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Karen Lynn Vidra, The Texas Tornado
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Recent poems by Karen Lynn Vidra, The Texas Tornado
• Feelin' Stressed...
• hot, hot, hot!
• Olympic Dreams, Dreams Of Glory...
• With A Little Help (From My Friends and Mostly From God!) (For George C.)
• why should i pray?? (thanks, michael newdow, for destroying my faith!)
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• where is the REAL country music??
• i am not leaving..i am staying! :)
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           >> View all 411
christmas, as seen by one who is struggling...
by Karen Lynn Vidra, The Texas Tornado
Friday, December 19, 2003


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christmas is getting harder and harder for me to enjoy...

i pray you never end up poor or hungry, or living from day to day...

then people wonder why i am often so stressed out or depressed--


i have seen many happy christmases come and go,
and what used to be happy now bothers me so.

people gettin' greedy, stealin' from poor, sick, desperate kids,
and they don't know what it is like when one's life hits the skids.

all they care about is spending big bucks,
and as for helping the poor..they don't give a f***.

i used to love christmas; now i don't enjoy it anymore,
and i don't care anymore, i'd just as soon shove it out the door.

i am turning into a grinch, greed around me is all i ever see,
and i am wondering if i am going crazy, what is happenin' to me.

used to hear the carols, singing of the baby christ child,
and now i hardly hear any, and it drives me wild!

our stupid family doesn't care; i'd best not let them know~
if they knew what we were, disappointment they would surely show.

to them, we are nothing, we are losers, we don't matter much;
they probably feel that we are using prayer or church as a crutch.

i no longer see smiles on people's faces, all i see is greed or tears,
and jesus christ has been driven out; this is what i do fear.

i can't take it anymore, i feel i am going crazy or insane,
and now that i'm struggling, all i am doing is looking for one to blame.

could use some financial help myself, but am too afraid to ask,
try to smile on the outside, but hurt and fear inside is what i do mask.

have nosy old neighbors who gossip; they have to know what is going on,
and lord, if we should ask for help..oh, how that is frowned upon!

so karla and i often do without, no food, most of our money goes to bills,
and lord help us if ever one of us should ever unexpectedly fall ill!

have no car, have to walk everywhere,
and it seems that nobody even gives a care!

when is it OUR turn to be happy? when do WE get a break?
every year it gets worse, and it is getting harder for us to take!
_______________________________________
read an article yesterday in the "dallas morning news" about someone stealing from the angel tree in denton, tx., which is north of fort worth. this was what prompted me to write the above poem, plus karla and i ARE struggling financially and physically; and i was having a "poor, poor pitiful me" moment.






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Reviewed by Ron Henry 2/5/2005
Christmas doesn't have much to do with Jesus. It does more to degrade him than celebrate him. They say Christmas time is the time of year when people are most depressed. That is a telling fact. Perhaps it is because people are out emphasizing the material, when they should be thinking about the spiritual. Greed and envy surface noticeably during this season. Maybe there is a silver lining in your struggles: at least Christmas for you is not a time to be blinded by things. Don't let the season get you down. It is not why we are here on Earth.

Thanks for sharing this. I hope things are better for you next year.
Reviewed by Tracey L. O' Very (Reader) 12/17/2004
This is a true to life thing that is sad as I cry when I listen to the songs of the season that all would sing loud and proud lovingly. Christmas really isn't the spirit it was not so long ago. How far will they let this madness and terrorism go? Only leaving the reason for this miraculous season deep in our hearts which aren't allowed to speak proudly lovingly aloud.
Thia is Wonderful Thank You so Much.
Merriest of Christmas' and many Blessed years to follow.
Tracey
Reviewed by Dave Harm 11/22/2004
The Lord's life was about suffering. Once we live through it, our life's change. Please don't "compare" it'll drive you insane. Believe me, voice of experience. Things will get better. While we most live in reality, never forget your dreams! This hit home, very close to my own life. Well done! Your not alone!
Reviewed by Ronald Hull 1/20/2004
The last lick is the best. Christmas is a myth that gets redefined every year. Just stick to your guns and be of good cheer. You have thousands of friends you don't even know. Your sister is the best family one can have. Let's have a great new year! Love, Ron.
Reviewed by Vicky Jeter 1/13/2004
Hi Karen,
Fortunately there are many ways to measure wealth--this poem has received one of the most overwhelming positive responses I have yet
seen. You are abundantly appreciated and loved, my friend.
I got here today wanting to say that I'm so impressed that you write in French! I saw it on a comment you left Regis--very cool!
Reviewed by Robert Sheridan 1/13/2004
Greatly enjoyed your poem - a fine work. Bravo!
Reviewed by Bhuwan Thapaliya 1/10/2004
Lovely write my friend...My prayers are with you!!!!
Reviewed by Antoinette Kopperfield 1/10/2004
Karen
If we didn't have our lows we would never learn to appreciate life itself.
I can appreciate your sentiments--you have to realize it is your heart that speaks out from the depths of your soul.
We all have those times as I have shown with my 'dark' writes.
We are overcome by sadness in hard times though we all must remember it gets better...Keep writing and expressing.
It is the way you will reach your goals.
Sincerely
Antoinette
Reviewed by Keighley Perkins 1/7/2004
a beautiful poem.
Love from your Welsh friend
Keighley
Reviewed by SilverCeltic Moon 1/3/2004
Karen,

I agree with you that Christmas is beginning to be like Christmas was in "The Grinch that Stole Christmas" with Jim Carrey. I truly understand how you feel more than you can ever know about the financial part of it. I figure that those who want more than just your love and can't understand why you can't afford anything fancysmancy for them at Christmas (or any other time) can do without any of your gifts at all, God bless them.

Chin up. Next year, print out some of your poems and put them in a binder/folder and give them out to everyone on your list..maybe the poems that you think they would find meaning in depending upon their personality...and be done with it. If they aren't impressed by that....then nothing you gave them would have meaning.

;) Silver
Reviewed by . ShyPoet1 1/3/2004
It's sad, but "sometimes" I feel as you do!
God Bless ...
ShyPoet
Reviewed by Sandy Knauer 1/3/2004
Karen, I see a touch of me in you ;-) I find that writing about painful experiences is very therapeutic. Once I have relived and examined the experience, I learn so much about myself and the world around me. Another benefit of your writing this is that all of us who read it will stop and think about someone else. You have given me an idea for my blog message today. Thanks, and keep up the good work.
Reviewed by Jaclynn Huntington 1/3/2004
((((((((Karen)))))))) I know how you feel, Sweetie. I've had those kind of Christmas'. Down & out but at least you have Karla. Mine are just empty now and I would trade them for having less about me for the warmth of someone to truly care. But that is little comfort when you're having a tough time of it. My prayers are with you, little one.

I know what you mean about the spirit of the season being lost. I went to my grandson's Christmas program and every single song had the words rewritten to exclude the reason for the season all together. Even 'Silent Night'. Left me in a strange and aggitated state.

I truly do hope the new year brings new blessings to you both soon. Take care and hang in there.

♫Jackie
Reviewed by Phyllis Jean Green 1/2/2004
I am so sorry to hear you and karla are suffering. You are such good people! If prayers will help, you will soon see better days. We're all rooting for you!! As for Christmas and its aftermath, I find it helps to go with the flow. Feel how you feel!! It is great that you were able to do just that. Some people need permission to feel sad and frustrated on special holidays, and your poem will help. It is so hard not to have unrealistic expectations, isn't it? I'm betting most people are glad when the hoop-la is over. Sorry to be so windy. Guess I should post the Christmas-related poem that memory wrote for me. Didn't want to bring anyone down...but sometimes a good cry helps. Right? Telling it exactly like it is? Meantime, here's to a far better year ahead for us all. Love, Phyllis
Reviewed by m j hollingshead 1/1/2004
well done
Reviewed by Divinity 11 12/31/2003
christmas is a hard time that makes you wake up and realize the difficulties you face and the people out there that you wish you can help but can't afford....
this was a very touching write

thank you for sharing it
jessica
aka
gypsie
Reviewed by Mark Mahoney 12/31/2003
What can i say that aint already been spoken or thought of, not a lot, except to say that i understand your pain only to well, christmas to me is to commercial and people lost track and sight of what its about, i know you cant live on prayers nor eat them but i'm sure God listens to me, we've been talking long enough now and this coming new year will bring happyness to you both in more ways than one,look after each other and find your strenght in one another, together nothing is impossible, take good care, God bless you both...Mark xx
Reviewed by Floria Kelderhouse (Reader) 12/30/2003
Hi Karen this is so sad...I hope you did have a good Christmas just being with your sister Karla...we cut way back this year...spent very little money and had a wonderful Christmas...it's about being with family...and it is getting too commercial...and that thing about stealing...it really gets to me...how sad...Hope you have a nice New Years day....floria
Reviewed by michael horetsky (Reader) 12/29/2003
My thoughts and prayers got to you and your sister....I saw a bumper sticker "Save the race dogs " I have nothing against animals but i am theeir myself the ones i loves stealing from me taking my earnings...I have 5 dollars today..Oh well..Why do we help animals why do we send our energies overseas when we americans we who want to work who just want to have securities medical insurance a home and see our children grow have to suffer ina a country who throws away more food and monies to the wind...Please take care...Every day is a new one....May you both have a better new year...michael
Reviewed by John Williams 12/23/2003
Hello Karen
An expressive verse so poignant. Karen Please keep your FAITH. Forsaaking All Things I Trust Him. If you can keep your Faith God will not forsake You,
Love from John and Beth Williams. From Down Under.
Reviewed by Maria Cristina Azcona 12/23/2003
This poem has shocked me indeed. Dear karen, I am with you and your sister. Tomorrow I will pray at twelve o clock for your happiness and welfare. Please receive my humble kiss to your pain and to your strength.
Reviewed by Lynn Barry 12/23/2003
I had no idea you were down and out...you always post such peppy positive comments under people's poetry...the smiles and lols and beautiful expressions of love always brighten NY day....so consider yourself rich in character...it doesn't pay the bills or take away pain but you are light in the darkness and I for one am grateful for you...and your sis...
Reviewed by Sandra Corona 12/22/2003
A sad, heart-breaking write.
There are agencies that help with bills, medication, etc. Please don't let pride stand in your way as we couldn't afford Doogie's enormous medical bills without help. He's had three surgeries this year--each around $50,000 each! We manage fine otherwise but do accept 'help' with Doogie's medical needs/expenses (from the proper agencies) that aren't covered by our insurance. There's nothing wrong with 'helping' yourself! Indeed, to suffer needlessly is not a noble thing ... as we were told :)!
I've never been fond of the time between Thanksgiving and New Years as sincerity counts more to me than all the gifts, wrappings and so forth. Jesus birth, I celebrate. I hate the commercialization of Dec. 25th as a celebration of 'His' birthday ... He who was so humble, meek and totally devoid of greed. "Do ye as I do." We aren't, are we, when we spend more than we can afford?
My prayers and friendship are yours always. Ask Him for guidance and be ready to receive it :)! With God all things are possible :)!
I know!
Love always,
:)Sandy
Reviewed by Retta (Reindeer) Mckenzie 12/22/2003
This was so sad and heart breaking Karen, I do understand, been there, its so hard to be happy and keep the faith, when life is a struggle, I am so glad you have your sister to share with, I wish there was some way I could help,

My Prayers are with you,

Reindeer
Reviewed by Regis Auffray 12/21/2003
I think that it takes a lot of courage to express yourself as you have. Thank you for this dose of reality. Love, peace and strength to you, Regis.
Reviewed by jude forese 12/21/2003
when life seems unfair and responsive we must never loose our focus or faith ... work with you karma and it will work with you ... peace ...
Reviewed by Dale Clark 12/21/2003
I have faith that those in need will
be provided relief, but it's an important
message that needs to be addressed. That
is what Christmas is about truly, giving.
Karen I pray that you will receive that
which you need! Much Love-Dale
Reviewed by Sheila Jones (Reader) 12/20/2003
Karen, I'm sorry you are struggling so. Are there no assistance programs that could help you? ( winter heat, food, and such.)

Do try and keep positive thoughts. I will say a special prayer for you.

Wishing you and Karla much love...

Sheila

Reviewed by Jennifer Ragan (Reader) 12/20/2003
Karen,
This may sound clichι. I truely believe when God closes a door, he opens a window. I wish you a new year filled with happiness.
Jennifer Ragan
Reviewed by Lady Peg 12/19/2003
So touched by this one Hugs and prayers
Peggy
Reviewed by Michelle Kidwell Power In The Pen 12/19/2003
((((((Karen))))

Karen please email me with your address, I need to send you something and please, please know that I care if you need me for anything please feel free to email me or whatever you need to do, our prayers are with you and Karla...
God Bless
~Michelle~
Isaiah 40:31
Reviewed by E T Waldron 12/19/2003
I wish I could say more than my hopes and prayers are with you.I know that God's promises are real, and He wil keep you in His care.I pray that soon your burdens will be lifted and you'll have brighter days ahead! If it helps to write about it , then do it....
Reviewed by Ron (sketchman) Axelson 12/19/2003
Try and think as positive as you can Karen
You and karla are in my prayers..
Have a spirit filled Holiday!
Reviewed by Rebekah Rosie Lang 12/19/2003
Karen, your day will come. I *know* it is a struggle!
I have been paying the Electric,Water and some
groceries, then my Prescription Bill! I have *NOT* been
able to pay my creditors and they call every day. I just
tell them the truth-The Electric Bill is more important than your bill
right now,I will pay you in 30 days. or 60. Then, I am able to pay them this month. towards Christmas. They will be *Happy*. I have *not*
paid since October 17th!
Thank you for reviews Karen!
Reviewed by Birdie Houston 12/19/2003
Your poem was nice ......remember good things come to those who wait even though sometimes it's a long, long time coming. Best always and keep the faith.
Reviewed by Mr. Ed 12/19/2003
Someone just pilfered a whole truck load of Toys for Tots out my way. I'd like to wish these creeps something. Hope things get much much better for you and your Twink. You both deserve the best.
Reviewed by OnepoetGem * 12/19/2003
Your writing was very good Karen. Especially your poem about the agony. I know how you feel because when I was a kid we suffered quite a bit. My mother wouldn't try to get public assistant or welfare either. I'm still suffering from some of the backlash of my past but I will not let it drive me negative. The brain is the last stand when everything else is going wrong on the outside. We either go negative mentally or fight stong positively. I choose to fight strong regardless of my problems. I'm actually smiling on borrowed time. You come to a point when you will really be tried, you fight or lose. Nothing else counts when you can't breath, nothing. love and cheers. G
Reviewed by Kate Clifford 12/19/2003
I do know exactly what you are going through. In ways that I have not even spoken about. I know how dark everything can seem. That is one of the reasons I posted the writes that I have lately. I will pass to you my love and energy, hopes and prayers.

Do you know when the struggle gets to me the most? It is when I cannot help someone else because of the position I am in. All I can do is tell you that you are loved and that the Christmas Spirit is here, even if it is not being felt. Hold on Keren I don't know when things will change for you, but I believe it will.
Reviewed by Karla Dorman, The StormSpinner 12/19/2003
(((karen)))

we will get through...we always have. i just wish i could do more...it bothers the hell out of me that i can't. :(

powerful, sad write--just keep the faith, alright? you're always telling me that...maybe one day it will be our turn. okay??

i love you--never forget that, and so does God!

(((HUGS))) and love,

karla. :(
Reviewed by Tinka Boukes 12/19/2003
I just let it go by as another day this year!!

Only those I love will know it's Christmas....well the rest will be forgotten!!

Love Tinka
Reviewed by Robert Blackwell (Reader) 12/19/2003
This is definitely a difficult cross to bear, and it breaks my heart to learn that the season brings you no more joy. I can relate, and send my most heartfelt wishes of love to you. {{{{{{{{hugs}}}}}}}}
Reviewed by Lisa Hilbers 12/19/2003
Karen, I understand this more than you know. I too wish there was something I could do for you and Karla. All I can do is pray that things become easier for you. ((((hugs)))) Lisa
Reviewed by A PAX 12/19/2003
Oh Karen,this has stopped me dead in my tracks when I realized it was auto biographical...I do hope that somehow life gets easier for you both, you two have such a wonderful spirit, and that is a blessing in itself....but I do realize that we all have to live in the outside world, and its not always kind to say the very least.
Sending you cerebral hugs and well wishes (wish I could do more)
Happy New Year???
love Anita
:(
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