic writers
LNCs pull “all nighters”
Knowing that we can propose; it’s Leap Year!
*Entry for Michael’s “A Table of Four” contest
At my table: Carolyn Devonshire
Joyce Johnson
Francine Roberts
Barbara Gorelick
Do you wish to hold me?
We can drift on the sea my love,
under the stars above.
You were my lovely dove so free,
who captivated me.
I thought I’d never be so glad
and still inside so sad
For the love we both had, is gone.
As we approach the dawn
I will think, “Once upon a time,
you were meant to be mine.”
So now my heart does pine away
Wishing that you would stay
I know that you will say, good bye
Still I will wonder why,
you chose another guy, not me.
Him on shore, me at Sea~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Inspired by Brenda Chiri
She introduced me to this new form.
The form is called Luc Bat.
Check out Brenda’s poem titled “Seasons”
First time our eyes met, instantly I knew
Why red rose-buds are boasting a bloom
In fragrance of gardenia passing through
As scent of pink lilies meant only for you
Evoked conversation of romance for two.
When message of hearts blew in prairies
Words of desire carried a lyrical promise
Blowing in the winds melody of our music
Composing a song in harmony of dreams
Wooing you to declare, for you I'm falling.
I've heard about the allure you're feeling
For you speak to me as I'm daydreaming
Holding me captive, keeping me company,
Praising your name every thought's saying
It won't be long before you would own me.
Unknowingly I introduced you to my family
When in my sleep I spoke of you so fondly.
You must've heard the joy of their cheers
For I see you smiling, shedding happy tears--
As consent of your heart echoes in my ears.
April 2, 2019
Placed 3rd: Strand choice O contest by Brian Strand
I'm crushing on you poetry contest
Sponsor: Julie Leigh Rodeheaver
There are moments in time
Where a comment so profound
Is uttered without thought to the potential
Of its ripple effects - future bound.
If we are introduced to such a quote
At precisely the right time,
We feel something open within ourselves.
Such inspiration can feel divine.
If you feel defeated, depleted of joy
And it seems failure awaits.
Remember this wise old Proverb,
"Fall seven times and stand up eight."
A Latin Proverb to follow
To rouse the inner strength you know is yours,
Don't give up like all is lost,
"If the wind will not serve, take the oars."
We mustn't stay down.
We can't stay stranded on a boat.
In life we have to battle
To keep ourselves afloat.
"Life is 10 percent of what happens to me and
90 percent of how I react to it." Charles Swindoll
This inspirational quote empowers us.
It reminds us of our control.
"Nothing is impossible,' Audrey Hepburn said
'The word itself says, "I'm possible!" "
So however huge our climb might feel,
Deep down, we know we're capable!
Christopher Columbus was a person brave,
For he knew not what was in store.
"You can never cross the ocean until you have
The courage to lose sight of the shore."...
Just pondering these very thoughts,
Amongst so many they are few,
Can motivate us if we feel trapped
Or unsure of what to do.
So friends, I finish off my list
With a little quote from me...
"Soldier on with self belief
And you will gain your victory!"
I read with greed John Master's books,
to Indian culture introduced.
I grew to love a distant land;
by her allure I was seduced.
To Indian culture introduced,
I felt the urge to go and see
the striking beauty of her face,
the charms bestowed abundantly.
I grew to love a distant land
where the traditions are held high,
religion, races, culture, tongues
are deep-ingrained - will never die.
By her allure I was seduced,
this vibrant country in the east.
I plan to take a closer look
and let my eyes in wonder feast.
----------------------------------
Contest: Shall We Retourne
Sponsor: Debbie Guzzi
On the twenty fourth of February in twenty twenty two
Russia invaded Ukraine and fierce fighting did ensue
Vladimir Putin it seems, wants to restore the iron curtain
And sadly he will succeed, of that it looks certain.
Tanks and missiles, the Russians used in their attack
But against Putins thugs, brave Ukrainians are fighting back
Vladimir Putin is unhinged and he Is losing his sanity
Claiming the Ukraine is a threat, to Russian security.
He's made threats to the west, if they come to Ukraines aid
Does he honestly think that western powers are afraid
Unfortunately the Ukraine is not part of the Nato alliance
So the west introduced, heavy sanctions in defiance.
Hitting Russia with severe sanctions seems like a good idea
But it failed to stop Russian aggression, when they invaded Crimea
A lot more needs to be done though before it's too late
Or the Ukrainian people will suffer, an unspeakable fate.
The Ukrainian president has sent out a rallying cry
Ukrainians are bearing arms, and are prepared to die
The death toll will rise with casualties on either side
People are running to find safety but there's no where to hide.
Putin claimed only military targets, would be in the line of fire
But civilian apartments have been hit, Putin is a liar
There has been many deaths, some badly injured too
But they will fight to the last man, it's what they will do.
Acts of bravery the Ukrainians will always remember
Like the guards on Snake Island who refused to surrender
The Russian warship fired missiles, all thirteen men died
To me that is a war crime; those responsible should be tried.
The old days are over, the Soviet Union is long dead
Why can't Vladimir Putin get that fact in his head
Invading peaceful countries is an abominable crime
He should be charged with murder and put away for a long time.
Written 25th February 2022
A future world rule by Trillionaires and Billionaires
Each country with segments of puppet regime governments,
With exceptions of course,
The drug lords the cartel those with the power
And the glory to hold what they consider theirs,
They will be the enemy, and will be a constant
Thorn in the side of the establishment.
A world where every citizen registered
At birth and death, as always, the way,
Now a blink in the cell of a hand device,
Where to veer off, constitutes a written warning
Threatening one’s employment a system
Of points and reviews. Twenty years of age,
One is introduced to a multitude of choice,
Law enforcement, United Nations, battle hard platoon,
Ablutions cleaners, Spies and Reapers, alas,
Those over educated with self-righteousness
Seen as a threat, with re-education, to aid
Choose the right path. The system will know
And will have its way, even woke, on a long chain
Will have its day, when only one-sided opinions
Are set in law, therefore, easy to dictate the terms
Of one’s life. Yet if to conform, there will be no
Slippery slopes, humans, like colonies of ants, their purpose
Granted from the throne of insatiable grandeur,
Childhood once a foundation, where one found happiness,
Education now the way to the day of recognition.
If by chance, to live with one’s flexible opinions,
Those that somehow bypass, the system, will become
The hunted until ridiculed, outlawed, then to wither
As autumn leaves, windblown proud foliage will decay,
When minds forced to cast out truthful innuendoes,
Those, embedded in hearts and minds of fallible man, his ideal’s
Firmly fixed, of earthly struggles. Once weaken,
A blend within the unwelcoming stigma of standard deviation,
Those making policy from man’s inconsequential plight,
To decompose, the humus of society to clutter the gutter,
Until the arrival of the Street Cleaners!
© Harry J Horsman 2023
I stood still on the top of the mountain
Gazing at the nature's colourful fountain
Wondering what's behind this amazing rainbow
I ventured curiously on to every high and low
The Violet proudly presented the Valiance behind her Royalty.
Indigo proved that Devotion yields Power and Dignity.
Blue demonstrated that Wisdom is the outcome of Stability.
The Prosperity, as Green proved, results from adventure.
The colour of sunshine revealed that Hope fuels Survival.
Orange disclosed the secret behind the joy of Freedom - Commitment.
Red introduced Courage as the guiding force of Self-empowerment.
I extrapolated these rainbow lessons to understand the essence of existence
Then I was amazed to look at every bit of life's radiance
On the other side of the rainbow of mother's love, there was labour.
On the other side of rainbow of success, there was the waterfall of sweat.
On the other side of the rainbow of sweet dreams, there was bloodshed.
On the other side of the rainbow of independent thoughts, there was abuse.
On every facet of life, only one side of colours is typically seen.
But the brushes that paint them are surprisingly umpteen.
My name is Gary Fields
And I am at the Poetry Convention
Their are a myriad of Poet's
They are all in contention
There are so many that I may
Want to mention'
So, pay attention
Fore they must do this
In abstention
At my table there are three
Their are four including me
The second choice in my contention
IS Dr. Ram Mehta
He is such an easy catch
He is a voice/a reflection
He shares' so much love and affection
Being one of so few words
His disposition is the best
And his Human Psyche will
Never rest'
Could this be some sort of test
That his deepest guarded secret's
Are guarded close to his chest
Being a doctor and all
It is unlikely that he will ever confess
Third at the table is the X DESTROYER X POET
Due to the lack of word's
She always' have something for ya
And will certainly destroy ya
If not, then simply ignore ya
Fore she deserves' to seat here
And not just on the foyer
It is a main bone of contention
There is no reason why I can't enjoy ya
Or at least releave the tension
With her advanced degree
her suplituding pensoin for Poetry
It seems' that her messages' are
Aimed straight for me
She give's to this her all
She never seem to miss a call
And to past the test
One may think that
She seem's to be a little obsessed
Most of all
She keeps' her secret
Buried so close to her breast
And what wonderful breast they
Might be
Only saving for us
The one's she profess to be the best
But never the less
She rises' among the rest
Fouth at the table is Ms. Sweetheart of Poetry
Wish she will spend more Poetry with me
And plain not just ignore me
Because I'm a fan of her now
She introduced me to this race
She is all ways' on the case
She is fully comfortable in her space
I just hope that she won't have to use
All of her mace,
She composes' herself with grace
Fore this is so much an adventure
And not just some silly old Snail Race
If I haven't said enough by now
Then it is because I am running
Out of space, or being run out of town
But, there is always one next year
Same time, manybe not
The same old place
GF
Gary Fields
Dr. Ram Mehta
X DESTROYER X POET
LINDA Marie/Sweetheart of Poetry
Carol (Next on Deck)
*******For the Contets "Tt The Convention
JUNE 2011