These poems were written by me over the last 40 years or so...
PDF document of all poems/lyrics
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Some thoughts on my dear friend John Lenox: (he died on 11/30/2021)
I met John probably mid-year 1968 when I was just 14 and he was two years older. He had a driver’s license and a couple of cool cars, so he was my God. He would let me drive sometimes and we would ride around often with our girlfriends and such. Even back then John was really well-liked and would help anyone anywhere whenever he could. I’ll never forget my first experience of removing and replacing an engine in one of his cars in the garage of his Mom’s home. And, he was involved in my first “business” experience when we started the little company J&B Electronics where we installed TV antennas all around Chicagoland in my beat-up VW microbus. John was good on roofs and had little fear - unlike me. I would let him do the dicey jobs.
Sometime in 1970 when I was 15 with a learning driver’s permit, I took a bunch of friends out on a joyride in my vintage land yacht (maybe a 1960 Plymouth) on the backroads around my home. We were having fun when I made a left turn from Elm street onto 39th street. All of a sudden a brand new 1970 Dodge Challenger came flying over the hill behind me, locked his brakes, and slid sideways crashing into us with a glancing blow (probably would have killed us if he hit straight on). The Dodge flipped over into a ditch, and thankfully nobody was hurt. However, since I did not have a valid driver’s license I was in a bit of a bind. I somehow managed to find John and asked him if he would say that he was riding with us - teaching me to drive on my learner’s permit. He did not flinch and I avoided a ticket for driving without a license. Looking back on this, I have to say I had some stones (or maybe just fear) to ask him to do this. But, in true John fashion, he saved the day. Needless to say, I never forgot this…
John was kind of a mentor to me. While he did not attend conventional college as I did, he was sharp as a tack. He was the “go-to” guy for all of us in our somewhat tight-knit group of sometimes out-of-control kids. He could fix pretty much anything on a car, TV, radio, computer, etc. His nickname back then was Johnny Spark Plug. He also owned and managed a TV shop in Hinsdale called Conn TV (no pun intended) for many years. There was little he could not do.
For those of us in our little circle (we often called it the V-Squad) all will remember how close to the edge we lived in terms of partying and drug abuse. Once again, John was a great influence on many of us - perhaps me especially. We all walked a fine line between falling off the deep end using barbiturates or “downer” type drugs and uppers like speed and psychedelics. He had a knack for keeping his head on straight and helping others with the same. I will never forget my psychedelic experiences with him which I am certain helped to make me the person I am today.
I could write an entire book about my experiences with this special man, but I’ll end with a poem I wrote for him after he lost his loving wife Ellen:
2/5/19
To A Brother With Love
My dearest friend's in pain today
I feel it in my soul
He lost his love and confidant
And now it takes its toll
With smiles and laughs he tries to be
The same old loving friend
A man who's been right next to me
Through distance time and mend
What can I say to comfort him
Or help him on his way
In dealing with this fact of life
We all will see some day
To say I understand or know
The pain that makes him numb
Cannot be known by me right now
My time is yet to come
So all that's left for me to do
Is shower him with love
And open up my heart and soul
To a brother from above
Mwj1
Be with her now, John. You are loved…
I met John probably mid-year 1968 when I was just 14 and he was two years older. He had a driver’s license and a couple of cool cars, so he was my God. He would let me drive sometimes and we would ride around often with our girlfriends and such. Even back then John was really well-liked and would help anyone anywhere whenever he could. I’ll never forget my first experience of removing and replacing an engine in one of his cars in the garage of his Mom’s home. And, he was involved in my first “business” experience when we started the little company J&B Electronics where we installed TV antennas all around Chicagoland in my beat-up VW microbus. John was good on roofs and had little fear - unlike me. I would let him do the dicey jobs.
Sometime in 1970 when I was 15 with a learning driver’s permit, I took a bunch of friends out on a joyride in my vintage land yacht (maybe a 1960 Plymouth) on the backroads around my home. We were having fun when I made a left turn from Elm street onto 39th street. All of a sudden a brand new 1970 Dodge Challenger came flying over the hill behind me, locked his brakes, and slid sideways crashing into us with a glancing blow (probably would have killed us if he hit straight on). The Dodge flipped over into a ditch, and thankfully nobody was hurt. However, since I did not have a valid driver’s license I was in a bit of a bind. I somehow managed to find John and asked him if he would say that he was riding with us - teaching me to drive on my learner’s permit. He did not flinch and I avoided a ticket for driving without a license. Looking back on this, I have to say I had some stones (or maybe just fear) to ask him to do this. But, in true John fashion, he saved the day. Needless to say, I never forgot this…
John was kind of a mentor to me. While he did not attend conventional college as I did, he was sharp as a tack. He was the “go-to” guy for all of us in our somewhat tight-knit group of sometimes out-of-control kids. He could fix pretty much anything on a car, TV, radio, computer, etc. His nickname back then was Johnny Spark Plug. He also owned and managed a TV shop in Hinsdale called Conn TV (no pun intended) for many years. There was little he could not do.
For those of us in our little circle (we often called it the V-Squad) all will remember how close to the edge we lived in terms of partying and drug abuse. Once again, John was a great influence on many of us - perhaps me especially. We all walked a fine line between falling off the deep end using barbiturates or “downer” type drugs and uppers like speed and psychedelics. He had a knack for keeping his head on straight and helping others with the same. I will never forget my psychedelic experiences with him which I am certain helped to make me the person I am today.
I could write an entire book about my experiences with this special man, but I’ll end with a poem I wrote for him after he lost his loving wife Ellen:
2/5/19
To A Brother With Love
My dearest friend's in pain today
I feel it in my soul
He lost his love and confidant
And now it takes its toll
With smiles and laughs he tries to be
The same old loving friend
A man who's been right next to me
Through distance time and mend
What can I say to comfort him
Or help him on his way
In dealing with this fact of life
We all will see some day
To say I understand or know
The pain that makes him numb
Cannot be known by me right now
My time is yet to come
So all that's left for me to do
Is shower him with love
And open up my heart and soul
To a brother from above
Mwj1
Be with her now, John. You are loved…
Kitty Kitty - Rest In Peace - 10/25/2020
I lost my closest friend tonight
My one eyed - clipped ear cat
A burly feral in my back yard
Who on our porch he sat
It took some time to make him trust
But we saw it in his eyes
And soon he’d come right up to us
A bit to our surprise
Then came the cold and ice and snow
He had no place to go
So a heated little house was made
He didn’t like the snow
And soon he was at home with us
On each and every day
To greet us with his loving face
And even sometimes play
As time went on we came to see
He needs to be indoors
We welcomed him into our home
With blankets and warm floors
Adapting well to indoor life
He fit and seemed to chill
The love he gave affected me
And I’m sure it always will
And in the end I have to say
He covered me with snuggles
And laid his head above my face
Though I knew he was in trouble
His bad eye came infected
Diabetes hit as well
And to top it off he got heart-worms
How bad no-one could tell
With insulin and loving care
We bought for him some days
A Kitty hospice in our home
He was loved so many ways
And so goodbye my loving friend
I did the best I could
You suffered at the end a bit
I’d hoped you never would
You’ll always live inside my heart
And I will often wonder
Should I have taken action sooner
To limit what you suffered?
mwj
I lost my closest friend tonight
My one eyed - clipped ear cat
A burly feral in my back yard
Who on our porch he sat
It took some time to make him trust
But we saw it in his eyes
And soon he’d come right up to us
A bit to our surprise
Then came the cold and ice and snow
He had no place to go
So a heated little house was made
He didn’t like the snow
And soon he was at home with us
On each and every day
To greet us with his loving face
And even sometimes play
As time went on we came to see
He needs to be indoors
We welcomed him into our home
With blankets and warm floors
Adapting well to indoor life
He fit and seemed to chill
The love he gave affected me
And I’m sure it always will
And in the end I have to say
He covered me with snuggles
And laid his head above my face
Though I knew he was in trouble
His bad eye came infected
Diabetes hit as well
And to top it off he got heart-worms
How bad no-one could tell
With insulin and loving care
We bought for him some days
A Kitty hospice in our home
He was loved so many ways
And so goodbye my loving friend
I did the best I could
You suffered at the end a bit
I’d hoped you never would
You’ll always live inside my heart
And I will often wonder
Should I have taken action sooner
To limit what you suffered?
mwj
4/26/20
Can We Open Up That Door (original song)
Is it there on the horizon
Out of reach but we can see
Could it be the times are changing
Is it up to you and me
When inside it can get lonely
To cocoon is something new
Do we miss the things we often took for granted
Did we somehow miss the cue
In the times when we feel lonely
In the times when we feel sad
Can we open up and care for one another
Can we share the things we have
Can it bring us all together
Should the time of danger leave
Will we hug and shake the hands of one another
Or just touch upon the sleeve
Will we blame it on another
In a country far away
Did we simply miss the warning signs of danger
Is this the price we all must pay
Is there something deep inside us
That is difficult to see
That has made us look away from one another
Can we somehow find the key
Is it time to lift restrictions
Is it safe to leave our home
Will the hungry find the food they need so badly
Will they track us with a drone
Can we come to see the problems
That exist with rich and poor
Can we care for one another without question
Can we open up that door
mwj
Can We Open Up That Door (original song)
Is it there on the horizon
Out of reach but we can see
Could it be the times are changing
Is it up to you and me
When inside it can get lonely
To cocoon is something new
Do we miss the things we often took for granted
Did we somehow miss the cue
In the times when we feel lonely
In the times when we feel sad
Can we open up and care for one another
Can we share the things we have
Can it bring us all together
Should the time of danger leave
Will we hug and shake the hands of one another
Or just touch upon the sleeve
Will we blame it on another
In a country far away
Did we simply miss the warning signs of danger
Is this the price we all must pay
Is there something deep inside us
That is difficult to see
That has made us look away from one another
Can we somehow find the key
Is it time to lift restrictions
Is it safe to leave our home
Will the hungry find the food they need so badly
Will they track us with a drone
Can we come to see the problems
That exist with rich and poor
Can we care for one another without question
Can we open up that door
mwj
2/10/20
Taking a Stand
Most people forgo their opinions
It’s better to keep to themselves
Debate has no level of comfort
That some feel they need to excel
Taking a stand on an issue
Requires some real reason and thought
And often is met with resistance
From others who’ve challenged the thought
Exchanges are often unpleasant
And ideas will sometimes adjust
To things that have not been considered
Some even from those that we trust
And then there’s the voice of the airwaves
From those who control all that’s said
That lead us to shutter our own thoughts
And post stupid Trump memes instead
No politics up for discussion
No reason to learn and to share
It’s better to live in the bubble
That leads us to not really care
And so what will come tomorrow
No matter the cheer or the howl
Is that which we’ll all have to live with
‘Cause we’ve already thrown in the towel
mwj
Taking a Stand
Most people forgo their opinions
It’s better to keep to themselves
Debate has no level of comfort
That some feel they need to excel
Taking a stand on an issue
Requires some real reason and thought
And often is met with resistance
From others who’ve challenged the thought
Exchanges are often unpleasant
And ideas will sometimes adjust
To things that have not been considered
Some even from those that we trust
And then there’s the voice of the airwaves
From those who control all that’s said
That lead us to shutter our own thoughts
And post stupid Trump memes instead
No politics up for discussion
No reason to learn and to share
It’s better to live in the bubble
That leads us to not really care
And so what will come tomorrow
No matter the cheer or the howl
Is that which we’ll all have to live with
‘Cause we’ve already thrown in the towel
mwj
12/6/19
The Arbiter
No you cannot see all this
And yes it must be stopped
We cannot rest a minute
In the fight for who’s on top
We mustn’t drop our guard against
The lies of pure fake news
And we shouldn’t turn our gaze away
From political corporate views
They know just what is right for us
And what it is that’s true
And any who dissent from this
Need to change their point of view
But wait I think there’s something else
Not many seem to see
Who are the ones who draw the lines
And is this really free
Do we need them to decide for us
What we can and cannot hear
Can we trust that they are with us now
And not simply spreading fear
I choose to be the arbiter
Of what I read and see
And I don’t need folks in government
To censor things for me
mwj
The Arbiter
No you cannot see all this
And yes it must be stopped
We cannot rest a minute
In the fight for who’s on top
We mustn’t drop our guard against
The lies of pure fake news
And we shouldn’t turn our gaze away
From political corporate views
They know just what is right for us
And what it is that’s true
And any who dissent from this
Need to change their point of view
But wait I think there’s something else
Not many seem to see
Who are the ones who draw the lines
And is this really free
Do we need them to decide for us
What we can and cannot hear
Can we trust that they are with us now
And not simply spreading fear
I choose to be the arbiter
Of what I read and see
And I don’t need folks in government
To censor things for me
mwj
5/10/19
AS LONG AS IT ISN’T NOW
I’ve heard it said that getting old
Is not what many think
The dreams of time and lazy days
Are oft the missing link
We work away for most our lives
With plans of better days
Without a thought on how to live
In a world made of today
A master plan that’s well thought out
With every detail checked
We count the days until we’re free
No time to just reflect
We had our health back in the day
And chose to just abuse it
Not seeing what its’ done to us
We assumed we’d never lose it
And then there comes the simple truth
We age and start to wane
A sickness here, some dental work
Some new discovered pain
A new found fear begins deep down
Some thoughts of our demise
What time is left before the day
Of the dreaded last surprise
So what to do to navigate
This new uncharted path
Is it faith in God or something else
To help us face these facts
Can we find some peace in what we’ve been
Did we make a contribution
Do we have regrets and wonder why
Can we expect some absolution
Or could it be we just accept
Whatever lies ahead
Without the fear of what’s to come
And choose to smile instead
The fear of what’s to come to us
Is never worth the time
And it never changes anything
No matter how you try
So live the moment and just enjoy
Whatever time allows
Maybe welcome death as inevitable
As long as it isn’t now
mwj
AS LONG AS IT ISN’T NOW
I’ve heard it said that getting old
Is not what many think
The dreams of time and lazy days
Are oft the missing link
We work away for most our lives
With plans of better days
Without a thought on how to live
In a world made of today
A master plan that’s well thought out
With every detail checked
We count the days until we’re free
No time to just reflect
We had our health back in the day
And chose to just abuse it
Not seeing what its’ done to us
We assumed we’d never lose it
And then there comes the simple truth
We age and start to wane
A sickness here, some dental work
Some new discovered pain
A new found fear begins deep down
Some thoughts of our demise
What time is left before the day
Of the dreaded last surprise
So what to do to navigate
This new uncharted path
Is it faith in God or something else
To help us face these facts
Can we find some peace in what we’ve been
Did we make a contribution
Do we have regrets and wonder why
Can we expect some absolution
Or could it be we just accept
Whatever lies ahead
Without the fear of what’s to come
And choose to smile instead
The fear of what’s to come to us
Is never worth the time
And it never changes anything
No matter how you try
So live the moment and just enjoy
Whatever time allows
Maybe welcome death as inevitable
As long as it isn’t now
mwj
3/23/19
I’m Retired
The past is running through my mind
Could it be this thing is done
Or does this mark a brand new start
Or should I just seek out the fun
Did I do the things I aimed to do
Can I call it a success
Did I make a difference in any way
Or was it only to impress
Did I prepare enough to make it through
The challenges ahead
Is the fear I feel anxiety
Could it all be in my head
It’s not the way I thought it would be
Through all those years of planning
All the things I knew I’d do when free
They just don’t seem as exciting
But then again I must admit
I’m really only whining
I have my health and lots of friends
I’ll find my silver lining
mwj
I’m Retired
The past is running through my mind
Could it be this thing is done
Or does this mark a brand new start
Or should I just seek out the fun
Did I do the things I aimed to do
Can I call it a success
Did I make a difference in any way
Or was it only to impress
Did I prepare enough to make it through
The challenges ahead
Is the fear I feel anxiety
Could it all be in my head
It’s not the way I thought it would be
Through all those years of planning
All the things I knew I’d do when free
They just don’t seem as exciting
But then again I must admit
I’m really only whining
I have my health and lots of friends
I’ll find my silver lining
mwj
2/6/19
Between The Lines
So what's the point of writing lines
That rhyme and have a rhythm
Divided into several parts
With meaning deep within them
So often short and to the point
Requiring little verbiage
It seems to get the point across
Without the extra garbage
Or could it be that to plant a thought
That requires a look within
Can open up a world of things
That can or could have been
Between the lines there often lies
A meaning just for one
That often means to each of us
Something different to be done
And so it is with words of prose
That challenge us somehow
To open up our minds to see
Just how we feel right now
So as you read relax your mind
And follow where it takes you
The one who wrote it may just know
A path to something new
mwj
Between The Lines
So what's the point of writing lines
That rhyme and have a rhythm
Divided into several parts
With meaning deep within them
So often short and to the point
Requiring little verbiage
It seems to get the point across
Without the extra garbage
Or could it be that to plant a thought
That requires a look within
Can open up a world of things
That can or could have been
Between the lines there often lies
A meaning just for one
That often means to each of us
Something different to be done
And so it is with words of prose
That challenge us somehow
To open up our minds to see
Just how we feel right now
So as you read relax your mind
And follow where it takes you
The one who wrote it may just know
A path to something new
mwj
2/5/19
To A Brother With Love
My dearest friend's in pain today
I feel it in my soul
He lost his love and confidant
And now it takes its toll
With smiles and laughs he tries to be
The same old loving friend
A man who's been right next to me
Through distance time and mend
What can I say to comfort him
Or help him on his way
In dealing with this fact of life
We all will see some day
To say I understand or know
The pain that makes him numb
Cannot be known by me right now
My time is yet to come
So all that's left for me to do
Is shower him with love
And open up my heart and soul
To a brother from above
mwj
To A Brother With Love
My dearest friend's in pain today
I feel it in my soul
He lost his love and confidant
And now it takes its toll
With smiles and laughs he tries to be
The same old loving friend
A man who's been right next to me
Through distance time and mend
What can I say to comfort him
Or help him on his way
In dealing with this fact of life
We all will see some day
To say I understand or know
The pain that makes him numb
Cannot be known by me right now
My time is yet to come
So all that's left for me to do
Is shower him with love
And open up my heart and soul
To a brother from above
mwj
1/25/19
My Fellow Americans
Take a look at where you are today
And look at where you’ve been
And look at what you’ve left behind
The many ways you’ve sinned
You say it’s all democracy
And equal rights for all
A fight for peace and freedom
While other countries fall
With millions dead and hurting
And wars that never end
You’re blinded by your ignorance
And only can pretend
Pretend that what is happening
Is best for everyone
As you’ve been told repeatedly
Until the deed is done
At first it was just Communism
The Reds at every door
And then there came the terrorists
That make you kill still more
And next there’ll be the Chinamen
And all those Mexicans
That threaten all you live for
Or so you will pretend
The truth be told that cannot hide
Is plain for all to see
You need to have an enemy
To make you think you’re free
The time has come to stand and fight
To make the change we need
Remove the sad duopoly
Of those we hire to lead
Corruption and the money game
Has brought this onto us
It’s time to change the government
Before we turn to dust
mwj
My Fellow Americans
Take a look at where you are today
And look at where you’ve been
And look at what you’ve left behind
The many ways you’ve sinned
You say it’s all democracy
And equal rights for all
A fight for peace and freedom
While other countries fall
With millions dead and hurting
And wars that never end
You’re blinded by your ignorance
And only can pretend
Pretend that what is happening
Is best for everyone
As you’ve been told repeatedly
Until the deed is done
At first it was just Communism
The Reds at every door
And then there came the terrorists
That make you kill still more
And next there’ll be the Chinamen
And all those Mexicans
That threaten all you live for
Or so you will pretend
The truth be told that cannot hide
Is plain for all to see
You need to have an enemy
To make you think you’re free
The time has come to stand and fight
To make the change we need
Remove the sad duopoly
Of those we hire to lead
Corruption and the money game
Has brought this onto us
It’s time to change the government
Before we turn to dust
mwj
1/17/19
Lessons of History
The lessons found in history
Cannot be seen in the moment
They hide behind the yet to be found
Through study, time, and comment
For in the chaos while still unfolding
The truth is yet to be
While blinded by the talking heads
Who mold the things we see
The truth has no position here
It doesn’t fit the mold
We’re showered with the greatness found
From all the lies we’re told
But over time the changes come
From those who take the time
To look behind the quilt of lies
That covered all the crime
And so for me the time has come
My heart is filled with pain
As I have learned what many won’t
We’re merely pawns in the game
mwj
Lessons of History
The lessons found in history
Cannot be seen in the moment
They hide behind the yet to be found
Through study, time, and comment
For in the chaos while still unfolding
The truth is yet to be
While blinded by the talking heads
Who mold the things we see
The truth has no position here
It doesn’t fit the mold
We’re showered with the greatness found
From all the lies we’re told
But over time the changes come
From those who take the time
To look behind the quilt of lies
That covered all the crime
And so for me the time has come
My heart is filled with pain
As I have learned what many won’t
We’re merely pawns in the game
mwj
This is not a love song. It’s a plea to mankind… song can be found under my Original Music tab.
12/18/16
Me, You, Us
See me can you see me
As part of your world
Hear me can you hear me
I’m feeling unsure
Just angry talk with no one listening
Why can't we see both sides
Tell me can you tell me
What's happening here
Show me can you show me
You're willing to hear
We’re meant to live this life together
There may not be much time
—————————————————— solo
Join me will you join me
Let's open our minds
Love me can you love me
It's good to be kind
Let’s mend our hearts to redefine us
And keep an open mind
See me can you see me
Let’s give it a whirl
Hear me can you hear me
I’m feeling unsure
It’s time we left our hate behind us
What can it hurt to try
mwj
12/18/16
Me, You, Us
See me can you see me
As part of your world
Hear me can you hear me
I’m feeling unsure
Just angry talk with no one listening
Why can't we see both sides
Tell me can you tell me
What's happening here
Show me can you show me
You're willing to hear
We’re meant to live this life together
There may not be much time
—————————————————— solo
Join me will you join me
Let's open our minds
Love me can you love me
It's good to be kind
Let’s mend our hearts to redefine us
And keep an open mind
See me can you see me
Let’s give it a whirl
Hear me can you hear me
I’m feeling unsure
It’s time we left our hate behind us
What can it hurt to try
mwj
12/11/16
Anniversary - 2016
Another year together
It's 29 so far
Perhaps it's time we come to see
How fortunate we are
We have our health and modest home
And special furry friends
We've stepped into the autumn phase
Of life when working ends
And with the changes often hard
Our hearts remain entwined
Though often facing challenges
With peace not quick to find
But every block upon our path
We've moved or worked around
With love respect and open eyes
Through all the ups and downs
So on this day I'd like to send
To you my loving wife
My love, respect, and gratitude
I'm thankful for our life
mwj
Anniversary - 2016
Another year together
It's 29 so far
Perhaps it's time we come to see
How fortunate we are
We have our health and modest home
And special furry friends
We've stepped into the autumn phase
Of life when working ends
And with the changes often hard
Our hearts remain entwined
Though often facing challenges
With peace not quick to find
But every block upon our path
We've moved or worked around
With love respect and open eyes
Through all the ups and downs
So on this day I'd like to send
To you my loving wife
My love, respect, and gratitude
I'm thankful for our life
mwj
11/15/16
Routines
It began with my retirement
Unfamiliar and brand new
In a search for what lies next
Not a clue of what to do
A career that's left behind
After thirty seven years
With excitement laced with caution
And an element of fear
The daily grind no longer present
And the stress now redefined
It began without my knowing
A new life is mine to find
From the simple morning rituals
To the lists and TBD's
And the change in all the normals
That so long we're part of me
With most things quite slowly changing
As I pondered through it all
I began to see that order
Had a place however small
All the things often repeated
As were programmed through the past
They were now just overtaken
By this new life changing fast
As I settle in and contemplate
On just what this could mean
I can see the start of all great things
Is just based in new routines
mwj
7/28/16
The Baby Sasha (my cat)
From the day I brought her home I thought
There could well come the day
When love and warmth no longer work
To keep her pain away
For years she’s been there next to me
In sleep and fun and play
To comfort me in many ways
And help me on my way
She’d hear from me what others don’t
And comfort with her touch
With motor running all the way
That I will miss so much
And so today I said goodbye
A shot a hug and tears
Any many thanks to my best friend
For almost 8 full years
mwj
Routines
It began with my retirement
Unfamiliar and brand new
In a search for what lies next
Not a clue of what to do
A career that's left behind
After thirty seven years
With excitement laced with caution
And an element of fear
The daily grind no longer present
And the stress now redefined
It began without my knowing
A new life is mine to find
From the simple morning rituals
To the lists and TBD's
And the change in all the normals
That so long we're part of me
With most things quite slowly changing
As I pondered through it all
I began to see that order
Had a place however small
All the things often repeated
As were programmed through the past
They were now just overtaken
By this new life changing fast
As I settle in and contemplate
On just what this could mean
I can see the start of all great things
Is just based in new routines
mwj
7/28/16
The Baby Sasha (my cat)
From the day I brought her home I thought
There could well come the day
When love and warmth no longer work
To keep her pain away
For years she’s been there next to me
In sleep and fun and play
To comfort me in many ways
And help me on my way
She’d hear from me what others don’t
And comfort with her touch
With motor running all the way
That I will miss so much
And so today I said goodbye
A shot a hug and tears
Any many thanks to my best friend
For almost 8 full years
mwj
1/2/16
My Little Friend
I have a little feline friend
He greets me at my door
Meows and fear speak out to me
He’s hungry wanting more
He has no home from what I know
And little trust in me
But deep inside this little guy
A friend is what he sees
At times he’s gone for days on end
I fear for his demise
But every time he still returns
For me a great surprise
I often think of where he goes
And how he spends his time
Does he have fun or is he hurt
It ripples through my mind
Or is he cold and lonely too
Impossible to say
I fear for him and want to help
He often makes my day
And so for now I’ll just go on
Kitty talk and just a nod
I won’t forget those probing eyes
To me the eyes of God
mwj
12/13/15
Reflections
If only I had known back then
The things that I know now
I might have taken time to see
The things I missed somehow
I might have put the here and now
Ahead of that to come
And lived each day for what it was
A walk and not a run
I might have stopped to wonder at
The gifts on me bestowed
And given thanks to all I loved
And all I’d come to own
I might have given more of me
To those that were in need
And focused less on racing on
Propelled by self and greed
But hey I’ve still got life and hope
Remaining in my soul
I’ll pay it forward from now on
Until the time I go
mwj
8/16/14
Old Hippie #3 (spoof of old Bellamy Brothers tunes - Old Hippie, and Old Hippie the Sequel)
He's heard the first one and the sequel
But they're still not where he's at
With 6 decades now behind him
Lookin' back just leaves him flat
He's got an ipad and a smartphone
Custom cable internet
And he never leaves his Facebook
Unless his Skype's a better bet
He often sits in wonder
What on earth is coming next
He's an old hippie
Qualifies AARP
And he gets the senior discounts
Sometimes help across the street
His mind is sometimes hazy
And his memory is weak
But his body holds it's own
And he's a peace loving freak
He gave up the heavy drinkin'
And puffs electric cigarettes
He's cut out all the fast food
Counts his carbs and added fat
He checks obituaries
Looking for his long lost friends
And he thinks a lot more now about
When and how his time will end
Still rubbernecks the young girls
Out of habit with regret
He's an old hippie
He's not driven by desire
Of the ladies secret pleasures
Or the passion and the fire
They're really all just friends now
And he doesn't really care
He's more focused on his garden
And his long thin quickly graying hair
There is a certain comfort
That the years have brought about
He's got the wisdom and the knowledge
That the youngers are without
But he's given up his efforts
To try and share all that he's learned
With a generation focused on
Themselves with little eared
The torch was passed on long ago
It's next generations turn
He's an old hippie
In the autumn of his life
He's had a lot of good times
And his share of pain and strife
He's proud and he's thankful
For all that he's received
And ready for whatever's next
He'll just roll and shift with the breeze
mwj
My Little Friend
I have a little feline friend
He greets me at my door
Meows and fear speak out to me
He’s hungry wanting more
He has no home from what I know
And little trust in me
But deep inside this little guy
A friend is what he sees
At times he’s gone for days on end
I fear for his demise
But every time he still returns
For me a great surprise
I often think of where he goes
And how he spends his time
Does he have fun or is he hurt
It ripples through my mind
Or is he cold and lonely too
Impossible to say
I fear for him and want to help
He often makes my day
And so for now I’ll just go on
Kitty talk and just a nod
I won’t forget those probing eyes
To me the eyes of God
mwj
12/13/15
Reflections
If only I had known back then
The things that I know now
I might have taken time to see
The things I missed somehow
I might have put the here and now
Ahead of that to come
And lived each day for what it was
A walk and not a run
I might have stopped to wonder at
The gifts on me bestowed
And given thanks to all I loved
And all I’d come to own
I might have given more of me
To those that were in need
And focused less on racing on
Propelled by self and greed
But hey I’ve still got life and hope
Remaining in my soul
I’ll pay it forward from now on
Until the time I go
mwj
8/16/14
Old Hippie #3 (spoof of old Bellamy Brothers tunes - Old Hippie, and Old Hippie the Sequel)
He's heard the first one and the sequel
But they're still not where he's at
With 6 decades now behind him
Lookin' back just leaves him flat
He's got an ipad and a smartphone
Custom cable internet
And he never leaves his Facebook
Unless his Skype's a better bet
He often sits in wonder
What on earth is coming next
He's an old hippie
Qualifies AARP
And he gets the senior discounts
Sometimes help across the street
His mind is sometimes hazy
And his memory is weak
But his body holds it's own
And he's a peace loving freak
He gave up the heavy drinkin'
And puffs electric cigarettes
He's cut out all the fast food
Counts his carbs and added fat
He checks obituaries
Looking for his long lost friends
And he thinks a lot more now about
When and how his time will end
Still rubbernecks the young girls
Out of habit with regret
He's an old hippie
He's not driven by desire
Of the ladies secret pleasures
Or the passion and the fire
They're really all just friends now
And he doesn't really care
He's more focused on his garden
And his long thin quickly graying hair
There is a certain comfort
That the years have brought about
He's got the wisdom and the knowledge
That the youngers are without
But he's given up his efforts
To try and share all that he's learned
With a generation focused on
Themselves with little eared
The torch was passed on long ago
It's next generations turn
He's an old hippie
In the autumn of his life
He's had a lot of good times
And his share of pain and strife
He's proud and he's thankful
For all that he's received
And ready for whatever's next
He'll just roll and shift with the breeze
mwj
5/22/14
Turtle
I stopped to help a turtle
As he crept across the road
And my mind began to wonder
Is he dumb or is he bold
Is it possible he understands
The risk in what he's done
Does he know of those above him
That would aim at him for fun
Has he any thoughts of me
In terms of what it is I've done
Can he feel the love inside of me
For him and everyone
I feel better now for helping him
I'd do it all again
But I'm sickened there are others
Who would kill him with a grin
mwj
Turtle
I stopped to help a turtle
As he crept across the road
And my mind began to wonder
Is he dumb or is he bold
Is it possible he understands
The risk in what he's done
Does he know of those above him
That would aim at him for fun
Has he any thoughts of me
In terms of what it is I've done
Can he feel the love inside of me
For him and everyone
I feel better now for helping him
I'd do it all again
But I'm sickened there are others
Who would kill him with a grin
mwj
5/14/14
A Billion Cries
In the space between the earth and mouth
From where we gain our strength
From what we eat to what we wear
What we’re for and are against
Exists a state of sadness
Real pain and suffering
With a billion cries for mercy
With no one listening
With factory farms and untamed greed
Compassion can’t be found
With faceless gouls abusing those
In ways that have no bounds
In what would seem inhuman and
Atrocious at the least
We put ourselves above the rest
No matter what the beast
And yet it seems unknown to most
We needn’t eat the flesh
Of our fellow earth inhabitants
To make our health the best
It breaks my heart to think of this
I’d cry if it would help
If I could stop it all today
I’d sacrifice myself
mwj
A Billion Cries
In the space between the earth and mouth
From where we gain our strength
From what we eat to what we wear
What we’re for and are against
Exists a state of sadness
Real pain and suffering
With a billion cries for mercy
With no one listening
With factory farms and untamed greed
Compassion can’t be found
With faceless gouls abusing those
In ways that have no bounds
In what would seem inhuman and
Atrocious at the least
We put ourselves above the rest
No matter what the beast
And yet it seems unknown to most
We needn’t eat the flesh
Of our fellow earth inhabitants
To make our health the best
It breaks my heart to think of this
I’d cry if it would help
If I could stop it all today
I’d sacrifice myself
mwj
7/20/13
It’s Been A Long Time
It’s been a long time
It really is a crime
Since there’s been joy on the faces
With peace and love as prime
We’ve all been lied to
And we’ve been pushed aside
By the ones with the money
The air and the paper time
How could it be
This land of and by the free
Now lies a captive to
Only power and all the money
The vote that once was right
Can now be bought outright
Can be from another country
Or on a boardroom night
I gave my 5 bucks
Support my choice as such
Petitions signed just for luck
Though I know it can’t amount to much
How could it be
This land of and by the free
Now lays waste
To the welcome that used to be
Supremes of truth and justice
They’re just a used to be
Now one extension of a simple truth
Power and the money
How could it be
This land of and by the free
Is now bought and paid for by
Political parties
Is it getting warmer
Is science still a truth
Can we pray the bad away
Will they do only as I say
How could it be
This land of and by the free
Will pass along to the future
A drab and shady legacy
It’s been a long time
It really is a crime
Since there’s been joy on the faces
When peace and love was once prime
It’s Been A Long Time
It’s been a long time
It really is a crime
Since there’s been joy on the faces
With peace and love as prime
We’ve all been lied to
And we’ve been pushed aside
By the ones with the money
The air and the paper time
How could it be
This land of and by the free
Now lies a captive to
Only power and all the money
The vote that once was right
Can now be bought outright
Can be from another country
Or on a boardroom night
I gave my 5 bucks
Support my choice as such
Petitions signed just for luck
Though I know it can’t amount to much
How could it be
This land of and by the free
Now lays waste
To the welcome that used to be
Supremes of truth and justice
They’re just a used to be
Now one extension of a simple truth
Power and the money
How could it be
This land of and by the free
Is now bought and paid for by
Political parties
Is it getting warmer
Is science still a truth
Can we pray the bad away
Will they do only as I say
How could it be
This land of and by the free
Will pass along to the future
A drab and shady legacy
It’s been a long time
It really is a crime
Since there’s been joy on the faces
When peace and love was once prime
1/24/95
A Matter Of The Heart
When faced with the uncertainty
Of sharing from the heart
We’re often lost and tangled up
Before we even start
We’ll look within and try to show
The feelings kept inside
And find ourselves compiling lists
And outline notes that guide
We note the points that concentrate
On what we think’s expected
And hope that what we’ve come up with
It won’t end up rejected
And with all this we end up with
Much less than when we started
That precious gift of peace and calm
Serenity has parted
So on this day it pays to note
Before we even start
Tear up the list and let it flow
It’s a matter of the heart
mwj
A Matter Of The Heart
When faced with the uncertainty
Of sharing from the heart
We’re often lost and tangled up
Before we even start
We’ll look within and try to show
The feelings kept inside
And find ourselves compiling lists
And outline notes that guide
We note the points that concentrate
On what we think’s expected
And hope that what we’ve come up with
It won’t end up rejected
And with all this we end up with
Much less than when we started
That precious gift of peace and calm
Serenity has parted
So on this day it pays to note
Before we even start
Tear up the list and let it flow
It’s a matter of the heart
mwj
6/83
A Part Of Me
In the woods of North Wisconsin
Live the parents of my Dad
In the beauty of the seasons
And the love of what they have
They’re the perfect senior couple
With a thriving family
That has grown from four fine sons
Into a shining legacy
They’re both happy and they’re healthy
And they’re often on my mind
As I hustle with the bustle
Putting off most every time
My ambitions to communicate To quickly drop a line
Just to tell them that I’m out here
Living well and feeling fine
Yes is seems as if there’s some unknown
That keeps me from the pen
That will write just what I’m thinking
Taking time out now and then
Oh I guess it’s just the way it is
Among the young and old
And I’m sure I’m not the only one
For whom this story’s told
But I’d like to say right here and now
As rare as it may be
That I’m thinking of the both of you
You are a part of me
mwj
A Part Of Me
In the woods of North Wisconsin
Live the parents of my Dad
In the beauty of the seasons
And the love of what they have
They’re the perfect senior couple
With a thriving family
That has grown from four fine sons
Into a shining legacy
They’re both happy and they’re healthy
And they’re often on my mind
As I hustle with the bustle
Putting off most every time
My ambitions to communicate To quickly drop a line
Just to tell them that I’m out here
Living well and feeling fine
Yes is seems as if there’s some unknown
That keeps me from the pen
That will write just what I’m thinking
Taking time out now and then
Oh I guess it’s just the way it is
Among the young and old
And I’m sure I’m not the only one
For whom this story’s told
But I’d like to say right here and now
As rare as it may be
That I’m thinking of the both of you
You are a part of me
mwj
3/17/82
An Ill That Needs A Cure
So you think you need a diet
And you know you’d like to try it
But you can’t escape the feeling
That you know you’re going to fail
So you tighten up the buckle
And you starve yourself to death
And your life becomes a nightmare
And you’re learning to regret
That decision to participate
To try and drop the pounds
‘Cause results aren’t even showing
And the hunger’s still around
Yes you’ve tried most nearly everything
And worked so very hard
But you’re still the same old person
Just a slouchy tub of lard
Yes this is the way you see yourself
It’s sad but really true
‘Cause the weight you really need to lose
Is deep inside of you
It’s your attitude about yourself
Your negative true face
That will beat you almost every time
And make you feel disgrace
Yes you’ll hurt and really hate yourself
And quit before you’re done
‘Cause the mirror shows a person
Who’d much rather be someone
That’s quite different and better
In each and every way
You’re convinced you’re not the person
That you could become one day
Yes our attitudes about ourselves
Are paramount for sure
Especially if they’re negative
An ill that needs a cure
mwj
An Ill That Needs A Cure
So you think you need a diet
And you know you’d like to try it
But you can’t escape the feeling
That you know you’re going to fail
So you tighten up the buckle
And you starve yourself to death
And your life becomes a nightmare
And you’re learning to regret
That decision to participate
To try and drop the pounds
‘Cause results aren’t even showing
And the hunger’s still around
Yes you’ve tried most nearly everything
And worked so very hard
But you’re still the same old person
Just a slouchy tub of lard
Yes this is the way you see yourself
It’s sad but really true
‘Cause the weight you really need to lose
Is deep inside of you
It’s your attitude about yourself
Your negative true face
That will beat you almost every time
And make you feel disgrace
Yes you’ll hurt and really hate yourself
And quit before you’re done
‘Cause the mirror shows a person
Who’d much rather be someone
That’s quite different and better
In each and every way
You’re convinced you’re not the person
That you could become one day
Yes our attitudes about ourselves
Are paramount for sure
Especially if they’re negative
An ill that needs a cure
mwj
10/9/88
We Are Two
To my darling wife of just one year
I’d like to say to you
My love still burns as if it were A feeling bold and new
We’ve fought the odds that complicate
A new love’s chance to make
A happy life in harmony
Not laced with hurt and hate
We’ve found the way to overcome
Whatever stands in line
With what we want for then and now
No matter – rain or shine
I love you dear with all my heart
And let me say to you
I’m here for you for all my life
Forever we are two
mwj
We Are Two
To my darling wife of just one year
I’d like to say to you
My love still burns as if it were A feeling bold and new
We’ve fought the odds that complicate
A new love’s chance to make
A happy life in harmony
Not laced with hurt and hate
We’ve found the way to overcome
Whatever stands in line
With what we want for then and now
No matter – rain or shine
I love you dear with all my heart
And let me say to you
I’m here for you for all my life
Forever we are two
mwj
5/19/87
At The Bar
To the waiters and the waitresses
Who work so hard at nite
I pay my deepest true respects
To all they add to life
They’re the ones who serve the happiness
That makes the lonely well
And they’re always there to listen
To the plight of clientele
To the problems of the people
Who they’ll never get to know
They give love and simple friendship
We all find so hard to show
They’re the ones who make their living
Giving other people pride
I salute them in their place in life
In them I shall confide
mwj
At The Bar
To the waiters and the waitresses
Who work so hard at nite
I pay my deepest true respects
To all they add to life
They’re the ones who serve the happiness
That makes the lonely well
And they’re always there to listen
To the plight of clientele
To the problems of the people
Who they’ll never get to know
They give love and simple friendship
We all find so hard to show
They’re the ones who make their living
Giving other people pride
I salute them in their place in life
In them I shall confide
mwj
8/18/79
Exceptance
The wind and the rain
The heart and the brain
The dawn and the dusk A good song’s refrain
The thoughts and the feelings
The fear and the pain
All bring us existence
In this our domain
mwj
Exceptance
The wind and the rain
The heart and the brain
The dawn and the dusk A good song’s refrain
The thoughts and the feelings
The fear and the pain
All bring us existence
In this our domain
mwj
5/8/87
First Mother’s Day
To a mother and a friend
I send my deepest true regards
On this day of recognition
Of the ones who work so hard
You’re the topic of my sweetest dreams
The anchor to my ship
Though I met you almost yesterday
I cherish your friendship
And what’s more than that I’ve said above
Though hard to understand
I feel the glow of newborn love
Just touching hand to hand
I feel the need to open up
And give you all my best
And take the love you have to give
That parts you from the rest
The love you give unselfishly
That goes to just one man
The love that flows so easily
When you say you understand
You hold the key to happiness
That often slips away
From all the ones who need it most
Have a happy Mother’s Day
mwj
First Mother’s Day
To a mother and a friend
I send my deepest true regards
On this day of recognition
Of the ones who work so hard
You’re the topic of my sweetest dreams
The anchor to my ship
Though I met you almost yesterday
I cherish your friendship
And what’s more than that I’ve said above
Though hard to understand
I feel the glow of newborn love
Just touching hand to hand
I feel the need to open up
And give you all my best
And take the love you have to give
That parts you from the rest
The love you give unselfishly
That goes to just one man
The love that flows so easily
When you say you understand
You hold the key to happiness
That often slips away
From all the ones who need it most
Have a happy Mother’s Day
mwj
12/9/92
Five Sweet Years
Our day is here again my dear
With five sweet years behind us
We’re still in love and best of friends
Respect and trust have found us
We’re bound by all we know and have
And how we learn and think
And though it may sound kind of strange
I feel a special link
For often times when we’re apart
I feel your thoughts and love
That guides me through the roughest spots
And helps me rise above
So on this day as those gone by
My heart is one with you
And as above I feel your thoughts
I think you feel mine too
mwj
Five Sweet Years
Our day is here again my dear
With five sweet years behind us
We’re still in love and best of friends
Respect and trust have found us
We’re bound by all we know and have
And how we learn and think
And though it may sound kind of strange
I feel a special link
For often times when we’re apart
I feel your thoughts and love
That guides me through the roughest spots
And helps me rise above
So on this day as those gone by
My heart is one with you
And as above I feel your thoughts
I think you feel mine too
mwj
6//6/83
For You, Dad
At the heart of every person
Lies the subtle influence
Of the person they grew up with
Who gave strength and common sense
He’s the husband of the Mother
And the master of the house
And he’s always made quite certain
That you’ve never done without
He’s the source of all the answers
To the things that left you blank
Like the reason for insurance
Of the money in the bank
As you grew he lit the trail to where
You found your happy day
Always being quite aware
That you’d mistake along the way
If you fell he’d lift you up just when
You’d lost your will to try
And he knew just what to say
When came a tear into the eye
Yes there’s a lot that can be said
About this warm and friendly man
And it’s even more apparent
When we talk of my Old Man
In addition to that stated here
He’s got some special traits Like the art of always giving
Much much more than he will take
He will always be the person
That will sacrifice the most
With the strangest thing about it being
You’ll never hear him boast
Of the things that he has given
Of the work that he has done
That’s my Dad and he’s the greatest
And I’m proud to be his son
Oh and one more thing before I go
I’d like to say to you
Although it’s not said often
Dearest Dad I do love you
mwj
For You, Dad
At the heart of every person
Lies the subtle influence
Of the person they grew up with
Who gave strength and common sense
He’s the husband of the Mother
And the master of the house
And he’s always made quite certain
That you’ve never done without
He’s the source of all the answers
To the things that left you blank
Like the reason for insurance
Of the money in the bank
As you grew he lit the trail to where
You found your happy day
Always being quite aware
That you’d mistake along the way
If you fell he’d lift you up just when
You’d lost your will to try
And he knew just what to say
When came a tear into the eye
Yes there’s a lot that can be said
About this warm and friendly man
And it’s even more apparent
When we talk of my Old Man
In addition to that stated here
He’s got some special traits Like the art of always giving
Much much more than he will take
He will always be the person
That will sacrifice the most
With the strangest thing about it being
You’ll never hear him boast
Of the things that he has given
Of the work that he has done
That’s my Dad and he’s the greatest
And I’m proud to be his son
Oh and one more thing before I go
I’d like to say to you
Although it’s not said often
Dearest Dad I do love you
mwj
5/4/84
For You, Mom
A child is born in ‘54
On a normal spring filled day
To a couple blessed three years before
With their first not far away
With the husband of the working type
Tough hands and rigid back
There’s the mother of the patient type
Who keeps things right on tract
She’s concerned and truly lives to care
For those she calls her own
And she’s given much much more than most
To make her house a home
There’s no career for this dear Mom
To take her from the task
Of spending every waking hour
To field the questions asked
She’s shown the fight required to be
The strong respected type
And she knows the traits that separate
The freedom from the hype
She’ll keep the real in line with all
That simply must be done
While she’s got the heart to love and care
That’s equaled by no-one
So on this day from all my heart
I’d like to say to her
She has my love and true respect
On this she can be sure
mwj
For You, Mom
A child is born in ‘54
On a normal spring filled day
To a couple blessed three years before
With their first not far away
With the husband of the working type
Tough hands and rigid back
There’s the mother of the patient type
Who keeps things right on tract
She’s concerned and truly lives to care
For those she calls her own
And she’s given much much more than most
To make her house a home
There’s no career for this dear Mom
To take her from the task
Of spending every waking hour
To field the questions asked
She’s shown the fight required to be
The strong respected type
And she knows the traits that separate
The freedom from the hype
She’ll keep the real in line with all
That simply must be done
While she’s got the heart to love and care
That’s equaled by no-one
So on this day from all my heart
I’d like to say to her
She has my love and true respect
On this she can be sure
mwj
8/21/79
Get To Know
To be all alone not having to be
Is a feeling that’s new and different to me
To make my own bed and scratch my own head
Is something essential, although it’s been said
That living and loving – a must for a man
Is vital and futile – all part of a plan
A plan of survival, a plan to complete
Although the true job you’ll never defeat
Plans are the beginnings and plans are the path
To most it just seems they’ll never get past
The stage of the plan that changes about
The center of all that you’re never without
Eluding intruders it covers it’s path
It’s simply yourself, your now and your past
So look to the future and build on your plan
But know well before that the truly best man
Is a person who knows his do’s and his don’ts
Who’ll love and who’ll live, but hurt you he won’t
mwj
Get To Know
To be all alone not having to be
Is a feeling that’s new and different to me
To make my own bed and scratch my own head
Is something essential, although it’s been said
That living and loving – a must for a man
Is vital and futile – all part of a plan
A plan of survival, a plan to complete
Although the true job you’ll never defeat
Plans are the beginnings and plans are the path
To most it just seems they’ll never get past
The stage of the plan that changes about
The center of all that you’re never without
Eluding intruders it covers it’s path
It’s simply yourself, your now and your past
So look to the future and build on your plan
But know well before that the truly best man
Is a person who knows his do’s and his don’ts
Who’ll love and who’ll live, but hurt you he won’t
mwj
5/14/82
In Search Of Something New
Outside it’s warm and peaceful
Just a perfect spring filled day
As I catch myself just wishing
I could think the time away
If I could I’d end each day you see
Just after it began
‘Cause I hate the way I spend the time
At work I cannot stand
Yes for some it’s just a sacrifice
To earn security
And the money can’t be beat they say
Endure and you shall see
That the time you spend is well worthwhile
You’ll buy our peace they say
I just hope that what I’ve bought won’t be
A senseless early grave
Yes to me it can’t be right to sit
Each day and hope to be
Several hours into the future
Out of work and feeling free
Cause the freedom only lasts until
To work it’s off you go
And you hope and pray the day you live
It won’t be going slow
As it is we choose which way to go
And I can surely say
That to wish for time to speed away
Is not the proper way
Could it be that off around the bend
An answer lies unfound
It’s you life/career that fits your mind
And turns your hopes around
It’s a way of life that lets you see
That time, our dearest friend
Is a gift to live each second of
Up to the very end
So for me it’s on to something else
In search of something new
That will make me see the light involved
In time, go slow, it’s true
mwj
In Search Of Something New
Outside it’s warm and peaceful
Just a perfect spring filled day
As I catch myself just wishing
I could think the time away
If I could I’d end each day you see
Just after it began
‘Cause I hate the way I spend the time
At work I cannot stand
Yes for some it’s just a sacrifice
To earn security
And the money can’t be beat they say
Endure and you shall see
That the time you spend is well worthwhile
You’ll buy our peace they say
I just hope that what I’ve bought won’t be
A senseless early grave
Yes to me it can’t be right to sit
Each day and hope to be
Several hours into the future
Out of work and feeling free
Cause the freedom only lasts until
To work it’s off you go
And you hope and pray the day you live
It won’t be going slow
As it is we choose which way to go
And I can surely say
That to wish for time to speed away
Is not the proper way
Could it be that off around the bend
An answer lies unfound
It’s you life/career that fits your mind
And turns your hopes around
It’s a way of life that lets you see
That time, our dearest friend
Is a gift to live each second of
Up to the very end
So for me it’s on to something else
In search of something new
That will make me see the light involved
In time, go slow, it’s true
mwj
2/18/83
Lesser Traits
People will be people in most every place you go
And in almost every instance there’s a trait that’s sure to show
There’s a quality about us that will make us look our worst
And it’s often without knowing that we show this quenchless thirst
It’s the lust for more possessions and the drive to get the best
And the feeling that we savor when we’ve bettered all the rest
If we smash some toes along the way it’s just the way it is
And the guilt we feel is swiftly lost through liking all of this
Yes it’s human nature – good or bad
That drives us to this end
And it seems as if a lot of us
Can’t even trust a friend
If we live as if we always know
What people think of us
We must surely face the ugly truth
They could be dangerous
And along with this the other side of peoples’ lesser traits
Includes the way we prostitute the earth we habitate
As the hammer to the nail it’s bad to be the beaten head
But the wood it’s driven into is the part – it could be said
That can represent the life on earth that’s swiftly on the run
That is filled with holes and battered nails respected by no one
And so it goes from day to day
We’ll live as if we know
That the things we really care about
Will not affect the flow
Of mother nature, truth, and love
Of children and of friends
We’ll take for granted all of these
Until the very end.
mwj
Lesser Traits
People will be people in most every place you go
And in almost every instance there’s a trait that’s sure to show
There’s a quality about us that will make us look our worst
And it’s often without knowing that we show this quenchless thirst
It’s the lust for more possessions and the drive to get the best
And the feeling that we savor when we’ve bettered all the rest
If we smash some toes along the way it’s just the way it is
And the guilt we feel is swiftly lost through liking all of this
Yes it’s human nature – good or bad
That drives us to this end
And it seems as if a lot of us
Can’t even trust a friend
If we live as if we always know
What people think of us
We must surely face the ugly truth
They could be dangerous
And along with this the other side of peoples’ lesser traits
Includes the way we prostitute the earth we habitate
As the hammer to the nail it’s bad to be the beaten head
But the wood it’s driven into is the part – it could be said
That can represent the life on earth that’s swiftly on the run
That is filled with holes and battered nails respected by no one
And so it goes from day to day
We’ll live as if we know
That the things we really care about
Will not affect the flow
Of mother nature, truth, and love
Of children and of friends
We’ll take for granted all of these
Until the very end.
mwj
1/1/87
My Wife, My Friend, My Mate
She's a petal of the flower
That will glisten in the sun
She's got life and subtle passion
That is equaled by no one
She's the keeper of the reasons
I'll keep pushing towards the best
And she always keeps things open
Keeping doubt off of my chest
And she's often had to be there
Yes for this I'm quite aware
That to live this life without her
Would be surely hard to bare
She's the structure to my molded form
An anchor to my ship
And she cooks and cleans and helps me out
With love and true friendship
Yes this woman that I'm speaking of
In case you didn't know
Is my Valentine and number one
It's you dear - even though
You are not the type to recognize
These bright and shining traits
You are all of them and many more
My Wife, My Friend, My Mate
mwj
My Wife, My Friend, My Mate
She's a petal of the flower
That will glisten in the sun
She's got life and subtle passion
That is equaled by no one
She's the keeper of the reasons
I'll keep pushing towards the best
And she always keeps things open
Keeping doubt off of my chest
And she's often had to be there
Yes for this I'm quite aware
That to live this life without her
Would be surely hard to bare
She's the structure to my molded form
An anchor to my ship
And she cooks and cleans and helps me out
With love and true friendship
Yes this woman that I'm speaking of
In case you didn't know
Is my Valentine and number one
It's you dear - even though
You are not the type to recognize
These bright and shining traits
You are all of them and many more
My Wife, My Friend, My Mate
mwj
3/2/82
Ode To TMI (Three Mile Island)
If a thinker is a doer
And a wise man is content
Then the workers of this industry
Are almost always spent
They will gamble with their sanity
And hope they’re never sent
To a job of true integrity
That holds them to the rent
The rent they pay for take home pay
For dignity and grace
The rent that’s fairly asked for
In today’s most rapid race
Yes this industry’s complexity
Has made it safe to be
Just a mindless piece of garbage
In todays society
mwj
Ode To TMI (Three Mile Island)
If a thinker is a doer
And a wise man is content
Then the workers of this industry
Are almost always spent
They will gamble with their sanity
And hope they’re never sent
To a job of true integrity
That holds them to the rent
The rent they pay for take home pay
For dignity and grace
The rent that’s fairly asked for
In today’s most rapid race
Yes this industry’s complexity
Has made it safe to be
Just a mindless piece of garbage
In todays society
mwj
2/16/83
One Way Trip
If a man decides to marry
There’s a thing or two to know
And the time to learn about them
Is before to church you go
As a woman courts her loved one
She’ll give out her very best
And then once she knows she’s got him
She’s acceptable at best
As she learns her knight in armor
Is just a plain and simple man
She begins to think about the time
She loved another man
She will let the things about her
Out in front for you to see
And you’ll notice all the things you thought
Just surely couldn’t be
Oh and yes of course let’s not forget
The nagging and the hell
That she’ll throw at you each time you try
To live it up or tell
Of the lady you were talking to
Or bet you’d like to make
Of the drink you thought you wanted
Just to help you stay awake
Yes this lady that you married
Is the one you used to date
But the attitude she’s taken Is enough to aggravate
Any person not aware of what
True marriage is to be
It’s a one way trip towards living for
Masochistic tendencies
mwj
One Way Trip
If a man decides to marry
There’s a thing or two to know
And the time to learn about them
Is before to church you go
As a woman courts her loved one
She’ll give out her very best
And then once she knows she’s got him
She’s acceptable at best
As she learns her knight in armor
Is just a plain and simple man
She begins to think about the time
She loved another man
She will let the things about her
Out in front for you to see
And you’ll notice all the things you thought
Just surely couldn’t be
Oh and yes of course let’s not forget
The nagging and the hell
That she’ll throw at you each time you try
To live it up or tell
Of the lady you were talking to
Or bet you’d like to make
Of the drink you thought you wanted
Just to help you stay awake
Yes this lady that you married
Is the one you used to date
But the attitude she’s taken Is enough to aggravate
Any person not aware of what
True marriage is to be
It’s a one way trip towards living for
Masochistic tendencies
mwj
1/29/01
Others Point of View
I long to learn to love again
Just how I cannot say
For as I am I feel as if I’ve lost my heart-felt way
I don’t express the way I feel
From deep inside my soul
More oft than not I just react
To thoughts most often cold
I long to make the one I love
Feel wanted and alive
And keep her here inside my heart
For our true love to thrive
So as for now I’ll start with what
I know just must be true
I’ll learn to give and understand
My others’ point of view
mwj
Others Point of View
I long to learn to love again
Just how I cannot say
For as I am I feel as if I’ve lost my heart-felt way
I don’t express the way I feel
From deep inside my soul
More oft than not I just react
To thoughts most often cold
I long to make the one I love
Feel wanted and alive
And keep her here inside my heart
For our true love to thrive
So as for now I’ll start with what
I know just must be true
I’ll learn to give and understand
My others’ point of view
mwj
3/14/87
Prior to Dying
Like the pedals of the newborn flower
Wrapped around the heart inside
Our strong defenses hopes and fears
Keep us safe and satisfied
Until the day the pedals open
And the beauty flows like rain
On all who see and truly feel
The gift of love and rain
Because you see the blooming flower
Can sure be thought to imitate
The endless cycles travelled far
By those who love and contemplate
The final step of letting go
To trust and love and care
Without the pedals covering up
The lovely lives we share
Without the fears of being wrong
Without the fears of trying
We open up for all to see
A living prior to dying
mwj
Prior to Dying
Like the pedals of the newborn flower
Wrapped around the heart inside
Our strong defenses hopes and fears
Keep us safe and satisfied
Until the day the pedals open
And the beauty flows like rain
On all who see and truly feel
The gift of love and rain
Because you see the blooming flower
Can sure be thought to imitate
The endless cycles travelled far
By those who love and contemplate
The final step of letting go
To trust and love and care
Without the pedals covering up
The lovely lives we share
Without the fears of being wrong
Without the fears of trying
We open up for all to see
A living prior to dying
mwj
3/12/82
Slow The Pace
One thing about time
Each person should know
It often goes slowly
When waiting to go
When bored or exhausted
Or totally spaced
You wish you could hasten
It’s god awful pace
But slow it may be
And tired you’ve become
Remember there’s one thing
That just can’t be done
You’ll never slow down It’s tempo or pace
It’s ticking against us
The whole human race
So live for each moment
With smile on the face
And treasure the time
That you have - slow the pace
mwj
Slow The Pace
One thing about time
Each person should know
It often goes slowly
When waiting to go
When bored or exhausted
Or totally spaced
You wish you could hasten
It’s god awful pace
But slow it may be
And tired you’ve become
Remember there’s one thing
That just can’t be done
You’ll never slow down It’s tempo or pace
It’s ticking against us
The whole human race
So live for each moment
With smile on the face
And treasure the time
That you have - slow the pace
mwj
2/15/83
It’s Their Way
He’s the thinker and the puppet
That is pushed and pulled about
And he thinks he’s really heading
Towards the truth without a doubt
All the evidence it points right to
The only proper truth
But the politics will twist this
‘Till his mind is shaken loose
Yes he knows the way it should be
And he’s kept his own self pride
But he’s pushed into believing that
He simply must abide
To the pressures of the higher ones
That dictate right and wrong
When they’ve lost all sight of what there is
Through greed and ugly song
It's this element of industry
That keeps the good from great
And will stifle all true tendencies
To halt the need to state
That the job you’ve done is not to par
Not even close they’ll say
‘Cause you’ve done just what you had to do
Against your chosen way
And so it goes for those who do
The work for others high
They’re the engineers and technocrats
That answer with a sigh
If I had it all to do again
I guess I’d have to say
That I make a living right or wrong
It has to be their way
mwj
It’s Their Way
He’s the thinker and the puppet
That is pushed and pulled about
And he thinks he’s really heading
Towards the truth without a doubt
All the evidence it points right to
The only proper truth
But the politics will twist this
‘Till his mind is shaken loose
Yes he knows the way it should be
And he’s kept his own self pride
But he’s pushed into believing that
He simply must abide
To the pressures of the higher ones
That dictate right and wrong
When they’ve lost all sight of what there is
Through greed and ugly song
It's this element of industry
That keeps the good from great
And will stifle all true tendencies
To halt the need to state
That the job you’ve done is not to par
Not even close they’ll say
‘Cause you’ve done just what you had to do
Against your chosen way
And so it goes for those who do
The work for others high
They’re the engineers and technocrats
That answer with a sigh
If I had it all to do again
I guess I’d have to say
That I make a living right or wrong
It has to be their way
mwj
11/4/86
To Start
So often are the times
A thought comes into mind
That strikes without a warning
And leaves one wondering why
The light that shines upon us
To spark this star of thought
Is lost as it approached us
The time to understand it – lost
To capture this enchantment
And muster it at will
Is the gift and nurtured center
Of the shoes I’ve tried to fill
To keep the treasured moment
Through recall and control
Can focus all there needs to be
To conquer any goal
For the ultimate achievement
And key to all success
Is the knack to turn it on and off
And focus all your best
On the task that’s put before you
By order, chance, or choice
And use the gift of focus
To prosper and rejoice
mwj
To Start
So often are the times
A thought comes into mind
That strikes without a warning
And leaves one wondering why
The light that shines upon us
To spark this star of thought
Is lost as it approached us
The time to understand it – lost
To capture this enchantment
And muster it at will
Is the gift and nurtured center
Of the shoes I’ve tried to fill
To keep the treasured moment
Through recall and control
Can focus all there needs to be
To conquer any goal
For the ultimate achievement
And key to all success
Is the knack to turn it on and off
And focus all your best
On the task that’s put before you
By order, chance, or choice
And use the gift of focus
To prosper and rejoice
mwj
12/11/2001
Two Times Seven
14 years - two times seven
Lots of time to spend in heaven
Though all not perfect, some not fun
I feel right now we’ve just begun
We have our home that’s right for us
We’ve come to see, accept and such
That though not perfect every day
In love we know we’ll always stay
And for the time that may remain
For us to share our sun and rain
I pledge to you my heart and soul
And stand by you as on we go
And when it comes that we must part
With just one left with grieving heart
Regret we won’t, for we shall know
To each we gave our heart and soul
mwj
Two Times Seven
14 years - two times seven
Lots of time to spend in heaven
Though all not perfect, some not fun
I feel right now we’ve just begun
We have our home that’s right for us
We’ve come to see, accept and such
That though not perfect every day
In love we know we’ll always stay
And for the time that may remain
For us to share our sun and rain
I pledge to you my heart and soul
And stand by you as on we go
And when it comes that we must part
With just one left with grieving heart
Regret we won’t, for we shall know
To each we gave our heart and soul
mwj
9/28/81
Unemployment Line
To think is to imagine
That the problem right at hand
Is at best an inconvenience
A diversion from the plan
And to worry is to defeat oneself
Division from within
‘Cause emotions are the part of us
That’ll never let us win
In the battle for out sanity
The fight to do what’s right
Keep your cool and count to ten they’ll say
And they’re almost always right
‘Cause the anger and the tension
And the love and hurt and fear
Must be handled using reason
For the end is truly near
mwj
Unemployment Line
To think is to imagine
That the problem right at hand
Is at best an inconvenience
A diversion from the plan
And to worry is to defeat oneself
Division from within
‘Cause emotions are the part of us
That’ll never let us win
In the battle for out sanity
The fight to do what’s right
Keep your cool and count to ten they’ll say
And they’re almost always right
‘Cause the anger and the tension
And the love and hurt and fear
Must be handled using reason
For the end is truly near
mwj
2/11/86
Upon These Ears
If I could write of here and now
To someone close I know somehow
That all my feelings thoughts and fears
Of shattered dreams and wasted tears
Would flow like rain upon the land
Upon these ears that understand
Upon these ears that don’t inject
The way they think or might expect
That I should be or somehow change
To fit the mold that they’ve arranged
For I’m the one that ought to be
The one to know what’s right for me
Because you see and answer’s clear
The greatest gift that one can hear
Is the gift of trust and true respect
Except me now without regret
mwj
Upon These Ears
If I could write of here and now
To someone close I know somehow
That all my feelings thoughts and fears
Of shattered dreams and wasted tears
Would flow like rain upon the land
Upon these ears that understand
Upon these ears that don’t inject
The way they think or might expect
That I should be or somehow change
To fit the mold that they’ve arranged
For I’m the one that ought to be
The one to know what’s right for me
Because you see and answer’s clear
The greatest gift that one can hear
Is the gift of trust and true respect
Except me now without regret
mwj
2/14/88
My Special Star
Though times are lean and hardened
By debts both new and old
And the bills just keep on comin…
And the house is always cold
There’s a way that I can tell you
Of my love on Valentines
That will cost me all of nothing
But the card that holds the lines
And in these lines I’d like to tell
Of how I love and care
For the one with which I share my life
Who’s warm and always there
To help me through my good and bad
And lift me up from down
And share the laughs and happiness
Of all the good we’ve found
Yes Nancy, you’re my special star
And on this Valentines
I’d like to wish you all the best
True love is yours and mine
mwj
My Special Star
Though times are lean and hardened
By debts both new and old
And the bills just keep on comin…
And the house is always cold
There’s a way that I can tell you
Of my love on Valentines
That will cost me all of nothing
But the card that holds the lines
And in these lines I’d like to tell
Of how I love and care
For the one with which I share my life
Who’s warm and always there
To help me through my good and bad
And lift me up from down
And share the laughs and happiness
Of all the good we’ve found
Yes Nancy, you’re my special star
And on this Valentines
I’d like to wish you all the best
True love is yours and mine
mwj
1/14/92
My Gift
I could have bought a fancy card
Or a bunch of stems and roses
Or taken you out on the town
To play until it closes
But all the gifts and niceities
Out there for us to see
Cannot begin to demonstrate
Just what you mean to me
For you my dear are at the heart
Of all there is for me
And in my life I hope someday
You too will come to see
That cards and stems and fancy nights
Though nice and sometimes fun
Cannot begin to celebrate
The love we’ve just begun
So on this day my darling wife
I’d like to let you see
Beyond a doubt my love is true
You are the one for me
mwj
My Gift
I could have bought a fancy card
Or a bunch of stems and roses
Or taken you out on the town
To play until it closes
But all the gifts and niceities
Out there for us to see
Cannot begin to demonstrate
Just what you mean to me
For you my dear are at the heart
Of all there is for me
And in my life I hope someday
You too will come to see
That cards and stems and fancy nights
Though nice and sometimes fun
Cannot begin to celebrate
The love we’ve just begun
So on this day my darling wife
I’d like to let you see
Beyond a doubt my love is true
You are the one for me
mwj
4/82
What Makes Your House A Home
To be happy is the bottom line
Of all we think and do
Yet this feeling lies just out of reach
To most like me and you
Could it be that what we’re looking for
Is there inside of us
But it can’t be found since all we want
Is simply not around
It’s the house of dreams or fancy car
Or yacht out on the bay
With our minds made up we’ll push until
We’ve finally made the day
When the dreams are gone and on our lawn
The boat lies always still
And the car it drives just up the hill
To the house that’s better still
Yes it seems that what we want is fine
Until we’ve conquered it
Then it’s time to move again to when
We simply must have it
And so it goes around and ‘round
With no apparent end
Until you’ve got most everything
With more than you can spend
Yes to most it seems this is the goal
To live your life around
And it couldn’t be that once you’re there
True happy won’t be found
But the bottom line to all there is
Is not how much you own
It’s the way you live and why you smile
That makes your house a home
mwj
What Makes Your House A Home
To be happy is the bottom line
Of all we think and do
Yet this feeling lies just out of reach
To most like me and you
Could it be that what we’re looking for
Is there inside of us
But it can’t be found since all we want
Is simply not around
It’s the house of dreams or fancy car
Or yacht out on the bay
With our minds made up we’ll push until
We’ve finally made the day
When the dreams are gone and on our lawn
The boat lies always still
And the car it drives just up the hill
To the house that’s better still
Yes it seems that what we want is fine
Until we’ve conquered it
Then it’s time to move again to when
We simply must have it
And so it goes around and ‘round
With no apparent end
Until you’ve got most everything
With more than you can spend
Yes to most it seems this is the goal
To live your life around
And it couldn’t be that once you’re there
True happy won’t be found
But the bottom line to all there is
Is not how much you own
It’s the way you live and why you smile
That makes your house a home
mwj
5/12/14
15 Years
It was August 12 back in 99
When I lost my Mom at 69
15 years have passed before my eyes
And on Mothers Day I stop and cry
I cry for what she gave me
I cry for who she was
I cry for what I could have done
I cry because she's gone
I'm sad while just remembering
Her soft and gentle touch
And the wisdom she provided
That affected me so much
Regrets they are aplenty
As I venture through my past
And I wonder if I hurt her
Did these feelings in her last
Was she proud of what she made of me
Does she now just rest in peace
Am I what she worked so hard for
As her age I slowly reach
While there's nothing I can change of this
The past is what it is
I can sometimes feel inside of me
She's giving me a kiss
She knows there's been some rough spots
And some things she might rewind
But overall her son became
The man she had in mind
So Mom if you can hear me
I'd like for you to know
That I am the man you made me
And my love for you still grows
mwj
15 Years
It was August 12 back in 99
When I lost my Mom at 69
15 years have passed before my eyes
And on Mothers Day I stop and cry
I cry for what she gave me
I cry for who she was
I cry for what I could have done
I cry because she's gone
I'm sad while just remembering
Her soft and gentle touch
And the wisdom she provided
That affected me so much
Regrets they are aplenty
As I venture through my past
And I wonder if I hurt her
Did these feelings in her last
Was she proud of what she made of me
Does she now just rest in peace
Am I what she worked so hard for
As her age I slowly reach
While there's nothing I can change of this
The past is what it is
I can sometimes feel inside of me
She's giving me a kiss
She knows there's been some rough spots
And some things she might rewind
But overall her son became
The man she had in mind
So Mom if you can hear me
I'd like for you to know
That I am the man you made me
And my love for you still grows
mwj
6/18/82
My Wife, My Life
(wedding vows, 1st marriage)
As my life moves swiftly forward
And each day brings something new
At this moment I’m at peace and warm
Just knowing I’m with you
In front of all my loved ones
And nervous just a bit
I feel the special bonding
Of an almost perfect fit
Our union will endure I feel
The ups and downs to come
For I can truly say to you
You are my only one
I feel it at this moment
As at the last one too
And my edginess is fading
As I read this poem to you
As the seasons are to nature
We’re both changing to and fro
With the snow we’re close together
And the cold we’ll never know
With the sunshine we’re both smiling
Just the way most people do
As it rains we’ll count our blessings
As it brings us all that’s new
Yes the seasons shine upon us
And continue to they will
‘Cause we’ve found the key to all there is
As nature, we change too
Yes I welcome you into my life
And cherish you I will
In sickness health and in between
I’ll give to you your fill
Of love, respect and confidence
My deepest true regard
I love you Terri, I’ll say it loud
And it isn’t even hard
And if I die before my time
The gift I’ll leave for you
Is the promise of my mind and soul
Forever dear, it’s you
If you should leave before I do
Much worse than that above
I’ll carry on for both of us
The trust and deepest love
The love of nature truth and kin
The happiness we’ve shared
It’s all ahead for us my dear
We are the perfect pair
mwj
My Wife, My Life
(wedding vows, 1st marriage)
As my life moves swiftly forward
And each day brings something new
At this moment I’m at peace and warm
Just knowing I’m with you
In front of all my loved ones
And nervous just a bit
I feel the special bonding
Of an almost perfect fit
Our union will endure I feel
The ups and downs to come
For I can truly say to you
You are my only one
I feel it at this moment
As at the last one too
And my edginess is fading
As I read this poem to you
As the seasons are to nature
We’re both changing to and fro
With the snow we’re close together
And the cold we’ll never know
With the sunshine we’re both smiling
Just the way most people do
As it rains we’ll count our blessings
As it brings us all that’s new
Yes the seasons shine upon us
And continue to they will
‘Cause we’ve found the key to all there is
As nature, we change too
Yes I welcome you into my life
And cherish you I will
In sickness health and in between
I’ll give to you your fill
Of love, respect and confidence
My deepest true regard
I love you Terri, I’ll say it loud
And it isn’t even hard
And if I die before my time
The gift I’ll leave for you
Is the promise of my mind and soul
Forever dear, it’s you
If you should leave before I do
Much worse than that above
I’ll carry on for both of us
The trust and deepest love
The love of nature truth and kin
The happiness we’ve shared
It’s all ahead for us my dear
We are the perfect pair
mwj