The Lost Art of Poetry

In today's society, it is rare to find individuals who enjoy poetry.  It is a shame that such a wonderfully creative, beautiful, and therapeutic art has become "lame" in the eyes of younger generations.  I have always had an affinity for poetry.  I began writing poetry in my journal as a child, encouraged by my poet father.  Over the years, I have composed many poems, usually in response to an emotional personal experience.  So, to begin this blog, I've decided to open with one of those poems...one inspired by my father.

Altar At Arlington 
Fresh from combat
my father kneels,
head bowed,
grass and earth 
supporting his
tired bones.


He blesses himself
at this
sacred place.


Lifting his head,
he whispers,
to the tombstone...
asking
where he's been--
certain of a presence
that protected him.


The answer,
a familiar aroma...
not frankincense and myrrh
but Oldspice
and love.


Emotion overwhelms
him--
chalices of tears
that christen 
this union
upon the altar
of his
father.