tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34600779988692349072024-03-06T02:02:18.819-05:00Poetic LeaningsChoosing the road less traveled; now where the hell am I?!STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.comBlogger569125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-75329466918722532932021-04-18T15:47:00.011-04:002021-04-18T15:50:32.372-04:00Poem: Q Is For Crazy<p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Q Is For Crazy<br /></span><o:p style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <br /></span></o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">Sex traffickers in pizza joint basements<br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">Illuminati are ruling the world<br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">Soros is funding the chaos<br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">And the “fraud” of elections gets called<br /></span><o:p style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <br /></span></o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">Microchips jabbed in vaccine shots<br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">Bill Gates and Hillary take hold<br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">Hunter Biden conspires with China<br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">Hard to keep plans under fold<br /></span><o:p style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <br /></span></o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">Nancy Pelosi is a “demon” and “monster”<br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">‘Least according to the videos seen<br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">Antifa surrounds every escape route<br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">But the “truth” will be revealed and foreseen<br /></span><o:p style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <br /></span></o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">The savior is Q and his scripture<br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">And Trump will sure rise once again<br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">Trust in the “storm” revelation<br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">As the prophesied riddles portend<br /></span><o:p style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <br /></span></o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">Yep, all of this nonsense is foolish<br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">And believers are lost in their hate<br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">For if reality ever cuts through the rubbish<br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">They will be left to their mind-numbing fate<br /></span><o:p style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <br /></span></o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">Copyright SGW 2021</span></h3>
<br /><p></p>STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-14441777662936347162020-08-22T14:58:00.007-04:002020-08-22T14:58:50.052-04:00Poem: Fascist<p><b> Fascist</b><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing">There’s a fascist in the White House<br />With echoes of the past<br />There’s a fascist in the White House<br />Treat this election like your last<br />There’s a fascist in the White House<br />With an authoritarian calling<br />There’s a fascist in the White House<br />His enablers are appalling<br />There’s a fascist in the White House<br />A huckster, fraud and liar<br />There’s a fascist in the White House<br />A fact and science-based denier<br />There’s a fascist in the White House<br />Of pure criminal intention<br />There’s a fascist in the White House<br />Narcissist starving for attention<br />There’s a fascist in the White House<br />His followers are loons<br />There’s a fascist in the White House<br />As well as QAnon buffoons<br />There’s a fascist in the White House<br />Lawless to his core<br />There’s a fascist in the White House<br />A Putin/Saudi whore<br />There’s a fascist in the White House<br />A twittering, empty lump<br />There’s a fascist in the White House<br />And a racist; Donald Trump<br /><br />Copyright SGW 2020</p><p></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p></o:p></p><p><br /></p>STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-16593385469422060522018-10-07T13:39:00.001-04:002020-08-22T14:47:35.589-04:00Poem: This Is Not America<br />
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<b>This Is Not America</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Malicious face of twisted rage<o:p></o:p></div>
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Blindly led to disengage<o:p></o:p></div>
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From fact or logic or reasoned thought<o:p></o:p></div>
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A sense of truth is nary sought<o:p></o:p></div>
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This is not America<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Demagogue screams fitful venom<o:p></o:p></div>
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Behold, amassed, the mindless plenum<o:p></o:p></div>
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Fascist bent, tempestuous crowd<o:p></o:p></div>
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Empty slogans, yet shouted loud<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Diversity their greatest fear<o:p></o:p></div>
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Boogeymen are always near<o:p></o:p></div>
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Through bigot’s voice and rapist’s mark<o:p></o:p></div>
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Republic’s light will fade to dark<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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This is not America<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Lies, corruption, a swamp of fraud<o:p></o:p></div>
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Spew the hate, buffoons applaud<o:p></o:p></div>
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Tearing down foundation’s core<o:p></o:p></div>
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The GOP, a loathsome whore<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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In Donald Trump they found their muse<o:p></o:p></div>
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Mendacious scoundrel, perverted views<o:p></o:p></div>
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If this is our road of choice<o:p></o:p></div>
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And scales of justice lost a voice<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Then this is not America<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Copyright SGW 2018<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-50214791638905364982018-08-19T15:40:00.002-04:002020-08-22T14:47:21.284-04:00Poem: Racists' Different Names<br />
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<b><span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Racists’ Different Names</span></b><span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">American NAZIs or Ku Klux Klan<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">No matter the names, they share the same plan<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Hatred and evil and bigotry’s hand<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Morality missing for all which they stand<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Risen from swamps of a racist’s divine<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Donald Trump wears the emblem of supremacist’s line<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">His message is wrapped in the worst we have been<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Make American Great Again; our original sin<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Through slavery, segregation and violent acts<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Indian genocide and anti-immigrant tracts<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Always “those people,” lent an image to fear<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">A small-minded dogma zealots cling to as dear<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">If you can’t see this evil or sit idly by<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Bring a rationalization as deflective reply<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Hide behind falsehoods that you wrap to your being<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Denying the threat and pretend you’re not seeing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">You don’t need the hood or the NAZI salute<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Enabling of malice is its own absolute<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">History will show you as a partner of hate<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Sides have been chosen and it is approaching too late<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Copyright SGW 2018<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Footnote: Inspired by Spike Lee’s “BlackkKlansman.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-1991328793985625662018-07-01T14:24:00.001-04:002018-07-01T14:24:39.512-04:00Poem: Fascist's Dupes<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Fascist’s Dupes<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Were
you part of the crazed masses of people<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Screaming
madly, unyielding devotion<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">As
the little man with the odd mustache<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Spewed
on about the Fatherland first?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Nationalist,
fiery rhetoric and pounding fist;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Don’t
trust the media beyond the Goebbel’s tools!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Keep
out or destroy those not like us!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Were
you frothing at the mouth within your hostile, twisted fealty?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">I
ask this;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Why?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">We
look at the pictures today;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Those
enablers, blind followers, hateful fools;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Cast
aspersions on their souls.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">But
this is not like that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Except
the rule of law is threatened and scorned.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Media
is condemned as “enemies of the state;”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Unless
Rupert’s state media apparatus speaks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Brown
people are animals!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Refugees
are terrorists!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Scientists
are lying with their damned facts!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Tyrants
and dictators are fawned upon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">The
rich and corporatists gobble up any crumbs previously missed or kept from.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Hatred,
fear, intolerance, irrationality, fraud, corruption, lies.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Drained
the swamp; built an ocean’s cesspool.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">We
buy it all because, well, lies are easier.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Or
our own unmistakable hatred, ignorance and fear feed us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">We
will offer excuses or mixed up explanations.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Our
cowardice resides in the shadows,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Behind
the screaming, chanting, violent enmity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Someday
people will look upon our photographed images,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">As
the gluttonous, orange mass of vile inhumanity<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Stands
before us offering the same fascism.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">We
will be equally stained and shamed by history;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Dupes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Copyright
SGW 2018<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-91342395066305477782018-05-30T20:01:00.003-04:002018-05-31T20:36:20.338-04:00Poem: Burr - Misunderstood American<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Burr – Misunderstood
American<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">I
am not throwing away my shot<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Fateful
day where aim was true<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">A
shot was “thrown” to much ado<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">But
was that more contrived excuse<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Preparatory
actions one might deduce<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Determined
foe who would not relent<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Though
ample chance was underwent<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Hamilton
more did instigate<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">‘Twas
Burr who penned to mediate<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Slurs
sprung forth in Alexander’s wrath<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Burr’s
cool hand sought other path<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">I
am not throwing away my shot<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">History
makes Burr a shifty fiend<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">But
to strike a deal was how he leaned<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">A
politician, true, with all that hints<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">No
more, no less, men before or since<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Rivals
conspired to ruin his name<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">First
New York then Virginia same<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">1800
did not connive to steal<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Campaigned
for “Jeff” with fullest zeal<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">He
was cast aside by the doubting Thomas<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Career
was lost, a broken promise<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">I
am not throwing away my shot<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Ventured
west in a fevered state<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">But
not the traitor that became his fate<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Filibuster
goal was a common theme<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Of
Spanish lands many eyes would glean<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Though
foolish in his ill-laid action<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">To
split the nation was no attraction<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">His
legal mind was marked outstanding<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">For
middling classes sought better standing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">And
while quite the scoundrel in romantic fares<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">For
women’s rights had fewest peers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Burr
was flawed like any man must be<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Yet
much is lost by history<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Reduced
to villain by word and song<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Lin
Manuel, a genius, gets so much wrong<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Most
profiles writ hold Burr stained quite unfairly<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">We’ve
heard his name but know him barely<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">He
did not throw away his shot/He threw away his shot<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Copyright
SGW 2018<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Footnotes:
Based largely on information from Nancy Isenberg’s biography “Fallen Founder –
The Life of Aaron Burr.” Repeated line from the Broadway musical “Hamilton.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-58426677839431610902018-05-05T10:13:00.001-04:002018-05-05T10:13:17.946-04:00Poem: Chui<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Chui<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Trees
are my domain<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Resting
regally<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Surveying
horizons<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Piercing
eyes stare out<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Nothing
betrays calm<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Waiting
to spring out<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Climb
down from my perch<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Hunger
drives my time<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Swalapala
graze<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Perhaps
songura<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Nyumbu,
with luck<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Cunning
guides my course<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">You
will not see me<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Until
I am there<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Falling
upon you<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Did
you quite suspect<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Though
no matter now<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Belly
full of meat<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Again,
I lie here<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">In
the branches; high<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Simba
skulks below<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Laughs
of fisi range<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">This
branch, sacrosanct<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">I
sneer for effect<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Mostly
hold contempt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Drift
off to sleeping<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Dreams
of future hunts<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Trees
are my domain<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Copyright
SGW 2018<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Footnotes:
Chui is leopard; Swalapala is impala; Songura is rabbit; Nyumbu is wildebeest;
Simba is lion, Fisi is hyena.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-14918847805414096882018-04-15T16:17:00.001-04:002018-04-15T16:19:37.877-04:00Poem: Clusterfuck #45<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Clusterfuck #45<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Each
day brings a brand, new disaster<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Or
chaos, confusion and con<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Awash
in corruption and vices<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">And
any; all, sanity gone<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">One,
lone “accomplishment” is counted<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">A
tax scam of epic device<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Shifting
the wealth of the nation<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">So
the rich gets much more to their slice<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Corruption
runs rampant in dealings<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">The
Emoluments Clause laid to wreck<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Shadiness
pervades every action<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">When
a mafia clan has no check<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">The
level of incompetence is astounding<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Tweets
expose emptiest suit<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">He
will lie and distract to no purpose<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">But
the deceits are his one absolute<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">“Draining
the swamp” was pure artifice<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Since
replaced by an avowed toxic waste<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">From
economy to environment to diplomacy<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">The
destruction arrives with posthaste<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Disgraced
to the world in our turmoil<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">As
Trump clings to tyrannical mates<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">He
has traded away our virtue<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">In
collusion, betrayal, dictates<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Putin,
ah Putin, his favorite despot<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">With
impeachable behavior he’s set<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">An
unbridled, ass-kissing convention<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Or
is it pee that explains what we get<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">He
is walled by the vilest hatred<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Building
on bigotry and racism and fear<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">All
“MAGA” conveys in its message<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Is
his cowardice is proved crystal-clear<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Every
day seems to pass in disorder<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">A
small, little man run amok<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">This
Trumpian reign ‘be remembered<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">As
a mistaken, unsound clusterfuck<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Copyright
SGW 2018<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<br />STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-53954637471825404642018-04-01T08:14:00.001-04:002018-04-01T08:14:26.013-04:00Poem: Fools' Day<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Fools’
Days<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Trump
supporters<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Do
they notice?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Today
is no different from all the others<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Fools
are three sixty-five<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Butt
of the joke<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">MAGA<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Draining
the swamp<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Tax
cuts<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Middle
class relief<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Job
creation<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Great
negotiator<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Best
people<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">No
collusion<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">April
fools!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Rest
of the year, too<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Copyright
SGW 2018<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-52505648517202213502018-03-14T08:31:00.001-04:002018-03-14T08:31:51.828-04:00Poem: Theorize<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Theorize<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Time
is elusive and time is at hand<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Absolute
reason; chaotic, unplanned<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Time
imparts theory of fullness in being<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Everything,
nothing, upon us while fleeing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Time
reaches, grasping, for understood thinking<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Lost
in a moment by reflex of blinking<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Time
passes surely while time’s made to live<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Gone
through the spaces of effluent sieve<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Time
lasts forever in its finite dominion<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Withstanding
convention or dissenting opinion<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Time’s
been provided until it is squandered<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Lapses
unnoticed; continually pondered<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Time
is cliché yet creative conception<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Stands
as the rule and recedes from exception<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Time
knows no boundary can be hoped to transcend<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">A
Big Bang beginning; collapse for an end<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Copyright
SGW 2014<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Footnotes:
Inspired by “The Theory of Everything,” a movie about Stephen Hawking. M.A.D.
assistance in this writing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-87626823915705638152018-01-11T18:59:00.001-05:002018-01-11T18:59:57.897-05:00Poem: Random Kenya<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Random Kenya<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Kenya
conveys a randomness<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">People
by roadside<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Selling
wares<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Lying
prone, asleep<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Simply
looking to the distance<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Walking
cattle<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Driving
long, dusty backroads<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">To
what feels like nowhere<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Then,
in vast emptiness<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">A
man<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Standing
resolute<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">No
obvious point of origin<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Or
destination<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">But
he’s there if needed<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Markets
spring up<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Awash
in multitudes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Followed
by open, bare roads<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Broken
down vehicle<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">A
community appears from thin air<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Some
help<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Others
tinker<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Children
gawk, wave, take it all in<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Kenya’s
randomness is comforting<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Copyright SGW 2017<o:p></o:p></span></div>
STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-59434442860057002362017-12-26T15:43:00.000-05:002017-12-26T15:43:09.985-05:00Poem: Kenya<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Kenya<o:p> </o:p></b> </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
An elephant’s power will be felt in its stride<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
No obstacles standing can divert them aside<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Confident swagger in their marching along<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Seemingly gentle, yet latently strong<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Contrast with the grace of a giraffe’s slender cast<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Softness implied as an elegance, vast<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Legs to forever and neck stretching high<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Trees reaching upward can’t extend to deny<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Majestic, the lion, truly king and queens of the plain<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Huntress stalks onward toward its prey by restrain<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Male lies proudly with mane grandly sculpted<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
His Highness presides ever surely exulted<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Speed of a cheetah feeds exhilaration fast growing<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
The moment awaits when a hunt’s undergoing<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Zebra and warthog, hyena or jackal<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Only first truly feel them when they live without shackle<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
The hooligan baboons as they probe of the camp<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
You can sniff at the tent, 3 A.M., naughty scamp!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
For me it’s the leopard as definitive resplendence <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Shoulder blades roll with a gait of ascendance<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Or perched on a branch to survey the terrain<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Eyes piercing distance with no hint of a strain<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
The cunning and beauty, and remarkable stealth<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
As I watch full of wonder I’ve a limitless wealth<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<o:p> </o:p> </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Copyright SGW 2017<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-80108905371311354142017-08-13T15:42:00.001-04:002017-08-13T15:42:55.889-04:00Poem: Resilience<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Resilience<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Watching
the love by intensity’s stare<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Struggles
and hardships two people might bear<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Tragic
the turns come upon as they dance<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">One
looks away just as other will glance<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Hindrance
springs forth too enormous to check<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Ship
starts to founder ‘till the rocks leave a wreck<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Frightened
of stigma, betrayal and loss<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Frailty’s
victims are each weight of their cross<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Words
left unspoken mark a road ever beckoning<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Trail
soon lost while the doubt’s ever reckoning<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">The
heart proves resilient for the bond that’s been built<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">There
is always more milk when a glass has been spilt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Copyright
SGW 2017<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Footnote: Influenced by
the movie “The Big Sick.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-41782505441693692722017-01-27T19:21:00.002-05:002017-01-27T19:21:17.068-05:00Rating the presidency of Barack Obama<div class="MsoNormal">
In attempting to place Barack Obama historically in a
presidential ranking, there are many complicating variables that would not
normally be present. I attribute this to the election of Donald Trump to follow
Obama into the White House. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Because Trump is likely to be such an extremist,
irrational and unqualified train- wreck, there are bound to be Obama
accomplishments that are undone. This could include the Affordable Care Act,
the Iran nuclear deal and environmental and financial regulations, to name but
a few.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A second factor that presents a challenge in grading
Barack Obama’s presidency is the Republican obstruction during his two terms.
Never before has a president been faced with opposition so severe, extreme and
absolute. This was evident to such a degree that Republicans actually opposed
their own ideas; the Affordable Care Act being the most obvious example.
Opposition to Obama was a virulent reaction to his being black, well-spoken,
reserved, and thoughtful, with the racism being at the top of the list.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
With these qualifications in mind, I have ranked Barack
Obama where I believe is appropriate. I feel that had his successor been
Hillary Clinton, or even a rational Republican (which in 2016 was nearly
impossible to find), this position would be more historically settled. However,
depending on the Trump presidency, and how quickly the pendulum swings back to
sanity in the nation in 2018 and 2020, Obama’s place could rise or fall by a
few slots.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
I rank Barack Obama reasonably high, and believe true
historians will as well, for many reasons. However, I would first point out his
most obvious failures, shortfalls and missed opportunities. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Domestically, his weak points can be viewed as a product
of his early tenure timidity, or faith that he could bring Democrats and Republicans
together. This resulted in his providing for inadequate spending to combat the
Great Recession (with too many ineffective tax cuts included), relying on
Congress to lead the way on health insurance reform (Thus succumbing to the
tendencies of men such as Ben Nelson, Max Baucus and Joe Lieberman to
significantly weaken the final product, and Republicans to whip up a frenzy of
misinformation and lies leading to the creation of the Tea Party), and in not
prosecuting anyone on Wall Street for the reckless behavior that enabled the
economic collapse Obama inherited. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
On foreign policy, Obama’s greatest failings were in his
too closely adhering to George W. Bush Administration policies on drone strikes
and warrantless wiretapping (I place this in foreign policy due to its
terrorism connection). Obama, also, was sometimes too reasonable with the thugs
and tyrants in the Middle East and Russia. While I will point to this as a
strength, too, drawing lines in the sand (Syria), being too reflective (Russia,
Egypt, Saudi Arabia, China) and not recognizing the value of at least showing
the stick more transparently alongside the carrot, allowed the various strong
men in these countries to act without genuine fear of repercussion. Lastly, he,
like most all other experts, underestimated ISIL’s rise.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
While peace between Israel and Palestine remains out of
reach, probably further away than it was when Obama took office, I blame this
fully on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli extreme
right, Mahmoud Abbas and the weak and cowardly Palestinian leadership,
Republican intransigence, and AIPAC.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
However, Barack Obama’s successes, while some potentially
will be ephemeral, outweigh these weaknesses by a sizable margin, thereby
making him an above average to very good president.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
While the world exploded due to the Arab Spring, most
United States connection to this would be longstanding, dating back to
post-World War II. No president could have drastically altered the events that
took place. Egypt was a mess because the Muslim Brotherhood and the military
both refused to govern inclusively. Iraq fell apart due to Bush policies,
Iran’s influence and the Shiite unwillingness to, again, govern inclusively.
While I have mentioned Obama’s failings as to Syria, I also believe he wisely
did not engage more fully. The American people overwhelmingly opposed the boots
on the ground that would have been required, Congress, cowardly, was unwilling
to act in any manner, and the reality within Syria showed that the opposition
to Bashar al-Assad was incredibly fluid and unreliable. Arming militants could
have led to a repeat of the disastrous outcome of arming the Afghani jihadists
of the 1980’s.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
As such, I view Obama’s Syria policy as limiting the
quagmire for the U.S. ISIL was technically an already existing threat – a
product of the Iraq War and al Qaeda in Iraq. Iraq itself had no true means of
being a success because of their own leadership. Obama got the U.S. out of the
sinkhole that Iraq had been as best as possible. The same was true in
Afghanistan.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
The Obama Administration had clear successes, too. Ties
to India grew by leaps and bounds. The failed Cuba policy was ended, with great
promise for the future. Despite some serious problems with its Rohingya
population, Myanmar gave up a solid measure of its military rule. Al Qaeda was
seriously weakened, including the death of Osama bin Laden. There were no
significant terrorist strikes within U.S. borders. The open hostility and
negative image of the United States internationally, a product of the Bush
Administration’s “Cowboy Diplomacy,” was greatly reversed. And, most
importantly, despite unprecedented political opposition from Republicans and
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the Iran Nuclear Agreement was
signed. This deal made the world much safer for the foreseeable future and
possibly bought Iran enough time to moderate when Ayatolluh Khamanei dies,
hopefully soon.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Domestically, the Obama presidency could have been great.
Sadly, due to Obama’s early naiveté that Republicans would be reasonable and
act in the best interests of the nation, combined with those Republicans
intentionally harming the country solely to deny Obama any success, less was
accomplished than was possible. I do not put too much of this upon Obama’s
shoulders.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
The Obama Administration was handed the worst economic
disaster since the Great Depression. Unemployment was rising, banks were
becoming insolvent, the auto industry was collapsing, and the country was on
the brink of disaster. Obama’s steady hand provided enough stimulus to stem the
tide. Bailouts to the auto and banking industry, building on what the Bush
Administration was virtually forced to begin to enact, saved millions of jobs
and prevented a complete economic catastrophe.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Once things stabilized, with the help of an engaged and
late-to-the-game, proactive Federal Reserve Bank, unemployment eventually
leveled off and actually achieved near complete employment. Obama’s negotiating
led to a reversal of some (though not enough) of the Bush tax cuts, resulting
in a lessening of income inequality. Towards the end of Obama’s tenure, income
growth began to show real signs of picking up momentum. The Consumer Financial
Protection Bureau was created, greatly reducing the risk of further financial
fraud and protecting the middle and lower classes significantly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
While the Affordable Care Act, also known as “Obamacare,”
has produced incredible controversy, and is far from a perfect piece of law,
it’s success is beyond logical question. It did not fully address cost
containment, but it did slow the growth of increases. It allowed for a wide
array of innovation to make care more efficient and effective. Most
importantly, through the insurance exchanges and increased Medicaid enrollment,
30 million additional people received affordable (due to subsidies) health insurance.
The plan also had a substantial impact on income inequality by effectively
granting raises to people in the lower and middle classes via affordable care,
while paying for the care with tax increases on the wealthiest people.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
The Affordable Care Act clearly needs tinkering to fix
the various problems that any large piece of legislation can lead to. Sadly,
the potential for repeal by Republicans following the end of the Obama
presidency could undo all these gains and negatively impact tens of millions of
people. This is one key area where Republican success would, sadly, negatively
impact Obama’s legacy. However, judging by early news from the post-Obama
presidency, Republicans appear to have succumbed to the notion of insuring more
people. Though all their alternatives will not actually result in this, the
change in the tone of the conversation is to Obama’s credit. The best hope is
that once Republicans make things worse, the Obama legacy will allow for a
second reversal that restores coverage levels and goes further than the ACA.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
While some might argue that President Obama did not do
enough for the environment – increased oil production domestically, allowing
fracking – the truth is his administration did protect vast expanses of the
nation and made major efforts to improve auto fuel efficiencies, address
climate change globally and shift the country to alternative energy sources. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
The Obama Administration was essentially scandal-free. In
fact, the only real scandal during Obama’s term in office was Republican
attempts to manufacture scandals through countless irresponsible, fraudulent
and shameful investigations into, frankly, nothing.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Some might place blame on Barack Obama for the increased
national divisiveness. It is more appropriate to place almost no blame on the
president. Any disparagement of President Obama for the rancor that grew
during, and as a result of, his presidency would be the equivalent of blaming
Lincoln for the Civil War. The truth is, as is often the case throughout
history, a reaction to economic difficulty, often leads to nationalist excess,
rightwing extremism and overt acts of hostility. The rise of the Tea Party, the
extent to which the Republican Party became a rightwing, fanatical platform and
the eventual rise of Trumpism, is not a reflection on the Obama Administration,
or any failings on its part, but the product on an uninformed electorate and
misguided rage.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Overall, Barack Obama merits the rating I have given him.
Repeal of the Affordable Care Act with an insufficient replacement, or a
rejection of the Iran Nuclear Accords, could drop his rating. But the United
States was blessed by a thoughtful, responsible, dynamic, and good man, who had
a plan of success for the nation. It was not fully attained, and could be
undone in many respects. For now, Barack Obama stands as this nation’s #11
president.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<o:p><a href="http://poeticleanings-sgw.blogspot.com/2005/02/rating-presidents.html">Rating the Presidents</a></o:p></div>
STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-15139468917116684282016-11-25T12:10:00.000-05:002016-11-25T12:10:27.300-05:00Poem: Milk and Honey<div class="MsoNormal">
Israel changes you. There is a deep, spiritual connection that takes over your soul.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Milk And Honey</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Layers of lives past, embrace<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Power in God face to face<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hands touching Wall feels the grace<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Holiest highs to this place<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Extremes doth remain a disgrace<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Warmth, loving peace should replace<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Float ‘pon the Dead Sea, serene<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Walk through Masada’s lost scene<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
History knows what’s unseen<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Too much the hate as routine<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
More than enough shared between<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Caring, the hope I’ve foreseen<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wash away fear to ‘come clean<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Killing knows none of God’s gleam<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
All of these people converge<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
World’s (main) three religions must merge<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve walked ‘long the roads to emerge<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Joining of hands one must urge<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Beautiful land reemerge<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Israel brings forth heaven’s touch<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Opening hearts offers much<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Copyright SGW 2016<o:p></o:p></div>
STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-27418001651253970722016-11-22T13:30:00.001-05:002016-11-22T13:30:00.359-05:00Poem: Trump Mindset<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Trump Mindset<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>(Dedicated to his supporters)</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p> </o:p> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He is only a symptom.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A diseased contagion spread<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
From recesses of mindless<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hatred and inflamed raging.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Racism branching outward.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Frightened by what is not them,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For they are cowards and fools,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With orange, soulless leader.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The buffoons follow like sheep.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And he will steal where he can,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Because all he is, is thief,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Carnival barker and fraud.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
How much destruction awaits?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p> </o:p> </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
SGW 2016<o:p></o:p></div>
STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-45120426716655672062016-09-12T19:57:00.001-04:002016-09-12T20:36:51.932-04:00Bobby Kennedy<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px; margin-bottom: 6px;">
Yesterday, I finished reading, "Bobby Kennedy - The Making of a Liberal Icon." It was the third book on Bobby Kennedy I have read, not including JFK and LBJ books.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
RFK is one of my five historical heroes (see below). While his flaws and failings are easy to discern and discuss - a degree of support for Joe McCarthy, impatience, abrasiveness, a sense of entitlement in daily living, among others - there is no question in my mind that RFK was one of the greatest Americans, and p<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline; font-family: inherit;">ossibly world figures in the last 250 years at least.</span></div>
<div class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;">
<div style="font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 6px;">
I could go on as to what he actually accomplished. But I found myself reflecting more on what might have been. I came up with the following list:</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
1. Wins the presidency in 1968. We never get Nixon or Watergate. In fact, that is the end of Nixon's political career.<br />
2. Based on #1, we exit Vietnam in 1969. Many lives are saved. Vietnam ends up being what it became anyway. But we re-establish some contact many years earlier than occurred otherwise.<br />
3. Ronald Reagan runs for president in 1976, possibly even 1972. Either way, he does not have the wind at his back and we are spared the Reagan presidency. This dramatically alters financial de-regulation and significantly lessens income inequality.<br />
4. We still get the EPA and some detente with China. But working with his brother, Ted, and other powerful members of Congress, we get universal health insurance coverage by 1974. Not during his presidency, but in the following decade, we get to single payer care.<br />
5. George H.W. Bush wins the presidency in 1980.<br />
6. RFK is able to build upon his work in JFK's presidency and, despite his shared animosity with LBJ, the Great Society, and achieves meaningful and durable civil rights gain. The country gets to 1976 with a long road still to travel. But we are much further along in the trip.</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
As the above shows, I consider RFK's murder one of the worst moments in U.S. history. I know it can be viewed as dreaming and wishful thinking. Still, I can't help believing, given what I have read, that Bobby Kennedy was so special and unique as to have been able to achieve the kind of greatest I speak of.</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
On that note, my Top 5 Historical Heroes, in no order:<br />
1. Thomas Jefferson<br />
2. Nelson Mandela<br />
3. Robert Kennedy<br />
4. Abraham Lincoln<br />
5. Malcolm X</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
Honorable Mentions: Ben Franklin, George Washington, Teddy Roosevelt, Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt, Martin Luther King, Gandhi. Aung San Suu Kyi had a shot to be included until she showed herself to be a bit too much a domineering leader while too weak regarding the Rohingyas.</div>
</div>
STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-63628226657534201042016-08-31T20:28:00.001-04:002016-08-31T20:29:41.589-04:00The Big Bang Theory<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">“The Big Bang Theory” is currently my favorite television
show. It ranks on my list of top shows all-time. I watch it so often and am
starting to consider addiction as being involved here. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I know there are countless message boards for the show, and
lists showing mistakes like an empty glass suddenly being filled or other
filming faux pas. Those are fun, but fairly common to any show. However, I am
limiting this post to one basic subject – the architectural impossibilities of
the building at 2311 North Los Robles Avenue, Pasadena, California, and the
various inconsistences within the building.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1. <span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Why the building is architecturally impossible:
Where is Penny’s apartment? We know the front door in the lobby is just to the
right of the stairs, coming down. The stairway wraps around the elevator. Based
on this, Penny’s apartment has to be in the exact location the
front door in the lobby is located. We also know that just outside the front
door is a sidewalk and then the street. Therefore, Penny’s apartment has to be
hanging directly over the sidewalk and the street. And, the small window in her
kitchen, which is generally blocked off by something, but I believe reveals a brick wall at times (Hence, Penny putting various designs there to replace the visual of the wall), can’t exist where it is shown. That window would have to be in the
middle of the street, and what on earth is a brick wall doing in the middle of
a street in Pasadena?!</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">2. W</span><span style="font-size: 11pt;">hat kind of amoeba-shaped building do they live in? Look at
this <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=big+bang+theory+floor+plan&rlz=1C1CAFB_enUS687US687&espv=2&biw=1280&bih=899&tbm=isch&imgil=clJ06epn4D8N4M%253A%253BgI9ws6v34Um7gM%253Bhttp%25253A%25252F%25252Fwww.fanforum.com%25252Ff312%25252Ftbbt-merchandise-appreciation-2-because-most-things-we-plan-buy-havent-been-invented-yet-63097651%25252Findex6.html&source=iu&pf=m&fir=clJ06epn4D8N4M%253A%252CgI9ws6v34Um7gM%252C_&usg=__YaXwxUnI4AmxRgkYm5o_q9ZeWFM%3D&ved=0ahUKEwiwufvv1t_OAhVDC8AKHS4QALQQyjcINQ&ei=FobAV7DWBsOWgAauoICgCw#imgrc=clJ06epn4D8N4M%3A">thing</a>!!</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">3. </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">To take #2 one step further, as is often pointed
out, there are 16 mailboxes in the lobby. There cannot be any apartments on the
first floor (See #5).Therefore, my assumption is there are 4 apartments on the
second, third, fourth, and fifth floors. We are never led to believe there are
more than five floors, though it is possible. But that would make the mailbox
layout even more bizarre. In Season 1, Episode 2, I have noticed, just to the right of
Sheldon and Leonard’s door (facing into the apartment), there is a cornering of
the wall and the glimpse of a hallway. It would make sense that two more
apartments are down this hallway. However, I believe this viewpoint becomes
altered in later seasons, and may no longer exist, dismissing these other
apartments into oblivion. If they do exist, though, the building becomes even weirder looking.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">4. </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Going back to the mailboxes in the lobby, it is
a 4 x 4 layout. Sheldon and Leonard always take their mail from the upper left
box. However, in at least one episode, I have noticed Penny taking mail from the
upper right box. Shouldn’t she be the box right next to Sheldon’s and
Leonard’s? Again, not violating the laws of physics, but clearly odd. Also, if
I am correct that people live on floors 2 – 5, why does Leonard once mention
getting the couch from the guys on the first floor? And shouldn’t Sheldon’s and
Leonard’s and Penny’s mailboxes be on the second row from the top?</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">5. </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Why aren’t there apartments on the first floor?
For starters, the front door to the lobby is where Penny’s apartment would be.
No apartment is just outside the front door. The mailboxes are exactly where
Sheldon’s and Leonard’s apartment, and all those below and the fifth floor
above, are located. No apartment behind the mailboxes then. To the right of the
elevator (facing it), is a small corridor. All indications are the door that can be seen
there either goes directly into the laundry room or leads to stairs going down
to it. If we walk into the lobby from the front door and turn right, small
plants can sometimes be seen. Why would they be in front of any apartments or
blocking the approach to a hallway? Also, we see in Season 3, Episode 20, that
there is a light store directly adjacent to the apartment at street level.
Sheldon and Howard walk past it before Howard departs and Sheldon is then
chased by a big dog for his hot dogs. Clearly, no apartments over there. So, no people are
living on the first floor.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">6. </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Another building oddity I have noticed is the
window in Leonard’s and Sheldon’s kitchen. We see it repeatedly in earlier
seasons. It faces a brick wall, which is a bit strange, given the layout of
where the bedrooms would have to be, since it does not appear to be angled at
all. This window is important to Sheldon, as he has chosen his seat on the
couch, in part, based upon the cross breeze between this window and the larger window in
the main room. However, in later seasons, there is a large erase board fully
blocking where this window would be. Did the window disappear? Why would
Sheldon allow such a large obstruction to be altering his much-needed cross
breeze?</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Now back to re-runs!!</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: -24px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-38174256865338479012016-08-13T21:26:00.000-04:002016-08-13T21:27:55.585-04:00Hamilton (Broadway)<b>Hamilton</b><br />
<br />
The Broadway original play, "Hamilton," has been the event of the year. Celebrities and politicians vie for seats, and even us regular folk have to pay $500 or more for a ticket. For a number of reasons, "Hamilton" merits this attention and the accolades it has received. To some degree, the praise is somewhat over the top.<br />
<br />
First, let me begin by stating my being a bit of an aficionado of the Revolutionary Era. At the bottom of this post, I will discuss briefly the historical aspects of the play I had problems with. Chalk it up to my OCD-like need for things to be as accurate as possible when presenting historical events.<br />
<br />
Sadly, or not, I saw "Hamilton" about a month after much of the original cast had moved on. I have seen Lin-Manuel Miranda in "In the Heights," and on television, so I have some sense of him as a performer. The new lead, playing Alexander Hamilton, is Javier Munoz, who I believe contributed to the creation of the role. Munoz is so good as to be worthy of the highest praise. He might be equal to Miranda, though I cannot say for sure, having not seen the latter as Hamilton. I can say that Munoz vocally is less nasal than Miranda, and I like him more as a singer and even rapper. Miranda's genius is as a creator.<br />
<br />
I also was quite taken with the performances of Renee Elise Goldsberry as Angelica Schuyler (original cast), Andrew Chapelle as Lafayatte and Thomas Jefferson (especially as Jefferson) and Lexi Lawson as Eliza Hamilton. Sydney James Harcourt, though the understudy in the Aaron Burr role, was also quite good. Christopher Jackson, as George Washington (original cast), provides the best vocal performance, with a stellar rendition of "One Last Time." Lawson's "The World Was Wide Enough" is also a show highlight vocally.<br />
<br />
Conceptually, Lin-Manual Miranda has created something uniquely scintillating and impressive. "Hamilton" is smart, funny, eye-catching, original, and overflowing with cultural relevance. In this time of Donald Trump, and the racism, misogyny and anti-immigrant fervor he spews, and many of his followers share, the diversity of the cast, where white men and women are black, Hispanic and Asian, and women can even be men, is a stark message that the Trump vitriol is not what America is supposed to represent. I realize that the original America; in fact the one that even now continues to struggle with inequality, is far from perfect. The founding ideals are more represented in this cast, and many of the lines of the script, than can be located in any Trump rally. To quote the play, "Immigrants - we get the job done."<br />
<br />
Some of the choreography of "Hamilton" is fascinating. The two rap battles between Jefferson and Hamilton are wonderful. And the Burr-Hamilton dual is gorgeously laid out. The staging is seamless and alluring.<br />
<br />
The funniest moments come from the King George character, though Thomas Jefferson's entrance provides satirical pleasures worth mentioning, too.<br />
<br />
While I do not see the soundtrack as being a timeless "show tunes" display, it is no less impressive for its bringing to the stage agile and clever lyrics, witty repartee and a few traditional numbers (see above for two examples) that shine brightly.<br />
<br />
"Hamilton" is not an all-time great musical of the year winner, in my opinion. But it is a dazzling Broadway display, and it is hard to argue with the success it has garnered. I maintain that Danny Burstein's portrayal of Tevye in the "Fiddler on the Roof" revival deserved Best Actor. For its timeliness of message, given the politics in our country this election season, it warrants its place in the spotlight. Anyone who can get a ticket, should.<br />
<br />
<br />
Historical notes:<br />
Mr. Miranda's script is based on the Ron Chernow biography, "Alexander Hamilton," You can read what I have to say about that book <a href="http://poeticleanings-sgw.blogspot.com/2016/05/ron-chernow-hamilton-book.html">here</a>. I appreciate that this musical is about entertainment and is not meant to be a school classroom. That said, people will walk out of the theater believing they have learned more history than they actually have.<br />
<br />
If you want a much more honest understanding of Aaron Burr, I recommend following this <a href="http://poeticleanings-sgw.blogspot.com/2007/06/fallen-founder-life-of-aaron-burr.html">link</a> and read the biography it discusses. Burr is misrepresented throughout "Hamilton." Then again, he is treated somewhat unjustly in most textbooks, too.<br />
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The caricatures of Thomas Jefferson and James Madison are also highly distorted. I could probably offer up 20 books on Jefferson and 3 or 4 on Madison that could serve as more objective portrayals.<br />
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Burr's, Jefferson's and Madison's role in confronting Hamilton about the Reynolds Affair are pure fiction. James Monroe and two others were actually involved. The election of 1800 is a factual mess, too.<br />
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The arc of Alexander Hamilton's life is close enough, though imperfect. His prolific writing is beyond reproach, and his fighting spirit and creation of our monetary system unquestioned. The story Eliza Hamilton tells about the orphanage she created in his honor after his death is true.<br />
<br />
My point for this section is, enjoy "Hamilton," Then read a lot more!!STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-20614622024216610232016-07-30T12:57:00.000-04:002016-07-30T12:57:58.732-04:00Poem: Weathered<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Weathered<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Struggles we’re given leave their lasting impression<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The damage they’ll do of often random expression<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We can tilt at our windmills; hope to fend off the blows<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">And plan as we might as life’s laughter still grows<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">No one escapes regardless effect and causation<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We rebuild in the face of each new devastation <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A truth universal is we all must endure</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">What the storm will break down the new day can restore<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The waves beat relentless with unwearied pulsation<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Firm we must stand for the length of duration<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">At the end of the onslaught the clouds might disperse<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Things could be better, but they could also be worse<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We all hold a strength inherently willed to survive<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Dormant foundations can, with time, yet revive<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Copyright SGW 2014<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Footnotes:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">This poem is directly inspired and based on
Jerzy Jung’s song, “In Waves.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">2. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">In
describing the song at a performance, Jerzy stated, “Rebuilding in the face of
personal devastation.” I used that line
almost completely in this poem.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">3. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">The
use of the word “Waves” used in this poem is a hat-tip to the song.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">4. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">The
use of the word “Strength” used in this poem is also taken from Jerzy’s song as
the destination to where the overcoming of hardships will come. Strength of self, but also others who love
us.</span></div>
STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-72674925825235956232016-07-04T13:45:00.000-04:002016-07-04T13:50:29.860-04:00One More Thing, Stories and Other Stories - B.J. Novak (Book)What a thoroughly enjoyable book, by B.J. Novak! This collection of short stories and thoughts is whimsical, clever, thought-provoking, and profoundly wise. That's it; my review is done. Read the book!<br />
<br />
My favorite stories:<br />
The Rematch<br />
No One Goes to Heaven to See Dan Folgelberg<br />
The Something by John Grisham<br />
The Man Who Invented the Calendar<br />
MONSTER: The Rollercoaster<br />
Closure<br />
If I Had a Nickel<br />
A Good Problem to Have<br />
The Market Was Down<br />
Great Writers Steal<br />
Confucius At Home<br />
The Best Thing in the World Awards<br />
Everyone Was Singing the Same Song: The Duke of Earl Recalls His Trip to America in June of 1962<br />
<br />STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-82125826725889161072016-06-16T20:22:00.000-04:002016-06-16T20:22:03.145-04:00Poem: Broken<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Broken</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p> </o:p> </div>
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Sit in a darkness of growing decay<o:p></o:p></div>
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The body’s betrayed what the mind might convey<o:p></o:p></div>
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Whispers a vestige of richness in being<o:p></o:p></div>
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Look to a mirror with disdain for the seeing<o:p></o:p></div>
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No one unmasks the full depth in what’s broken<o:p></o:p></div>
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The stain of the scars leaves much damage unspoken<o:p></o:p></div>
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To know no solution can repair what’s diminished<o:p></o:p></div>
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‘Nary got started yet the race has been finished<o:p></o:p></div>
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So look at the world’s unattainable prize<o:p></o:p></div>
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Revealing the dreams as ridiculous lies<o:p></o:p></div>
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Too much to ask for what most would assume<o:p></o:p></div>
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Broken, the body, is its own living tomb<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p> </o:p> </div>
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SGW 2016<o:p></o:p></div>
STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-57227233323696292302016-05-28T11:33:00.003-04:002016-05-28T11:36:00.206-04:00Ron Chernow - Hamilton<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Alexander Hamilton – by Ron Chernow<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anyone who knows me, can attest to my being a bit of a
historical bibliophile. My favorite timeframe is the Revolutionary era.
Overall, I would hazard a guess that I have read over 100 biographies or
historical pieces, and likely over 50 from the Revolutionary period. I will
offer the disclaimer that I am partial to Thomas Jefferson, having read 22
books focused on him, including the 5 Dumas Malone definitive, though limited,
offerings. Still, I can speak to Jefferson’s hypocrisy, conniving, weaknesses
on slavery, and tendency to get carried away when thinking out loud via the
pen.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Alexander Hamilton is a fascinating historical figure. I
had read a biography on him previously, and naturally he is a key figure in any
work regarding Washington, Adams, Jefferson, Madison, Burr, and many others. I
have also examined the Federalist Papers in detail, and, of course, read the
Constitution (something conservative wingnuts might want to try doing).<o:p></o:p></div>
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My opinion of Alexander Hamilton’s place in history is to
revere and respect him, yet also be fully conscious of his weaknesses. He
clearly is the father of our financial system, though some might argue how much
of a positive that has become, or whether it could have been built successfully
with more of a soul. There is no doubt that he put the newborn nation on a firm
fiscal basis with his many plans and actions. I wonder if Albert Gallatin could
have done the same, or perhaps someone else, but Hamilton did do it and
deserves tireless praise as a result.<o:p></o:p></div>
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His work on getting the Constitution passed in the
various states, and especially New York, also merits high praise. While he
questioned the strength of the document, it never would have been enacted
without the Federalist Papers, of which he was the prime author. He also was a
valued confidante of George Washington, both during the Revolutionary War and during
his presidential term, though more so in the first 5 years.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Hamilton also had a great many flaws, among them an epic
vanity, a thin skin, a partiality toward monarchy and Great Britain, and an
inability to avoid intrigue. He also had his famous interlude with Maria
Reynolds, a problem he compounded significantly when he could not let questions
about his financial dealings go unanswered and, instead, wrote in excessive
detail about the affair as part of his defense of his actions as Treasury Secretary.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Needless to say, Alexander Hamilton was a great man, one
of this nation’s brightest lights of the founding era. Because he never became
president, he sometimes tends to become lost in history classes and national
discourse. For that reason, I am pleased that the current Broadway hit,
“Hamilton,” by Lin-Manuel Miranda has captured so much of our attention (I go
to see it in August). It has to help whenever people learn our history, even
when they do not know they are doing so, and, sadly, even when that portrayal
is likely unbalanced and less than ideally accurate.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And that leads me to Ron Chernow’s “Hamilton.” I had
never previously read any of Chernow’s work, but there is nothing that would
lead me to believe he is anything but a legitimate historian and writer. I
avoid like the plague any faux historians like Bill O’Reilly, whose “Murder of”
series are a blight on the historical record and not worthy of even a glancing
look. The 700 + page Chernow book is well constructed, flows with ease and is a
bounty of detail and information. Sadly, it also reads with an excess of bias
and injection of pro-Hamilton leanings. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Especially during Hamilton’s time as Treasury Secretary,
but almost in any mention of John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, James
Monroe, Aaron Burr, Philip Freneau, and Aaron Burr, Chernow goes too far in
tilting the conversation. His disdain for Jefferson borders on being, well,
Hamiltonian. Jefferson’s first term success is attributed solely to luck or
Hamilton’s financial system and Adams’s keeping the country out of war with
France.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Chernow might offer a Hamilton fault, but often after
pages upon pages of condemning the “other” side of the story and then qualify
everything with unequal, leading adjectives. He immediately is drawn to
conjecture of other’s intentions as the worst and Hamilton’s as more noble.
There is little doubt from my recollections of biographies of all the aforementioned
other historical characters, that Chernow has taken much liberty in his telling
of the historical record, omits many details or skims over them, is prone to
assumptions that are reaches or worse, and has written with an agenda of an
anti-Jeffersonian bent that does a disservice to his own narrative. Burr even
gets better treatment than Jefferson, though he, too, is not fairly depicted.
The portrait of James Madison, who I am told takes a beating in the Broadway
musical, borders on caricature at times.<o:p></o:p></div>
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My advice to anyone interested in history is to read far
beyond Chernow (read Chernow, though, too), not only on Jefferson, Madison,
Burr, and others, but on Alexander Hamilton himself. Hamilton deserves
reverence, respect, his spot on the front of the ten-dollar bill and more
appreciation than he receives. Just not as much as Chernow sometimes gives him,
often at the expense of other great men.<o:p></o:p></div>
STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-79956198977513510782016-04-13T10:56:00.000-04:002016-04-13T10:56:46.404-04:00Poem: Squirrel<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Squirrel<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p> </o:p> </div>
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Spring about from rock to mound<o:p></o:p></div>
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Grassy knoll upon I bound<o:p></o:p></div>
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Shifting eyes to watch the field<o:p></o:p></div>
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Obstacles might be concealed<o:p></o:p></div>
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Those who’d prey upon this soul<o:p></o:p></div>
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Weigh it down, consume it whole<o:p></o:p></div>
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Nervous in conflicted mind<o:p></o:p></div>
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Much it seems has been assigned<o:p></o:p></div>
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Prancing forth in lasting strain<o:p></o:p></div>
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Overwrought yet can’t explain<o:p></o:p></div>
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Driven by instinctive fear<o:p></o:p></div>
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Lurks amidst is less than clear<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anxiousness an inborn trait<o:p></o:p></div>
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Jittered looks would indicate<o:p></o:p></div>
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Racing thoughts, escapes are planned<o:p></o:p></div>
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New travails are close at hand<o:p></o:p></div>
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Squirrel’s days are filled with worry<o:p></o:p></div>
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Might explain this squirrel’s hurry<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p> Copyright SGW </o:p>2016</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460077998869234907.post-36672799994408118102016-04-03T12:39:00.001-04:002016-04-03T12:39:15.213-04:00Poem: Patterns<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Patterns<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">The
moss leaves its remnants in the years of neglect<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Moments
in memories bare the cause and effect<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Smiling
gives way to new doubting depression<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Calm
inner peace buried deep in suppression<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Patterns
repeat by the course long since set<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Try
to break free from what time won’t forget<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Heart
knew a year of a blessed endeavor<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">The
soul, eighteen months, far too short whatsoever<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Racing
one’s psyche assigns loser’s conclusion<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Anxiety
reigns o’er the mind’s disillusion<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Inclined
less to falsehood in the storybook finish<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">As
dust starts to settle, find it most diminished<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Copyright SGW 2016<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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STPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18010661731570038007noreply@blogger.com0