a poem in my pocket

As angels illuminated this holy night,
we light a wreath of candles flickering bright.

Winter moon in velvet sky sheds softer glow
and white lights twinkle on pine branches in snow

Carolers, who sing under lamp post’s glare,
will gather near fire’s hearth with stories to share.

Joyful tears in sinners’ eyes shine when we hear
that peace with God is possible, conscience clear

Each window reflects a star pointing the way,
let us celebrate the Light of the World today!

(I’ve updated this poem to recite for our church service of Lessons & Carols)

by wind and camel’s hair caressed
a loud voice cries in wilderness
to homeless hearts

what did you come out to see?
crowded with expectancy
in restless desert

wonder how honey-dipped locusts taste?
wonder how to survive in this place?
ask shameless questions

watch and wait on wet line in sand
listen to ranting of wild man
young fearless prophet

the word calls hearers to repent
prepare the way by spirit sent
for helpless sinners

stand on brink of riverbank steep
wade out to where the water’s deep
hold breathless moment

messiah is here! raise your eyes
in holy sandals (yet untied)
steps our boundless hope

Linking to Laura Bloombury’s poetics on “less is more” at dVerse poets pub…

Carpe Diem Haiku Kai’s tan renga challenge to add 2 lines to this classic haiku…

old pond
a frog jumps in
sound of water

© Basho (Tr. Chèvrefeuille)

hear ker-ploosh of Basho’s frog

… haiku kai ripples outward

© lynn__

A memorial haibun on theme of gratitude for dVerse poets pub…

I keep precious photos and letters. They were in love. Mommy, a happy socialite, married handsome Navy pilot. Small town girl found fun living in big city. We shared a Valentine birthday. She doted on me, her firstborn. Our bond was tight but unraveled when asthma flared with another pregnancy and took her life’s breath. I wore her lace wedding dress and ring.

I hold dear memories and momentos. We needed love. Mom, a quiet beauty, married indebted widower. Farm girl (from same small town) found work in big city. We shared Daddy’s heart. She accepted me as her first child. Nightmares and tantrums threatened to unravel us but she patiently parented until we grew into love’s tight bond. She gave me the best brother and education.

My heart swells with gratitude for each mother’s unique and vital influence on my life. I carry both of them in my heart and thank God for graciously gifting me (twice) with a mother’s love!

lone tree uprooted

memories of former days

wood warms us by fire