Activity
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Droyer Conley shared a letter in the
Remembering those we lost/Grief group 18 hours, 23 minutes agoMy hero, Eric
DroyerDear Uncle Eric,
I’ve talked to you a lot the past few years. Your picture hangs up above my electric junction box; my boyfriend and I split custody of your comic book collection. Sometimes I flash back to those summers when I was kid when you’d walk up the street toward my grandmother’s house, sporting that toothy smile and that dingy Superman shirt.
Ironically, in some ways I feel closer to you now than when you were alive. If I had to choose, though, I’d have you back beside me in a second.
I want to start off by saying, I’m sorry. When you got sick, you tried to reach out. You tried to call. I kept avoiding those calls, and you probably died thinking I didn’t want to speak to you. Or maybe you knew, on some level, that I loved you with all my heart, that I’ve always thought of you as a father. I’ll never know either way, and it breaks my heart and part of me hates myself for not picking up the damn phone.
I don’t hate myself all the time for that–I want you to know that. Only sometimes, and not for very long. Regret is ultimately a waste of time.
I could bemoan the fleeting time we had together, regret never calling you Dad… or I could feel blessed. I do feel blessed. You gave me a whole world, Eric. You gave me comic books and superheroes, Peter Parker and Clark Kent. You gave me Smallville, you gave me X-Men, you gave me all those summers of adventures in Boston, seeing Spiderman in theaters together. You gave me thirty years of listening, empathizing, without any judgment whatsoever. I say this without a hint of doubt–my own parents clothed me, fed me, paid for a decent chunk of my college education… but you gave me more than they ever did.
For one thing, you didn’t beat me, or scream at me, or throw things at me, or blame me for the family being broken. You didn’t steal from me, call me a faggot when I came out, or tell me I was an evil person.
You saw me. You saw the real me. You saw the light in me, and you nurtured it. That light shines now, bright as the sun, because of YOU.
You taught me how to be a hero, just by being one yourself. You taught me how to be kind to others, even when the world is nothing but cruel. You taught me to show forgiveness where a lesser man might show retribution. Most of all you taught me that those who cause pain, are weak. Those who love and protect others, are the strongest of us, the very best of us.
For that, and so much more, you are, and always will be
My hero.
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Sarah Adams shared a letter in the
Remembering those we lost/Grief group 2 days, 16 hours agoSpiteful love
Torturedhope<3It’s hard to think that just 5 years ago my mom ended her own life. Through years of battling addiction and struggling with mental health she could no longer take the pain of grasping another breath. It’s hard to look back with love when all I want to do is hate her. Pain, she caused me nothing but pain in her last years and those seem to be the most prominent memories in my mind. The joyful smile of a young girl with her loving mother is just a distant memory I’m never able to hold. Always screaming, when wasn’t she screaming, she fought demons in her mind and let them devour me with her. Abuse, fearing to see my next day, fearing death by the hands of my own mother. I still hear the echos of her voice telling me I was worthless to her something she wish she’d never had to look at, someone she’d never created. Red, shards of glass scattered across the floor, they were aimed for my head. She aimed them to hurt me. Remorse, I’m sorry I’m sorry I’m so so sorry, please forgive me. I didn’t mean it I promise I swear I could never hurt you. Lies, it was always a lie. Fear, pain, loss, hurt, yet so much empathy for the women who was hurt, the women who was once a little girl who was hurt so badly it changed her brain. A little girl who dreamed of growing up, a girl with aspirations and dreams, a girl who had a whole happy life ahead of her and saw no darkness in the world, a girl that was once just like me. How could I hate someone who I understand so deeply. Never will I agree with what the past holds but never will I hold the past against you. You were my mother, you were supposed to watch me grow and live a long life, but I understand the battle you faced in your mind everyday and I see how strong you were for holding on all those years.
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Timothy T. Willett shared a letter in the
Remembering those we lost/Grief group 3 days, 4 hours agoBilly,
I need you, I’m scared
The man who I thought was my father
Was only my Dad.
I knew too-right from wrong
But God is my Father,
And He is strong!
He’s not like my Dad though,
Yet, some similarities you know?
How is your Mom?
Is she still alive?
I wish to your place again
I could run and hide.
As kids and friends
Billy I was already perverted
Some scary stranger…
Wrecked my life.
And then he laughed about it
40 years later
How’s that a joke?
I don’t know.
But I’m better now,
I’m a child of the King!
And in 4 trillion more years…
I’ll still be!
Like prejudiced people used to say in school,
Calling some a wanna’ be
Except my wants changed.
I want to be a man of God,
I want to be good
I sure wish I could.
But I’m gonna try to learn how!
I miss you so bad
You were the first best friend I had.
My best friend now-since “1996”
Is the coolest!
His name is Mike
He’s from Cleveland
I’ve even prayed and cried over him.
I want him to go to heaven!
You better be there when I get home,
I want you to meet him.
I wish I had not
Brought you smoke.
I want to be buried under it.
You were like an exception
Dad would let me out.
He must had liked you too.
Sometimes I think
I haven’t changed much inside…
But I have! Hey,
I know you remember Scoot,
He told me what happened, at the bar
When he cried. Billy, I wish you never died! -
Sherry Noble shared a letter in the
Remembering those we lost/Grief group 5 days, 18 hours agoI shouldn’t have lost my friend
Sherry NobleEveryone has that friend. The one you who walks into your house without knocking or calling first. The one who invites herself over for dinner. The one who answers every text within seconds because she understands your anxiety. The one who sends you birthday cards in the mail even though they see you every day in person but they know it will be more special that way. I remember the last time I saw you. I remember driving in your car and stopping at the store, I remember you sneaking me a cigarette even though I wasn’t supposed to be smoking. I remember sitting outside your apartment laughing and planning what to do to celebrate both of our birthdays because they fell so close together. I remember your birthday. You should be 36 now. Instead you’re forever 33. No one ever tells you that losing a friend forever is one of the hardest things you’ll have to go through in life. Losing the person you tell every detail about your day to is like losing your dominant hand. it’s kind of hard to do everything without it. It’s kind of hard to do everything we used to do now, without you. No one ever tells you how hard it is to lose that friend because no one is supposed to lose that friend.
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Because of this letter you wrote I’m going to put a poem.I wrote about my first best friend Billy who passed away from cancer.Thank you.
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Do it! It’s feels good to get it out.
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Aww I am so sorry for your loss. You are lucky to experience that kind of love and friendship and I am sure you carry that love with you every single day. <3 Lauren
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Definitely. Thank you for your response 🩷
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Darlene Montoya shared a letter in the
Remembering those we lost/Grief group 1 weeks, 6 days agoDon't wait up for me.
Darlene L. MontoyaI hope you weren’t up late that night waiting for me.
I knew the hour wasn’t great to call.
I had priorities in life-
I felt my back against the wall.
Also seemed there wasn’t much I could discuss with you or say.
And then the moment changed my life.
When I got word that you had passed away.
I actually felt my world stop spinning .
I stepped back taking look at myself.
Knowing precisely at that moment –
How Lonely that you must have felt.
And every day that passes now
You are in my thoughts more so.
A better person I strive to be
Because that’s the only way that I can grow.
I want to say I am so sorry
I wasn’t there when my time you did need.
This Letter goes out to Someone…
Remember to Cherish the people you Love
Without selfishness & greed. -
PoetryPicasso shared a letter in the
Remembering those we lost/Grief group 3 weeks, 1 days agoHi. My name is
PoetryPicassoHi my name is
Nah that’s way too formal.Hey wassup it’s ya girl
What am I a radio personality?Hi. I’m LaShae.
Wait. Yeah that
That feels comfortable.Hi. I’m LaShae.
La like the note
Shae like the butter.
And I’m
. . .
BlankGod says,
I am that I am
But if I said it
Would it be blasphemous?
Even if I am?
Because I am that I am
And
I am Joy.
I am Smile.
Brittany said it was creepy
That I smiled so much
But Brittany didn’t know
I hurt the same ways she did.
She didn’t know my smile
Was as much a resistance
As it was for her to get out of bed some mornings
She didn’t know
I kept my smile because
Tracy loved my smile.
Tracy loved my smile!
She said it was the most genuine smile she’s ever seen
Which is the best compliment
Because her smile
Was the most genuine I’ve ever seen.I am peace
Except when I am hungry
And I am always hungry
Beware of Junior’s warning
You better feed that gal;
I am gal.
As sister says,
When hungry,
I am Hulk;
I am pitbull.
Ya girl just likes to eat
But when I am fed,
I promise
I will be peace
Like Mable taught me to be
Peace:
Not the absence of violence,
But the presence of Justice.
So if no Justice
No peace.
I am starving
Pitbull for peace
Ready to Hulk smash oppression
See, Mable
Mable was a child
When Newark went up in flames
See
You don’t watch your home go ablaze
And end up staying the same
No
You arm yourself
Yes, with the whole armor of God
Like your mother taught you
But also
With a thicker skin
That none of this heat can penetrate
And with a weapon
She chose a pen
Much mightier than a sword
Her ink writing for peace
Not the absence of violence
But the presence of Justice
Her ink filled with the blood spilled in her streets
And then she would come to teach
All the little children, and yes, even me
That the power is in connections
That is what Mable taught to me.Barbara taught me to hold my own.
Pete told me Fret Not
But Pray if you feel alone
Latierra and Ricky
Both taught me to wonder
And Serena taught me
That dancing is greater than pain
Ali taught me God will find you
Even if you’re in the dark.
I never met Maurice,
But his love is always in my heart.
Ulysses taught me always learn first
And Davey taught me to dress my best
Even when they do their worst
Ron & Vette taught me to be loud
Lisa and Al taught me love knows no bounds
Dog taught me to keep my friends close
Mo taught me that royalty
Can come from a crack that bloomed a rose
And Holis, God rest his soul,
May not be blood
But taught me what a man ought to beI know you asked about me
But I am an unfinished story
The moral of my life
Isn’t complete
But I am that I am
And I am pieces of
Every person I ever lost
A puzzle
Amassing to one lone thought:
Love. -
Kristina Gregson shared a letter in the
Remembering those we lost/Grief group 1 months agoGrief
Kristina GregsonGRIEF
By. Kristina Gregson
Grief is a hard feeling to explain.
One does not truly know what to expect, until they are actually going through the pain.
The pain in the pit of your inner being.
The ache in your heart, feels like it could stop beating.
Your whole body aches with pain, leaving one feeling so drained.
Right down to the blood that flows through your veins.
A hurt, an ache, that can only be described as deep deep sorrow.
One that you know you will still have when you wake tomorrow.
The feeling of loss, the wish I would haves,
The wish I could haves, the wish I should haves,
That feeling of so much wasted time, that could have been spent with better rhythm and rhyme.
More smilies, more hugs, more laughter, more love.
More calls, more talks, maybe even a walk,
More dinners together, more special times.
That is what you wish when your loved one has ran out of time. -
Courtney Fry shared a letter in the
Remembering those we lost/Grief group 1 months, 3 weeks agoDear Grandpa
CourtneyDear Grandpa,
It’s been 11 years snice you’ve gone. I can still remember the night being so peaceful, so still, and so cold. I remember the day we laid you to rest. The snowflakes that fell that day were the biggest ones I’ve ever seen. I wanted to be one of the few who go to carry you to your final resting place, but I watched instead as my brother, cousin, brother in law, and a few others carried you instead.I’ll never forget when my 18th birthday rolled around and I eagerly went to the gas station and bought a can of your grizzly wintergreen chewing tobacco. I took it to you grave and had lunch with you. The sun was shining and I was happy enough even though you weren’t with me anymore.
You were my best friend. The amount of days I skipped school just to hang out with you nearly cost me my graduation. The people at school frowned upon the week I missed when you passed. Said I shouldn’t have been gone that long and that I needed to be there from then on. What was I supposed to say? Grief has no time limit and I wasn’t capable of dragging myself out of bed to go be around people who never understood me. You always did though.
I wonder what you would think of me now. Would you still be proud of me? Would you still be able to sit in silence with me and just watch the tv? Would you still be able to look me in the eyes and tell me everything was going to be ok? You were my safe place in this world and even though it has been 11 years my heart still hurts. I yearn to hear your laugh, see your smile, and feel the warmth of your hugs.
I love and miss you so much, Grandpa.
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Awww Courtney! This is so sweet. Your grandpa is definitely proud of you and definitely still watching over you.
My grandpa died when I was 13. We have the same personality and we are the only two people in our family that are very athletic – so I know I got it from him. When I was younger he would tell me rain was good luck. So after he died,…read more
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aisatheauthor submitted a contest entry to
What is your ”perfect day?” 2 months ago‘Day Away
Aisa MWhat’s in the way—
first thought of the day?First thought of the day:
If I still knew how
to play pretendfirst things first
I’d love my brain again.“Have fun,”
they say.Fun?
These days
I spend most daysrunning from
the very idea.I don’t bother—
I don’t let “fun” bother me.Instead,
it’s with peaceand ease
that I wish to
‘shoot the breeze.’Everyday
I do my best—I try.
Even when the only way
I know how
isto cry.
No day is perfect
but what’s a day that’s as close to perfect as it can get?It’s allowing it
to be okaythat my best looks different
depending on the day.To trust that
to have it any other waywouldn’t accomplish the same.
Because to live is
to survive
before it is to thrive.Now what they don’t tell you
is thriving takes reviving.And what remains
can’t be given a name—until the day you can say
“I trust in you.”And so I grew.
At las,
anew.And new…
and new.And I’ll continue to grow
let it showbask in the afterglow
of the perfect day
on replaywith my someone else—
the one I nevergave up on
finding.So when asked to describe
the perfect daysome might say
it’s bright.When asked
I insistthey’re not quite right:
it’s blinding.
Voting is closed
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vonj submitted a contest entry to
What is your ”perfect day?” 2 months agoP. R.A.Y
I’ve been going through some things…
I had a dream, it was something like Dr. Kings.
I had a dream, it was something like Dr. Kings
But I aint have the answers Sway, so I went somewhere and prayed.I pray one day we all take the time out to read, so our minds will be set free. Slow down and end the programming of the music & the T.V.
I pray we become more conscious of the things we consume, redefine what we call food.
I pray we learn to nourish our mind, body & soul.
I pray one day as a people we become whole.
I pray one day, as brothers and sisters we can tend and mend each others broken wings.
I pray we can learn to do things from our heart, and not just to be seen.I pray we truly believe we can fly! Without a basketball, backwood, sheets and funnel or whatever method it is you use to get high.
I pray we stop living just to get by.
I pray we use our voices to sing to the most high.
I pray we look in the mirror, acknowledge and turn from our wicked behavior. For let a man examine himself.I pray we stop bragging about riches and strive for wealth. I pray we stop playing the game for self, the only way to win is to not even play.
I pray we all can sit and learn to pray.I’m not a player, I’m a prayer.
I pray that those who think they have to keep it on them, pray that they never have to use it. It’s a war within ourselves and some things I pray we can learn to leave on the shelves and at the altar.I pray we unlearn all the detrimental things they’ve taught us.
I pray we realize it’s a spiritual war for our souls, and that it’s all mental.
I pray we realize that sex is sacred, and learn to respect our temples.
I pray that when it gets dark, you can be light for your peers.
I pray that this prayer fall on open ears.
I pray we all learn to face our fears.I pray we can acknowledge each other by name.
I pray that you recognize, I am you and you are me. We’re one in the same.
I pray we learn to hate fame. I pray that your spirit is renewed. Realizing you’re a fearless, righteous, educated and strong human. That’s F.R.E.S.H.I pray you know you’re not lucky. But yes, you are blessed. And yes, I pray this prayer outlives me.
I pray you share and soak up all of this knowledge and wisdom I’ve given from my heart for free. AmenVoting is closed
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Hello,
Your poem is very beautiful and refreshing. I appreciate the honesty and one can hope one day in the, preferably, near future, it’ll come to fruition. Thank you for your prayer.-
Thank you 🙏🏾 I’m glad this blessed you. Please share with anyone you feel it will bless. Just a prayer 🤲🏾 from the heart, growing up and experiencing life in Washington, DC the other side of the White House, the Capitol and the Monument.
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poeticaddiction_365 submitted a contest entry to
What is your ”perfect day?” 2 months agoMy Perfection
Tracy B.As close to perfection
A day can get
It has to be filled with
Joy, laughter and a good time
Simplicity at its finest
I picture a day filled with love
Surprising my Bae with tickets
To see one of her favorite comedians
B. Simone
Not ruining the surprise
Being a little suspenseful
‘Cause the romance
Should never die
Keeping the spark alive
Laughing uncontrollably
From start to finish
Seeing that smile on her face
Means so much
Any day with you makes the world
Seem perfect
Even though we know that not to be true
You are quite a dream come true
Any other day that could even measure up
Would have to be filled with
Rest, relaxation, some good music and poetry
A warm bubble bath to soothe the tense muscles
Forgetting the troubles of the day or week
Allowing my self care to be my peace
Resetting my intentions
Cleansing my mind, body and spirit
A perfect day can lead to many blessings
I just pray for a day that is calm
That leads to memories to be cherished
And is close to my definition of perfection!Voting is closed
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Hello,
Thank you for sharing. It’s the simple things that matter most in day to day life anyhow, they’re all puzzle pieces to life. All the listed suggestions sound very appealing.-
Thank you Ari for reading and I appreciate your honest feedback!
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seymojl submitted a contest entry to
What is your ”perfect day?” 2 months agoA Perfectly Perfect Day
Jody SeymourStreaks of gold sift through the slits of wood as I wake to feel the warmth caress my face.
Lips brushing against my forehead with silken kisses gently encouraging me to open my eyes.
A quiet conversation while slowly sipping cinnamon tea. I feel the heat in the curve of my hand as it transfers from my favorite ceramic mug.
Bringing me peace as I embrace the tranquility of the moment. The aroma enveloping my senses and perfuming the room.
I casually let my fingers slide over my wardrobe as I create my ensemble for the day.
The beauty of feeling unhurried and able to relish in the pleasure of selecting garments showcasing my individuality.
I fold my body into my girl, a brilliant blue Jeep, made naked as to relish the scents of spring and the whispers of the wind.
The destination not the priority. A leisurely excursion to escape the restlessness.
Taking in the warm breeze on a sunny afternoon. The radio playing my favorite songs, bringing back memories of times past.
The path followed as I sail through the countryside leaving thoughts of my younger years and dreams left along the way.
Stopping midday at a favorite cafe to indulge in a meal with my closest friend.
The conversation bringing joy to my soul as we talk lightly and laugh loudly without reservation.
Smiling as I head back home with the hours on the backside of the day. Time moving slowly and shadows appearing as the miles drift by.
I lace my shoes and head out into nature to indulge in the solitude of running alone. This too invoking feelings of pure satisfaction.
Allowing for silent meditation and a chance to release the burdens held within. The one true moment of peace as I feel the calmness radiating throughout my body.
As day cascades into night I welcome the quiet of the evening with the one I hold dear.
Welcomed home with a sweet embrace. The beauty of detailing our day in an encouraging exchange.
The sun slowly fading and capturing the last remnants of this beautiful moment in time.
I climb into the comfort of our bed with the arms of my beloved pulling me near.
I drift off knowing I wouldn’t change a thing. Time stands still as I recall the perfect day.
Voting is closed
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This is so soothing! Sounds like a wonderful day. Thank you for painting this picture for us!
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Greetings,
Your writing beautifully captures the serenity of simple joys and cherished moments. It paints a picture of peacefulness. Bravo!
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kortkort submitted a contest entry to
What is your ”perfect day?” 2 months agoA Perfect Day for a Perfect Me
Kortney R GarwoodThis day starts with me opening my eyes to give thanks.
Thanks to My King, My God, for soothing my soul.
Allowing me to wake up in absolute peace and feel whole.
I feel as though I’m lying in the clouds,
emotionally safe and secure as I embrace this moment.
This is my state of euphoria, and I emphatically own it.
My mind methodically plans for what lies ahead
as the lyrics to melodic tunes play in my head.
My perfect day has just begun.The routine of my day has never been so smooth
I patiently take my time constructing my look to fit my mood
From head to toe…
My glow, my fit, my flow.
I look in the mirror, pleased with what I see,
comfortable in my skin and free to be me.As I head out into the world and follow my script
I long for the taste of some java, retail therapy, and a favorite flick
Why? These are the makings of me.
The smile on my face and the confidence in my walk.
I could live out this day many times over.
No stress, no strife, no roadblocks ahead.
My perfect day is far from over.This day is just what I’ve made it
with the blessings I’ve been given.
The strength to get up and live my life.
The mindset to understand that life is what I make it.
The love that I have for myself to do the things that make me happy.
Most of all, knowing that every day is a gift
and not to be taken lightly.As the evening rolls in and slows down my perfect day,
I pull up a seat at my favorite speakeasy without dismay.
There to indulge, I partake in a lovely, herbaceous and tart,
yet ever-so-sweet libation,
as I wait for this day to deliver its final culmination.
Not sad to see it go by any means,
because I know there will be many more days like this to be seen.
Perfect in every way.
Just me living, loving, and enjoying my fulfilling day.While reminiscing about this day, I sit back and say…
There was nothing particularly special.
Nothing out of the ordinary.
Just a day of me doing me.
I suppose that’s what makes it so perfect,
it reminds me to just be.
A perfect day, for a perfect me.Voting is closed
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hgray624 submitted a contest entry to
What is your ”perfect day?” 2 months agosunshine psyche
Hannah Grayone day it’s dark,
actually, it’s been dark, for months,
so dark that one could not see in front of them.however now —
now, there is light.at the flip of a switch what was once dark — is bright.
the gloomy cloud has passed,
the rain has stopped,
beautiful rainbows begin to appear.sunlight glistens over the waterfront,
sunlight that makes brown eyes turn to honey,
warmth of light that gives you hope,
fills you full of glee.the shadows hide away,
the light is beaming,
i can see again,
i can slow down.i can feel positivity in all that surrounds me.
beauty is in this life,
beauty is all around.skies turn to cotton candy,
lovers turn to home.no longer lost,
everything i have longed for,
lays before me.i see clearly again.
this is who i am.
i am the sunshine,
the light,
the gleeful warmth.the switch flipped,
my light is now on,
newfound growth shines from within,
creating greater hope for tomorrow.Voting is closed
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Salutations,
Your poetic reflection on finding positivity amidst challenges is very encouraging. The transformation from darkness to light symbolizing hope and inner growth is very touching. Very happy for you! 😀-
thank you! having to learn to live with being mentally ill has made me realize all the beauty in the darkness and inspiration in everything “light” around us.
to quote dumbledore: “happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if only one remembers to turn on the light.” <3
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aquarianmelo submitted a contest entry to
What is your ”perfect day?” 2 months agoA Beautiful Day In Nature
Jamell CrouthersWe always get asked what’s your ideal “perfect day,”
As I’ve gotten older, it’s changed in so many ways.
The place I’m at in my life, it’s very simplistic,
Especially since I’ve grown, aged and learned so much about myself.
A perfect day for me is actually by myself,
It’s an every Friday thing that I always do.
Waking up to sun shining bright through my window,
As I open the shades in my apartment to embrace nature.
I start my day drinking warm water to open my stomach,
Then making myself a good breakfast which consists of waffles, a muffin and fruit.
Next comes stretching my body and packing my bag,
To venture out into the world, embrace and appreciate nature.
I put on my helmet, put on my earplugs, put my backpack on my back,
Hopping on my bike to go on a nice bike ride through my neighborhood.
As I ride my bike and cross streets, I’m appreciating the sunlight hitting my skin,
As my eyes look at the world from behind my sunglasses.
I look at the mountains as it becomes beautiful scenery,
Making my way to a long bike path to get a few miles in.
The music playing can be anything from hip-hop to lofi music,
Most of the time, it’s a playlist I created where I don’t skip songs.
There are people on the path walking or biking, sometimes it’s a good morning,
Most times, it’s just me being in the moment and thinking about nothing.
After three miles, it’s off to the basketball court,
To get a workout in where it’s me, my basketball and the rim.
For an hour and a half, it’s working out, people watching and listening to music,
There isn’t a care in the world, no lists to do, no phone calls,
No social media, no text messages, my world is quiet.
After a workout, it’s resting and recovering my body,
Friday nights sometimes consist of me watching something that will give me content ideas.
It’s reflection of my week, goals I’ve accomplished, talking to my mom,
She always finds a way to say something funny and we crack jokes.
It’s funny how as we get older, life becomes simpler,
It’s the little things that make us happy and feel fulfilled.
The joy and happiness I feel spending time in nature brings perspective to my life,
It’s what I’ve longed for and now, it’s become a beautiful reality…Jamell Crouthers
Voting is closed
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vermontpoetess submitted a contest entry to
What is your ”perfect day?” 2 months agoMason
Necia CampbellMy day could start in ashen gray
like dried-up winter weed bouquets,
but then my grandson shrieks, “Mammay!”
and color swirls in rich array.A fingerpainted masterpiece
infused with snacks and sweetened tea–
bright backdrop for the tales we read,
immersed in toddler fantasy.Flamboyant toys conceal the floor,
confetti from a plastic war
that ranged from couch to Singapore–
and now he begs to go outdoors.Bemusement stains pale cherub cheeks
and nature springs delighted shrieks
when stones splash into frothy creeks
or bluebird skies frame honking geese.Aweary fingers grab my hand,
for will alone cannot withstand
the golden grains of sleepy sand;
I lull him into lala land.Reflection on this drowsing dear
who celebrates with heartfelt cheer
the wonderment of Gaia’s sphere
is every dark mood’s rainbow cure.Voting is closed
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This poem is so full of love! Thank you for writing this, it’s beautifully done!
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Thank you! He really makes my days so full of love…grandbabies are the best! ❤️
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This is absolutely beautiful! The abundance in love that pours out of this piece is astounding!
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Thank you! I’m hoping to be able to one-off print him a chap book of poems he’s inspired so he’ll always remember how much I loved him when I’m gone. I’m not dying, though, don’t worry! 😊
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Ciao,
I quite enjoyed your piece and you portray the blessing of children quite well. I can feel your emotion and the vibrant essence of your relationship behind it. Very beautiful!-
Thank you! I’m so thankful that I get to spend so much time with him. He’s such a love and so much fun. ❤️
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kslove submitted a contest entry to
What is your ”perfect day?” 2 months agoA Perfect Day
K. S. LoveAn alarm-clock-free morning,
There’s nothing more soothing.
I took my first sip of coffee
As I lounged by the window,
Absorbing the beauty of a day minus responsibilities.
“I love everything about today,”
I affirmed, consumed by my thoughts:Maybe, I’ll make the hour-long drive
To my favorite beach,
Visit a couple of discount stores,
Or stop by that cozy little restaurant, I adore,
For a savory meal and a delicious treat.I could always search for
A binge-worthy show,
Grab a bottle of Chardonnay,
Pop some popcorn and snack,
Until I drift off into the most pleasant sleep,
Cultivating the sweetest dreams.“You know what?”
I ask myself aimlessly…
“You’re overthinking it…
The only way today will be perfect
Is if I do all of these things.”
So, I did.Voting is closed
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Ciao,
Your poem of indulgence and relaxation is delightful. I love the idea of a spontaneous adventure as well.-
Hi there,
Thank you. I appreciate your taking the time to read it. Sometimes all we need is a little spontaneous fun.
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jpck918 submitted a contest entry to
What is your ”perfect day?” 2 months agoPerfect Isn’t Real
Jane PWhat is a perfect day? Well, in all honesty, there’s no such thing. I could sit here and think about all the things that make life seem perfect. I’d rather not. That would make way for my mind to validate why other days aren’t “perfect”. Life is life. There’s no way around it.
Perfect is undefinable, an opinion. An opinion I’m learning to stay away from after chasing it for most of my life. I’ve learned trying to be perfect and looking for perfection is a downhill spiral. I will never be truly happy in search of this. I’ve tried to be perfect in academics and sports, yet I’ve always been extremley hard on myself when I mess up. I’ve tried finding the perfect significant other, yet look for every reason why they aren’t. I’ve tried to be perfect at my job, yet feel guilt when I can’t do everything the exact way I want it to. The list goes on.
But guess what? I am human! Humans aren’t meant to be perfect. We are meant to fail and learn. We are meant to get embarrassed and be humbled. We are meant for rejection and leaning into introspection. Humans are meant to make a fool of themselves and change into the person they want to become. Nobody gets out of here perfect, and if someone acts as if they do, they’ve lost touch with reality.
I’m learning to be grateful for the small things. I’m learning to have hope when I feel like giving up. I’m learning life isn’t all or nothing. I’m learning giving my best is going to different at times and that’s okay. I don’t need to wait until I feel things are perfect to take action. I take action, giving it my best effort that day, and there’s nothing more I can do.
To be honest, I still feel I’m trying to find the perfect sentences, the perfect thoughts, to produce the perfect writing piece. But hey, I’m a human and still on my learning journey. Embracing truth within myself and the world and learning to be real is my new defined definition of what I thought I was searching for in perfection.
Voting is closed
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madelianides submitted a contest entry to
What is your ”perfect day?” 2 months agoMy perfect day oh perfect day
My perfect day oh perfect day
I feel like living my life my way
If I lose the joy of living my life
My reasonable happiness leaves me with my strife
I better be living this time of year
It don’t matter if I shed a tear
If I’m not living happy or not
Forever in a web I shall be caught
My perfect day oh perfect day
My life shall go on I shall have no dismay
If I am not happy alive or dead
Then off the world goes with my head
I want to live, that is my way
My perfect day oh perfect dayMy perfect day oh perfect day
Life shall go on or so they say
I want to live for I am free
To do many things of value I see
I love to play music even swim
I don’t care if my body is slim
I live my life breathing and glad
Glad I don’t die, man that would be bad
I ain’t afraid to be called up yonder
But it ain’t my time yet so it I won’t ponder
My life is mine I won’t be swayed
My perfect day oh perfect dayVoting is closed
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ashraymondjames submitted a contest entry to
What is your ”perfect day?” 2 months agoAn Ode To The Little Things
Ash Raymond JamesI stayed in bed
until I reached
the outskirts of morning.The birds gave pep talks
instead of songs.I got changed
and found ten dollars
in my pocket.It’s summer but it rained
and I wonder why nobody
has made laundry powder
that smells exactly like this.I make the perfect eggs.
The toaster
that loves to burns the edges
leaves them edible.
I thank it for its kindness.I go outside and jump in a puddle.
There is still that childhood dream
that it will be a portal
to an alternative dimension.
One where Netflix didn’t cancel the OA.
One where we could trade
our sadness for money.
Gosh, would I be filthy rich.Me and the neighbour
do our awkward dance.
The small talk jive.
We bow and say
‘have a nice day!’
We really mean it.I walk to the coffee shop
and the sky is still
rubbing sleep from its eyes.The wind is playing solos
on telephone wires.I hold the door for a stranger
and we share a smile.I tell the barista a joke
and we both laugh
at how unfunny it is.I take the ten dollars
and order a flat white, one sugar.
I say keep the change.I find a bench, and I ruminate.
I realise
Happiness is right here –
why are we crying
like it is so far away?Voting is closed
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I’m obsessed with your writing style. This is such a wonderful reminder to appreciate the little things.
Also: i, too, wish that Netflix hadn’t cancelled the OA.-
Thank you so much. I cannot actually express how mad I am about the OA. I did it in such a calm and casual way in this piece but honestly, once a week I remember they cancelled it and I have to make myself a cup of tea and go listen to the birds. Such a cliffhanger. Netflix are savages.
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Greetings,
Your ode is stunning, shows the magic in living in the little moments and to cherish them. You never know when you’ll be mourning an old favorite. My condolences.-
I haven’t figured out the laugh emoji yet.
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