He Knew (poem) by Karen C Vanderlaan on AuthorsDen

Reviewed by Cryssa C

Reviewed on April 29, 2010

As I watch my own father going through the twilight of his years, I see many of the same characteristics within him. May your heart find peace as you continue to grieve...

Cryssa

Reviewed by Terry Rizzuti

Reviewed on February 20, 2010

A great heartfelt and insightful poem, Karen.

Reviewed by OnepoetGem *the Poetic Rapper

Reviewed on February 10, 2010

proud father Karen, you're right in your review on anticipation, it is a kind of negative poem motivated by just what you wrote above about your fathers health problems. I've been attacked by diabetes, one leg full of pain, can't hardly work, and now all this darn snow that I have to shovel with this bum leg. This is my birthday month and I'm afraid I won't even get one dance in. Anyway I anticipate I'll get better but I expect what is going on now, one setback right after another, stay focused on your positive because you will need it my, cheers may dear

Reviewed by Kate Burnside

Reviewed on February 3, 2010

I love this clear-eyed view, Karen. Love is love no matter what and despite the "warts an all" understanding we have of those nearest and dearest to us, the bonds prevail - sometimes against all the odds! My father was a hospitalised alcoholic and schizophrenic and my mother had to cope - rendering her much like your father here. There is no effect without a cause and our understanding is critical. And you do - and did. A very strong write, Karen, which is a pleasure to share in and wonder at. May memories smooth the rough edges so the family jigsaw becomes enduringly pleasing in your heart and mind. xx

Reviewed by Karla Dorman, The StormSpinner

Reviewed on February 3, 2010

This one made me cry, Karen, as you know, my big, strong Daddy passed away two years ago this coming May. God, I miss him. Beautifully penned, your Daddy sounds a lot like mine was. Proud. Dignified. Not willing to lay down easy ... well done.

(((HUGS))) and love, Karla. *tears!!*

Reviewed by Carol Grace

Reviewed on February 3, 2010

Such an honest poem--good job.

Reviewed by Patrick Granfors

Reviewed on February 2, 2010

His guilt was powerful and sadly alienating in the end. So sorry. Patrick

Reviewed by Christine Alwin

Reviewed on February 2, 2010

..set in ways, but so sad that sometimes you wonder what really is inside,,,emotional write Karen, tugs at the heart, makes me think of an Uncle of mine.

Reviewed by Marcia Miller-Twiford

Reviewed on February 2, 2010

So many of the elderly are stubborn when it comes to their hold on independence. Stubborn for differend reasons but determined not to be "a burden" nonetheless. My son wants the "honor" or paying me back for the care I gave him if the time comes that I should need care. I don't think I could do that. Other cultures care for the elderly. It's a given just as it is to care for the children. We're not like that. I love your poem Karen and hava taken up enouth space here but want you to know that you've touched me deeply with this write and why.
Marcia

Reviewed by Mr. Ed

Reviewed on February 2, 2010

Most heartfelt, Karen. And when they are gone, I think we all feel like there were many things both parent and child could have, or should have, done differently.

Reviewed by Gerald Tate

Reviewed on February 2, 2010

Great writing, keep em coming.

Best, Gerry

Reviewed by Jerry Bolton (Reader)

Reviewed on February 2, 2010

Somehow, someway, this grabs me and squeezes my heart dry. Oh, hell, there isn't a somehow, or someway, I know the how and the way. You touched me. Horribly, maybe, but nevertheless, you have touched me.

Reviewed by Sheri Uy

Reviewed on February 2, 2010

Dear Karen, you have touched my heart with your realistic and sweet verses about your father. You've given me some inspiration to treasure my rare conversations with my own 80-year old father. I think it is better to see our old loved ones as "assertive" even with the knowledge that their time is near, rather than see them looking through the vastness of the world with lifeless eyes. Your verses show your love and respect for your old man. Thank you for sharing.

Best wishes,
Sheri

Reviewed by Georg Mateos

Reviewed on February 2, 2010

I hope when I am gone, my children can say that I knew...because, honestly, as a parent I had not a clue, even when I tried.

Georg

Reviewed by Liana Margiva

Reviewed on February 2, 2010

EXCELLENT POEM!!!!!!!!!!!! I LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!! Liana Margiva

Reviewed by Rose Rideout

Reviewed on February 2, 2010

Yes Karen I am sure he felt the hurt and pain he had laid upon you and the family and was too ashamed to take you love and help when offered.Thank you for sharing your words, your heart.

Newfie Hugs, Rose

Reviewed by Felix Perry

Reviewed on February 2, 2010

We seek our parents love and approval no matter how they treat us, it is a natural instinct of a child to reach out for this love and affection. Sometimes a parent who does not do the things they should pay the ultimate price in losing so much love and memories they could have shared. Well written and from the heart Karen.
fee

Reviewed by Dawn Anderson

Reviewed on February 1, 2010

Karen, you write with honesty...always telling things as they are...Sage said it best!

Reviewed by George Carroll

Reviewed on February 1, 2010

Pride goes before the fall and is sad indeed.

Reviewed by Sage Sweetwater

Reviewed on February 1, 2010

Good show and tell, if I may use that title that you have already used in something so much greater than this review. Self-punishment seems your dad inflicted upon himself, probably out of guilt for abandoning his children...if only he'd known forgiveness, the physical and emotional pain may have been less...you're a good daughter, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, Karen...good thoughts flow from He Knew...be well.

Love,
Sage