River of Memories: An Appalachian Boyhood (Book) - 1/30/2009 6:42:08 AM
I just can't wait to read this...!!!
It sounds simply amazing...just my kind of book..
Love, Diana
River of Memories: An Appalachian Boyhood (Book) - 4/6/2004 12:28:15 AM
Now this is my type of novel, I am a great fan of Tom Sawyer etc, as of most of Mark Twain's work. You are never too old to write! David, please let me know how I order a copy, as this is one novel that I want to read and proudly have in my collection!
The Breakfast Lady (Short Story) - 3/10/2026 3:53:56 AM
Kudos to the lady for embracing unconvention.
The Lamb Cake (Short Story) - 4/3/2023 6:34:18 AM
Seems like everybody found money to be in short supply back then. But for some reason, I didn’t seem to realize it at the time. I think the area where I was raised, everybody lived pretty much the same, especially right after World War II. Life was hard, but I do think people seemed happier.
The Lamb Cake (Short Story) - 3/31/2023 4:29:30 PM
Aw, David, I see a poor little boy marveling and maybe drooling over that wondrous cake. My family was rather poor because Pop drank from the bill-paying money. Bill's family seemed to not buy gifts until the 16 kids were all grown up, then the gifts were still sparse.I loved how you told of your little boy longings, though.
Also, I want to add that I loved your poem"I Can't Help But Wonder, What If...."I posted my review, but AD somehow said I had previously posted my review. So I figured out how to get them to print two in one space. See? We may be getting old, but we aren't defeated!
p.s. I said a lot more in the earlier review!
MyRedRoosterTale (Short Story) - 8/27/2022 2:05:22 PM
that was a beautiful story. he is a persistent one and loves to be around you. my favorite part was the watermelon. that made me laugh. thank you for sharing this story. i simply loved and enjoyed reading it.
MyRedRoosterTale (Short Story) - 7/7/2021 2:59:47 PM
What a wonderful story! I loved it! I think chickens are very entertaining and, though they be of small brains, I think they have big hearts!
MyRedRoosterTale (Short Story) - 7/4/2021 7:33:15 PM
This is so funny!!! I laughed all through while reading this story!!! That rooster must have chosen you and your wife as part of his family, and he thinks he has an obligation to be present at your residence. Some roosters behave like dogs, they would follow you around. I guess by now you will have no choice but to accept him as one in your family.
What a great story! I had so much fun reading this!
Sandie :D
MyRedRoosterTale (Short Story) - 7/2/2021 9:27:08 AM
A delightful story, David! Roosters can be quite a nuisance, though. Just a couple of years ago, Bill got a hankering to raise some chickens. He ordered some hens and I think it was 13 roosters! That's when I learned that they don't just crow to wake the farmer in the morn--they crow all day long, and at night too, if they feel like it. They just love to crow! Our hens' eggs were wonderful, when they finally started laying. As for the chicken dinners, they did not taste at all like store-bought chicken! That experiment lasted about a year. Our year of raising turkeys went much better!
Did I tell you I finished "River of Memories?" I enjoyed all your memories very much, and just lent the book to my daughter in Ohio. Please keep sharing your adventures, David.
Your friend, Connie
MyRedRoosterTale (Short Story) - 7/1/2021 10:02:22 AM
The last time I heard a rooster crow was in 1978 in Manila in the morning in my ninth floor room.
For some reason, that rooster "imprinted" on you and the trauma of being washed downstream washed away his imprint of Tanner. And he certainly likes another rooster that he can dominate. I wouldn't feed him anything. When it comes time for him to have a little fun with his hens he may return to the coop.
In the meantime, it looks like you are in the henhouse!
Ron
MyRedRoosterTale (Short Story) - 7/1/2021 3:43:37 AM
A heartwarming tale. I'd say that rooster has staked his claim on making his home with you and your wife.
MyRedRoosterTale (Short Story) - 6/30/2021 9:13:37 AM
Oh what a heartwarming and amusing story…
…you’re right I think…sometimes these things are sent to brighten and uplift our world..and in brightening yours, you’ve brightened ours too…
Well he keeps returning…proving you’ve still got it David! Lol
🍉🍉🍉
So well written and enjoyable…
More please!
Diana…🌿
Time To Let Go Again (Short Story) - 2/9/2018 2:26:13 AM
It's like releasing a fledgling so it can fly on its own. Your sons and grandsons have done just that.
Grit, Cloverine Salve, and Muskrat Hides (Short Story) - 3/12/2017 5:21:23 PM
I started out to read your new poem, and somehow came across the stories instead. I really enjoyed reading this one! I remember Grit, of course, and Cloverine Salve, and selling mail-order boxes of cards, too. No muskrat hides for us, but we did love watching the butchering in the butcher shop across the street from us.
Are you still an entrepreneur? You ARE a good story-teller!
Connie
My 1940s Appalachian Mother (Short Story) - 5/10/2016 3:52:50 AM
David, I hardly ever sacrifice time in order to read a short story. I'm so glad I decided to read yours because I found that I love your mother! My childhood home was in a small town, a little half-double with an outhouse in the back. My mother did many of the same tasks as yours, but with modern conveniences such as coal heat and real wallpaper. Her work ethic and hymn-singing matched your mother's.
Your story is so short, but gives such a grand picture of your loving mother! I might have to read more stories in the future!
Connie
My 1940s Appalachian Mother (Short Story) - 5/9/2016 3:45:17 AM
Your mother was a gem of a person.
You've reminded me of what my grandmothers went through. In those days, wives and mothers generally didn't work outside jobs, but their days were filled with heavy labor like you described so well in this story about your mother.
I don't think people realize how important newspaper was to help keep the cold wind out and its usefulness in the outhouse. People in those days, especially mothers, were major recyclers. Reminds me of those grass stains that my mother had to get out of my pants and those patches on patches she had to put on my ripped clothing. Singing all the way.
Ron
My 1940s Appalachian Mother (Short Story) - 5/9/2016 12:42:09 AM
I enjoyed reading this lovely story about your mother. She set a good example.
Time To Let Go Again (Short Story) - 4/30/2016 3:07:38 PM
AWESOME WORK! ONLY A PARENT WOULD UNDERSTAND HOW IT FEELS TO HAVE TO PUT OUR TRUST IN ANOTHER PERSON AS FAR AS OUR CHILDREN ARE CONCERNED. I GUESS WHAT WE'RE REALLY DOING IS 'LETTING GO' AND S-T-R-E-T-C-H-I-N-G THE FAITH THAT WE HAVE IN JESUS TO PROTECT AND KEEP THEM... WHEREVER THEY ARE. THANKS FOR SHARING, DAVID. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
Chapter 1, Magnolias Forever (Short Story) - 8/6/2013 7:20:11 AM
such s nice recounting David and the best thing is the healing power of your talent to write on paper your memories of that lonely time. for that time of grief for a a parent(s) is a selfish lonely lonely time...known in a such a personalized way, by only you.
Grit, Cloverine Salve, and Muskrat Hides (Short Story) - 7/21/2013 11:14:36 PM
Great write. Very well told. I grew up in the hills of southern Indiana in the sixties. It was a whole nuther world back then. M.True
Grit, Cloverine Salve, and Muskrat Hides (Short Story) - 5/9/2013 8:58:53 AM
Brought back some memories of my own. I taught at Marshall University 1974-75. Have fond memories of my brief time there in Huntington.
Our friends in high school were avid hunters and two of them were taxidermists, both making a lifelong living in taxidermy. They trapped muskrats. I don't know if they made any money, but they probably did because they were avid about it.
One time, while hunting, there was heavy snow. We decided to try to hunt on the other side of a creek. My twin brother didn't have waders like a couple of the guys and got wet to his waist. I don't recall if I got wet or not. Two weeks later, Roger came down with pneumonia. Another two weeks later he was rushed to the hospital and nearly died. A month later, he had to have scar tissue removed from his lungs. Fortunately, he's still alive, playing golf in Elkhart Indiana and swapping car stories with me.
Ron
A Valentine For Mrs. T. (Short Story) - 1/30/2009 6:52:29 AM
Enchanting...Love has weathered the years. A Love that was meant to be...
Hugs, Diana
Time To Let Go Again (Short Story) - 2/24/2008 3:45:29 PM
...and in letting go...the beauty...they will hold always...is the love and memory...of when you did not...let go.
lifes moments well penned David...
John
In Search of a Christmas Tree - 1952 (Short Story) - 2/24/2008 3:38:33 PM
...enjoyed this memoir of a tree cutting...and a brother remembered at Christmas...and yes...my dad also bore holes in the tree to fill empty spaces...
John
The Lamb Cake (Short Story) - 2/23/2008 6:47:32 PM
...here is a story...of wonder...a child celebrates a gift before... never given...and in eyes of forever...sees the lamb of Easter in December...sacrificed...not eaten. Perhaps the hardness of a cake found in life...to become the innocence of a lamb sought...in later years.
well penned and wonderful memoir...thanks David...
John
The Breakfast Lady (Short Story) - 2/11/2007 9:24:04 AM
I wish I would have seen this lady although I doubt I would have been as circumspect as you........keep your eyes open, it certainly makes for good writing fodder!
shawn
Prince Albert (Poetry) - 7/29/2025 1:08:17 PM
I really loved the vernacular. Reminds me of those days n them thar hills.
You missed a couple of gems though: "Down the road a fur piece." and "Green Mountain? Yew cain't get thar from heah."
When we were kids, corn cob pipes were the big thing. But one of the favorite things to do was to either call the local corner store or we go in the store and ask the person who answers or who is at the counter…"Do you have Prince Albert in a can?"
Typically the store clerk or owner would answer, "We do sonny, but aren't you a bit young to be smokin'?"
"Well, let him out!" And then, hang up quick or run out of the store, never to come back in again.
Ron
It’s Like I Said (Poetry) - 7/24/2025 12:27:41 PM
It's good to see you posting this little bit of wisdom again. Like I wrote recently in an article, everyone has to give up childish, and even adult, things as we age. Never heard of throwing stones to attract bats. Learn something new all the time. Even from childish pranks.
This morning when I went out to get a little sun. I touched the water in our large pot turned fish pond. Immediately the five little goldfish came up to check my finger and to see if I had dropped any food for their hungry little mouths. I didn't, but they were excited anyway.
Like bats eat mosquitoes, I'm sure they sense and eat every little mosquito larvae they find wiggling on the surface.
Ron
Lockjaw (Poetry) - 3/26/2025 11:21:57 PM
I AM UTTERLY DELIGHTED THAT THE WORD OF GOD IS SO TRUE AND WE CAN ATTEST TO THAT BY SO MANY PERSONAL EXPERIENCES. IN THIS CASE(PARAPHRASING)...WHEN WE ARE CHILDREN...WE UNDERSTAND AND ACT LIKE CHILDREN. BUT WHEN WE 'GROW-UP'...WE PUT AWAY CHILDISH THINGS, THANK GOD! ENJOYED THIS, DAVID, THANKS FOR SHARING. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS
Days That Cause This Heart to Yearn (Poetry) - 11/24/2024 6:41:03 PM
David, my dear friend, I have been out of tGy computer! For right now, the computer is working, and I found my password.....I make many mistakes and have to retype, and you probably know the test 0f the aging problems, so I',, skip them. It is a joy to find one of your poems that I have not read before, and it is so warm and lovely! I hope you and your wife are doing well. God bless you always. Love, Connie
So Little Time (Poetry) - 5/31/2024 8:29:47 AM
Hello from a Mississippi native who has only crossed the mighty Mississippi by automobile.
May The Creator continue to gift you with seeing and seizing beauty and joy and capturing both with your words to last through time.
Purple Mist (Poetry) - 5/1/2024 6:13:39 PM
Love the clear snapshot of color discussion between writer and unknown speaker who seem to know each other well. Love the whimsical, unexpected and satisfactory ending which made me smile.
A Text Message To My Grandsons (Poetry) - 4/29/2024 1:41:17 PM
Thank you for being an excellent grandfather and human being. Thank you for writing words of love for your grandchildren. Maybe recent decades have freed manly men to express love for family more freely. I don’t know. My grandparents have been gone so long. I have no memory of their voices.
A Bumper Crop of Carrots (Poetry) - 4/27/2024 2:12:14 PM
I giggled, but knowing I am defined as elderly by my government, I got serious and reread your realistic narrative to make certain that the older lady did complain that she got carrots every day and then complained when she did not get any. Now I am concerned about reaching a certain age. Am I destined to be dissatisfied with whatever life or old age throws at me? Seems that I read decades ago that the purpose of writing is to inform, persuade or entertain, not sure I remember correctly. I take comfort in your Mother being entertained instead of demanding. It is good that a narrative can take this reader from giggling to thoughtful reflection on senility and ultimate demise. I hear and see both ladies in this short character sketch. I am pleased to meet both ladies.
No Longer Alone In This Empty Place (Poetry) - 4/26/2024 2:02:54 PM
Did not take me long to pickup the South Vietnam War vibe. On paper I am a WAC veteran of that war. My rank of being born female gave me the safety of noncombat duty. I saw the shattered men as they were med evac back to Womack Army Hospital, Ft. Bragg, NC. I was active duty X-ray tech. Your words of aloneness make me more appreciative of the relative ease of my life, so busy that I sought aloneness. Miracles don’t seem rational to me, but I am thankful for that divine breeze that cooled and brought you home. Amen.
Stream of Words (Poetry) - 4/26/2024 8:25:55 AM
Dear poet, you ask the human question to which the answer is elusive. Is this all there is? A song, I forget which, croons, “Then let’s keep dancing.” I have read that words we post in public never disappear, not necessarily a cheerful thought to this mostly sweet ole lady. I like the continued image of living words in a mountain stream which travel to larger streams until they reach the oceans to mingle with all of humanities words. As a poetic device, I find this image cheerful. The oceans are teeming with life and welcoming to more life words. Since you are a mountain man, I find it fitting to begin with a clean mountain stream vs some nasty creek draining sludge from a factory or mine. You have children, grandchildren, and friends. You are passing along your values, stories (words) even without publishing them. It is an honor to read your published words.
Silly Singin’ (Poetry) - 4/25/2024 7:00:56 PM
Ah poet, you break my heart to tears of joy at your love for the dying woman mingled with memories of your Sainted Mother. I think she knew it was her farewell time with you. Why are my eyes burning with tears when you two had such a joyous farewell party?
Sweet Potato Bridge (Poetry) - 4/25/2024 6:52:07 PM
I came here tonight lured by the impossibility of a sweet potato bridge. Dear poet, you did build that bridge in my mind. First, I am Intimately acquainted with sweet potatoes. I love the image of the old man and the child sharing the humble but sweet potatoes with extra sugar, (must be a mountain thing, Mississippi southerners would have used brown sugar), and sweet melted butter. Over years, the bridge of lasting friendship, love, and sharing spanned a dangerous ravine connecting hearts. This bridge remains strong. This I know; your words are true.
Lamb Cake (Poetry) - 4/25/2024 2:12:18 PM
Dear Poet,
Thank you for taking me back to the 1940’s and your birthday. You did indeed save your first birthday cake all these years with your vivid poetry. Forgive me, but I just took my best knife and sliced off a bit of the icing down low in back so as not to mar the lamb much. The sugar was hard, but it melted on my tongue, so sweet.
Sincerely,
Your fan,
Nancy
Silly Singin’ (Poetry) - 9/12/2023 10:19:05 AM
David this is so heartwarming…
You write these pieces so tenderly
and with such deep feeling…
The association with your dear Mother too adds
Lovingly to your story…
I remember the last time I saw
my step Grandma whom I had always been so close to…
She was very weak, but her smile so bright and warm
and full of love to see me…and like you,
we laughed also at times and experiences from the past
and shared a warm and emotional final hug…
These ‘last times’ as with Ava, are so
vitally important..for both parties…an acknowledgment shared
of life and good, happy times, but also for facing what lies ahead…
I’m sure your visit was welcomed so warmly by her…
and the humour you shared must have lifted her heart so much…
A fine piece of writing David…
Sending love and best wishes…
Diana
🌿
.
Silly Singin’ (Poetry) - 7/1/2023 1:22:47 PM
So lovely and heart touching, David.
Silly Singin’ (Poetry) - 6/24/2023 4:40:09 PM
INDEED, DAVID...THE SPECIAL GIFTS OF FRIENDSHIP THAT GOD GIVES US ALONG THE WAY, CANNOT BE BOUGHT AND, BY HIS WILL, ARE NOT MEANT TO STAY. A VERY FINE TRIBUTE TO A WOMAN WHO SEEMED TO BE EVERY BIT WORTH IT. GOOD MEMORIES ARE NOTHING LESS THAN... A BLESSING. THANKS FOR SHARING. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS
Silly Singin’ (Poetry) - 6/3/2023 12:18:14 PM
So tender and heartwarming! I check in often, like I did a couple days ago,and read your new work, and am gratified, admiring, and thankful for one more wonderful sharing from you. Aunt Ava was someone to cherish, or rather, your friendship was one to cherish, and I can imagine why thoughts of your own mother always tugged at your heart after spending time with her.
Sincerely,
Connie
Silly Singin’ (Poetry) - 6/2/2023 9:31:09 AM
Such a loving, sweet and kind memory.
Silly Singin’ (Poetry) - 6/1/2023 1:15:03 PM
Thanks for the words to Old Dan Tucker! Love those great old silly songs. I tried to look up, "Dang me, they oughta hang me" last night but failed. I should've looked for "Dang me, oughta take a rope and hang me." Will look up, "One eyed, one horned, flying purple people eater" (my purple 57 Dodge Firedome with a single bright daytime running light and a pointed horn like hood ornament).
Always remember Mom's rendition of Three Little Fishes and how she giggled when she called me on her TTY promptly at four on Mondays to giggle at everything we said, because it was so ordinary and extraordinary because she was talking to me a thousand miles away.
Ron
Lamb Cake (Poetry) - 5/22/2023 4:59:04 PM
WOW! WHAT A WONDERFUL, HAPPY DAY TO REMEMBER, DAVID. OF COURSE YOU NEVER FORGOT IT AND WHO WOULD FORGET SUCH A SPECIAL BIRTHDAY GIFT. I DID GIGGLE A LITTLE THOUGH WHEN YOU DESCRIBED HOW ABSOLUTELY POSSESSIVE YOU WERE WITH IT...NOBODY WAS GOING TO CUT YOUR CAKE! THANKS FOR SHARING...LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS
Footprints in the Snow (Poetry) - 5/22/2023 4:48:01 PM
WHAT AN EXCEPTIONAL WORK, DAVID...INDEED! HOPEFULLY, IN THE WARM PRESENCE OF GOD...ONE DAY WE WILL ALL FADE FROM THE EARTH FOREVER. THANKS FOR SHARING THIS KEEPER, MY FRIEND. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS
Lamb Cake (Poetry) - 4/17/2023 1:46:50 AM
I really enjoyed your story that cake looks amazing by the way/
WHAT A JOY, TOO SWEET FOR WORDS !
Lamb Cake (Poetry) - 4/4/2023 9:55:42 AM
Important and meaningful thoughts about life and birthdays, David.
Lamb Cake (Poetry) - 4/3/2023 12:47:07 PM
Enjoyed this narrative immensely and especially the local dialectical elements. I was the second youngest of five, so my younger sister got the lion's share and my two older brothers were the lions who took their own share.
Lockjaw (Poetry) - 3/23/2023 9:07:35 AM
Such a lovely and enchanting narrative poem on childhood. I was the second youngest of five with two older brothers and I was supposed to follow and emulate. Fortunately I didn't and found my own way, otherwise I never would have arrived at where I am now. A fine post indeed.
Lockjaw (Poetry) - 3/23/2023 8:05:13 AM
This is a treasure! A wonderful slice of life poem in a realistic dialogue. I understand the dynamic between older and younger brothers. My oldest son is six years older than the younger. One day we caught our youngest standing on our three story roof holding a bedsheet over his head, about to jump. We got him down and he told us his brother told him to jump and the sheet was really a parachute.
Stream of Words (Poetry) - 3/20/2023 2:18:05 PM
I have problems remembering words too. A thought provoking soul felt poem, David. What a gorgeous picture to enhance it.
A Text Message To My Grandsons (Poetry) - 3/6/2023 10:37:14 AM
WOW...THIS IS ABSOLUTELY MARVELOUS, MY FRIEND! I ENJOYED EVERY BIT OF IT AND I HAVE NO DOUBT AT ALL THAT YOUR GRANDSONS WILL TREASURE AND KEEP IT ALWAYS! THANKS SO MUCH FOR SHARING THIS KEEPER. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS
Stream of Words (Poetry) - 3/6/2023 10:31:54 AM
DAVID DON'T BE SO EAGER TO PUT ON GARMENTS THAT ARE NOT YOURS! THERE IS A BIG DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BEING A SENIOR AND JUST FORGETTING A WORD...AND HAVING STARTED DOWN THE ROAD OF DEMENTIA AND/OR ALZHEIMER. THOUGH I CAN UNDERSTAND WHY YOU WOULD HAVE THIS FEAR GIVEN YOUR FAMILY'S HISTORY, PLEASE REMEMBER WE ARE NOT YOUNG ANYMORE, WE HAVE AGED. WE HAVE CHANGED(I AM 78 AND I KNOW, SMILE) AND 'SENIOR CITIZENS' ARE FORGETFUL AT TIMES(SENIOR MOMENTS) BUT THIS DOESN'T MEAN THE WORSE CASE SCENARIO. HOWEVER, SINCE YOU SEEM VERY CONCERNED AND TO MAKE YOURSELF FEEL BETTER, I WOULD SUGGEST THAT YOU SEE YOUR DOCTOR. ALSO, DAVID... YOU ARE A PERSON OF GREAT FAITH AND GOD IS JUST A PRAYER AWAY. PLEASE SEE MY POEM ENTITLED; SCRIPTURES OF HEALING. AND, BY THE WAY...YOUR STREAM OF WORDS ABOVE? EXCELLENT, AS ALWAYS... AMEN! THANKS FOR SHARING. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS
In Summer Months Gone By (Poetry) - 2/17/2023 7:08:50 PM
Am I in another country? I can only read English, so I have no idea what you are saying in this poem.
Stream of Words (Poetry) - 2/10/2023 3:20:08 PM
David..I think alot of what you have written about comes from one single word…Fear…!
Tell me a person in their 70’s who doesn’t forget a word, or have similar experiences as you describe…generally referred to as ’senior moments’…
You then go on to predict what is going to happen…
You seem to have already made your mind up…?
“It is but a matter of time that all my words, thoughts and
past experiences empty into the deepest parts of the sea.”
Living with fear is so scary and unpleasant…
Having a check up may be useful, and reassure you …but writing insightful and deeply thoughtful poems as you do, I think your fears are unfounded and are merely based in fear itself…
My best wishes always…
Diana..🍃
Stream of Words (Poetry) - 2/8/2023 3:10:08 PM
You state that the words come from the Smithsonian. But they relate well to your own experience. Did you slip those lines in? It is a remarkable story poem.
More and more, I find that I'm stuck on names. And sometimes, words when speaking to people. While writing I don't generally hang up on words and that's a relief as a writer. My paternal grandmother showed symptoms of Alzheimer's shortly after her 85th birthday. She died at 90 not knowing anyone around her.
Like you, I'm finding out that most seniors in our 80s start to have problems with names and words. But only a few of them have Alzheimer's. I certainly hope it doesn't happen to me because I need my which about me to deal with my paralysis and aging.
Ron
Stream of Words (Poetry) - 2/5/2023 12:40:33 PM
Beautiful and not nonsense at all. See a doctor about your fears, so that they may be heard and examined. I hope that they will come to be unfounded.
Stream of Words (Poetry) - 2/5/2023 9:27:21 AM
For you to be able to write a poem like this with such depth and insight, I think you still very much have a way with words. Forgetting sometimes can be a natural process without falling into the depths of dementia.
A Text Message To My Grandsons (Poetry) - 1/15/2023 6:02:09 PM
David, I have to use the same word as Ron below to introduce my
comments…this was so heartwarming…!
I feel it is so good for our Grandchildren to know how
much we care for them, and how proud are proud we are of
who they are and of their achievements.
It is also useful to help them to understand
who we are, and how some of our past experiences
have shaped us..
Grandchildren today seem in general to have a much
more informal relationship with Grandparents,
and I think this in general is beneficial for all.
Your words I am sure will be
so appreciated, and truly treasured in memory…
You have given them the valuable and priceless
gift of your love and appreciation in words as well as deeds..
Lucky Grandsons to have such a loving and thoughtful
Grandfather…
Diana…🍃
A Text Message To My Grandsons (Poetry) - 1/15/2023 9:12:33 AM
So heartwarming. Few grandfathers take the time to let their grandchildren know how much they love them. But we are living longer than our grandfathers, and they had a much more stressful life than we have had.
One of my grandfathers died when I was a sophomore in high school. For some reason, although he lived less than 20 miles away on a farm, I have no recollection of his funeral. He was a stern man but very strong, raising seven children through a very bad depression. His death was sudden through cancer. My other grandfather lived until I was a freshman in college. He was also a farmer but worked many jobs after leaving the farm and had many ailments leading to his death. I remember vividly when we went fishing with him down behind his old farm one day when Roger and I were about 14. Grandpa told us he was just, "Waiting for the good Lord to take me away." But hoping for one more catfish on his chalk line.
Ron
Quiet Love (Poetry) - 1/10/2023 5:45:33 PM
I HAVE ALWAYS HAD AN HEAVENLY ENVY OF THIS KIND OF ENDURING, HUMAN LOVE. BUT THOUGH I'VE ALWAYS ADMIRED IT AND WANTED IT, IT WAS NOT MY DESTINY TO KNOW SUCH. I CAN ONLY THANK GOD THAT HE...KNOWING MY YEN FOR IT WOULD NOT BE ATTAINED, LED ME IN A PATH WHERE I MET HIM AND HE FILLED THE ACHE OF MY UNFULFILLED DESIRE ON THIS EARTH AND ETERNITY. THIS IS A KEEPER, DAVID. THANKS FOR SHARING. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS.
Purple Mist (Poetry) - 12/29/2022 5:52:39 PM
Dear David, Guess what? I'm back again. Maybe it's because I was a small town gal in a poor family that I feel kind of a connection with you. ANyway, about Redbud Trees-- We slowly have added to our yard, and now have three wonderful redbuds. We find that they are always late with getting their leaves, and then their gorgeous flowers. One of ours is weeping, although it was just labeled American Redbud. The other two reach for the sky. I've often gone behind the weeper, feeling hidden away from all my cares.
Speaking of cares, my Brother, I just turned 82 and am always searching for "the right word." It's not fun! After sending a lot of Christmas cards out, I try to remember if I really sent one to this friend or that friend. We have to accept old age. It comes in varying stages, colors, and hard times,but God knows all about it, and He is here to help us thhrough it all. Connie
Sweet Potato Bridge (Poetry) - 12/29/2022 5:36:11 PM
Well, David, here I am trying to catch up a little with reviews -- I don't think loving sweet potatoes is reserved for very old folks, or for very young folks. As ugly they look before they are cooked, I find them delicious with brown sugar. Cinnamon adds to the flavor, and melting butter adds such a great touch. Bill shakes on a mixture of cinnamon and sugar. Getting down to the nitty-gritty, even just baked to tenderness, sweet potatoes are still tasty.
I'll bet your participant in the sweet potato treat with the old man has found different ways to enjoy them by now. Sweet Potato Casserole is always requested for holidays at our house. Sweet and delicious!
I like that you encouraged a close friendship with your neighbor across the bridge. It is a blessing for young and old to mingle and learn to know and respect each other. Just a bit late with this review, Connie
A Bumper Crop of Carrots (Poetry) - 12/27/2022 8:21:13 AM
I can't believe I didn't review this the first time I read it, David. I absolutely love it! It reminds me of the time my Pop threw his spaghetti on the floor in his nursing home. He casually explained it to the aide when he pointed to an imaginary sign and said, "see that sign? It says "Today throw food on floor!" He believed in following rules!
Than
Also, I wanted to tell you, I followed your directions and finally wrote a Christmas poem (The Baby Who Loved Everybody") Not sure of what direction it was taking. When I got to the last verse, it was like the Lord just would not let me write a light ending to it. He wanted the Gospel for all to see! Happy Birthday, Jesus! May all the world see and believe that He came to save sinners! Thanks for giving me a push when I needed it!
A Bumper Crop of Carrots (Poetry) - 12/17/2022 5:25:22 PM
I ENJOYED THIS DAVID...IT REALLY MADE ME LAUGH HOW HUMAN NATURE IS SUCH A CONTRARY THING. WE ARE NEVER SATISFIED....COMPLAINING WHEN WE GET WHAT WE DON'T WANT, BUT THEN AGAIN COMPLAINING WHEN WE DON'T GET IT. I DON'T KNOW HOW MANY PEOPLE I'VE HEARD COMPLAIN ABOUT THE HEAT OF SUMMER, BUT THEN...IN THE MIDST OF WINTER COMPLAIN ABOUT THE COLD AND CAN'T WAIT FOR SUMMER TO COME. A BUMPER CROP, INDEED. THANKS FOR SHARING. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS
A Bumper Crop of Carrots (Poetry) - 12/13/2022 3:49:05 PM
This is priceless. Enjoyed it so much, David.
A Bumper Crop of Carrots (Poetry) - 12/11/2022 10:11:18 AM
Yes I've shared a two occupant room several times while recovering and find that my roommate is entertaining. In this old girl you're describing is really a character who knows what she wants and when she wants it. Must give your mother lots of chuckles.
When my grandmother was in a nursing hospital with Alzheimer's, her roommate was either 97 or 98. When she learned of her son or daughter's death, she put her clothes on, left the hospital in north central Wisconsin and took the bus to the funeral in Indiana, a trip of over 300 miles. When the funeral was over, she returned. That is gumption if I ever heard of it!
I have carrots every day, raw, at lunch. But I noticed when they are cooked that they seem to be all sugar like a sugar beet or sweet potato. And, as I chop away on them with my aging teeth, bits and pieces tend to get stuck. I'm beginning to wonder if I'm getting too much sugar by eating them raw? I also wonder if they contain beta-carotene. It's in the name. My eyes are still played good, too. Could it be carrots?
Ron
A Bumper Crop of Carrots (Poetry) - 12/11/2022 2:09:31 AM
This brought a big smile to my face David…the word ‘contrary’ comes to mind…!
I love the photo of those fresh carrots…straight from the ground…delicious…!
Diana…🍃
High Pockets (Poetry) - 11/20/2022 2:30:47 PM
WHAT A GREAT SHARING DAVID...YOUR IMAGERY IS EXCELLENT AND ENJOYED. A SWEET REMEMBRANCE OF A VISIT THAT NEVER LEFT YOUR MIND AND SHARED WITH THE ANTICIPATED PLEASURE OF PRODUCING A SMILE FROM THE READER. SUCCESS, INDEED! THANK YOU! LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS
And That’s The Way It WAS (Poetry) - 11/20/2022 1:57:09 PM
DAVID...HOW BEAUTIFULLY YOUR WORDS AND SUBSEQUENT IMAGES...KNOCKS AT THE DOOR OF LONG-AGO BELOVED, NOSTALGIA. THANK YOU! I'VE WAS BORN AND RAISED IN NEW YORK CITY AND MY ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS WERE ALWAYS IN WALKING DISTANCE. WHEN THAT CHANGED I TOOK A TRAIN TO HIGH SCHOOL, THUS I NEVER KNEW THE ROUTINE OF WALKING OVER A MILE TO AND FROM SCHOOL BUT,
CERTAINLY ONE MUST ADMIRE THE MANY INDIVIDUALS WHO HAD THE PERSEVERANCE AND DETERMINATION TO DO SO. ENJOYED, THANKS FOR SHARING. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS
And That’s The Way It WAS (Poetry) - 11/14/2022 6:54:26 PM
this reminded memof the stories mom used to tell me. they would walk here to there, doesn't matter how far the distance.
thank you for the lovely poetry. i have enjoyed reading it and going through some reminiscing.
And That’s The Way It WAS (Poetry) - 11/11/2022 9:32:12 AM
Indeed, that's the 4way it was and perhaps will never be again. I walked to my grammar school, at first with my siblings when I was still too young to walk alone. It was a 15 to 20 minute walk one way along a river and thru a wooded area, in a suburb outside of Boston.
And That’s The Way It WAS (Poetry) - 11/11/2022 12:20:51 AM
I remember as a small child walking to school for half an hour there, and half an hour back, four times daily..it was just accepted, and it kept us fit and healthy! …I’m not sure how long
it would have taken your sister in law to have walked 16 blocks daily, not being familiar with your ‘block’ system, …but I imagine it was a significant length if time! Here in the UK as kids, we walked to school and admired the beautifully kept Cottage gardens on the way to school, and played many games together to amuse us….
Hail, rain, blow or snow…nothing stopped us, and our schools were never closed due to the weather…I’m sure your sister in law David…It was a way of life that is sadly gone…The car reigns supreme!, and we now have major problems like
Obesity, and air and environmental pollution….perhaps it could change and we can take examples from the past…and save our kids and the planet!
Thanks for your timely words…Some of the problems of today could be so easily remedied!
Fresh air and fun…what is there to dislike?
Diana🍃
And That’s The Way It WAS (Poetry) - 11/10/2022 11:12:46 AM
I'm sure there are places where kids still walk to school. But your poem does bring back memories. When I was teaching at Marshall, my apartment was three blocks away on 3rd Avenue.
In grade school, my twin brother and I only had to walk a block across sixth to the unsupervised gravel playground where much of the play was running quickly to escape bullies that pulled at my shirts and popped buttons. Some of my shirts had patches so that mom could so another button on where a hole had been ripped, tearing out the last one. Thankfully, for both of us, the only thing that got injured was our shirts and lost buttons. However, Roger did get hit by a pickup truck on busy one way 6th St.
Junior high in another town was a mile away. So dad bought us new Schwins to ride to school. We parked them in the bike rack and they never were stolen. They were unique enough that anyone stealing them couldn't hide in that small town. But bikes were stolen.
In high school, when it wasn't cool. We sold our bikes, got a ride to school in the morning with a nearby neighbor in a convertible 1950 Studebaker--cool. And walked home the 2 miles along the railroad tracks behind all the houses.
Ron
High Pockets (Poetry) - 11/7/2022 4:28:08 AM
aw thank you for the laughter. that was a lovely story. and i won't say no to those sweet potatoes. i love them! it, also, reminded me of my grandfather's brother- high pockets.
High Pockets (Poetry) - 11/6/2022 11:43:22 AM
First off, I loved the word, "mess." Perfectly normal and not messy at all. And I gather, although you didn't write it, that you paid him because it was part of his livelihood.
Characters like him are always lovable and you painted a wonderful picture of him that not only matched him physically just the way the real picture does, but also matches personality by the way he tolerated your inexperience with digging up sweet potatoes.
A very enjoyable little story story poem.
Ron
High Pockets (Poetry) - 11/6/2022 8:09:26 AM
A fine home-spun tale, enjoyable read.
High Pockets (Poetry) - 11/6/2022 7:26:03 AM
That was such a good piece David…You described the old man with such accuracy, carefully detailing everything about his dress, stature and hair, which gave a good sketch of his
personality!
…this I found added warmth and spirit to the poem…
He seemed to be the type of man who wouldn’t necessarily communicate
hospitality in average ways, but who would do it via giving of what he had…
I found it strangely moving, and the end so humorous…
your embarrassment was obvious…
You are so good at these characterisations, and I love them!
Diana..🍃
Sweet Potato Bridge (Poetry) - 11/6/2022 4:47:33 AM
David you have captured the atmosphere you describe
in this poem with such skill…I can smell those buttery sweet potatoes, and see
your son and the old man enjoying these sacred moments…
So special and sacred, that they have embedded themselves within
your and your sons memories, to be savoured more than half a century later…
A unique and everlasting gift …and immortalised forever now in your words…
Diana..🍃
Sweet Potato Bridge (Poetry) - 11/2/2022 2:01:56 AM
The is one of the most beautiful tender poems I have ever read David, such endearing m3emories last a lifetime in a young boy's heart and a young father too
I Can’t Help But Wonder, What if . . . (Poetry) - 10/17/2022 5:41:16 PM
David, you know I don't often stop in at the Den, though it's a place I love to visit. Seems there are so many things to do, even though I'm even older than you! Your neighbor reminds me of my Mom. There were five of us kids, Mom and Pop, living in the little house on Water Street. Mom would make us line up --on our knees, mind you--and we would recite our prayers together. She led us, and there were always the same refrains.
We prayed for the poor and needy, the sick and afflicted, and usually prayed that Daddy would get work.
Years later, I taught my own five kids to pray, and as far as I know, they still look to God in times of need. And I do, too. I sure do!
Love you, Brother!
Connie
Footprints in the Snow (Poetry) - 10/10/2022 7:12:55 AM
David this is truly inspiriing and beautiful.
Sweet Potato Bridge (Poetry) - 9/26/2022 5:42:23 PM
MY GOODNESS...IT REALLY IS THE 'LITTLE THINGS' THAT REALLY MATTER, ISN'T IT DAVID? A LITTLE BOY AND OLD MAN'S LOVING ATTACHMENT TO HIM, LACED WITH THE SIMPLE BAKING OF SWEET POTATOES....MADE LASTING MEMORIES FOR A CHILD NOT SO LITTLE ANY MORE OF A KIND MAN PASSED ON BUT, REMEMBERED. I LOVE SWEET POTATOES...MADE MY MOUTH WATER(SMILE). WONDERFUL SHARING, MY FRIEND, THANK YOU FOR THIS KEEPER. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS
Sweet Potato Bridge (Poetry) - 9/25/2022 8:38:45 AM
What a sweet story poem! I recall always liking to talk to old men to hear what stories they had to tell me. Like our next-door neighbor who had worked in the cigar factory across the street until it closed and then became a janitor at the local YMCA. From the lost and found, he gave both Roger and me nice rings. Roger's was black onyx and mine was a silver saddle, southwestern style.
Your son had all the plastic toys that were available to kids in those days. At least they didn't rust when left outside in all kinds of weather. That was a neat bridge. And sweet potatoes are a very fine staple. My partner, while forced to live in the wilderness, grew fat on sweet potatoes they grew.
Ron
I Can’t Help But Wonder, What if . . . (Poetry) - 8/13/2022 11:32:18 AM
So many beautiful memories penned here , in the silence of those
amazing mountains, it was easy to talk to God, today we need to work
harder at it, nice that you remember the glory of those days, Thank you for sharing this wonderful poem dear poet. :)
I Can’t Help But Wonder, What if . . . (Poetry) - 8/10/2022 1:09:42 PM
INDEED, DAVID. 'IF' THE WHOLE WORLD DID THE SAME...THERE WOULD BE PEACE THROUGHOUT OUR PLANET. AMEN. FOR THAT'S ALL GOD DESIRES OF US...THAT EVERY KNEE SHOULD BOW AND EVERY TONGUE CONFESS THAT 'HE' IS LORD. WONDERFUL, AND SO ENJOYED. THANKS FOR SHARING THIS KEEPER. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS
I Can’t Help But Wonder, What if . . . (Poetry) - 8/7/2022 12:39:49 PM
Oh how I miss the quiet safe American way of life. I miss kind people too but thank God I live knowing God loves me beyond measure and that America belongs to Him and His covenant and He will not forsake us
I Can’t Help But Wonder, What if . . . (Poetry) - 8/7/2022 10:09:05 AM
A wonderful story poem reminiscing about the time in your childhood that you recall vividly because as a child memories like this go deep. But as we age we turn them into legends as innocent as we were back then.
You really left me hanging with, "what if…?"
Ron
PS. Will send you my experience with a 17 member family that lived down the rural, but paved county highway across the river and then, on a dirt road about a mile from my then, family country home.
I Can’t Help But Wonder, What if . . . (Poetry) - 8/5/2022 5:36:12 AM
what a wonderful read on this evening. thank you, thank you. actually inspired me to write a piece. also, made me wonder, how does one pronounce Appalachian correctly. i guess i'll ask google.
The Newness of Spring (Poetry) - 8/2/2022 4:25:10 PM
This is an absolute masterpiece David…!
I love the way you have described the Newness of Spring…
‘Tufts of emerald … springing to life’
and “Creeping Phlox is coming to life along the hillside”,
I love the reference to the ‘tender Peonies’ also…
It is just a delightful concoction of that most wonderful
time of year…
Diana…🍃
The Newness of Spring (Poetry) - 8/1/2022 12:14:58 PM
I know you and John were happy when Spring arrived. Lovely poem, David.
The Newness of Spring (Poetry) - 7/24/2022 8:59:19 AM
In this poetic narrative reflection, lovely and meaningful descriptions of everything from the "lonely winter workhorse" to yellow daffodils "in full bloom". Indeed, there is something heart-wrenching about daffodils that herald spring.
"Big tree branches and tiny bushes tremble in the hush." Indeed, they do, especially in this fine story poem depicting "the newness of spring".
Excellent work.
The Newness of Spring (Poetry) - 7/23/2022 9:44:21 AM
A little bit late while temperatures soar here in July, but a delightful ode to spring that you have written with such flourish and skill. Your photo of azalea reminds me of March during those seven years in wonderful West Virginia where azalea everywhere against the green would set my heart skipping to see around every bend in the winding mountain road.
What would we do if we didn't have John Deere? Would we still be using a hand scythe like my grandfather did to keep tall grass from encroaching on our houses? The appeal of riding mowers, especially to overweight or older men is that it is a way to get out in the sun with a straw hat or baseball cap and drive freely over an off-road landscape, making tall grass short and creating a large green lawn. Formerly was probably a wild place under trees where squirrels and chipmunks scampered or a feral field with spring flowers followed by tall seeding grasses where insects, butterflies and birds flourished, along with mice and rabbits. What a shame we have taken that away for a green monoscape devoid of life with pesticides, weed killers and fertilizer make sure that is dead, but green.
Ron
The Newness of Spring (Poetry) - 7/21/2022 11:58:25 PM
i saw a picture of peonies, and my heart skipped. we dont have spring here, but thank you for giving me that experience through this piece. i love how the trees wait for the newness of life, such beautiful words. thank you.
In Summer Months Gone By (Poetry) - 6/21/2022 4:10:57 AM
You’ve created a very atmospheric piece here David…
I could feel the hot dust on my feet, and felt how the
Orange Whistle slaked my thirst…
I was there!
Great piece!
Diana…🍃
In Summer Months Gone By (Poetry) - 6/18/2022 11:26:36 PM
i can imagine you going down the store and the image of you spitting at each step made me chuckle. reminded me of my childhood days walking barefoot on the sand. thank you.
In Summer Months Gone By (Poetry) - 6/18/2022 1:15:24 PM
A great nostalgia piece that some of us were able to engage in. But when I was a kid it was often cold, there were puddles in the road or the grass was wetter than wading in a pond. So we kept our JCPenney black high top tennies on as we walked to the corner delicatessen on concrete sidewalks that would burn bare feet, but not as bad as the blacktop streets.
But poor and country kids, who couldn't even afford shoes, did go barefoot. But as I got my own place with carpets and linoleum and things to keep clean, my shoes came off at the door. And I grew to like going barefoot better than ever wearing shoes!
Ron
Purple Mist (Poetry) - 4/19/2022 12:14:35 AM
A delightful and charming poem David,
Purple mist sounds so ethereal and enchanting…
It is amazing what we see when we really look
and take notice…
The symbol of Springtime in America…
Hope abounds…
Diana…🍃
Purple Mist (Poetry) - 4/18/2022 7:42:02 PM
It's all about POV. I'm seeing pink trees in the picture.
Sandie
Purple Mist (Poetry) - 4/18/2022 8:58:22 AM
A lovely poem with give-and-take about the first sign of spring.
I was surprised to find redbud trees here blooming before anything else in February in Houston. Just like the one by my garage at my cottage in West Virginia. We do have azalea but it has to be carefully cultivated because the soil here is alkaline. But they are not as brilliant. And dogwood, native to East Texas, but not usually see here the city.
That photo shows the beauty of redbud beautifully.
Ron
Tonsillectomy (Poetry) - 4/16/2022 11:39:01 AM
I love the illustration, keep drawing, Andrew. You brought the poem to life, David. Enjoyed.
Tonsillectomy (Poetry) - 4/13/2022 10:46:57 AM
Wow! Great artwork from your grandson! Very talented indeed! It fits the poem so well! Thank you for sharing!
Sandie
Tonsillectomy (Poetry) - 4/12/2022 10:50:07 AM
What a scary memory! Beautifully penned as a poem. And your nephew is an amazing artist with that painting covering the subject so well.
It was 1951 when my twin and I were nine, that my parents thought it was time to stop all of the colds and other diseases that we got so much of by having our tonsils and adenoids taken out. We weren't alone in the hospital. Our dad, 29, joined us. But he also had a hemorrhoidectomy because driving truck on those buckboard seats had become unbearable.
When mom came to see if he had his surgery yet, he lied and told her he hadn't. But then, she saw the blood on his lips and knew that he was joking again bravely. It had been done without anesthesia.
All that I remember was that Roger and I were looking forward to all that ice cream. We were put under, and came out with only sore throats. We got a lot of oatmeal, graveyard stew (milquetoast) and ice cream for a couple of days. We still got lots of diseases like measles three times one year and Roger caught a fourth that I escaped.
Ron
The Great Blue Heron (Poetry) - 3/18/2022 7:29:09 AM
How easily I missed this and the previous poem, just by spending time in other pursuits besides Authors Den! I'm glad I took some time today.
Thank you for including the picture of the beautiful heron! With that, and your description of its movements, it makes a wonderful poem!
We do see a heron around here occasionally--not enough!
I'm so glad you have eyes to see all that is there, not just a glimpse!
Your sister Connie
Doppelganger (Poetry) - 2/28/2022 5:37:19 AM
How heartwarming and uplifting for you both David…
Happy that ‘Andy’ was so kind and understanding…
Perhaps he was a ‘spiritual’ Messenger…
sent to cheer and lift your Hearts…
Stranger things have happened…
Best wishes…
Diana🍃
The Beauty of Rain (Poetry) - 2/21/2022 2:16:21 PM
No wonder the other Diana follows you* (Diana Wiles and I call each other the ‘other Diana). I enjoy how this piece starts out with a hundred needles and ends with soft petals. I like the two lines: “Causing the entire plant/To sparkle like fine diamonds—“. Had to look up ‘hoodoos’, thank you for that. And…let’s see…the way you wrote these two lines: “For there was no pause in his answer—/The colors are more vivid when wet.” let me envision a photographer in the ‘zone’ of focus, even in that quick and accurate reply. There is ample awareness and appreciation in this writing, and those two ingredients are surely magnificent writing tools. ~~ djl
An Unwelcome Visitor (Poetry) - 2/21/2022 2:06:14 PM
I have a different response than Ron’s about comparing yesteryear to this present time. Aging myself, I find reflection of past life comforting, bringing into mind places, people, and happenings that were so very positive, to overlay upon current incongruities. Along with your last four words: “And so, I wait…..”. — so do I, David. Meanwhile, remembering the good ol’ days feels pretty good — no wonder lots of elders do it. ~~ djl
A Father's Love (Poetry) - 2/21/2022 1:54:08 PM
Your ability to shape a vignette from beginning to end is remarkable here. But even more stunning is how deeply effective were those last two lines, which took all of the above and sent it straight into the soul. That is the kind of ‘gasp’ excellent writing delivers. I loved it. ~~ djl
A Change of Seasons (Poetry) - 2/21/2022 1:44:59 PM
A spry frolic of descriptive imagination: “..unclothed spots,” “..carpet of green” and I very much agree with the other Diana, that last line is a beautiful closing. ~~ Diana Legun
Too Hard To Say Goodbye (Poetry) - 2/21/2022 1:40:57 PM
I appreciate this piece of writing, David Lee. This language radiates sensitivity and awareness. That image of shoes mailed from boot camp being held close and dearly is embedded in your writing, along with “Sometimes love for family cuts to the bone”. . . and reveals much about who you are. With such sensitivity, that kind of separation would have two people in that kind of mother-son pain. Good for you* ~~ the other Diana
Doppelganger (Poetry) - 2/20/2022 11:31:18 AM
He faked his death? No, your story poem shows us that we truly do have others that look, and even act, like us. I was told quite often that a professor at my university looked like me. But that all white people on our predominantly black campus all looked alike. ;-)
Since I am an identical twin that throughout life people who didn't know us very well had a hard time distinguishing us, it was common for them to hesitate about calling us by name. But when I returned to our campus after only nine months' absence. I found myself being addressed by, "Hi Roger," all the time as I walked to and from classes.
Ron
Doppelganger (Poetry) - 2/20/2022 7:23:21 AM
Surely anyone who has suffered the loss of someone dear has had the experience of "thinking" they saw the departed loved one nearby. I know I've seen both my mother and my dad, he in his crinkly nylon coat. So real I could almost swear it was her--or him--
Like the occasional dreams of one who's gone, the impression is recalled with thankfulness, for it is cherished as a real visit would be.
Your encounter was even more personal, and the man you met so special to greet you and your wife in a loving way.
As always, I love the way you have presented your memories.
Connie
Hog-Killing Day (Poetry) - 2/11/2022 7:17:39 PM
ENJOYED THIS LOOK BACK INTO YOUR CHILDHOOD...TWANG AND ALL! THANKS FOR SHARING, DAVID. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS
When Women Chewed (Poetry) - 2/11/2022 7:10:18 PM
I SAW THE SCENE CLEAR DAVID. GREAT SHARE FROM START TO FINISH, THANKS. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS
When Women Chewed (Poetry) - 2/10/2022 9:03:30 AM
Such a good story teller. Echoes of a rich life and a good ear. Nice Rhythm.
Hog-Killing Day (Poetry) - 2/2/2022 8:12:18 AM
A slice of life poem, well penned, David.
Hog-Killing Day (Poetry) - 1/29/2022 9:05:14 AM
What a day that was! Filled with sibling rivalry and coming of age experience. I think you nailed the way you talked at that time very well.
Those that go to grocery stores to pick out their favorite cut of pork from factory produced pigs have no idea what it was like to grow your own meat, kill it, cut it up, preserve it, and make it last for as long as possible until you have to kill the next one.
Leaving a free line between every once in a while would make it a bit easier to read with my wandering attention and slow reading style.
Ron
Hog-Killing Day (Poetry) - 1/27/2022 11:44:30 PM
Bonjour David Lee Thompson ! A nice enough skit on gun-craziness. It's also clear why after your Vietnam experience (and the loss of your brother there) you would want to downplay the efforts of the NRA lobby. Likewise the pig is the symbol of War and its spoils, I take it. If I might be so bold as to ask: "Does your father then stand for the War-monger as a prototype? Or are you merely stating the case as a matter of a people who historically usurped a continent by decimating the original settlers by the gun?
I should think the second possibility. Bravo !!!
When Women Chewed (Poetry) - 1/24/2022 9:37:05 AM
And smoked cigars. I really enjoyed the vernacular. But was a bit surprised that the lady did not spit out the window while they were traveling on. And I miss Hank Williams even now, trying to sing his songs without ever getting close to his twang in the deep country way.
Keep trying to imitate the way he sang, "Cool, clear waatteerrr…"
Gone are the spittoons by the house entry and in all establishments like saloons. Baseball players and people trying to quit smoking are the last holdouts. Don't think I could love and kiss a woman who chewed.
Ron
When Women Chewed (Poetry) - 1/23/2022 5:35:06 PM
There's just something so special about the things you write! I do love the thangs you writ here! Jest 'minds me-a Ol' Mammy Yocum, when she useter be in the ol' newspapers. This was a delightful ride with your chewing lady friend, way back when.
The way you express everything seems so realistic for that time! Love the way your brother puts his two cents in, too!
p.s. Did you ever hear the Chew Tobacco Rag?
We used to have it on a 78 record! Pting, ptu!
Friend Connie
Too Hard To Say Goodbye (Poetry) - 1/20/2022 4:05:27 PM
My husband was special forces Calvary Scout Recon Army during Vietnam era and was seriously hurt in training in a 577 tank however.Thank you David for this beautiful, heartfelt poem and thank you so much for your service. I salute you
Too Hard To Say Goodbye (Poetry) - 1/18/2022 2:35:46 AM
I was immensely moved by your words David…
and your decision to spare your Mother the
trauma of saying Goodbye to her beloved son.
It was the action of a truly loving and caring son
who knew his Mom so well..
How utterly heart breaking that decision must have been for
you..but a reflection also of what a wonderful Mother
she was, to have raised a son as selfless as you…
Your bond is eternal…
Your eyes on your photo are so very revealing…I wonder what
you were thinking when it was taken…
A poem that needs to be heard…War is about so much more
than most of us, who have never been in your position imagine…
Your carefully selected words say it all, and what isn’t said is deeply felt…
Diana…🍃
Too Hard To Say Goodbye (Poetry) - 1/16/2022 1:04:04 PM
You're right about the bond between mother and son. While I didn't go off to war, and she complained when I left California because she wanted to "visit you there," she welcomed my leaving for long periods of time in faraway places. Mom knew that I would always return. But in 2011 when I came to see her briefly for a couple of days, she cried and said, "I'll never see you again." She was right. I tried and failed a few times. Couldn't even get the family to set up a video connection for her on FaceTime or Skype. But she called me on her TTY phone weekly for a while until about 2018, giggling as we talked like a schoolgirl.
You have clearly pointed out the fear that a mother has of losing her son to war.
Ron
Too Hard To Say Goodbye (Poetry) - 1/14/2022 8:14:27 AM
Great poem, David. You have summarized the pain that falls on families so honestly. Glad you survived. Class of 1965.
Too Hard To Say Goodbye (Poetry) - 1/11/2022 7:13:56 PM
Heartbreaking, poignant and powerful. You're the kind of son that many moms wish they had. A loving servant, a child who puts the needs of others before your own.
Too Hard To Say Goodbye (Poetry) - 1/11/2022 2:29:24 PM
David, you are a good son. Your poem brought back memories to me of standing in icy rain, watching my husband leave on a bus to catch his flight to Vietnam. A historic poem of power.
Too Hard To Say Goodbye (Poetry) - 1/10/2022 1:30:29 AM
Hullo David Lee Thompson! I commiserate totally having known a few in your situation. To be put in a situation to placate other people's folly is a predicament that no one can justify. The guys I know who made it back lead completely broken lives, each in his own way trying haplessly to patch up the splintered parts.
Do, please, see two excerpts from my "...the smell of piss and shit in his pants", if you can bear to be reminded of Hell...
Every good wish for 2022. Wignesan
The Beauty of Rain (Poetry) - 8/15/2021 8:03:45 AM
A fine piece of writing David…and the photograph is stunning!
Nature’s perfect display of art for our enjoyment and appreciation…
I love to bring home special pebbles from the beach, and when
they are placed in water their colours are so bright, vivid and alive…
Similarly I love crystals and gemstones, and they are also breathtakingly
beautiful when placed in the base of a small fountain…
So much natural beauty all around us…and all for free…
Diana…🌿
The Beauty of Rain (Poetry) - 8/14/2021 10:58:46 AM
Why sometimes, a dreary, rainy day in autumn brings out the colors of the leaves in an entirely different way than the bright sunlight. Always enjoyed that. And I planted purple sage. I watered them often, but they didn't bloom. And then, it rained, and beautiful complementary purple flowers appeared on all branches as if by magic.
Also why I loved morning dew. even though it soaked my canvas JCPenney basketball shoes and my jeans halfway to my knees, the little droplets made everything sparkle in the sunlight.
Ron
The Beauty of Rain (Poetry) - 8/14/2021 9:08:01 AM
DAVID...WHAT A FINE LESSON ABOUT LIFE! IF WE ARE ATUNE, THAT IS, AWARE...IT IS AFTER THE 'RAINS' IN LIFE THAT WE APPRECIATE THE BEAUTY OF WHAT WAS THERE ALL THE TIME! THIS SHARING REMINDS ME OF THE PASSAGE OF SCRIPTURE FROM PSALMS THAT SAYS, '...WEEPING MAY ENDURE FOR A NIGHT, BUT JOY COMES IN THE MORNING...'. A GREAT KEEPER, MY FRIEND, THANK YOU. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS
A Change of Seasons (Poetry) - 7/3/2021 3:31:55 AM
You have a very poetic way about you, and I really enjoyed the verse
you created from your heart. Have a fantastical day dear poet .
An Unwelcome Visitor (Poetry) - 4/29/2021 10:54:21 AM
And we are still waiting David...
I agree with you wholeheartedly
that things are different, things
are changing in many ways along
with this Unwelcome visitor...but it’s
difficult, especially as we get
older, change always is...and it effects
our psyche’s...
However at this point in 2021 things
are improving, and there is light at
the end of the tunnel...let’s hope
for better days ahead...
Best wishes always
Diana...
Baby Tiernan (Poetry) - 4/26/2021 7:26:58 AM
So beautifully expressed....
I wish baby Tiernan a bountiful and immensely happy life...
My belief is that we arrive here when we are meant to be here...
She will bring so much happiness to all...these are the things
that really matter...Everything else will fall into place...
JOY....
And a joy to read David...!
Footprints in the Snow (Poetry) - 4/21/2021 12:57:35 AM
But the footprints you leave on a loved ones heart is everything and can never be erased
Footprints in the Snow (Poetry) - 1/24/2021 9:24:35 AM
I saw this poem in the list of Popular Poetry and thought I would check it out. Low and behold, it is from my old friend David Lee and reminds me so much of how in my youth I would see footprints in the snow that faded in time, often wondering who had made those footprints.
I hope you are fine. I haven't heard from you for a very long time.
Ron
Baby Tiernan (Poetry) - 10/25/2020 7:24:52 PM
A sweet gift can be accepted at any age.
An Unwelcome Visitor (Poetry) - 8/1/2020 11:01:37 AM
Your poem is a clear indication of aging. It won't get any better, unless you release all of those old thoughts and think ahead for a change. All indications are that the world is much better than it was in 1943 in the midst of a murderous world war with millions dead.
We are actually handling the virus plaguing us far better than we did in 1919, 100 years ago. Treatments and vaccinations are being created in record time all around the world. There is worldwide cooperation among medical professionals. And people of color have taken advantage of new technology clearly pointing out their plight to the rest of us once again to have it obliterated once and for all from the thoughts of the ignorant.
Language is richer for the new words. As a poet you should be using them to create new, unique poetry rather than just complaining that things aren’t like they used to be. They're better.
Ron
An Unwelcome Visitor (Poetry) - 7/30/2020 12:49:08 PM
I'm not sure if we'll ever know normal again. We are living in a world (at least here in the states) that is full of doom and gloom and despair. And like you, I wait.
An Unwelcome Visitor (Poetry) - 7/27/2020 4:03:23 PM
Sometimes I wonder what the young ones are thinking inside their heads, or do they think at all.
So sad to see the young ones in Hong Kong who fought for their freedom but only to lose their battles to Beijing's communism.
Yet, the young ones in America are fighting to lose their freedom. Something that I hardly can understand. May God help the little ones to have better vision of their future.
Sandie
An Unwelcome Visitor (Poetry) - 7/27/2020 10:45:13 AM
WHAT A BIBLICAL REVELATORY TIME WE ARE LIVING IN!!! I MEAN...EVERYTHING THAT IS HAPPENING GOD, IN HIS WORD, HAS PREPARED US FOR; HE SAID THERE WOULD BE TRIBULATIONS, BUT NOT TO WORRY BECAUSE HE HAS ALREADY OVERCOME THEM(JN 16:33). HE TOLD US THAT ABSOLUTELY NOTHING COULD SEPARATE US FROM HIS LOVE(THAT IS, HIS COVERING & HIS PROTECTIVE CARE)NOT EVEN DISTRESS...PERIL...OR OTHERWISE(ROM 8:35-39). AND WE CERTAINLY ARE EXPERIENCING THE TRUTHFULNESS OF HIS WORD. HE ALSO TOLD US THAT THE JUST SHALL LIVE BY FAITH(HABAK 2:4 & 3:17-19). CERTAINLY ALL BELIEVERS ARE PILGRIMS ON OUR WAY TO OUR ETERNAL HOME BUT, DAVID, YOU ARE NOT A VISITOR! THIS IS YOUR EARTHLY HOME, YOU ARE WHERE GOD WANTS YOU TO BE...WHERE HE PLACED YOU AND WATCHES OVER YOU, UNTIL HE REMOVES YOU. WE ARE IN THE MIDST OF A PANDEMIC BUT GOD IS GOING TO TAKE US THROUGH THIS. SO, WHAT DO WE DO? STAY PRAYERFUL, FOLLOW PROTOCOL AND PRESS-ON IN JESUS NAME! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR SHARING, MY FRIEND. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS
Twelve Hours in a Foxhole (Poetry) - 7/27/2020 10:19:15 AM
JUST THINK...YOU WERE ALL THE WAY ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE WORLD...BUT GOD WAS WITH YOU! HE DEFINITELY INTENDED FOR YOU TO REMAIN HERE, DAVID. AND HE HAS NOT CHANGED...IT DOESN'T MATTER WHERE YOU ARE OR WHAT THE CONDITIONS ARE, OUR GOD STILL HAS HIS HANDS ON YOU! HE'S LOVES YOU AND HE'S KEEPING YOU. BE IT BACK IN NAM OR HERE IN 2020, GOD HAS NOT CHANGED! THANKS FOR THE SHARE, SO ENJOYED. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS
You're Mine Valentine (Poetry) - 2/17/2020 10:42:39 AM
I love the way the poem celebrates and even, berates the celebrated figure that is the masthead for our beloved St. Valentine's Day. It is strange how our culture and commercialism changes some original tradition into what it is today. Unfortunately, cheap poems, purchased at stores by big companies, selling love and friendship to the masses. A poem written to a Valentine is far more cherished, don't you think?
Great rhyming and cadence as well. Lovely.
Ron
Until Death Do We Part (Poetry) - 2/17/2020 8:53:59 AM
David,
This is so beautiful, I cried. You are so fortunate to have found one another. May you and your bride have another 50 years!
You're Mine Valentine (Poetry) - 2/15/2020 7:33:41 AM
And that's the way true love is meant to be.
Baby Tiernan (Poetry) - 2/11/2020 9:27:58 AM
Forty-nine is rather late for a woman be having her first baby. High risk of birth defects. Hopefully, your second cousin and former student has a good pregnancy and healthy child. She will be past retirement age when the huge cost of college for the child is faced.
Let us replenish the earth lightly like this couple. We have conquered it already and have dominion over all other creatures that are disappearing rapidly both seen and unseen.
Ron
Baby Tiernan (Poetry) - 2/8/2020 9:29:54 AM
Best of luck to Michelle and her husband, and Baby Tiernan.. I think it's cool that you've been able keep in touch with your students.
Twelve Hours in a Foxhole (Poetry) - 1/28/2020 3:53:45 AM
My first night in Vietnam, also 1965, and I was on the outer perimeter in a tent, with nothing between me and that mountain about 2 miles away that was being bombarded the whole night long. I did not sleep a wink for at least 3 days.
Twelve Hours in a Foxhole (Poetry) - 1/26/2020 3:15:54 PM
Never near a foxhole in the Navy & intelligence but I can identify with you from grunts I talked too after they were sent back for medical...lousy memories I get, don't even write about it anymore...-e-
Twelve Hours in a Foxhole (Poetry) - 1/26/2020 10:07:06 AM
So good to see you posting again. I can only imagine the horror of being in a foxhole and not knowing whether Charlie with a bayonet might sneak up and literally poke you in that hole before you heard him. And the constant having to sleep two hours and then stay awake two hours certainly would take its toll when done day after day to sleep deprivation.
As you pointed out so well at the end, feeling glad to be alive at the end of each of those nights.
Ron
Twelve Hours in a Foxhole (Poetry) - 1/25/2020 8:26:26 AM
Gripping account of those 12 hours in a foxhole. Glad you made it home, to many didn't. And thank you for your service.
Scorned (Poetry) - 1/18/2020 5:45:17 PM
Dear David, this poem makes me feel so sad. It made me think of a similar, straggly-haired girl with an odor from my class. I did count her as a friend, but she was ostracized by many throughout her school days. I treasure a small valentine she gave me one Valentine's Day. To me, it symbolized her struggles among her classmates. You can see it with my poem "The Valentine Box"
Your poem, "Scorned" is so beautiful and heart-rending. I think probably most of us have known a child like this. With Diana, I agree that your young friend knew and was comforted by your compassion that kept you from joining in treating her badly.
Sincerely,
Connie
Lake Placid (Poetry) - 12/31/2019 4:21:32 PM
THIS IS LOVELY DAVID. OVER TIME, GOD TRIMS AND MOLDS US INTO WHO HE WANTS US TO BE. THUS, ESPECIALLY IN A PLACE LIKE LAKE PLACID, YOU WERE GIVEN TO ACCEPT THE PASSING OF A DEAR FRIEND CALMLY, KNOWING THEY HAVE REACHED THAT SO BEAUTIFUL PLACE OF PERFECT PEACE...WHERE ALL THE SAVED ARE ALSO ONE DAY GOING. THANKS FOR THE SHARE AND THE PICTURE IS AWESOME. HAPPY NEW YEARS TO YOU AND YOURS! LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS
Lake Placid (Poetry) - 11/30/2019 9:30:41 AM
When you are there again--even when you think of Lake Placid--you will feel the loss of your friend, but thank God for the memories of times spent with him.
God bless you always, my friend.
Connie
Lake Placid (Poetry) - 10/16/2019 10:45:57 AM
I will settle for nothingness with all pain and suffering gone.
Lake Placid in New York State brings up thoughts of several horror movies using that place as a backdrop. I'm glad that you took the other view, the one peaceful and tranquil with only the danger of icy winter to come.
Ron
Lake Placid (Poetry) - 10/16/2019 8:10:39 AM
\Very touching.
Lake Placid (Poetry) - 10/16/2019 4:43:21 AM
Excellent!
It was fitting that you placed your thoughts on paper at this moment in time. I recall a favorite song that was playing on the plane the time my grandmother died. Every time I hear that song, I think of her. It's a comforting fond memory with vision of that plane ride.
You will probably never forget where you were on the lake or the poem that you wrote. It's a fine tribute to your friend. Amen
Lake Placid (Poetry) - 10/15/2019 9:49:04 PM
Very touching, very insightful, and commemorative of your friend.
Lake Placid (Poetry) - 10/15/2019 10:20:00 AM
Perfect in every conceivable way, my friend . . . He is smiling.
Sunshine Personified (Poetry) - 7/23/2019 7:19:58 AM
FROM A SOMEWHAT DEEPER PERSPECTIVE, I AGREE WITH THE POETESS, YES...'HE' IS JUST THAT WAY! MUCH ENJOYED. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS.
The Tire Swing (Poetry) - 7/23/2019 7:15:36 AM
AN ODE TO DAD, THE OLD TREE, THE SWING AND THE MANY CHILDREN THAT SWUNG AND SANG. WHAT MARVELOUS NOSTALGIC IMAGERY HERE...JUST WONDERFUL. THANK YOU FOR SHARING, MY FRIEND...LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS
The Tree's Last Stand (Poetry) - 7/23/2019 7:11:01 AM
SO YOU HAD TO TOSS THAT OLD TREE OUT, BUT YOU'RE GOD'S 'TREE' DAVID, AND STILL STANDING AND WILL ALWAYS BE...ON THIS SIDE AND THE NEXT. THANKS FOR THE SHARE, MY FRIEND. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS
Scorned (Poetry) - 3/25/2018 1:41:31 PM
I DON'T KNOW WHAT GRADE YOU WERE IN BUT I DO KNOW THAT MOST YOUNGSTERS, OR FOR THAT MATTER ADULTS, HARDLY HAVE THE STRENGTH TO 'GO AGAINST THE PLOUGH' AND STAND UP FOR ANY GIVEN REASON KNOWING THAT TO DO SO WOULD INITIATE THE WRATH OF THE PERPETRATORS UPON THEIR OWN HEADS. I THINK THAT THE FACT THAT YOU DIDN'T 'JOIN IN' WAS A GOOD STEP AND WE CAN ONLY HOPE AND PRAY THAT GOD, WHO LOVES US ALL EQUALLY, EVENTUALLY BROUGHT THAT OPPRESSED YOUNGSTER INTO A BETTER PLACE IN HER LIFE. SAD STORY BUT GOD HAS A WAY OF USING ALL THE BAD THAT HAS HAPPENED IN OUR PAST FOR THE PRESENT GOOD AS HE USES US TO ENCOURAGE OTHERS. THANKS FOR SHARING, DAVID, LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
Scorned (Poetry) - 3/13/2018 9:22:52 AM
I sense a bit of guilt in your poem. I think you could have befriended her and helped her get past some of the criticism she was subject to. Back in the 1950s, there always seemed to be kids who were ostracized. They were usually poor and from "bad" families. I remember my friend three houses down, Kenny Johnson. He wet the bed, had green teeth, and sang like an angel.
I recall at my 20th reunion, an attractive woman, a secretary now in Milwaukee, was the life of the party even though no one remembered her in our class. And then, after my 50th, Judy, a woman who nursed her husband's illness until he died and raised her two daughters to be successful, now with a rental business contacted me by email out of the blue. She said she was in our class and didn't come to the 50th because she only attended half of our senior year and only had one friend, who was at the reunion and told her about me. We have since exchanged many emails.
Ron
Scorned (Poetry) - 3/13/2018 5:37:15 AM
As Diana said, this is full of compassion,and that's something sorely lacking in this world today more than ever. I was bullied in school, and was not much more than a Kewpie doll. That's why I took up boxing, and probably why I developed my sense of humor. My own kids got bullied, and Today I see my G-kids being bullied, only now it's done more through social media, which makes it worse than ever. Yes, we need compassion more than ever.
Scorned (Poetry) - 3/12/2018 3:11:34 PM
I hope this girl found happiness later in life. School children can be cruel to ones who are different. I never approved of their behavior, but did I ever stand up for such a person? I did only once. Countless other times I didn't. I should have. We all should have.
Scorned (Poetry) - 3/12/2018 2:59:38 PM
This poem overflows with compassion for that poor young girl...children can be so cruel..Her experiences perhaps made her a wiser and more compassionate person to others because of what she endured...and in time perhaps a wonderful, caring Mother...with wisdom to guide her own children..
I have a similar memory of a young eleven year old girl who was cruelly scorned by our teacher one day..., a man of religion who should have known better...she was innocent, and he reduced her to a quivering, sobbing wreck...a small, plain, poorly dressed little girl with National Health glasses, who came from a large family. The memory still pains me...a week after this incident, her mother committed suicide...
As for did she know you disapproved of the way Others treated her...I am sure she did
David...Your kind personality will have shone through...rest assured...She will have known....
No Longer Alone In This Empty Place (Poetry) - 3/7/2018 1:59:56 PM
A deep riveting poem that bleeds the heart, Well written and touching David, thank you for sharing
No Longer Alone In This Empty Place (Poetry) - 2/21/2018 9:00:34 PM
SPLENDID, DAVID! AND SUCH AN 'EMPTY PLACE' CAN BE ON ANY 'BATTLEFIELD' OF LIFE, FOR OUR GOD IS ALWAYS THERE, JUST WHEN WE NEED HIM MOST...EVERY WHERE! THANKS SO MUCH FOR SHARING. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
Until Death Do We Part (Poetry) - 2/12/2018 1:48:20 PM
I'm almost lost for words David...such a beautiful and emotional declaration of your love for the Love of Your Life Janet...
It warms my Heart to read your heartfelt words,
And of all you have enjoyed and endured together....
What a beautiful Bride she was too...
And I remember you also as a handsome young man from
the photo you posted on one of your poems...
You must have made a striking couple...
I wish you both many more truly happy years together...
May God Bless you always...
With love to you both...
Diana....
No Longer Alone In This Empty Place (Poetry) - 2/9/2018 5:45:48 PM
Wow, David, this is such a horrible/wonderful poem. I cannot pretend to know anything of how it felt for you to be there. Thank you for writing it out so vividly. As much as is possible, I enter into what someone else writes. When I'm writing, I ask God to help me to understand the feelings He is trying to express to me.
This is an outstanding poem. I hope you will let me print it for my Poetry Corner ministry sometime soon.
As much as I have not experienced this horror, I have to say Yes, I have been at the bottom of the pit in other experiences--one especially. Then I too have known the touch of God as he lifted me a breath at a time till I could face life again.
As another dear author often said--God bless you every day of your life!
Sincerely,
Connie
No Longer Alone In This Empty Place (Poetry) - 2/7/2018 7:09:56 AM
While I'm not a believer, your message here is that in a time of great despair and discomfort, a single breath of a breeze made all the difference and changed your attitude greatly.
A highly emotional and charged poem about what it's like facing death in horrendous circumstances like that and still come out years later and write so eloquently about it.
Ron
No Longer Alone In This Empty Place (Poetry) - 2/6/2018 4:35:38 PM
This poem cut straight to the heart. I missed Vietnam by about a year. I had my draft card, but never had to serve. I can only imagine what you and others went through. It was a war that should never have been, and I thank you for your service. You are never alone.
No Longer Alone In This Empty Place (Poetry) - 2/6/2018 4:19:51 PM
I praise you for your courage to write this poem. Life is not always easy and God does pull ous through the toughest times. I served over 24 years in the military and I would do it again in a heartbeat. I was stationed in Colorado and yes, I enjoyed those rocky mountains. Hope to see more of them when my wife and I really retire. Yes, I am an educator as well for a university and I do love my job. I feel as if I know you David so I just became a fan of yours. I also bought your book. I am a History buff and curious about how life was growing up in the Appalachian Mountains. Looking forward to reading more of your poems. Peace be with you, John Michael
No Longer Alone In This Empty Place (Poetry) - 2/6/2018 3:44:28 PM
This really is a masterpiece David....
You capture the atmosphere and the emotion experienced
on that horrendous afternoon fifty three years ago so evocatively...The hell surrounding you and the utter desolation of feeling is extremely moving...
The last verse with its physical and spiritual awareness brings such upliftment and
relief for the reader of the strength and resilience of the human spirit...
...Your spirit...
This is exceptional writing...
Diana....
August Misery (Poetry) - 1/15/2018 8:44:30 PM
WONDERFUL WORK FILLED WITH FINE IMAGERY, PHRASES AND STYLE. THANKS FOR SHARING, DAVID. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
Until Death Do We Part (Poetry) - 10/8/2017 2:06:59 PM
Hi Dave
\ Bless you for the 50 years, I married the same woman three times.
You have one over me, I have had speed bumps in life as a farmer
I love the song you picked a fine time to leave me loucial
Darryl Ehlers
Bryce (Poetry) - 9/18/2017 8:20:45 AM
SO DESCRIPTIVE AND SO ENJOYED. I CAN ONLY IMAGINE WHAT A THRILL IT WOULD BE TO ACTUALLY SEE IT WITH ONE'S OWN EYES! I SAY THIS BECAUSE THE PICTURE LOOKS ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS...ALMOST UNREAL! GOD'S 'NATURAL GIFTS' TO US CAN ALMOST MAKE US 'PANT' TO SEE THE NEW HEAVEN AND EARTH WHERE EVERYTHING WE NOW SEE...WILL BE ENHANCED! THANKS FOR SHARING, DAVID. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH..JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
Until Death Do We Part (Poetry) - 9/18/2017 8:09:42 AM
MY, MY...THE MARVELOUS WONDER OF GOD'S 'PERFECT' LOVE-MATCHES NEVER CEASES TO AMAZE ME. THIS WORK IS SUCH A HUGE BLESSING FOR 'ALL' BECAUSE IT ENCOURAGES THOSE NOT YET MARRIED TO WAIT AND TRUST IN GOD FOR THE ONE HE HAS PICKED OUT FOR THEM. BUT IT ALSO BOLSTERS THE FAITH OF YOUNG COUPLES WHO MAY BE GOING THROUGH PROBLEMS BY LETTING THEM KNOW IF THEY 'HANG IN THERE' GOD WILL KEEP THEIR MARRIAGE AS HE TAKES THEM THROUGH...TOGETHER. AND TO THOSE WHO HAVE STAYED TOGETHER MANY, MANY YEARS THROUGH THICK AND THIN LIKE YOU AND LOUISE... I HAVE TO GIVE A NOTABLE 'SALUTE' FOR HONORING AND CHERISHING THE GOD CREATED INSTITUTION OF MARRIAGE SO BEAUTIFULLY! CONGRATULATIONS!!! TO YOU AND LOUISE AND I PRAY THAT YOU MAY BE BLESSED TO SEE AND ENJOY MANY MORE YEARS TOGETHER. THANKS FOR SHARING, DAVID. MUCH LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH TO YOU AND LOUSE...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
Until Death Do We Part (Poetry) - 9/13/2017 6:56:27 AM
So wonderful and heartwarming. I think your wife and those present were overcome with happiness to hear all that you stated in this short poem you had written for the occasion. It made me recall the 50th and 60th anniversary parties that were held for my parents who had 62 years together. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend or I might have written a poem for them.
One thing you didn't include that readers might know, is that you and your wife, after retirement, were able to visit all of the states in the United States. What a wonderful thing to do with your free time along with writing about it.
Ron
Until Death Do We Part (Poetry) - 9/12/2017 5:59:02 PM
Oh, David, I am choked up reading this. It is so beautiful, and so is your love. We have seven years on you--and I am shocked to learn that you are married that long. There are so many memories and so many experiences shared by one couple in a 50-year span; they can't be replicated by anyone else but the two of you.
May God continue to bless your years together, as many as still await you. You and Janet are a blessing!
Sincerely,
Connie
Until Death Do We Part (Poetry) - 9/12/2017 5:15:47 PM
Nice. I agree that it looks like your marriage is going to last.
Bryce (Poetry) - 9/8/2017 7:44:15 AM
I've been to Utah several times and visited briefly Canyonlands and Natural Bridge National Parks, but never got to Bryce. From your poem, I believe that I missed something special and should try to get back there someday.
By the way, inserting the humorous plaque into the poem top it off nicely! ;-)
Ron
Bryce (Poetry) - 9/6/2017 5:28:00 AM
Stunning beauty.
Bryce (Poetry) - 9/6/2017 4:34:21 AM
Ah, I missed this wonderous beauty during my traveling days.
Bryce (Poetry) - 9/5/2017 8:44:20 PM
You've inspired me. I want to see this miracle of nature. I can't believe all those colors and hues. New York surely lacks such a grand view.
Broken Trust (Poetry) - 9/4/2017 5:15:57 PM
We carry our sorrows with us over the long years. I can feel it in your words.
A Father's Love (Poetry) - 6/4/2017 1:57:53 PM
What a beautiful memory! I absolutely loved it!
Kathy J Parenteau
The Nursing Home (Poetry) - 6/1/2017 12:01:14 AM
THIS SHARING REALLY HIT HOME. I REMEMBER GOING TO LIVE WITH MY MOTHER AND TWO CHILDREN FOR A 'REPRIEVE'...JUST A WHILE. SHE LIVED IN A RURAL PART OF THE SOUTH THE ONLY TRANSPORTATION WAS VIA HIRED CAR(FOR WHICH ONE PAID DEARLY-GOING AND COMING), I DID NOT DRIVE - STILL DON'T. THE ONLY DECENT JOBS WERE IN A NEARBY CITY WHICH HAD TO BE ACCESSED VIA CAR. WHEN I DECIDED TO LEAVE I WANTED HER TO COME WITH ME. I COULD GET A PLACE TO LIVE AND A JOB UP NORTH AND THE BUSES RAN EVERYWHERE. SHE WOULDN'T COME...SHE WANTED TO STAY IN THE SOUTH, I COULDN'T MAKE A LIVING FOR ME AND MY 2 CHILDREN THERE, I HAD TO LEAVE. WITHIN A YEAR FAMILY MEMBERS CAME AND TOOK HER AND ALL HER POSSESSIONS. SHE NEVER WENT INTO A NURSING HOME BUT SHE LOST EVERYTHING...THE ONLY THING THEY GAVE ME WAS THE COST FOR HER FUNERAL. FINALLY THEY FOUND THE 'LOST' POLICY AND PAID OFF HER BURIAL EXPENSES AND I'VE NEVER BEEN BACK. WE NEVER KNOW HOW OUR LAST DAYS ON THIS EARTH WILL BE, WE ONLY KNOW WE DO OUR BEST AND IN THE END...WE ARE 'SET FREE' TO LIVE FOREVER IN OUR ETERNAL HOME. THANKS FOR SHARING. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
The Drowning Trees (Poetry) - 5/31/2017 11:35:41 PM
WHAT POETIC IMAGERY IN THIS WORK. SO WELL DONE, DAVID. THANKS FOR SHARING. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
Having to Deal With Change (Poetry) - 4/20/2017 8:43:47 AM
THANKS SO MUCH FOR SHARING YOUR HEART, DAVID. YOUR CONCERNS ARE NOT FOREIGN TO ANY TRUE AMERICAN OR TO ANY TRUE GOD-FEARING HUMAN BEING, FOR THAT MATTER. WE ARE LIVING IN THE END-TIMES DAVID AND WE CAN ONLY PRAY THAT OUR PRAYERS FOR PROTECTION AND WISDOM COME FAVORABLE BEFORE OUR ALL POWERFUL GOD. I THINK THE ONE THING THAT REALLY BLOWS MY MIND IN REGARDS TO THE CONDITION OF THE ENTIRE WORLD IS THAT...THE LOVE OF GOD...IS THE ANSWER TO 'ALL' THE CHAOS! IF EVERY KNEE WOULD BEND AND EVERY TONGUE WOULD CONFESS THAT 'HE' IS LORD, EVERY TERRIBLE EXISTING CONDITION WOULD BE HEALED. FOR GOD HAS PROMISED, IF WE HUMBLE OURSELVES AND PRAY, HE WOULD HEAL OUR(ALL) LAND(S). HOWEVER, WE KNOW FROM 'REVELATIONS' THAT THIS WILL NOT HAPPEN. THUS, REMEMBERING THAT NOTHING IS HAPPENING THAT GOD IS NOT IN CONTROL OF, WE MUST TRY OUR BEST TO COINTINUE TO HAVE FAITH IN GOD AND TRUST HIM LIKE WE NEVER HAVE BEFORE, AS WE LEAVE ALL THINGS IN HIS CAPABLE HANDS. EVERYTHING WILL CHANGE BUT GOD DOESN'T AND, BY HIS STRENGTH...THROUGH MERCY AND GRACE...WE DON'T HAVE TO EITHER. I ENJOYED THIS THOUGH-PROVOKING SHARING. MUCH LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH TO YOU AND YOURS...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
Broken Trust (Poetry) - 4/18/2017 8:23:38 AM
I can't imagine what it would be like in that situation. You have my empathy. Love and peace to you,
Regis
Having to Deal With Change (Poetry) - 4/14/2017 10:02:09 AM
Hi Dave. You hit it right on ! Well versed and rhythm,Stayed on point. I to am disappointed in the direction of the young. What turns it I do not know. Thanks and keep it up Darryl Ehlers
Broken Trust (Poetry) - 4/8/2017 10:48:55 PM
Beautiful honest words, from a beautiful honest soul...
I'm sure she totally understood David...
Ther is something so charming about your vulnerability here
that contributes to the strength of your words...
A simply perfect piece...
Love,
Diana...
Having to Deal With Change (Poetry) - 3/19/2017 4:30:45 PM
This is a passionate poem with powerful words. The change I have seen is not mostly good. As the Bible relates, men will become worse and worse and time passes, and many are godless and uncaring.
Your verse about the unborn babies is stark and terrible, but true. I could go on, but you have done a masterful bit of writing, so I will only say Well Done: I agree!
Connie
Frost Crystals (Poetry) - 3/19/2017 4:24:07 PM
Yes, it makes exquisite pictures. I loved to scratch it off the windows as a youngster.
Connie
Broken Trust (Poetry) - 3/19/2017 1:07:11 PM
WHEN I SAY I APPRECIATE OUR 'HEROES' IT'S FOR MORE REASONS THAN ONE. MANY SOLDIERS, LIKE YOU, ALSO HAD TO BEAR THE PAIN OF A BROKEN HEART WHILE SERVING OUR COUNTRY. THANKS FOR SHARING THESE WORDS THAT SERVE AS AN EXAMPLE OF THE ADDITIONAL 'SACRIFICES' OF WAR. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
Broken Trust (Poetry) - 3/12/2017 5:23:27 PM
Beautiful in its honesty and emotion!
Connie
Broken Trust (Poetry) - 3/11/2017 10:26:19 AM
We all have our way of dealing with loneliness. I think she knew what you needed. I hope you got it when you returned.
Ron
Broken Trust (Poetry) - 3/11/2017 8:01:46 AM
Ahhh . . . But although we don't think so at the time, letting it all out to somewhat of a stranger is the best medicine you could have given yourself.
Having to Deal With Change (Poetry) - 3/5/2017 1:10:35 PM
Spoken from the patriotic heartland. But change has always been coming and mostly it is good. You just have to look at the big picture, not just what's happening in your neighborhood. I think that aging does have an affect on how we see the world. I watched my grandmother become extremely religious as her Alzheimer's set in.
I hope that isn't happening to you. I clearly remember the idealism of the young people during this 1960s that was hated by their elders who had just barely survived the Great Depression followed closely by a world war. All they wanted was security. But the youngsters told them otherwise. Makes me recall the folksong, “Turn, turn for every purpose under heaven.”
Ron
Having to Deal With Change (Poetry) - 3/4/2017 1:07:35 PM
You are talking my language, David. The words of your poem is the real reason Trump won the presidency. His slogan, "Let's make America great again," resonated across the land and actually gave millions hope.
Frost Crystals (Poetry) - 2/3/2017 1:22:20 AM
lovely work
Never Stop Writing!
m
He Heard Her Calling (Poetry) - 2/3/2017 1:21:48 AM
lovely graphic, words inspire
Never Stop Writing!
m
Frost Crystals (Poetry) - 1/8/2017 5:01:04 AM
IN THE MIDST OF FREEZING WEATHER...BEAUTY. THANKS FOR THE SHARE, DAVID. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
He Heard Her Calling (Poetry) - 1/8/2017 4:58:13 AM
WELL DONE WITH GREAT IMAGERY AND THANKS FOR SHARING. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
He Heard Her Calling (Poetry) - 12/31/2016 6:53:38 PM
beautifully orchestrated..
He Heard Her Calling (Poetry) - 12/30/2016 6:27:01 AM
Yes, cardinals are quite adept at finding food in the harshest of weather. And, come spring, they will have several nests of young during the long, food productive months when insects are all abuzz. Beautifully rendered poem.
Our resident cardinal pair sticks around here year-round, enjoying 82° two days ago but not nesting in the winter months, nonetheless.
Ron
He Heard Her Calling (Poetry) - 12/30/2016 6:14:15 AM
Thank you for a wonderful peek into the daily life of 2 of our most gorgeous birds. Vividly written!
Connie
He Heard Her Calling (Poetry) - 12/30/2016 3:18:04 AM
This is beautifully rendered, David. There are worlds within worlds if we but stop long enough to look around us. Nice work!
Cry Like a Baby (Poetry) - 10/31/2016 1:05:22 AM
PAPAW JACK WAS REAL AND KNEW THAT 'TEARS' TOOK NOTHING AWAY FROM THE IMAGE OF A REAL MAN, BUT RATHER FOSTERED IT. THANKS FOR SHARING. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
Days That Cause This Heart to Yearn (Poetry) - 10/31/2016 1:02:04 AM
INDEED, DAVID, BUT TO HAVE SUCH WARM, WONDERFUL TIMES TO THINK BACK ON AND THE MEMORIES OF A HAPPY CHILDHOOD...IS A BLESSING - ALL THE MORE. THANKS FOR SHARING. AND BY THE WAY...I COULD HAVE PICKED YOU OUT...YOUR FACIAL CHANGES ARE STILL THE SAME(MORE OR LESS)-SMILE. THANKS FOR SHARING. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
River of Memories (Poetry) - 10/15/2016 3:41:45 AM
YOUR MOM AND DAD DID THEIR JOB WELL. THEY LEFT YOU ETERNAL MEMORIES, THAT BEGAN WITH THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD, WHICH WILL ALWAYS FLOOD YOUR SOUL AND BRING YOU TO A PLACE OF PEACE AND CONTENTMENT. THANKS FOR SHARING A WELL DONE WORK. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
River of Change (Poetry) - 10/15/2016 3:34:28 AM
I AM THINKING THAT IF ONE IS BLESSED TO RE-VISIT CHILDHOOD PLACES...THE CHANGE IN US AND SOME OF THE LANDSCAPE MEANS NOTHING WHEN WE ARE TOUCHED BY WHAT REALLY MATTERS...THE GOODNESS OF NATURE. THANKS FOR SHARING, DAVID. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
My Life, the River (Poetry) - 10/15/2016 3:26:28 AM
I AGREE. THIS IS A PERFECT COMPARISON, DAVID. THANKS FOR SHARING. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
Poem of Praise (Poetry) - 10/2/2016 6:11:45 AM
AMEN AND AMEN! AND, OH DAVID, I AM SO GLAD THAT, INDEED, IF WE WANT HIM TO BE...HE IS IN OUR HEARTS TO STAY! GOD BLESS AND THANKS FOR SHARING. LOVE AND FAITH...JOYCE & HIS INSPIRATIONS
Ice Cream in Winter (Poetry) - 10/2/2016 6:09:01 AM
YES!!! I DON'T CARE WHAT TIME OF YEAR IT IS...I CAN RELATE! THERE'S 'NOTHING' LIKE THAT WONDERFUL, HEAPING CONE OF ICE CREAM WHEN YOU R-E-A-L-L-Y GOT A YEN FOR IT!!! THANKS FOR THE SHARE. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
Minnie and Grace (Poetry) - 10/2/2016 6:02:58 AM
IT'S REALLY AMAZING HOW ATTACHED WE CAN BECOME TO A PET. WE HAD ONE...A LOVELY CALICO LADY NAMED, CANDI(CANDY). WE HAD HER FOR 18 YEARS AND THERE WAS NOTHING TEMPERAMENTAL OR NASTY ABOUT HER. SHE WAS SO SWEET AND AFFECTIONATE - SHE'S JUMP INTO YOUR LAP AND LICK YOUR FACE LIKE A PUPPY. THEN SHE STOPPED EATING, GREW FRAIL, LOST HER HEARING AND ONE DAY...SHE JUST PASSED. MY DAUGHTER HAS HER ASHES. MINNIE AND GRACE...I BETCHA YOU WERE 'HEAD OVA HEELS' BY THE TIME THEY LEFT...HUH? I'M JUST MESSING WITH YA, DAVID BECAUSE I KNOW NEW PETS ARE NOT EASY TO GET USED TO. AT THIS POINT,I WOULDN'T EVEN TRY TO HAVE A PET, OF ANY KIND...IT'S HARD ENOUGH TAKING CARE OF MY SELF(SMILE)! YOU AND YOUR FAMILY HAVE A BLESSED DAY! LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
