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Holiday Poem for 2005

Missing image
~by Gregg Rowe~

I think of my cyber angels this year,
Where I’m egotistic with season’s cheers --
And sometimes my message is a bit queer,
It signals I’m intellectually here.

My dis-ease won’t become my claim to fame --
It’s a life’s pain that I could never feign:
This year has passed – I gain strength back in faith --
Angel wing kisses have released my pain.

A novel written, my glass of eggnog --
Raised, thankfully, seeing me through my fog;
My time -- not lost -- as I add a dry log,
I built a country house, to raise my dog.

Embrace my  family, angels and friends --
There’s been days when I couldn’t think to pen;
I watched my life through my iris’s lens --
Wonder how many days -- before my end.

Your lit candles I’ve kept close to my heart --
With powerful light rays we’re not apart;
Last year’s night lit candle lights were the start;
Chronically living -- my life’s impart.

These friends are angels – candles in my night,
They open my world and give me insight --
My illness does not change – try as I might,
My dark path lit by their love and white light.



Author notes

Dec 1st:  Light a candle to commerate those who have succumbed to AIDS.

Dec 6th:  Light a candle at 7:00 PM your time to commerate those families who have lost a child.

Dec 14th:  Light a candle at 5:00 PM your time to commerate the 14 women who were murdered at École Polytéchnique in Montréal and to remember Violence Against Women.

December 24th:  Place a candle in your window to help those find their way home this evening.

These are celebrated every year so if you missed them this year, jot them in your calendar for next year.

To all my cyber friends who have given me the strength and courage to continue on, when there were days when I doubted it myself, thank you and G-d Bless each and everyone of yous .  Happy Holidays.
Written December 17th, 2005

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Comments

1 - 49 of 49

  • Maureen silver member
    December 27, 2005
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    It only takes one candle to light the darkness. Thank you for the light you bring!

    ♥ Maureen


  • catz Moderators member
    December 27, 2005
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    A wonderful, sharing and loving poem, Gregg. We have so much to be thankful for, and so much to still come to grips with. Thank God for people like yourself who's sharing wit, wisdom and talent have crossed our paths. I know you've opened my eyes to a thing or two, made me think, made me a little wiser, gave me hope in my own little miseries, though none are as traumatic as yours.

    thank you, dear friend for being here for all of us, as we try to be here for you.

    Love and 's
    Dee


  • LadyUnique silver member
    December 24, 2005
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    a gem of a poem. truly heartfelt and gracious. as i read this every emotion in the book seemed to pop up but mostly thankfulness.
    i applaud the poet and the poem


  • December 22, 2005
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    wow this is pretty deep! i like it alot, "great job here! This is a very beautiful and wonderful poem, one of this best The imagery was strong and very vivid and the flow was smooth from start to finish. I love the emotion put into this piece it really lets the readers mind just kinda wonder and set up the scene in there mind. Excellent job


  • Luciferschild
    December 22, 2005
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    a very heartwarming peice which i have found is ussually absent in many christmass poem, i really enjoyed this one though


  • Pollywog
    December 22, 2005
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    This was really good, I loved it. It was beautifully written, it moved my heart... You did a wonderful job on this... Keep up the great work! (Kick ass background by the way)!
    ~:kitten:~

  • Tecohe
    December 22, 2005
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    And Peace be unto you in every manner to embrace and support you and yours.
    Tecohe


  • Hinemoa silver member
    December 21, 2005
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    I went into Hugh Wyles group and found the link for this, I'm glad I did as it is beautiful to read, you have been through a lot, but we are all here for you my dear Gregg, we always will be.
    Love Sally.

  • gryphonpoet
    December 21, 2005
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    I felt your poem while reading it. And that is what poetry is all about, right?

    My brother passed from an AIDS-related leukemia in 1991. I miss him dearly. I miss our tri-lingual conversations and I miss his sarcastic wit.

    Thank you for sharing and reminding me of someone I love.

  • pozo
    December 20, 2005
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    Good personal poem- I truly hope it isn't days that you've got left and that I'm sitting here next year commenting on more of your amazing poetry
    Some of this was so sad but I liked the hope that came through too Great true and honest piece Keep writing, I love your poetry
    All the best
    Your friend
    Pozo


  • B Chandler
    December 20, 2005
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    oh no you got me crying all over again...thats not fair but in any case, this is a definite powerhouse write despite it being heartwrenching. always remember that you got friends on a variety spectrum and plus if you even wanna talk(not to mention i love your vibes) just hit me up and id be more than happy to give u my home number

    Rae


  • Mystical-Gardenia
    December 20, 2005
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    Exquisite!! Brava!! Thank you for the inspir

    Exquisite... truly crafted in the beauty of truth resounding poetic wonder Your words bring tears to my eyes your many friends who have helped you tribute in doing so pay tribute to yourself "Your lit candles I’ve kept close to my heart --
    With powerful light rays we’re not apart;
    Last year’s night lit candle lights were the start;
    Chronically living -- my life’s impart." Surely candles will glow everywhere you will be for in your ability to survive you have found strength, grace, peace, and the joy of friendships Wishing you Love, Peace, Joy, Blessings and Wisdom in all of your journeys

  • Vera Rich gold member
    December 20, 2005
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    And please rememmber, too, to light one on the sixteenth of each month for the victims of human and civil-rights abuses....


  • rosepoet
    December 20, 2005
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    Excellent Write!

    WoW awsome write beathing poem.great imagery .impressive write of pure emotions.precious and from the heart.you did a great job at expressing beautiful words here like ...Your lit candles I’ve kept close to my heart --
    With powerful light rays we’re not apart;
    Last year’s night lit candle lights were the start;
    Chronically living -- my life’s impart.

    These friends are angels – candles in my night,
    They open my world and give me insight --
    My illness does not change – try as I might,
    My dark path lit by their love and white light..

  • crystallove
    December 20, 2005
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    A beautifully written poem from the heart. Poetry is not so much from the mind as from the heart and I can see you are all heart. You will be in my thoughts, though I don't know you. Keep peace of mind and be well, Poet.


  • wordsworth
    December 20, 2005
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    Well Done

    strong meaning and powerful words give good imagery in this piece, I feel though it could use another look, to maybe improve the flow in places, but a good piece none the less.


  • Tarja
    December 20, 2005
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    ver sweet. get me excited about christmas!!
    merry chrsitmas!


  • -theheartofme-
    December 19, 2005
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    I will definately add those dates to my calendar for next year (the ones I missed anyway) I always try to leave a light on in my window on Christmas Eve. I hope as you continue to reflect on this year you see how far you have come over this time last year and that you continue to grow in character strength. May your angels wrap their wings around you and draw you close.

    Beth


  • nichtmich silver member
    December 19, 2005
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    Excellent

    A beautifully written poem from the heart. Poetry is not so much from the mind as from the heart and I can see you are all heart. You will be in my thoughts, though I don't know you. Keep peace of mind and be well, Poet.


  • Vorondwen gold member
    December 19, 2005
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    Wow, I never knew about all the different times to light candles. I love candles. Perhaps I'll have to at least get in on the candles for Christmas eve. Thank you for sharing this.


  • poeticweaver gold member
    December 19, 2005
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    A beautiful, precious, heart-felt piece from your heart to the ones you hold so dear..Thanks for sharing Greg, and may you enjoy this Christmas, and find much cheer...May all your wishes come true. Your poetic friend!

    -Timothy The Poetic Weaver ~~~~~~~~~~


  • Abdul T Alishtari
    December 19, 2005
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    Abdul Tawala Ibn Ali Alishtari

    lordoftherings Analysis Chart

    Authenticity (Believability or realism) 1 to 20 pts equals 20
    Theme Clarity (relevance to contest) 1 to 20 pts equals 16
    Complexity (Work, plan and style) 1 to 20 pts equals 20
    Transcendence (Artistic conclusion) 1 to 20 pts equals 20
    Expressiveness (Some say artfully said) 1 to 20 pts equals 20

    Remember this is subjective by host is 1 to 100 equals 96/100'

    Abdul Tawala Ibn Ali Alishtari


  • BonnieQ silver member
    December 19, 2005
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    Beautiful Poem

    You haven't lost that master's touch when it comes to weaving spellbinding tapestries in golden words, Gregg. This is such a beautiful poem, poignant yet clearly reveals an I CAN spirit. Just keep saying, "I can and I am!" Never let the negatives enter even your thoughts muchless the things you say.

    And, here I thought Satan had screwed up my day back on 28 June, only to soon realize he had robbed me of the entire summer and fall. He's a mean, cruel fallen angel; one I take great delight in kicking to the curb every times he rears his ugly head. You do the same, my friend.

    I'm glad to see you writing. It took me awhile to start writing again, mainly because for several months I didn't have use of my right eye and I couldn't sit at the computer more than a minute or two without getting a terrible headache. WE ARE TOUGH and don't you forget it!

    Lots of love, hugs, and prayers, B♥nnieQ

  • poeticwords
    December 19, 2005
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    who is the pic of? nice write.. didn't blow me away but I am sure i would have stronger feelings if i were one of your "cyber friends" thanks for the write!
    -Kim


  • kdanielle
    December 19, 2005
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    Great poem! Nice idea and very touching! Thanks for sharing! Oh, and I love the candles in the background!

  • Glauriel
    December 19, 2005
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    Tender

    You seem to carry deep pain and you express it very beautifully, it touches my heart.

  • Abdul T Alishtari
    December 19, 2005
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    Abdul Tawala Ibn Ali Alishtari

    I find this write insightful and inspirational.

    Abdul Tawala Ibn Ali Alishtari


  • whispersoftly
    December 19, 2005
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    ()
    !!
    !! i light you a candle to say thankyou for your lovely words and the pure loviness of this write, i wish you peace and love and good health in 2006, i light candles all of the time! especially for my lost child! thankyou for the warm reminder that life is for living! and appreciating every day xx Cheryl


  • astralshepherd gold member
    December 19, 2005
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    Brilliant (again)

    Another brilliantly illuminated poetic treasure by a true master of rhyme and verse. I hope your new year is met with joy unspeakable and full of glory. Blessings and best wishes, ~richard
    Edited on Dec 19, 11:28 because 'flowers, we must have more flowers '.


  • Sonja
    December 19, 2005
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    Thank you for this beautiful and supportive verses. Good bless you and your good soul. My candle for Draven and Liadan will light for you also.


  • Iohagh
    December 19, 2005
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    I pray that the people for whom this contest is for Draven and Liadan read and get some cheer from this write.


  • Hinemoa silver member
    December 18, 2005
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    You are wonderful, do you know that Gregg? well, you are! to overcome what you have is nothing short of a miracle and determination on your part. I love it and I shall also be here for you.
    Love Sally.


  • CarolDesjarlais silver member
    December 18, 2005
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    Welcome home! A light in sky's canvas, for you, my friend, to pin your faith and gentle soul upon.


  • PrabhuDayal Khattar silver member
    December 18, 2005
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    well well well i clap on the each of the sentiments stated in this write bringing the erternal light and the joy of the life throguh and through.The write is just very hopeful and very true to its meaning with its greate objectives too. The beauty of the write lies in its universal concept which is taking readers to the arena of the bliss of the joy again and again.The flow of the write is very impressive and just to the point too.I really appreciate this work.prabhudayal khattar


  • TheThinker
    December 18, 2005
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    Brilliant

    Ohhh there is so much bursting out of this. I feel a man grateful to life and friends. I truly wish you well.
    Penned to perfection, deep message beams through with hope and love


  • angelica silver member
    December 18, 2005
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    My Dearest Gregg, It's been a pleasure being beside you as you've handled all the obstacles that have been placed in front of you.
    I am sooo PROUD of you my dear Brother, and I will continue to stand by you.
    Have a wonderful Christmas and New Year and I'll hear from you when you return.
    Love you dearly Gregg.
    Your loving Aussie Sister
    Joan Bless you Gregg and keep safe and return to us.


  • hugh wyles silver member
    December 17, 2005
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    Dear Gregg,
    MERRY CHRISTMAS BUDDY and a MUCH HAPPIER NEW YEAR!
    -Hugh-


  • AM Cochran
    December 17, 2005
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    I very much love it.

    I love this poem, and I know I do not know you, but whoever and wherever you are, whenever you are. may g-d bless you. I'll remember you when I light my first candle on the evening of December 24th. haha, I may even print off this poem for my parents, they might enjoy it. I don't know.
    but this year, please remember all those who died at sea. *shrugs* just something I have in my mind.
    excellent write. I very much love it.
    thank you for posting.
    ~Ash~


  • Mr- Alexander
    December 17, 2005
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    Absolutely amazing

    That was a remarkably beautiful poem. It was so awesome that I have been stunned. Happy holidays


  • Ladylove1968
    December 17, 2005
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    Your poem is amazingly beautiful. I feel honored in having the pleasure of reading it.Oh and congratulations on your novel.That is an awesome accomplishment.
    Loretta


  • Tangled Angle
    December 17, 2005
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    This was a very well written poem. I think you used a little too much vocabulary in there and it makes sound unnatural and forced. But depending on how old we are we all have different opinion and insights on the vocabulary (me being only 13) so I haven't built up to that higher rank in vocabulary words. Other than the words, this was very meaningful and good. Happy holidays. Peace out-

    TYLER


  • Always Deena
    December 17, 2005
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    Beautiful,my friend....just like you!
    Happy Holidays
    Deena


  • GypsyDancer
    December 17, 2005
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    Beautiful poem with a beautiful rhyme scheme. It's awesome that you know about the candle stuff; I shall have to do that next year and this year on the 24th. Anyway, beautiful poem, and Merry Christmas! God bless you and be safe.
    ~ ~ Shan ~ ~
    Edited on Jul 04, 9:33 because ''.


  • Catressa gold member
    December 17, 2005
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    That was one thing I always liked about the Catholic Faith.. Lighting the candles for prayers... I am glad to see that it seems you've been busy, and animals? Pull love out of us, even when we don't want to love.. Take care Gregg, you are still my Wretch Catressa


  • December 17, 2005
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    This is so beautiful and so inspriring. Through this writing you offer hope to anyone that is going through difficult times. I commend you for your strength and courage during the trials that you have been encountering. Thank you for sharing such an inspiring poem.


  • ionabus
    December 17, 2005
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    THe backround really helps creating the atmosphere to this piece. An incredible piece of work. Well done.

  • Satin Raven
    December 17, 2005
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    This is a beautiful poem that carries a deep message and flows wonderfully. I hope you have a very happy holiday, thank you for sharing!


  • ICULookn
    December 17, 2005
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    Greg, Just an exceptional write. Words can not give justice to such a well done piece.
    What an Outstanding background indeed!
    blessings

    ICUlookn

  • tmullins
    December 17, 2005
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    You are so sweet. what a wonderful christmas poem, unfortunately I have missed all the dates in the authors comments except for christmas eve. and candles will be lit then. thank you for sharing this wonderful write with me.~~tracy

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