out of the storm – Poetry: like it or hate it?
Are you a lover of poetry? I don’t like limericks or rhymed verse where often words are changed or mangled to fit the rhyme. Poetry also isn’t a story written in short lines vertically down the page. Even if it doesn’t rhyme, it has to have poetic rhythm and speak into our lives. This poem by Helen Keller brings tears to my eyes and touches my soul every time I revisit it –
They took away what should have been my eyes 
but I remembered Milton’s Paradise.
They took away what should have been my ears.
Beethoven came and wiped away my tears.
They took away what should have been my tongue
but I had talked with God when I was young.
He would not let them take away my soul –
possessing that I still possess the whole.
Then there are two brilliant lines from Frederick Langridge written in 1896 that challenge us to choose wisely. Our attitude is a choice no-one can take from us, even in difficult circumstances-
Two men look out through the same bars.
One sees the mud, the other the stars.
I am thinking of compiling a short book of my poetry, all reflecting joys, hopes, pain and struggles of many I’ve befriended over the years who have shared their experiences with me. They reveal real people facing real situations and, despite the bruises and wounds along the way, point to the One who has the answers and gives hope for the future.
Would you buy this book for yourself at approx $20? Would you consider giving it as a Christmas gift to your friends?
This is an unofficial survey to gauge interest. I’d love to hear from as many of you as possible.
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