My parents founded a loving and productive family. How they did this, in spite of classic clashes along the way, I will never understand. Their basic love and wisdom is evident in this offering.
Becoming A Man
The first time I stood up to my father
Each wishing it was not happening
My eyes were steady staring into his
Across a chasm nineteen years wide
And at almost eye level he looks into
My soul and slowly raises each arm
Outward palms open unthreatening
With manly love and respect he takes
A giant step toward me and encircles
Adult shoulders with a new grip on
Two lives which had never come near
To being disrespectful to the other one
====================================
At My Mother's Plea
She began by saying that she had
Never understood her husband
Asking me to sit across from her
She spoke softly to say how much
She loved me and wanted my life
To be far better than those of theirs
Decades later her hope filled plea
Is heard again clearly saying to me
Son - women have a rough life and
I want you to promise me that you
Will never use a threatening or
Disrespectful tone in your voice
While speaking to your wife
This from a woman who knew
Too much of what she abhorred
You second poem of your mother could have been written by my own... and the first could have been my father and myself. It amazes me sometimes that they somehow managed to make it work but they did. And it also amazes me how many of us share the same story...
M
A wonderful reflective write my friend, it's amazing how the wise words of our parents ring out loud and clear in our thoughts and shine through in our personality as we grow and mature, and many of which are passed down to our own children and grandchildren. I too recall words of wisdom that my mother shared with me, words of advice from my papaw...one particular piece of advice he gave me was to always maintain a reputable name within our county, a good name would help one through many ventures in their lifetime, I have found this to be true...After twenty-five years since his passing when I mention his name within our community the reaction is always the same...comments such as, "he sure was a fine man, hard working, good Christian man, humble, strong and or very talented." my mom is well known for her good work, community work, and honesty as well...I only hope to maintain a name such as they have...reminds me of my most recent posting....What Will You Leave Behind...I hope to leave behind fond memories, a good reputation, and memories that continue to help others such as my mom and papaw have. Touching write my friend..enjoyed!
Blessings,
Joyce B.
Two people who each loved you and endured in their own ways to make a family whole. It takes all the emotions to contain and persevere for a family. This is why you are you and your compassion is fathomless.
Your parents shine in beautiful memorials to them...effectively, beautifully penned. I'm sure they'd be proud of you. Both moved me, but the one about your Mom had me tear up: passing on a legacy for change.
Powerful write, Bill; well penned! BRAVO! Glad I was raised when I was and not today; glad I'm not a parent in real life! What kids do today I couldn't even beGIN to get away with; I'd been buried UNDERNEATH the house if I ever attempted some of the stuff that kids do nowadays, and parents don't even hardly blink! Sad!
(((HUGS))) and much love, your friend in Tx., Karen Lynn. :(
This moves me almost beyond comment right now, William. It's funny how, unless the adults concerned are pretty-much canonised and with stature beyond that of normal human frailty, history has a habit of repeating inter-generationally. These are two very fine, and very finely crafted writes whose heart and soul go deep. Much reflection and loving care has been both mined and sown here. These strong characters live and breathe... and bleed. Love it. A very celebratory New Year to you... bottoms up! :)) Kate xx
WHISPERS OF THE HEART is artist and author J. Allen Wilson's second book of poetry.It can be autographed and shipped within 48 hours of order. NO LONGER AVAILABLE.
“The woman or man who is a poet, or fiction writer, or playwright, or all of these, is engaged constantly in a jazz ballet of vocabularies, passions, genders, histories, perspectives, death, love, and life. The music of revelation announces itself to
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Be safe,
Karen
fee
M
Carole~
Peace,
Dan
Blessings,
Joyce B.
Love,
Susan
(((HUGS))) and love, Karla.
(((HUGS))) and much love, your friend in Tx., Karen Lynn. :(