North Country

an ice carved land
between the lakes
from windswept beach
to ancient hills

adorned with pine
and pictured rock
where autumn shines
on crystal streams

a land of moose
and howling wolves
lashed by gales
and winter snow

a cool retreat
from summer's sun
this wild domain
of green and gray

Parents

a life bestowed
a gift of joy
advice received
approval sought

and then in time
their rules despised
our trust is lost
our faith betrayed

but later still
their wisdom clear
when we ourselves
have young to raise

and in the end
their traits assumed
for we are they
and they now us

Junior

named with pride
this cherished son
a symbol drawn
a curse bestowed

for others see
a likeness there
illusion born
of titles made

and in response
resentment grows
of selfish pride
and freedom lost

August

the sultry air
refreshing pool
fear expressed
a promise made

so little known
so much ahead
that august heat
will never fade

White Stones

they catch our eye in every town
on country roads and city lanes
most adorn a stately lawn
others grace a peaceful shade

metal gates protect these stones
each of measured size and shape
some reflect the glow of dusk
and some the rosy light of dawn

in silent waves they stand erect
symbols of the young and brave
inscribed with names and vital dates
that fade as endless seasons pass

a pleasant scene in blocks of white
those even lines above the graves
but will the quarries yield enough
for all the youth we send to die