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

The Lamp

I see it still
as if today
the turning shade
the rising flames

the running deer
and colors bright
a scene of fear
that held my gaze

a gentle buzz
arose within
as fire danced
before my eyes