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The Homeless Wise Man

as the moon was fading in the sky,
but before the sun appeared
there stood a man in tattered clothes
a sign within his hand
his shoes were several sizes big
his coat and jeans were torn
a U.S. flag adorned his cap
his beard unkempt and long
the cardboard sign held in his hands
was covered in dust and dirt,
“A homeless vet, God bless you”
was all the sign had said
he seemed so calm and peaceful
not angry at the world
it didn’t seem to matter
that fate, to him, was cruel
the look upon his face
was so serene and wise
in him there was an inner strength
powerful and sublime
I could not look away...
enthralled I was with him
he smiled when our eyes met
then time...it seemed to stop
his piercing orbs, they spoke to me
yet no words had passed his lips
in them I saw his love of life
one lived with no regret
“don’t feel bad for me,” they said,
“I’m at peace within myself...
I hold no grudge against the world
for the hand that I was dealt
we live with what God gives us
we make do as best we can
so I thank God for the blessings
that He’s bestowed on me.”
yet, his eyes read more than that,
and a calming peace did shine
“do NOT have pity or sorrow for me”
his eyes and smile cried
“I have but one regret though...
I can’t give to those who need
mothers with small children,
and those who are sick and weak
my heart, it breaks when I see them
they are so much worse than I.
give what you can to help THEM
give to them, for I can’t myself.”
my eyes told him, "I understand"
but his face I could not leave
but his eyes they told me "go now...
give not to me, but to the world”
the car behind me honked it’s horn
breaking me from the spell
I was forced to move along
but his image was in my head
I’ve carried it with me since then
every hour of every day
in tears, I keep remembering
all his eyes had said
perhaps this was a sign
delivered from God above
through this homeless, wise man
who thought of others before himself
but then, it may have well been
the very image of the Lord himself
posing as a homeless Veteran
delivering a message to us all
each day I carry the image of
his  eyes,
his smile,
his heart...
in my prayers I say each night,
to the Lord above...
I give Him thanks for putting
this wise man in my path
for when I think the world is cruel
and no one seems to care,
I remember the wisdom of the homeless man
a true reminder of my faith

Author notes

This is a true happening...on my way to work on day...that has changed me in many areas of my life...I Owe eternal gratitude to Bedroom Eyes for listening to my experience and helping me find the right words and the courage to post it...I treasure you with all my heart and soul....My Muse, My Lover of sailboats and sunsets...muahhh.....

A contest entry

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Comments

1 - 99 of 99

  • honey bear
    February 23
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    a deeply touching write that i am sure will move all who read it, keep up the good work this is an exelent write my dear

  • Improv Machinery
    January 27, 2008

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    all i can say is wow

    i couldn't help but cry while i was reading this. i was homeless for about 4 months this past year and this poem really hit home for me on so many different levels. i was able to provide for myself on a very rudimentary basis but like your poem said, i couldnt help those in need. i did my best to share what little knowledge i have gained in my 21 years on this planet with whoever would listen. that is also why i write poetry. being homeless was quite the experience and it really changed who i am and how i view the world. i used to be about doing everything for me, but now it is quite the opposite. i am much happier helping to put a smile on someones face than putting one on my own. perhaps it was a working of fate that i came to read this poem today, i wasnt even looking for it, i just clicked a few random links and ended up on your page and i thought the title of this poem sounded cool. and there i was crying my eyes out from the sheer memories of when i was homeless.

    give what you can to help THEM
    give to them, for I can’t myself.”

    those lines really stood out to me because thats what i would tell people who would offer to help me out. this is definitely one of the best pieces that i have read on this site. would it be alright with you if i added this poem to my list of favorites that i keep posted on my page? never stop writing.
    Rob

  • liveheart
    January 22, 2008

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    EXCELLENTE !!!

    JULEZ...HARD TO BELIEVE THIS IS YOUR 2ND POEM YOU WROTE. IT AMAZES ME HOW ONE CAN HAVE SUCH A POWERFUL EFFECT ON US AND THEY NEVER EVAN KNOW IT. TO BE CAPTURED AND ENTRALLED BY THE HOMELESS MAN SEEMINGLY ONLY SEEKING SPARE CHANGE. yOU MUST HAVE BEEN IN COMPLETE HARMONY WITH YOUR SURROUNDINGS. YOU NOTICE EVERY DETAIL OF HIS IMAGE AND SAW THE APPLE OF HIS EYE. AND HE HAS GIVEN YOU SO MUCH MORE THAN ANY SPARE CHANGE THAT YOU'VE MIGHT OF GIVEN HIM. HE WAS A GIVER, NOT A TAKER AND YOU CONTINUE THAT PROCESS. UNLIKE FAST MOVING CLOUDS AND THE HUSTLE & BUSTLE OF THE WORLD, YOU WERE STILL. YOU LISTENED, HEARD, & SHARED!!! THANX FOR PENNING THIS FOR THE ALL TO PARTAKE. YOU MAKE ME WANT TO BE A BETTER MAN!!! LOVE.H. p.s. how could you make this better, you got and you shared it!!! its perfect!!!


  • rite
    December 23, 2007

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    Intensely moving words that reflect an event that has a lasting impact. Those who have not been inside the wars can never imagine the insanity and violence the soldiers have experienced and witnessed. The suffering and despair they saw, leaves no soul unscarred. Returning home will not allow the old life to resume. Vets will never see things like they used to before they were sent to war. Even those who have seemingly successfully re-adjusted to society. To some vets it may not even come as a surprise that society that cheered them to war, has little understanding and consideration for those who are unable to erase the horrors of war from their minds and is reluctant to make an effort to prepare them a life inside society. They fought for continuation of prosperity that was never intended to be shared with them; they were merely ordered and temporarily licensed to kill for it. Souls that have found a way to come to terms with the injustice of society and of the wars it has ordered to be waged, are rare. Souls that do not blame this injustice on powerless individual members of society are even more rare. Your poem urges to ponder. Thank you for creating and sharing. Take care,

    AD


  • raggyann
    December 16, 2007

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    i know this feeling as ive had this experence before in my life too
    its a blessing to know how much god loves us and them
    this was a onsperational [poem filled with love
    i liked this just like you wrote it
    no parts better than another


  • kunal1090
    September 23, 2007
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    Touching and inspiring...
    reminding us that there is world around ...


  • Jaybles
    September 1, 2007

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    This is very good. It reminds me of seeing all those homeless people that could use our help and how we should be thankful that there are people willing to die so we can be safe and people that need our help of staying alive.


  • Uniquely-Scarred
    August 25, 2007

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    wonderful i swear i nealy cried i got the gosse bump thing so this must be good, i dont do that much *smiles* really enjoyed it touched nerves which is what real poetry does


  • soldiersoul gold member
    August 22, 2007
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    damn that read like the names on ARLINGTON CEMETARY ...fuckin A whooch...I SALUTE U !!!!!!!!!


  • Puppydog gold member
    July 14, 2007

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    DEEPLY TOUCHING AND BEAUTIFULLY EXPRESSED!

    There will always be those people who we meet in our lives that change us forever. If we are lucky enough we will meet those who give to us their compassion and understanding and wisdom to be passed along to others.


  • alexandrathegreat
    July 14, 2007
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    First congrats on the trophy, second wonderful write the images I recieved jumped right through the screen out to me. Great topic, left me speechless. Flowed like a river bed. Seemless in wording. Amazing job. You sure captured my attention. You must have a huge heart to write a piece like this, thank you for sharing.

  • wendymolly
    July 14, 2007
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    you have a soul made of gold.


  • midnight eyes
    July 13, 2007
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    what a great poem.


    Amber

  • Aurora Ceres
    July 8, 2007

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    Bella donna, This brought tears to my eyes. I have to say, this is the best I've read of yours, my all time favorite. Not so much the form, though, I love it too, my oh my how this touched my spirit. Talk about being handed a 'gift' when needed. This is one for me. It's things like this that help keep hope in my soul, right to the core. Stunning sweetheart, powerful and truly a most inspiring piece. Looooooooooooooooooooove it!

    Bella


  • robert bolin
    July 5, 2007
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    The imagery alone is worth a million words a very beautifully penned poem where ones own self can see the pen forming this work together thank you for sharing your work with all of us here on ap, and allowing all of us to read and comment on your work..


  • tomisb
    July 5, 2007
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    This is stunning in its beauty and in its capturing of the epiphany of the moment. We all need to learn and hear this. To know that we are each magnificent and be at peace with ourselves so that we can be more human with each other, more perfectly available to act lovingly with another. I loved this. Julie G. you have truly be blessed in this life. Love, Tom B.


  • ImogenSky
    June 28, 2007

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    I love the flow of the poem...I've never seen a homeless person with such a serene and wise expression..I can only imagine the power behind that image. The message that this character shares is so complete...it's something that the entity of the world should listen to and try to learn for themselves. For him to feel pain not as a result of self pity but because of his inability to give is INCREDIBLE. It's almost impossible to find people like that. I love how this describes such an important and spiritual moment through an everyday event....it's absolutely wonderfull

  • Lisa Haslett
    June 28, 2007

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    Excellent Poem

    Yes this is really true,you could have seen jesusor God there,I had a similar happening when I was younger,i was in a car with my mom and dad,going to my grandmas,and on a bus i was looking and saw Jesus on the bus wrapped up in a cover and was sitting there,and he stared at me,I said a paryer and asked God If that was jesus I had saw,and looked back and he was gone!So yes i do believe that was a sign of God!Things happen to people for very many reasons!And,you can believe in anything,to happen cause he says anything is possible through me!And what becomes possible can be impossible!So,yes do believe!i had some other miracles happen to,and they truly are blessings and miracles!Very good poem,i liked it very much,Good colors and background!Very interesting and good rhythm and soul!Best wishes in the contest,and i will say a prayer for you!Lisa k Haslett Raytown Missouri!


  • Da-Lyricologist
    June 28, 2007
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    opps here you go

  • Da-Lyricologist
    June 28, 2007
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    nice poem i must praise you my dear


  • Creatress
    June 28, 2007

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    Well done. I'll never forget the first time I saw and realized a homeless person. Really strong and powerful experience. Way to go on the trophy!
    -Creatress


  • Zero the Hero silver member
    June 27, 2007
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    lovely write very moving and takes the reader to end of the poem with ease,I liked this a lot, but I believe the man was just a good man who is at peace with life and owe his goodness and yours to your inner being not from something without.. great write ..well done


  • Legend silver member
    June 26, 2007
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    Sometimes it is an image that says far more than words could ever convey.
    That you found this out shows the caring person you are.
    Sadly there are far to many who see such images and believe them to be worthless scroungers.
    Not wanting to or caring to find our if this is indeed the case
    A wonderful write That had me enjoying every word Excellent


  • poeticweaver gold member
    June 20, 2007

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    Wow,

    I give you all the credit in the world for noticing more tham just a man with dirty clothes..As you've stated, who knows, this may have been a messanger, or a soul to just mend your heart whole, and since that day your faith only grows, and you notice others have much more woes. Wow, you have penned a very thoughtful piece, and thanks for sharing this day where the skies cross through inner eyes. Love this inspirational piece. Much love, Timothy~


  • amaranthine lover gold member
    June 17, 2007
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    interesting....hmmmm

  • Napoet
    June 16, 2007
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    A Gift

    This is a truly though provoking write!!! The fact that it actually happened, makes it that much more powerful. How often we count our sorrows, only to be shamed by one with so much less....there is a great lesson here...and you have expressed it to perfection!
    Great job Whoochi.

    Martin


  • MorphineHypnotic
    June 16, 2007
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    Genius

    I can out myself there
    this is simply beautiful because it tells a story of a homeless man
    happy with what he has
    He seems to be proud of that
    I think that we all have small reality checks like this, but you were able to make a small masterpiece out of yours, well done


  • Quiet places
    June 16, 2007

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    Outstanding

    Well deserved of a Gold trophy!!! You and Bedroom Eyes have put together a masterpiece in it's prime!! This is one of the most heartwarming poems I've read in a long time!! I also am a vet and have dealt with the feelings of confusion That only our Lord can ease. Love your poem and your experience with this vet!! There are angels of mercy that guide us to the ways of the Lord! Who knows! Your poem and experience are good news to us all!! Thank you for sharing them both my dear!! Love ya for it, Don


  • Endeavor gold member
    June 14, 2007

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    Excellent x2

    I applaud these words, more for the thought than for the creation of the words in verse. For years I fought my way thru my own memories. I was blessed to have excaped and lived well and almost free of damage. I know many that never left the war, and are sloted in time. You are blessed to see so well into his wisdome and pain. Love this verse, for very personel reasons.

    Rick


  • billpoet silver member
    June 14, 2007

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    I can relate - well done

    "Money is the least important factor in the measurement of the value of a human being" - bc 6-10-07 I have a poem you might enjoy: THE DAY JESUS MET SANTA. best wishes, billpoet on Allpoetry


  • Amera gold member
    June 14, 2007
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    I don’t know how I missed this. I’m so mad at you. Why didn’t you link me to this? I had to see it in the Featured poems list. Don’t you ever write something this good and forget about me. Julez, this is the best poem you have ever written. It’s wonderful, I love it and I love you.

    Love,
    Amera ♥


  • GoodKnightPoet
    June 14, 2007

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    Geat poem. You did a fantastic job. There's nothing better than a real experience. I agree with you we never know when God will show himself.


  • JeannieD Hunter gold member
    June 14, 2007
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    Wow!! Yeah I agree that this is absolutely awesome. What a wonderful experience. Definitely a thought provoking and eye opening event. Well written. Congratulations on the shinys, very deserving of even more. Thanks for sharing this message.

    Jeannie


  • babygirl2582 silver member
    June 14, 2007

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    wow

    beautiful write....S.P.E.E.C.H.L.E.S.

    I'm glad you still pray for him. I will pray for him as well this moved me to tears. Wonderful poem!!


  • shadowfox92
    June 14, 2007

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    amazing

    that was a very wonderful piece...greatly written...I hope you continue to write pieces such as this one for it is a very good example to those who are still working on their talents and it softens up the heart to read about a homeless man knowing that there's always someone worse off than your self and we should each try to take care of one another and tust in the creator of all....keep up the great work..
    your friend,
    ace ♠


  • amaranthine lover gold member
    June 14, 2007

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    extremely well written piece
    nicely illustrated
    really draws me in
    and I grasp the entity of it
    you had a great sense of imagery
    and language in here
    beautiful poem
    I really like it
    keep writing

  • mcheadle
    June 12, 2007

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    We think we have problems

    They haveonly what they can carry with them. They are lucky to have that for sometake from each other. Many who have will try and take what little they have.
    It is a sad world we live in.


  • ScaldingSilence
    June 12, 2007

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    Incredible

    I actually have to congratulate you on writting the feelings I too had with a similar experience. I must say you put it into better words then I would have. It is so remarkable how someone with so little can mean so much to us all. Just goes to show you there are miracles in every day situations.


  • Luna Tique Fringe
    June 12, 2007

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    This is absolutely the best piece I've read in a long time. I love the way you have written this...straight out simple words. I think that works best for a suject such as this. Well done, my friend. The story itself is very uplifting, and it just illustrates, whatever your personal views or beliefs are, that we are not alone...and the face of the Creator can take on many guises. Thank you for sharing this wonderful story.


  • cherche -d -ame
    June 12, 2007

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    it is only that we really "see" when we look past the obvious [in this case the way the man was dressed and his overall appearance]. But you chose to ignore that and look past it and then it was that you saw his humanity , his heart and his soul and you left yourself opened enough to be touched by it ans also to learn from it. It is not the guy that drives by in the Ferrari to impress with a brain as empty as probably his gas tank but the one who needs nothing to impress that is always the hero in my book. Great job,
    reenie


  • WolfAngel
    June 12, 2007

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    This is so very sad in one way but not so in another way, reminds me of something that happened to me. I'm glad you still pray for him. Wonderful poem!!


  • kkatie55
    June 12, 2007

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    great write

    you captured homelessness to the tee...my friend lives homeless...he reads the bible to people as his calling he knows it inside out...streets are his pillow ofun spoken hates,so he lives dangerous trying to preach the book of love...but any how i see why you recieved the gold...and happy weiting bless you...peace katie


  • blueyez
    June 12, 2007

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    I have seen many many homeless living in az. My mother was actually homeless for about two years prior to her death (by choice). This write brought tears to my eyes to remember all the pain that got her to that point. Most homeless people choose to be this way for whatever their reasons. This was a wonderfully heartfelt write. Peace and Love


  • The Fallen Phoenix
    June 12, 2007

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    this is so vivid. Maybe it was God. You are a very, very lucky person if it was. And you are even if it wasn't


  • Da-Lyricologist
    June 12, 2007

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    Wow,. you impress me

    That's more like it that's what i am taking about. Wonderfully penned. This is full of emotion passion and a bit of saddness keep on writing


  • Silence of Finality gold member
    June 12, 2007

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    I am typing through tears as I read this. I used to work at a state detox facility and the majority of our recipients were homeless men, like you describe. I had learned so much from them. They were so grateful for showers, haircuts, band aids... They look so nice all cleaned up, sober, at night, in front of the tv, just like a little family commenting on the news with such sympathy and empathy for others, I would look over the group of them, and fight back tears... They always were sooo helpful to me and always had so much compassion for everyone else. You truly did see that man's heart and I know because I've seen the same...


  • Debbysmiles gold member
    June 12, 2007

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    This definitely was and is a life changer. Beautifully written and yes, that man is wise. Being at peace in whatever state we are in is a gift.. to say the least. This is a well written piece. You touched my heart. Blessings. Debby

  • Liquid memories
    June 12, 2007

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    we do have many experiences in life that change us where we are never the same.if its for the better, bless you and enjoy and become that better person. Thanks for sharing.


  • PerVirtuous
    June 12, 2007
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    Holy Moly! Three bunnies for this masterpiece.


  • Swan song gold member
    May 14, 2007
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    Thise is a story with a lot of meaning. Narrative in style. It is heartsick and proud at the same time.
    When you read this it does convey the message to count your blessings. The effect will create more gifts in your life. Look for them poetically.


  • xxRainbowDawnxx
    May 12, 2007

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    Sad but very inspirational if you ask me... Sometimes we have to learn from others difficulties to actually know not to go down that line oneself, or at least that is how I look at things.

  • Mercury Rising
    May 11, 2007
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    Exceptional

    This poem is just simply wonderful. So touching and poignant and human, and obviously written straight from the heart. Congratulations on winning the coveted golden goblet- because you certainly deserved it and more. A real treasure.

    David Michaels


  • Bas
    April 12, 2007

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    thid thing happens everyday across this land of ours , as we look at someones appearance we try not t osay anything by the way we look but we know deep down we wish we could help them not knowing that they could be helping us in other ways that we don't even know about ourselves , people come in all walks , ways and fasions of life so lets not judge them without even knowing them or we could be in for a big surprise


  • Jimfre Talbent
    April 7, 2007

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    Sometimes the best praise is the least praise. When a poem makes you pause, digest it, and read it again, you know it is excellent. The fact that I read this three times is a testament to its complexity and fabulous nature. BRAVA!


  • Bazza
    March 27, 2007

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    Words of Wisdom.

    A wonderfully beutiful sincere painting of someone who made you see beyond the tinsel and bright lights. You saw truth and wisdom and love..... pure love of one many for his fellow men. Your perception of him and his ideals were vividly and dramatically catured and those few moments in time are being spread all over the site through your faith, words and love so you can be proud of this poem and its' message. Maybe it was God, maybe not, but there is God in all of us, so you were lucky and priviledged to see. Great work and wonderful inspiration.
    Bazza (Barry)


  • Sacrificial Love
    March 20, 2007
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    Oh my goodness....

    this is so beautiful and touching...

    I cry tears as I read this... so very deserving of the Gold trophy it was awarded...

    I'm so very touched by the words you found to convey your experience...

    Great write.

    Heidi


  • Bedroom Eyes
    March 18, 2007

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    I'm soooooo happy to see this work of art won some recognition. It's message is powerful and deserved to be seen as the masterpiece that it is. Congratulations on your first gold trophy Julie!


  • KenjiStar81
    March 18, 2007

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    This was awe inspiring write.. I was deeply moved and I could visulize it so well as if I was there myself.. Congrate on winning the gold..


  • Sandygram silver member
    March 18, 2007
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    Wonderful Poem

    CONGRATULATIONS on winning the Gold!!!! Great poem. Deserved to win. You take care, Sandy


  • Maya Lyubenova
    March 17, 2007
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    Conglatulations for the trophy!
    Very powerful and thought provoking!


  • mysticstorm gold member
    March 17, 2007

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    This is so strong and beautiful. You did a wonderful job, with imagery that would stick in anyones head. I have some friends from a small homeless camp, that I spend time with and bring them in when the weather is bad. They are amazing and the stories they have to tell are deep and moving. They do not want my help, they do not want pity, they want to be understood and respected for who they are, not what they have not. Most have lived a life time, given all they had and we let them down. They do not hold resentment and ask for little. They are unsung heroes and you told it from the heart.
    I have met Gods Angels, this I know is true and thanks to them I have helped many others.
    I can not tell you how wonderful this is or what a pleasure it was to read today.
    Thank you and God Bless!
    Excellent work!!!


  • Floorboards
    March 17, 2007

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    i absolutely love this, it's fantastic.normally i would have got bored half way through a poem this length, not this time though,
    very well done indeed,
    floorboards.


  • mattharris
    February 22, 2007

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    "a true reminder of my faith"

    I like how you describe the setting in your story with your first two lines: "as the moon was fading in the sky / but before the sun appeared." This scene adds richness to your poem. As I read your poem, it felt like I was right there watching this Homeless Wise Man. I wonder if God might put homeless or disabled people in our paths sometimes for a test. If He does, it sounds like you passed the test and walked away with a very fulfilling experience. Thanks for sharing! mattharris


  • JeannieD Hunter gold member
    February 19, 2007
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    This is such a beautiful and incredible experience that you had. It really was a message from God, that you have now passed along to us. How awesome and amazing. Thanks so much for sharing.

    Jeannie


  • aslanlight
    February 8, 2007

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    Tears in my eyes

    This raises such emotions in me. Yesterday I was talking to a 17 yr old homeless girl who was sitting in a doorway with her dog and a blanket over her. She told me that her mum was into heroin and her dad was an alcoholic. They left her and her brothers, just went one day and so Naomi's ended up on the streets. She was full of hope, telling me how she hopes to work with horses. Her face was calm, peaceful and smiling. She thanked me but maybe she gave me more!

    Thanks for this poem, I won't forget it, in fact I'll treasure the memory of it.

    Love, light & peace

    Georgia


  • Princessdove
    February 3, 2007
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    Excellent poem. I loved it. Keep up the good work.


    • Whoochi gold member
      February 4, 2007
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      TYVM for your comments..I do appreciate them...


    • Whoochi gold member
      February 3, 2007
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      Thank you Princess...for the luvly comments. This poem even though only my second write will always have a special place in my heart & soul..this man changed me in ways that I am not even aware of yet....


  • Inside and out
    February 1, 2007

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    I really enjoyed this poem. Your story was told in a very effective way. It flowed with such ease and expressed wonderful thoughts and emotions. A great poem with a very important message. Well done dear poet.


  • soulfultia gold member
    February 1, 2007

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    Beautiful

    You took me on a journey into a story from your heart. It provokes thought and imagery as I too have seen the homeless in silence speak volumes. I think you captured a unique essence in your write and carried it off with a smooth pursuit of thought. Excellent work, beautifully executed. *grin8 ~Tia


  • grannyeri gold member
    January 31, 2007

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    Very emotional and hearfelt poem you have penned here - how well expressed these sentiments are. Easy to read and understand. You have done an awesome job with this one - very straightforward - just as it was. You leave us with a feeling taht we too can help. We have no need to judge others, just ourselves!


  • astralshepherd gold member
    January 31, 2007

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    An interesting and involved poem with so much compassion and care. The depth is first rate, your content - the same...the language is engaging. But of all that, I am impressed with your attempt with imagery and it is obvious you are meant to write. A tiny suggestion - it might help the readability level if you had some stanza breaks...for old eyes like mine. Blessings and best wishes, ~richard

    p.s. post more poems!


  • Sandygram silver member
    January 31, 2007

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    BEAUTIFUL AND HEARTFELT

    You poem was very touching. It reminds me of all our military sacrifices for their country and they wind up homeless and with so many problems. We should do all we can for them, if not for them we would not be in our warm beds in our free country. Thanks so much for writing this. Wonderful and so heartfelt!!! Take care. God Bless you and God Bless our troops and all veterens. Sandy

    • Whoochi gold member
      January 31, 2007
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      Thanks Sandy, I could not agree with you more....Have a great day!


  • WinE-reDpuddles
    January 30, 2007
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    oh wow. this is just ..... so....... beautiful.its amazing how the eyes can say all that. and i believe every word! eyes speak far more truth than the mouth. weldone. this was wonderful i enjoyed every word.


    • Whoochi gold member
      January 30, 2007

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      Ty for your luvly comments on both of my Virgin pieces...lol...amazing how the words just flow out sometime....and I know how ya feel...maybe we can peer over these "walls" together....


  • aliceramone
    January 29, 2007
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    very good write...there but for the grace of God go I...good flow as you told a very compelling story,thank u and keep writing...you go girl


  • Adam Straker
    January 29, 2007

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    You start at box number one, tick everyone thereafter, and even find some new ones.
    The scene is set beautifully, in that magical time between the two great spheres' tenure upon the earth.
    You conjure a vivid scene with a simple recipe,and time does stand still, then tear it all down with the honking of the car behind, but these spectoral visions haunt us all, and one recognises something in someone they will never speak to, but seem to appear just when one finds one's self a little short on perspective.
    Not only is this a poem, it's a story, and a well written one at that to create such a clear picture of events from start to finish. I don't think the poem could be improved at all, it was written to articulate a specific event, and any subsequent alterations would destroy that all important honesty, good work for trusting in the moment and giving us the words to trust in it too!


  • Tadriandurfee
    January 29, 2007

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    Beautiful!

    Oh wow! I definately think this was worth waiting for Gal! Good Write. This is the kind of work that earns one the title Poet...POET! Please, do yourself and us the favor of continuing to write!! Thank you! You take care. Tom


    • Whoochi gold member
      January 29, 2007
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      Tadriandurfree

      Thanks...coming from you....well an honor that i do NOT feel worthy of just yet....give me time...maybe I will get there.

  • afireinthisheart
    January 29, 2007

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    I can relate to this write

    I have befriended many a Viet Nam vet, for I am also one myself...I have seen the misery they go through...why they are in the state they're in...for we come from an era that we were rejected, and unjustly profiled...for we "lost" a war...we have a new legion of vets today...fighting in places where we don't belong...they must not be forgotten or rejected, or history will repeat itself once again...awesome write...for you'll learn wisdom from those least expected...smile....David


  • honey bear
    January 29, 2007

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    nice to see you posting another write my friend great work with this one,now you have shown us all you can do it we shall be expecting more writes from you keep up the good work and thank you for sharing this with us

    • Whoochi gold member
      January 29, 2007
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      Thanks Honey...this was true to my heart


  • cherche -d -ame
    January 29, 2007
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    It is always good to see a write about the sorrows of someone else as compared to the many that just are about 'self". So many of us need to see that most of us are fortunate compared to so many others, and especially the vets that are from the Vietnam war. What a raw deal they got and this country should be ashamed and embarrassed in front of the world. The saddest part is that this will happen all over again with a new generation. Some Veterans Hospitals that now have severely injured soldiers from this war in Afghanistan and Iraq....the soldiers do not even have toothbrushes nor any personal hygiene items, much less paper to write letters on. I know, because I have visited a hospital in our area. And in a few years , a lot of them will be homeless on the street. Once they were willing to give their lives for this country. What does this country give them back for limbs lost?So sad and you did a good job bringing this situation to these pages,
    reenie


    • Whoochi gold member
      January 29, 2007
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      Thanks reenie..and yes it is ashame, what we have done and more so, not done for our service men & women...this was truly an eye opening experience that happened....


  • Snappy - Doodles
    January 28, 2007

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    This is truly a unique and superb poem. It has lots of quality and character to it. Your language and tone is very pleasant. This poem is inspiring, heartfelt, and conveys a solid piece of work. The message and presentation are marvelous. This is a truly poetic piece. It is mind provoking and a splendid write. Thank you for sharing this most touching write. I have worked with the homeless population and their are some really sad stories out here. They come from all walks of life. What makes it sad is that the numbers are growing instead of decreasing. It's a shame really.

    ~Snappy


  • Barely Breathing gold member
    January 28, 2007

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    Outstanding write. You have managed to put this into words so well. And the way that you have described him was excellent. I had such a clear picture in my head. And I find it amazing that these true happenings can awake something inside of us, as if they were meant to happen to us, to awaken some part of us that may have been blind or sleeping. Great write.


  • pattyann4500
    January 28, 2007

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    Beautifully written!

    This piece gives hope where there is none, and it's beautiful to hear such words. It is written in excellent flow, but the most wonderful thing about this is that it puts charity in its rightful place.

    With our homeless vets, many are angry and rightfully so, but there are others who don't feel the anger. They truly are at peace with themselves. And God appears in the form of others, and I believe that. There are angels among us, otherwise, I'd have had a much rougher life than I did. My angel works overtime.

    I'm bookmarking this. It's just too beautiful to lose. Hugs, Patricia


    • Whoochi gold member
      January 29, 2007
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      Thanks PattyAnn, I will neverforget this experience....I am thankful that God put this man in my life at exactly the right time...Never ceases to amaze me....


  • Shadow Lynx
    January 28, 2007
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    Sadness and wisdom combined in a beautifully written poem,this is very good whoochie,an interesting tale right the way through with alovely ending.it contained a message of love to all others which was sweetly written.I enjoyed reading very much

    • Whoochi gold member
      January 29, 2007
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      Thanks to my mentor from "across the pond" Am glad you enjoyed.....


  • Jeb
    January 28, 2007

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    Awesome!

    This was very moving. It shows your awesome talent for writing incredible poetry. The strength and power of this poem had me captivated from begining to end! I myself am an atheist, but I do believe there are powers beyond our normal comprhension. Incredible write! Keep it up!


  • Floorboards
    January 28, 2007
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    amazing

    this, my friend, is a superb piece if writing.a very very clever and insightful piece, filled full of love and understanding, i really enjoyed this, have more faith in yourself! and keep on writing!
    kind regards,
    floorboards.


  • April Renee
    January 28, 2007

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    really nice experience...though packaged within a ton of sadness. nice job with writing this. thanks for sharing. enjoyed.

    blu


  • DJ Harley silver member
    January 28, 2007

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    oh whoochi i can relate to this oh so very much, i used to be that homeless person, you want to read my poem the bitter homecoming, of what i went thru coming back from a war. this is a very sad and hit home for me poem. It making me reflick back when i was homeless, and i felt nobody cared at all
    wonderful write

    your brother John


  • Bedroom Eyes
    January 28, 2007
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    Julie...

    This is ALL you. Your thoughts, feelings, love and very essense are within these words. Thank you for sharing these thoughts with me, then with everyone here. This is moving in every sense of the word.

    Beautifully done Princess
    Love & hugs & kisses


  • mitimse
    January 28, 2007

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    you have captured more than you know---it is experiences such as this that truly do change peoples hearts--I know because I'm one of those you might have seen on the corner
    Joe


  • Soulful Woman silver member
    January 28, 2007

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    This was an incredible piece. How wonderful to have an experience like this in your life. What inspiration, blessings and love this write showed. I have had similiar experiences happen to me and it just gives you such an affirmatin of the mighty powers of God.
    Thank you so much for this beautiful work.
    Soulful Woman

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