Paula is a self-proclaimed “accidental poet.”
In December 2010, she began writing for her blog “echoes from the silence” with no clear direction as to the nature of her writing. She was as surprised as anyone when her words began to take the shape of poetry.
Finding prompt sites like Poetic Bloomings has provided the inspiration and support she was looking for to keep going–including a recent foray into flash fiction.
A transplant to South Texas (from Iowa by way of Chicago), her favorite flower blankets the hills and prairies every spring and is the state flower: Texas Bluebonnet. It is proof that the rain that falls can bring beauty to rocky, dry land.
Paula’s WEB WEDNESDAY INTERVIEW 7/20/2011
Paula’s words can be found in her echoes at: http://whenwordsescape.wordpress.com
© All postings and intellectual materials on this page are property of Paula Wanken.
February 18th, 2012 at 9:47 AM
a seed once hidden
now planted, being nurtured
and watered daily
2011-05-01
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #1 – It Starts With A Seed
February 18th, 2012 at 9:52 AM
MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE…ONCE FULL
a river of tears released
into his handkerchief, his tiny initials
embroidered in its corner
she breathes in deeply
as the evaporation of the mist
makes the water visible before her
grief supersedes reason,
she reads her words one last time
before she slides them into the bottle:
this bottle, once full,
serves as a reminder
of how empty my life is without you
your words, you used
to knead my wounded soul,
no longer echo in this world
your touch, you used
to melt away my fears,
is no longer felt in this world
your love, you gave
to cleanse my picture of self,
is no longer given in this world
this bottle, now filled with my words,
serves as a reminder
that my life can be full once more
with a final whisper of goodbye
she watches as water and seaweed
tug at her words…and her heart
2011-05-08
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #2 – Rhythm of the Falling Rain (Water)
February 18th, 2012 at 9:53 AM
NOT FOR NO REASON
with each new loss
I ask the question why?
most times,
I’m not to understand
the reason
yet
sometimes I’m given
a sliver of a glimpse
just enough
to no longer need
the reason
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #3 – From Our Fertile Muses
February 18th, 2012 at 9:54 AM
LOVE RESTORED
Estranged
relationship.
The distance
continued to grow
between two who are family;
it was meant to be better than this.
In prayer, she took the first step toward bridging the gap between them.
The process was long and not easy, but
resulted in twelve years they
wouldn’t have had.
Better late
than
never
.
2011-05-23
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #4 – Fruits of our Labors
February 18th, 2012 at 9:55 AM
WHAT LIES BENEATH
a gift beyond comparison
to discover
what has always been there
hidden
waiting to be found
little by little the façade is loosed
the masterpiece revealed
patient
is the Giver of such gifts
2011-05-30
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #5 – photo prompt: Eye of the Beholder
February 18th, 2012 at 9:57 AM
THE COLORS OF MY DAY
Black.
The inky darkness
that envelopes me.
Gray.
The dreary cloud
that covers my days.
Blue.
My eyes, like pools of water,
filled with tears.
Red.
My nose,
sore from blowing.
Green.
The color I see
on the other side of the fence.
Purple.
The bruise that is
my broken heart.
Yellow.
The brilliance of the sun
that I trust will shine on my world once more.
2011-06-07
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #6 – Refracted Hues
* chosen as Walt’s “Bloom” of the week
February 18th, 2012 at 9:58 AM
CATCHING UP
Plans and dreams unmet, our future slipping through my fingers.
A brick wall, when viewed differently, could really be the next step.
I welcome God’s words: “For I know the plans I have for you…”
2011-06-17
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #7 – Playing Favorites
and for “In-Form” Poet: Sijo
February 18th, 2012 at 9:59 AM
ESCAPING REALITY
I am aware of the door closing
sleep, pulling at my mind
drool forms, unable to resist my pillow
morning will come soon enough
for now
I will rebel against reason
allowing my dream fairy
to take over
whisking me away
to a foreign land
where heretics preach before pyramids
or a shopping center
with a pocket full of cash
or a four-star hotel
where the concierge hands me a mysterious package
yes
sleep overtakes me
morning will come soon enough
and I will wake to the reality
of the aluminum cot
on which I sleep
2011-06-19
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #8 – Never A Cross Word
February 18th, 2012 at 10:00 AM
BEAM ME UP!
gravity
is
not all that great
life down here
can
be quite a drag
let me see
life
from your view point
beam me up
to
your tin can please
2011-06-27
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #9 – Deep Space Nine
February 18th, 2012 at 10:03 AM
BETWEEN THE LINES
Every day
filled with reminders of love shared.
…he taught me it was OK to love.
I look in the mirror first thing in the morning:
and hear his voice telling me I am radiant.
…something I hadn’t seen before, but now believe.
My phone buzzes with a text message in the middle of the day:
I expect to see his name as the sender.
…he taught me I deserved the attention.
I gaze at the moon:
and travel back in my mind to countless midnight calls.
…we talked about everything; he taught me it was safe…to hold nothing back.
I gave him my heart. And he took it.
And he gave me his.
…but…he taught me things change.
I must move on, he said. Even though he still loves me, he said.
And so, I must. But…there’s just one hitch:
…when will I fall out of love?
Until then, I go through the motions
day after day: working, eating, sleeping…
…afraid someone will read between the lines and see my tears.
2011-07-03
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #10 – A Friend Indeed
February 18th, 2012 at 10:05 AM
THE PRODIGAL’S POEM
A
whim,
twisted logic,
and galloping off
into the world I flee,
unable to resist, thoughts filled with lies; until:
“then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free”
fluttered into my memory, as if by instinct.
My mind begins to buzz
and a river
of love
floods
me.
2011-07-10
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #11 – Phoenix Rising
February 18th, 2012 at 10:09 AM
POETIC LOVE STORY
the magic of early love
and hope of love eternal,
the inspiration behind
his words penned for me:
Radiance and Light
inside of me there is the singularity of a beacon
it is you flashing in brilliance and attraction
your radiance created to absorb me wholly
both drawing me near and warning me of shoals beneath
and like never before am I bathed in the light of safety
the flood of security
and acceptance of his love
inspired my first poem ~
my response to him:
Steady and Strong
storms have surrounded me
unknowingly leaving me adrift
another one has weathered other storms
unknowingly being readied for service
steady and strong, you have been found
and like never before I am enveloped in safety
sadness from a broken heart,
and tears shed in solitude,
now the inspiration of
poetic love lost.
2011-07-13
P. Wanken
Written for “In-Form” Poet: Dodoitsu
February 18th, 2012 at 10:11 AM
BLTs
Fresh garden
greens,
red tomatoes
and
sometimes pets
end
up as bacon;
that’s
the golden
way
of farm living.
2011-07-18
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #12 – Animal, Vegetable or Mineral
February 18th, 2012 at 10:22 AM
IN MY HEAD
In my head I paint a picture
Of life’s goals as taught to me:
Love, marriage and kids,
A happy home and family.
Instead, the canvas of life
Has rendered naught, for me.
In my head I paint a picture
Of the way things ought to be:
Freedom and justice,
peace and harmony.
Instead, the canvas of life
Has seen wars fought, to free.
In my head I paint a picture
So different than reality.
2011-07-25
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #13 – Go For The Gold
February 18th, 2012 at 10:31 AM
A-HA!
He
glanced my
direction.
He drew me in;
charmed me with banter
as I fumbled my words.
His confidence, alluring.
My shyness mesmerized him too.
Our opposing styles were attractive.
Unfortunately it wasn’t enough.
2011-07-27
P. Wanken
Written for “In-Form” Poet: Etheree
February 18th, 2012 at 10:42 AM
IF I ONLY HAD…
There’s something quite important
I really need to do.
It’s not exactly clear to me
yet it’s not outta the blue.
This morning I remembered
until soon I then forgot.
What was so important
that had me lost in thought?
Later it nearly came to me
though not quite, a sort of hunch.
Was it the menu I was planning
for guests today at lunch?
And now as my day closes,
bathwater goes down the drain.
Perhaps tomorrow I’ll remember,
if I only had a brain.
2011-08-01
P. Wanken
FOUND…AND LOST
I didn’t know I was lost
until the day I realized
I had been found
I didn’t see you coming
one day I looked up
and you were there
I didn’t know I could feel
such fullness of joy
‘til after I met you
I didn’t know true love
until the day
you uttered those words
I didn’t see it coming
one day I looked up
and you weren’t there
I didn’t know pain ‘til now;
I am
lost.
2011-08-01
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #14 – Lost and Found
February 18th, 2012 at 10:43 AM
BENCHWARMERS
each morning
they strolled hand-in-hand
stopping to rest here
some days
they sat in silence
not needing to say a word
other days
they reminisced
about the life
they had shared
one day
they stopped coming
2011-08-07
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #15 – photo prompt: View From a Park Bench
February 18th, 2012 at 10:53 AM
LET THE SCHOOL SHOPPING COMMENCE
Again it’s that time of year,
when summer draws to an end.
It is time to shop; to spend.
The ritual is now here,
I will shop for brand new shoes,
for paper, pencils, and glue.
Yet I get looks of “poor dear”
as I wander through the aisles
picking through the stacks and piles.
For years it was very clear,
school shopping is a “must do.”
So…what makes it now taboo?
No kids. But good sales make sense!
2011-08-10
P. Wanken
Written for “In-Form” Poet: Poesia di Tema
February 18th, 2012 at 7:51 PM
LONG HOT SUMMER
record heat
a long, hot summer
calls for desperate measures
antsy 5-year-old boys
mom at wits’ end
sends them in search of treasures
the trio of boys
head for their bikes
superheroes minus their capes
TV is muted
apartment is empty
viable for a mental escape
moments later
glancing out the door
first a gasp and then a smile
her three boys
identical
rode along in single file
summer heat
was to blame
for what they decided to wear:
helmets on heads
pads on knees and elbows
and favorite superhero underwear
2011-08-17
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #16 – Playing Favorites #2
February 18th, 2012 at 7:52 PM
CHANGE (an acrostic)
C ontinually
H aving to
A djust
N ever
G ets
E asier
2011-08-22
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #17 – Ch-Ch-Ch-Change
February 18th, 2012 at 7:53 PM
CELESTIAL MAGIC
Across the water, blue
Splashes of amber
Melt to a different hue
As the sun settles there
He remembers its shine
On her face, her hair
Across the water, blue
The nightlight rises
On time, on cue
In moonbeams bright
She remembers the sparkle
Of his eyes in the light
Defying the odds of the celestial
Their orbits once paired
As something quite magical
Yet like the sun follows the moon
Their paths cannot cross
Neither at midnight, nor noon
2011-08-29
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #18 – There’s a Moon Out Tonight
February 18th, 2012 at 7:55 PM
AGGRESSIVE REALIGNMENT
it’s simple, really
no longer standing with hands in my pockets
watching the world pass me by, bold moves
sent me roaring down my own path
not recognizing unfamiliar territory
as anything but building a new future
until a sudden jolt of truth cuts like a knife
His urgent call came to me
deserving the dignity of a response:
I must now scrape away everything
that doesn’t belong to His design
and realign my path with His
it’s simple, really
2011-09-11
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #19 – Title and Deed
February 18th, 2012 at 7:57 PM
on the shore of dreams ~
anticipating ripples
their lives will create
2011-09-11
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #20 – photo prompt: Wishful, Young Dreamers
* chosen as Marie Elena’s “Bloom” of the week
February 18th, 2012 at 7:58 PM
A-MUSING SURPRISES
the blank screen glows opalescent
not an omen of silence; a mirror
for thoughts yearning to be written
strengthened by raw emotion
her muse runs through the corridors
of her mind, threading words together
with vigor and verve
fingertips begin their poetic dance
words are thrust onto the page
taking a deep breath, exhaling slowly…
a sheepish grin reveals her surprise
at what had been hidden inside
2011-09-18
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #21 – 1…2…3…SURPRISE!
February 18th, 2012 at 7:59 PM
MEMORIES UNKNOWN
Whose is this? I ask.
My great-grandfather’s?
I did not know my parents, let alone
those who came before them.
What’s in it? I ask.
A box of trinkets.
Memories of those
whose names I’ve never known.
Will it change me? I ask.
These bits of my past
are my only connection
to people whose blood I share.
Must I look? I ask.
No. I decide.
They will remain
memories unknown.
2011-09-30
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #22 – Developing Story
February 18th, 2012 at 8:00 PM
A Get-Well Haiku for Walt
even the best land
must lie fallow for a while
to keep producing
2011-10-04
P. Wanken
February 18th, 2012 at 8:01 PM
AS MY MIND WANDERS…
I read the headlines
but not the words
I hear the music
but not the song
I hear the laughter
but not the joke
it takes more energy
than this lonely, broken heart can spare
2011-10-05
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #23 – Wither Goest Thou…a six-word prompt
February 18th, 2012 at 8:38 PM
THE RISE AND FALL
There once was a lady by the lake
For special occasions she’d offer to bake
Her soda was old
And oven too cold
Which left her with a very flat cake.
2011-10-10
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #24 – Rise and Fall
February 18th, 2012 at 8:39 PM
REAPING A HARVEST
Into the garden He planted
Man and Woman
With one rule to follow
One tree to avoid
The choice was theirs
And is still ours
To love One with obedience
Or to love self more
The first chose the latter
Reaping a harvest of pain and suffering
But to choose the former
We reap the Spirit’s sweet fruit
2011-10-17
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #25 – Reaping a Harvest
February 18th, 2012 at 8:41 PM
CONTRARY MIND
spinning
spiraling
down, down, down
into the depths of darkness
my mind tells me
I am beyond hope
nothing can help
I should be able to manage
on my own
I do not need that little pill
at the bottom
I resign
spinning
spiraling
onward and upward
into another blue sky day
my mind tells me
I am just fine
I don’t need any help
I can manage
on my own
I don’t need that little pill
at the top
I resist
spinning
spiraling
down
down
down
again
2011-10-25
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #26 – Life’s A Little Weird
* chosen as Walt’s “Bloom” of the week
February 18th, 2012 at 9:03 PM
UNEXPECTED LIFE
(a shadorma)
I had been
a caterpillar
until the
day I died.
Which was really the birth of
me: a butterfly.
2011-11-04
P. Wanken
Written for “In-Form” Poet: Shadorma
February 18th, 2012 at 9:04 PM
REBIRTH
it happened in an instance
though it was a lifetime in the making
a year ago today, a poem was written
and a writer was born
2011-10-27
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #27 – The Week That Was
February 18th, 2012 at 9:06 PM
A WALK IN THE PARK
awake in the night
decided to read email
unexpected news
my face drained pale
several hours
of crying passed
my eyes closed and
back to sleep, at last
no alarm sounded
but I awoke with a jump
my cat was sitting on it
a big furry lump
I rushed to get ready
not wanting to be late
I have 45 minutes
to get there by 8
no! my closet pole broken
clothes in a heap
all I wanted
was to go back to sleep
yet duty calls
and on to work I went
made it on time
but by then, felt spent
there, I was met
with unrealistic demands
from the right and the left
came the commands
wait just one minute!
coffee, please, just one cup!
I need some caffeine!
I just woke up!
between all the phone calls,
emails, and filing on top,
flowed streams of tears
that just wouldn’t stop
all morning long, for
an answer I kept hoping:
what is it that would fix
my mechanism for coping?
by lunchtime I knew
the only possible solution,
for my mental health
I must leave this institution
for the rest of the day
on a whim, and a lark
I drove far away
and took a walk in the park
2011-11-12
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #28 – Taxed! (Overworked/Overwhelmed)
February 18th, 2012 at 9:07 PM
COMPLEX LESSONS
I studied her,
motionless,
from the safety
of the stairs – at just
the right point
where I could watch
but not be seen –
my gaze
hidden by the banister…
I learned about life.
From my perch
I could see her
busy herself,
cleaning the home
of her family –
lovingly, yet rapidly
she worked
to complete her tasks…
Other times I witnessed
her inner strength
amidst crises of all sizes –
misplaced papers,
or times when lives hung
in the balance –
her words comforted
loved ones; her prayers,
eloquent; perfect…
My lessons about birds
and bees
came through
the banister rails as well,
I caught glimpses
of a painted coral fingertip
curling seductively,
the swivel of hips,
a wordless call
to her lover…
Some people say
I developed a complex –
however,
I believe I learned
the best lessons in life;
I fell in love with my mother
which helped me find
my soulmate, my wife.
2011-11-13
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #29 – Love
February 18th, 2012 at 9:09 PM
GATHERING THOUGHTS
the cacophony of noise
around me faded
into the distance,
the words echoing
in my mind
the only sound now:
He didn’t make it.
gathering my thoughts,
I left that empty
conference room,
my quiet refuge
He didn’t make it.
I heard myself
telling my boss,
through tears,
as I went through
the motions of
clearing my desk
gathering my thoughts
I remember
days gone by,
the good and the not so good
Thanksgiving,
a year and a half
after the final goodbye,
another holiday
comes and goes
another holiday without Dad.
He didn’t make it.
2011-11-24
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #30 – Family
February 18th, 2012 at 9:10 PM
IN THE BEGINNING . . .
They say…
“everything you need to know
you learned in kindergarten…”
To you…
my kindergarten teacher:
thank you for starting me off
on the right foot, and for
following me to first grade
to be sure my left foot
followed right along.
Look!
I still know all of my letters!
2011-12-01
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #31 – Gratitude
February 18th, 2012 at 9:11 PM
BEST LAID PLANS
I once was a woman with a plan:
to fall in love with the most handsome man.
Instead, I’m an old maid
who never gets laid.
But at least there’s no waiting for the can!
2011-12-03
P. Wanken
Written for “In-Form” Poet: Limerick
February 18th, 2012 at 9:14 PM
ANOTHER CHRISTMAS EVE
she beams with pride
during her angelic performance
(well—she’s playing an angel)
in the Christmas story;
her heart, filled with pure love
for the one in the manger
(it’s her baby doll, after all)
her eyes twinkle with joy
(and her share of mischievousness)
in anticipation of Santa’s visit;
the program ends none to soon
and we pile into the car…
for this season, each year,
our sleepy one-stoplight-town
glows like the big city
with more lights than can be counted,
yet we drive slooowly enough to try;
after what seems like forever for her
(probably only 45 minutes)
and countless ooohs and aaaahs
we make our way up our own farm’s lane…
it is already soooo late on this Eve
(maybe 8:00 p.m.?)
that Santa has already made his stop,
often leaving tracks in the snow
(rabbit tracks do sometimes
look like reindeer prints)
wide-eyed, she scrambles out of the back seat…
I follow her giggles inside
where an empty plate awaits –
cookies (and carrots) have been eaten;
I read the note written in Santa’s own hand,
she grins when Santa confirms:
she’s been (mostly) good all year!
her giggles round the corner
to the tree skirt that had been barren,
now laden with packages…
the magic of another Christmas Eve
2011-12-05
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #32 – Traditions
February 18th, 2012 at 9:16 PM
A CHRISTMAS LETTER
Dear Dad,
I can hardly believe
this is the second Christmas
without you. Where does
the time go?
It shouldn’t be a surprise
though – every year
the holidays are upon me
before I’m ready.
There is still a lot to do
and only two weeks left!
I have baking to do,
and shopping to finish.
But in the quiet of this
moment — the “right now”
of the holiday rush –
I stop to breathe.
I inhale the sights and
sounds. I exhale the
worry. I remember those
who are gone, and
thank God for those who
are still near. Time is too
precious not to keep
loved ones close at heart.
I miss you.
~Paula
2011-12-11
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #33 – Be Prepared
February 18th, 2012 at 9:16 PM
SNUGGLING
I am told
this is snuggle weather
damp and cold
I am told
wrap me in your hold
like a glove of leather
I am told
this is snuggle weather
2011-12-16
P. Wanken
Written for “In-Form” Poet: Triolet
February 20th, 2012 at 11:39 PM
NO MORE TIME
Time has run out
for all the shoulds.
After running about
time has run out.
There is no doubt,
I’ve no more coulds.
Time has run out
for all the shoulds.
2011-12-18
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #34 – Christmas A Week Away
February 20th, 2012 at 11:43 PM
the night is silent
we gather together to
bask in His presence
2011-12-23
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #34 – Christmas A Week Away
February 20th, 2012 at 11:44 PM
GOD’S GIFT
(a PiKu for all)
a baby
born
to give you life
2011-12-25
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #35 – Do Not Open ‘Til Christmas
February 20th, 2012 at 11:45 PM
THE NATURAL HISTORY OF MY OFFICE
more hours spent here than nearly anywhere,
home away from home, reflection of me:
cats of all types — plus pictures of my pair –
on my desk, the wall, and cup for coffee,
watch over me, keeping me company
also found here, small touches of Paula
bright colors all over my area:
blue stapler, pink push pins, yellow flowers,
orange post-it notes, green highlighter; it’s the
small things that keep me smiling for eight hours
2011-12-28
P. Wanken
Written for “In-Form” Poet: Dizain
February 20th, 2012 at 11:47 PM
CUT-STRING KITE
bright colors dance
across the endless blue stage
swooping, spinning
seeming blissfully free
yet
nearly invisible is the tether
to the one who controls
the dipping and diving
with tugs and slack
what would happen
if that line was broken?
would the dancing cease
or
would the dancer
begin to find her own path,
to reach the highest skies?
one thing is certain
there can be no beginning
until
the line is cut
and the tether finds its
end.
2012-01-02
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #36 – Every Ending Is A Beginning
* chosen as Marie Elena’s “Bloom” of the week
February 20th, 2012 at 11:50 PM
PACESETTER
not all gold
needs
to be rushed
2012-01-08
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #37 – photo prompt
February 20th, 2012 at 11:51 PM
ALONE
(a shadorma)
time has passed
with no hand to hold
and no one
following;
in receding rays of sun
I’m walking alone
2012-01-14
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #38 – Hey…That’s My Line!
“in receding rays of sun” was taken from Sara McNulty’s haiku written to prompt #37
February 20th, 2012 at 11:54 PM
PI(ku) for ROY G. BIV
RED
Lady Bug
flight;
whispers of love.
ORANGE
Vitamin
C
blossoms orange.
YELLOW
The sun shines
on
my world once more.
GREEN
Envy not:
green
around the gills.
BLUE
The sky is
the
limit: endless!
INDIGO
Depression
is
deeper than blue.
VIOLET
No spectrum’s
com-
plete without it.
2012-01-23
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #39 – Colour My World
February 20th, 2012 at 11:56 PM
STATUS QUO(TE)
(a shadorma)
“If you’re not moving forward,
you’re not standing still.”
~ Paula Wanken
Complacen-
cy, you see, means a
day will come
when you are
no longer in the same place.
You have moved…backwards.
2012-01-29
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #40 – And I Quote…Me!
February 20th, 2012 at 11:57 PM
NEVER TOO OLD
(a shadorma)
one might be
too advanced in years
to become
a mother,
but one is never too old
for falling in love
2012-02-07
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #41 – Old Relatives
February 20th, 2012 at 11:57 PM
YOUnique
(a shadorma)
No matter
how much you look like
someone else,
you have been
wonderfully, uniquely
made! There’s just one YOU!
2012-02-16
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #42 – Moral Of The Story
February 25th, 2012 at 1:40 PM
WHERE HAVE ALL THE FLOWERS GONE?
(a shadorma)
We cannot
dwell on winter’s woes;
idyllic
summers may
never come to pass; we must
enjoy days of spring!
2012-02-19
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #43 — photo prompt: Where Have All The Flowers Gone?
March 3rd, 2012 at 9:24 AM
ON THE ROAD WITH THE SHEPHERD
as I pass through a dark valley
behind me are yesterdays
I long for, but will never come again;
the road in front of me
stretches further than my reach;
today, the journey that awaits
is one I must take
I am not alone
after a sleepless night
the early morning air lays softly
like a cold compress on a tired soul;
the pre-dawn traffic, quieted,
hours driving alone
bring silence, stillness and peace
my soul is refreshed
on the far horizon is a sliver of daylight
between the dark earth below
and the storm clouds above,
causing me to remember
there is order in chaos,
safety in storms, and solace in trouble
the Lord is my Shepherd
2012-02-27
P. Wanken
* with a couple phrases borrowed from a friend
Written for Prompt #44 — Where The Rubber Meets The Road
March 10th, 2012 at 8:23 PM
FEARFULLY UNAWARE
alone in the kitchen
unaware of time
the fullness of silence,
once preferred, closes in
immobilizes
I hate the shadows.
eyes dart
from hands, wrapped around metal,
over objects nearby
What is that woolly thing?
A coat. It’s a white coat.
She’s coatless!
admonishing
her own forgetfulness
fear rises within
“WHERE IS MY DAUGHTER?”
momentary clarity
returns her to reality
…not daughter…
…granddaughter…
the room is silent
once again
2012-03-03
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #45 — Nothing To Fear, But Fear Itself
March 10th, 2012 at 8:27 PM
GENESIS TO ETERNITY
as He spoke
in the beginning,
daylight broke;
creation
continued with Man, who’d choke
the world by sinning
then His plan
began to unfold
to save Man,
it would mean
for His own Son, rather than
Man, a death untold
King of Kings
will return to stay;
He will fling
wide the gates…
and with the angels, we’ll sing
our praises that day
2012-03-07
P. Wanken
Written for “In-Form” Poet: Genesis
March 17th, 2012 at 9:38 AM
SEE…???
I told you
to
never give up.
2012-03-11
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #46 — Back To The Future
March 24th, 2012 at 9:21 AM
HOPE, IN BLOOM
(a shadorma)
the winter
solstice behind me,
forgotten ~
before me,
the promise of renewed life
seen in each spring bloom
2012-03-19
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #47 — Spring Ahead
March 24th, 2012 at 9:23 AM
UNCONDITIONAL LOVE
I’ve not seen
the color of your eyes…
I imagine them as pools of blue.
I’ve not heard
the sound of your laughter…
as delightful as a babbling brook.
I’ve not felt
the softness of your skin…
the unblemished flesh of a newborn.
I’ll not know
the natural beauty
of seeing my own for the first time.
2012-03-21
P. Wanken
Written for “In-Form” Poet: Parallelogram de Crystalline.
March 31st, 2012 at 12:15 PM
REFLECTING
(a shadorma)
we’ve moved one
step at a time in
opposite
directions;
dancing only in shadows
of our memories
2012-03-25
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #48 — In The Shadows
April 7th, 2012 at 10:59 PM
SUPER POWERS
(a shadorma)
within you
lies a super strength
to face all
life throws you;
my Super Power would be:
to help you see it
2012-04-01
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #49 — “And Sometimes I Wear A Cape”
* chosen as Marie Elena’s “Bloom” of the week
April 14th, 2012 at 11:03 AM
so many theories
about “in the beginning;”
more numerous are
speculations of the end;
some mysteries shall remain
2012-04-14
P. Wanken
Written for “In-Form” Poet: Tanka
April 15th, 2012 at 8:58 AM
COMEBACK
(a shadorma)
submissions
have been very few,
and notes of
rejection
come in equal measure; yet…
I come back to write
2012-04-08
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #50 — Making A Comeback
April 21st, 2012 at 2:48 PM
SENSE OF DUTY
a mask covers nose and mouth
eyes dart left and right
as someone tries to strap him down
Where am I? he struggles to ask
but the loud thumping
serves to mask his words
the taste of blood
from the slash in his flesh
touches his tongue
images flash in his mind’s eye
a light, blinking rapidly
the button, lit bright red
sounds ring in his ears
bells, whistles and popping sounds
as that of a balloon
his heart throbs beneath the strap
he feels the welt above his eye
begin to balloon with each beat
reality starts to slash at his memory
recalling the last thing he did…
to snap and button himself into his harness
surrounded by rugged mountains,
the spinning blades of a chopper,
and medics in camo…
his world fades to black
2012-04-15
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #51 — It Makes Sense
April 28th, 2012 at 9:57 PM
FROM EVERY ENDING COMES A BEGINNING
memories unknown
tug at her words…and her heart…
at what had been hidden inside
your tin can; please…
so different than reality;
he didn’t make it
easier
than this lonely, broken heart can spare
of our memories;
never
complete without it,
the reason
they stopped coming
I still know all of my letters
end
I welcome God’s words: For I know the plans I have for you
for falling in love,
my soulmate, my wife;
never: give up,
to be rushed…
lost
I’m walking alone
me
…afraid someone will read between the lines and see my tears
You have moved…backwards,
and took a walk in the park
again
I miss you.
There’s just one YOU!
the Lord is my Shepherd
is the Giver of such gifts;
we reap the Spirit’s sweet fruit
their lives will create
once again;
His world fades to black
neither at midnight, nor noon
to give you life…
that I trust will shine on my world once more
it’s simple, really:
enjoy days of spring,
bask in His presence
seen in each spring bloom
and watered daily
to help you see it
I come back to write
of farm living…
the magic of another Christmas Eve
on which I sleep…
and favorite superhero underwear
and a writer was born
2012-04-24
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #52 — From Every Ending Comes a Beginning
* highlighted by Walt & Marie for reflecting the process of the prompt
May 5th, 2012 at 3:23 PM
DEEP CALLS UNTO DEEP
seed sown into fertile soil;
dark, rich earth
damp from the moisture below,
warmed by the sun above
deep calls unto this seed
to be more than itself;
the depth of its potential
yet to be realized
2012-05-02
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #53 — Returning To The Soil
May 13th, 2012 at 11:21 PM
DANCING WITH THE STARS
the sun’s last rays
grind into the horizon;
emerging dots wink,
a contrasting print against
the clear cobalt sky,
a chance alignment
as night’s sounds vibrate,
becoming the melody
on which we hook our hearts
2012-05-06
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #54 — Playing Favorites…Again
May 19th, 2012 at 8:45 PM
COMING HOME, TO SAY GOODBYE
(a haibun)
Coming home this time has been different. Tractors still pull equipment through the endless miles of black earth, warm breezes still speak to me through the maple outside my window. Conversations still center on the forecast and how it will impact farmers. And Mom is still there, busying herself with the next project.
Yet…my eyes also see the two decades of growth in that maple tree; my ears hear the voices of my peers talking about the weather—not the generation before us. And Mom’s busyness is for her, a distraction.
seasonal changes ~
while my eyes were turned away,
life continued on
2012-05-17
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #55 — Coming Home
May 19th, 2012 at 8:47 PM
Saying goodbye
is not any easier
when you have had time
to prepare yourself.
2012-05-16
P. Wanken
Written for “In-Form” Poet: Naani
May 26th, 2012 at 3:05 PM
ONE MORE TIME
(a shadorma)
So many
times, she has relived
that moment;
so many
times she has said, “That’s enough!”
When will the pain end?
2012-05-20
P. Wanken
/ / /
DISASTER AREA
(a shadorma)
pools of blue
are overflowing
drop by drop;
will it end?
will the floodgates ever close?
enough is enough!
2012-05-21
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #56 – Enough Is Enough!
June 2nd, 2012 at 3:34 PM
JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME
left turns, right turns
and U-turns
roundabouts, turnarounds
and fly-overs
on-ramps, exits
and merge lanes
smooth roads, bumpy roads
and roads under construction
mapped-out trips, spontaneous joy riding
and detours
all part of my path to today,
the journey of a lifetime
2012-05-27
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #57 — The Walk Of Life
June 9th, 2012 at 11:47 AM
in the beginning
man was formed from dust – life came
with the breath of God
2012-06-04
P. Wanken
iLove You
love is in the air ~
I wonder: does that leave
cyberspace connections
with no strings attached?
2012-06-04
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #58 — In The Air Tonight
June 16th, 2012 at 11:30 PM
STREAMING LIFE
(a shadorma)
water’s edge…
life in the balance:
survival?
destruction?
the choice is not always ours,
we go with the flow
2012-06-10
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #59 — Water, Water Everywhere
June 23rd, 2012 at 11:21 PM
BURNING PASSION
(a shadorma)
tiny flame
fanned into new life
by the storms
that nearly
caused it to be extinguished,
a new fire now burns
2012-06-18
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #60 — Burning Passion
July 7th, 2012 at 2:49 PM
WHAT’S THE HOLD UP
(a piku)
I am held
by
He who holds all.
2012-06-24
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #61 — What’s The Hold Up
July 7th, 2012 at 3:11 PM
SOUL RESPONSIBILITY
I’m at the end
of my rope, I have
nowhere to turn.
“Come to me…
I’m exhausted, tired
of being everything
to everyone.
…all you who are weary…
I cannot bear
the sole responsibility
any longer.
…and burdened…
I need a break.
Does no one care?
Am I alone?
…and I will give you rest.”
2012-07-01
P. Wanken
Jesus’ words as found in Matthew 11:28 are in italics
CONTENTMENT
(a shadorma)
The warmth and
security of
each heartbeat
transmitted
through resting upon the breast
of the one you love.
2012-07-05
P. Wanken
Both written to Prompt #62 — Get Some Rest
July 7th, 2012 at 3:18 PM
BROKEN
Paint the town red?
Red is all I see.
Seeing angry faces,
facing hardship and loss–
loss of jobs and homes.
Homes aren’t even safe,
safe is all some kids want.
Want to paint the town red?
Red is all I see.
2012-07-06
P. Wanken
Written for “In-Form” Poet: Loop Poetry
July 15th, 2012 at 12:18 AM
SHORT END OF THE STICK
(a shadorma)
The kids lose.
Buffer them in the
transition?
Can’t be done…
everybody hurts sometimes.
Must unity fail?
2012-07-10
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #63 — Uncertainty
July 21st, 2012 at 12:07 PM
NOTHING LASTS FOREVER*
butterfly kisses
raindrops on lashes
oreos and milk
kite-flying in meadows
evenings by the fire and
nighttime cuddles
hand-in-hand walks
embrace of a loved one and
a kiss beneath the shade tree
rainbows on stormy days
the feeling of love, and
sheets all in a tangle
…nothing lasts forever…
2012-07-19
P. Wanken
(*the title is taken from the closing line of an untitled poem by Jackson, written to prompt #63)
Written for Prompt #64 — Hey…That’s My Line, Two!
August 4th, 2012 at 10:44 AM
BETRAYED BY A DREAM
There are no flowers and hearts
or satin, lace and happily-ever-afters.
I walk through life alone,
betrayed by a dream.
2012-07-22
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #65 — Betrayed!
August 4th, 2012 at 10:46 AM
Perhaps
another day I’ll write; for now I’m
unable to think of anything but self-
loathing words
and depressing thoughts.
When
another day comes, I’ll
not hesitate to write who I
know myself to be;
everything has a season,
now is just not the time.
2012-08-04
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #66 — Who Do You Think You Are?
March 13th, 2013 at 8:49 PM
WHO AM I?
People see
a quiet person;
usual-
ly I am
accused of being grumpy.
My smile stays hidden,
waiting to
acclimate to the
newness. Once
known, there is
endless loyalty and love…
not to mention, smiles.
2013-03-13
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #66 — Who Do You Think You Are?
March 13th, 2013 at 8:52 PM
CITIZENSHIP
Senior scholarship
ceremonies,
a time to recognize
the best among us.
The stars, the brilliant.
The names we always hear.
Star athlete, I was not.
Instead, I was on the sidelines
helping the coach,
or taking chewing gum
from the players
before the took the court.
Popular, I was not.
Sure, I got along
with almost everyone.
But you would
not have found me
among the “in” crowd.
Valedictorian, I was not.
Though I did my part,
and was smart
enough to hold my own,
I always fell short
of the top spot.
I attended the ceremony
to cheer on my classmates.
To congratulate the elite
as we waited the finale,
the “all around” award
for outstanding citizenship:
“a student exhibiting
outstanding qualities
of American citizenship;
active in student and community
activities; a reliable
and upstanding individual.”
And the winner is…me!?
2013-03-13
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #67: Look What I Did!
March 13th, 2013 at 8:53 PM
HOUSE ON THE HILL
(a shadorma)
Cornfields as
far as I could see,
except for
the white house
high on the hill…until a
fire took it away.
2013-03-13
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #68: Welcome Home
March 13th, 2013 at 8:55 PM
SAVED…BY A PAL (a naani)
In a world
surrounded by people,
I was lost and alone.
Until I was found.
2013-03-13
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #69: With A Little Help From My Friends
March 13th, 2013 at 8:55 PM
POOKY
(a piku)
Only my
sis
called me Pooky.
2013-03-13
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #70: A.K.A.
March 14th, 2013 at 5:48 PM
PRODUCE(D) ON A FARM
Living on a farm meant more than a long bus ride to school each day; and black dirt meant more than messy shoes after a spring rain. Rich soil, the foundation of plentiful harvests. Potatoes, peas, green beans, and corn. Tomatoes, carrots, onions, and squash. More fresh produce than one family could consume in a season. Thankfully, canning and freezing what we couldn’t consume meant we had “fresh” produce long into the winter.
produced on a farm
I long for the comfort of
produce on a farm
2013-03-14
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #71: Food For Thought
March 15th, 2013 at 9:58 AM
AT FIRST SIGHT
(a shadorma)
All tongue-tied
and starry-eyed, my
stomach was
butterflies.
At first sight, my true love? No,
it was just a crush.
2013-03-15
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #72: At First Sight
March 15th, 2013 at 11:09 AM
LIFE AND DEATH
Growing up on a farm, one learns at an early age, the cycle of life and death. Kittens born in harsh winters don’t always survive. Calves and piglets grow up to be sold at the market. Dogs that roam the countryside beyond the farm’s fences sometimes do not make it across the road. Even the people we love eventually no longer sit at our table or hold us on their laps.
raised on a farm ~
death is a part of living
spring through winter
2013-03-15
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #73: Death Be Not Proud
March 16th, 2013 at 7:54 PM
AN AFFAIR TO REMEMBER
To
soar
higher
than treetops,
far above the clouds
where earth’s troubles are forgotten,
that’s where my eyes are brightest, and my smile, the widest.
2013-03-16
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #74: My Love Affair With…
March 16th, 2013 at 8:37 PM
FROM WHENCE I CAME
Stoic and
reserved with strangers,
yet ready
and willing
to lend a hand whenever
my help is needed.
My love of
country, evident;
my simple
faith is clear.
A keen mind–education
key to confidence.
Though my feet
haven’t touched her soil
I find my
character
firmly rooted in the traits
of the Norwegians.
2013-03-16
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #75: The Mother Land
March 16th, 2013 at 9:46 PM
MAKING HISTORY
Rural Iowa living meant spending a lot of time in relative isolation. Six miles of gravel road to the nearest town (population: 450); forty-five miles to the nearest mall–and McDonald’s. This meant almost any trip off the farm was, indeed, a trip. Yet, every summer we anticipated that coveted week away. We visited what was in driving distance—Paul Bunyan State Forest and the headwaters of the Mississippi River in northern Minnesota; the Badlands and Black Hills of South Dakota; the Wisconsin Dells; and points all across Iowa. History was learned. And made. These trips were some of the best days of my childhood.
passage of time ~
family vacations can be
educational
2013-03-16
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #76: Road Trip
March 18th, 2013 at 11:27 AM
A TIME TO REAP
(a shadorma)
Reaping the
fruit of your labors
is the norm
on a farm.
Hard work comes with benefits.
A good lesson learned.
2013-03-18
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #77: It’s A Chore
March 18th, 2013 at 11:44 AM
MAMMA MIA!
Watch a mamma cat
as she cares
for her kittens,
you will see her
single-handedly
(ok, four-paw-edly)
corral her babies,
groom them,
feed them,
protect them,
teach them, and
keep them in line.
She is creating
newly-independent
cats, ready
for the big world.
If you have seen
a mamma cat in action,
you have seen
my mom.
2013-03-18
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #78: Mamma Mia!
March 19th, 2013 at 3:09 PM
MY OWN LITTLE WORLD
One of two children
on a farm of many acres,
my quest for friends
left me with few takers.
Though other boys and girls
I often went without,
my world was full of friends
of that, there’s no doubt.
Prudence our pup,
a big St. Bernard,
let me hang out with her
in our big front yard.
Sometimes, in the shade,
I’d read a book with Dotty.
She was one of our pigs,
big, white, and spotty.
When I needed a retreat
I’d listen for the meows,
and scramble up the ladder
to look for kitties in the mow.
And so it was, as I went
on my adventures, solo,
with no one to return
my “Marco’s” with “Polo”.
2013-03-19
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #79: Hanging Out
March 20th, 2013 at 12:48 PM
SETTING MY SIGHTS ON SEEING
~ July 29, 1981 ~
From a small Iowa farmhouse
I watched, with the entire world,
as princess pageantry
played out on my TV screen.
The walls of that living room
seemed to be non-existent
as borders and oceans
were removed, and I traveled
to England. The first time.
2013-03-20
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #80: The Big Event
March 20th, 2013 at 2:13 PM
JUST A MATTER OF TIME
Then…
I didn’t like his nature hikes.
Now…
I have his appreciation of nature.
Then…
I was annoyed by car trips.
Now…
I see with his eyes as I drive the open roads.
Then…
I thought he didn’t care.
Now…
I know he showed love in his own way.
Then…
I thought we would never be close.
Now…
I know it took hard work to get there.
Then…
I thought he’d always be here.
Now…
I miss him every day.
2013-03-20
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #81: Just Wait Until Your Father Gets Home
March 20th, 2013 at 4:12 PM
LEAVING HOME
(a shadorma)
Memories
are on a timeline
as before
or after
Mom, my sister, and I left
our family home.
2013-03-20
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #82: The Most Important Day Of My Life
March 20th, 2013 at 9:50 PM
MIND THE GAP
At
five
and nine
we were worlds
apart and fought all
the time. However, as we grew
older, the gap closed, and sisters became friends for life.
2013-03-20
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #83: Sibling Revelry
March 21st, 2013 at 12:12 PM
LIVING IN THE NOW
The
path
I have
walked hasn’t
always been easy,
and I haven’t always made the
best choices along
the way. Yet,
I’ve no
re-
grets.
2013-03-21
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #84: Coulda, Woulda, Shoulda
March 21st, 2013 at 2:42 PM
FAMOUS LAST WORDS
Sometimes,
a simple
“OK”
is enough.
Other times,
you need
a bit more and
“okie dokie”
fits the bill.
However,
there’s a third
occasion, when
the only appropriate
response is
“okie dokie artichokie.”
2013-03-21
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #85: Famous Last Words
March 21st, 2013 at 2:44 PM
THE STARS ARE BRIGHTLY SHINING
(a shadorma)
When darkness
closes in, I look
heavenward
and I AM
reminded of those whose lives
add light to my life.
2012-12-17
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #86: Celebrations in Song;
March 21st, 2013 at 2:45 PM
SUGARPLUMS
In the rush
of the day
my mind is on
the dashing
errands
that consume
the holiday
season.
In the hush
of the night
my heart lingers
on thoughts
of people
(past and present)
who make the
holiday special.
2012-12-23
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #87: Visions Of Sugarplums
March 21st, 2013 at 2:47 PM
INNER RESOLVE
cacophony of noise
inside my head
pulls me off course
a new day, a new year,
another chance
at a fresh start
another chance
to quiet the noise
and listen
2013-01-02
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #88: “I Hereby Resolve…”
March 21st, 2013 at 2:48 PM
FATAL DARE
Her rare allure,
behind the veil,
source of his infatuation.
No ordinary woman,
she had the ability
to consume his every thought.
In darkness, she was consumed.
2013-01-08
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #89: “Friends With Words”
March 21st, 2013 at 2:49 PM
FRIGID MEMORY
An image of him
remains frozen
in memory,
frozen in time.
Just like the lake
that last day.
2013-01-15
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #90: Ekphrastic Poetry (photo prompt)
March 21st, 2013 at 2:50 PM
AWAITING SPRING
Faith, frozen.
Hope lies dormant.
Love, unseen.
One day at a time,
awaiting the promise
of Spring.
2013-01-13
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #90: Ekphrastic Poetry (photo prompt)
March 21st, 2013 at 2:55 PM
MY HERO: JOE
(a shadorma)
The object
of my desire may
not be a-
live, yet he
fills me with life every day…
one cup at a time.
2013-01-21
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #91: It Is Alive!
March 21st, 2013 at 2:56 PM
A SWAN SONG
(a shadorma)
One day, her
wings will spread widely,
giving rise
to her low-
ly state, and all will see her
as I always have.
2013-01-26
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #92: Gone To The Birds
March 21st, 2013 at 2:57 PM
INHALATIONS OF CONTENTMENT
Burn the want
out of every moment,
for when we want
we forget what we have.
2012-10-12
P. Wanken
Written for In-Form Poet Prompt: Carpe Diem
March 21st, 2013 at 2:58 PM
FINDING REST
Thunder
in the distance
is soothing to my soul.
Rain intercedes on my behalf.
Unwritten words whispered; in each rumble,
lullabies and stories are told.
I drift off in slumber,
listening to
thunder.
2012-09-13
P. Wanken
Written for In-Form Poet Prompt: Rictameter
March 22nd, 2013 at 11:54 AM
REMEMBER TO PLAY
As
you
grow up
don’t forget
how much fun it is
to run and skip and jump and hop.
Because one day you might ask yourself, when did I stop?
Tie a string around your finger
if you think it helps.
Bottom line,
just please
don’t
stop.
2013-03-22
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #93: The Children’s Hour
March 22nd, 2013 at 3:39 PM
WHO, ME?
Vigilant
Independent
Reserved
Giving
Objective
2013-03-22
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #94: So Hey…What’s Your Prompt?
March 23rd, 2013 at 10:28 PM
THE WORLD AT HER FEET
She
was
broken,
unsure if
she would ever stand
on her own two feet again, when
along came the one who would help her discover who
he knew (all along) she could be.
No longer broken,
she stands, the
world at
her
feet.
2013-03-23
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #95: Read It In A Magazine (“The World at Her Feet” by Jason Wheeler, featured in the April 2012 issue of Texas Monthly)
March 23rd, 2013 at 10:31 PM
PUDDLE PLIES
(a shadorma)
Waiting for
sunshine and rainbows,
I could hide
in despair.
But I know there’s no hiding
from storms…so I’ll dance.
2013-03-01
P. Wanken
“…they know there’s no hiding from storms…”
taken from Misky’s poem “China Children”
Written for Prompt #96: With A Little Help From Our Friends.
March 23rd, 2013 at 10:32 PM
BROKEN: A PLACE OF PEACE
(a shadorma)
Spirited
mare – scared, flinching; eyes
flash wildly
with fear and
her very soul is laid bare –
his whispers soothe her.
2013-03-04
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #97: True Silence
March 23rd, 2013 at 10:35 PM
TENDER MERCY
Confidence shaken,
I spiral
in corrupt ambiguity,
yielding to self-
indulgent ways
of the enemy.
Inaudibly
He speaks to me.
Asking for honesty,
offering a solution:
a chance to be
cleansed.
2013-03-10
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #98: Mean What You Say – Sort Of
* chosen as Walt’s “Bloom” of the week
March 23rd, 2013 at 10:37 PM
VERNAL EQUINOX
(a shadorma)
Gazing through
my window, seven
stories high,
shades of green
across the city showing
me springtime is nigh.
2013-03-19
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #99: God’s Green Earth
March 29th, 2013 at 9:44 PM
CAUSE (AND EFFECT) FOR CELEBRATION
So often life seems to get the better of me.
I go through the motions of eating, working, and sleeping
(that is, when I am able to sleep at night).
As the morning dawns, I am given the chance to
decide how my day will unfold: whether good or bad.
It is, after all, a choice. A decision I make.
Day after day I begin with the choice of “good,”
yet the daily obstacles of life trip me up and
I don’t finish the day where I started. However…I
celebrate the mercy of being given a new chance daily.
2013-03-29
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #100: Celebration of the Century
April 6th, 2013 at 6:11 PM
ROLLING STONE
(a piku)
Sign of life
on
Easter morning.
2013-03-31
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #101: Which came first, the rabbit or the egg? (An Easter Poem).
April 14th, 2013 at 3:33 PM
seasons passing
too quickly one to the next ~
please slow down
2013-04-07
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #102: Ekphrastic Poetry – 2013 Photo Prompt #2
April 20th, 2013 at 2:15 PM
DEATH THEN LIFE
Dormant earth;
wrapped in a pall of
death; few signs
of life, and
even fewer reasons to
hope…til fresh rain falls.
The seeds that
died to self take on
new purpose.
Hope is found
after the storm, in the new
life that emerges.
Perhaps the best living
comes after dying.
2013-04-14
P. Wanken
Prompt #103: April Showers
* chosen as Marie’s “Bloom” of the week
April 27th, 2013 at 3:22 PM
THE SIMPLE LIFE
It seemed so simple then,
the days of early youth.
Nothing more to worry about than
making sure my toys were put away.
Of course there were endless
chores on the farm, but it was a part of life.
Life changed, though,
when our family fractured.
While I was really still a kid, the simple
became much more complex.
Responsibilities shifted, my age
became greater than my years;
independence became my life ring and
self-sufficiency, my anchor. Later,
anonymity of city-life, my sustenance;
the business of busyness, my companion.
Decades of responsibility brought
another shift, to a different kind of focus.
It’s simple: life doesn’t have to be
as complicated as I’ve made it.
The stuff that surrounds me is not
what is important—the people are; and
making time to play and doing your chores
is as complex as it needs to be.
2013-04-22
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #104: Time Flies When You’re Having Fun
May 5th, 2013 at 8:03 PM
BROKEN
(a piku)
All that’s left
is
an empty shell.
2013-04-28
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #105: Ekphrastic Poetry – 2013 Photo Prompt #3
* chosen as Marie’s “Bloom” of the week
May 12th, 2013 at 10:00 PM
COMING CLEAN
It’s time for me
to hop in the shower,
he said.
Please don’t,
she said.
It’s slippery.
2103-05-05
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #106: Now, That’s Funny
May 18th, 2013 at 5:03 PM
A PLEA
Maker ~
awaken me
make me new
remake
renew
2013-05-17
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #107: What’s in a name?
May 18th, 2013 at 5:04 PM
A MOONLIGHT TABLEAU
Young lovers wrapped in
each other’s arms; no
harm done as they lay
in wait for day’s heat
to disappear—as
midnight sleep draws near.
Under the blanket
of stars, they whisper
wishes while stealing
kisses; they dream and
scheme of a future
as bright as the moon.
2013-05-15
P. Wanken
Written for In-Form Poet: Tableau
May 20th, 2013 at 9:30 AM
A BAD (shadorma) POEM
indigo blue
moon shadows dancing
behind me
stained glass windows
sandstorms across the desert
blinding me
2013-05-19
P. Wanken
Written for Prompt #108: Bad Form / Bad Poem