Named Sheep

Like named sheep
so are we children
the children of God
sheep of the shepherd

we know his voice
his call for us
we come running
right to his side

hope in the shepherd,
our light, our Savior
like named sheep gathered
into his arms

------
November 24, 2012
Lay Speaker training
Moultonborough United Methodist Church
Moultonborough , NH
the names of Pastor Murray Nickerson’s sheep:
Martha, Ruth, Maggie, Gloria, and Odie
November 24, 2012


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,070+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

the brothers from Joppa

to witness the blessing
the coming of the Spirit
the brothers from Joppa
sent with him
to see the fire
the light of God’s love
poured out on them


------
November 24, 2012
Acts 10:23
Acts 10:1-48
Lay Speaker training
Moultonborough United Methodist Church
Moultonborough , NH
November 24, 2012


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,030+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Abide

Alive in Christ
fed by his waters
connected to God
for His glory

bearing fruit
fruit of the Spirit
loving as Christ loves
sowing seeds of the kingdom

to reap a harvest
a bounty, a purpose
a welling up of joy
these gifts of the Spirit


------
November 24, 2012
Lay Speaker training
Moultonborough United Methodist Church
Moultonborough , NH
November 24, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 22,200+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Hating their brothers

A legacy of anger
thousands of years
continuing division
that sliver of earth

Hating their brothers
the large family circle
the children of Ishmael
and the descendants of Isaac


====
November 24, 2012
&
announcement of a cease fire
between Gaza (Hamas) and Israel
November 21, 2012
&
the tragedy of the fighting in Gaza and Israel
and the source of the conflict
in the division of Ishmael and Isaac
the sons of Abraham


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,640+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

A line of spectral dragons – v2

A line of spectral dragons
only backs, scales, their tails showing
marching, slithering down the valley
almost invisible, illusive
under the waking, threatening sky
an apparition alive, moving
just like seeing Nessie
gliding across the face of the Loch
captured by the camera
but what will others see?

=====
November 23, 2012
picture emailed to me by Marshall Burns

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,940+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

A line of spectral dragons

A line of spectral dragons
marching, slithering down the valley
under the waking, threatening sky
an apparition alive, moving
just like seeing Nessie
captured on the camera
but what will others see?


November 23, 2012
picture emailed to me by Marshall Burns

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,030+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Speak to us - 2

Speak to us Lord
call to us again
we want to be open
we want to be friends
Speak to us Lord
call to us now
out of the dissonance
we want to hear you now


====
November 23, 2012
Call to Worship (Daniel 2:20-23a (Common English Bible)
&
Worship Theme: “The Coming End of the World”
Mark 14:24-32 (The Message Bible)
“The Coming of the Son of Man”
The Lesson of the Fig Tree”
“The Necessity for Watchfulness”
Revelations 19:11-16 (The Message Bible)
Daniel 7:9-14 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 113 (Psalter, UMH #834)
Call to Worship (Daniel 2:20-23a (Common English Bible)
Unison Prayer by Pastor Ruth Foss
Prayer of Dedication ((GBOD Nov. 2012)
and sermon – “Take Me Now!”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
November 18, 2012


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,030+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

your perfect will – v2

speak to us Lord
cut through the fog
how we should live
what we should do
speak to us Lord
cut through our doubt
our fear holding us
your perfect will
how we are to serve
what our purpose is
in your world
share with us Lord
our life to you
give us a vision
the love that is you


====
November 23, 2012
Call to Worship (Daniel 2:20-23a (Common English Bible)
&
Worship Theme: “The Coming End of the World”
Mark 14:24-32 (The Message Bible)
“The Coming of the Son of Man”
The Lesson of the Fig Tree”
“The Necessity for Watchfulness”
Revelations 19:11-16 (The Message Bible)
Daniel 7:9-14 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 113 (Psalter, UMH #834)
Call to Worship (Daniel 2:20-23a (Common English Bible)
Unison Prayer by Pastor Ruth Foss
Prayer of Dedication ((GBOD Nov. 2012)
and sermon – “Take Me Now!”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
November 18, 2012


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,020+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

your perfect will

speak to us Lord
cut through the fog
how we should live
what we should do
speak to us Lord
cut through our doubt
our fear holding us
your perfect will


====
November 23, 2012
Call to Worship (Daniel 2:20-23a (Common English Bible)
&
Worship Theme: “The Coming End of the World”
Mark 14:24-32 (The Message Bible)
“The Coming of the Son of Man”
The Lesson of the Fig Tree”
“The Necessity for Watchfulness”
Revelations 19:11-16 (The Message Bible)
Daniel 7:9-14 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 113 (Psalter, UMH #834)
Call to Worship (Daniel 2:20-23a (Common English Bible)
Unison Prayer by Pastor Ruth Foss
Prayer of Dedication ((GBOD Nov. 2012)
and sermon – “Take Me Now!”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
November 18, 2012


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,020+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

on the winds of love

your gentle whisper
your still small voice
may we hear you
on the winds of love
open to you
to your message of life
our hope in your promise
your gate of the cross


====
November 23, 2012
Call to Worship (Daniel 2:20-23a (Common English Bible)
&
Worship Theme: “The Coming End of the World”
Mark 14:24-32 (The Message Bible)
“The Coming of the Son of Man”
The Lesson of the Fig Tree”
“The Necessity for Watchfulness”
Revelations 19:11-16 (The Message Bible)
Daniel 7:9-14 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 113 (Psalter, UMH #834)
Call to Worship (Daniel 2:20-23a (Common English Bible)
Unison Prayer by Pastor Ruth Foss
Prayer of Dedication ((GBOD Nov. 2012)
and sermon – “Take Me Now!”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
November 18, 2012


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,030+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Your gentle whisper

your breath, your prayer
your song we cling to
your gentle whisper
your still small voice

may we ever listen
may we seek to hear you
may we turn from the world
may we follow your path


====
November 23, 2012
Call to Worship (Daniel 2:20-23a (Common English Bible)
&
Worship Theme: “The Coming End of the World”
Mark 14:24-32 (The Message Bible)
“The Coming of the Son of Man”
The Lesson of the Fig Tree”
“The Necessity for Watchfulness”
Revelations 19:11-16 (The Message Bible)
Daniel 7:9-14 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 113 (Psalter, UMH #834)
Call to Worship (Daniel 2:20-23a (Common English Bible)
Unison Prayer by Pastor Ruth Foss
Prayer of Dedication ((GBOD Nov. 2012)
and sermon – “Take Me Now!”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
November 18, 2012


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,030+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

we have come to worship

we have come into your throne room
we gather as your people
we fall to our knees
we have gather at your feet
we have come to worship

may we feel your presence
may we act on your voice
may we hear your message
may we listen to your word


====
November 23, 2012
Call to Worship (Daniel 2:20-23a (Common English Bible)
&
Worship Theme: “The Coming End of the World”
Mark 14:24-32 (The Message Bible)
“The Coming of the Son of Man”
The Lesson of the Fig Tree”
“The Necessity for Watchfulness”
Revelations 19:11-16 (The Message Bible)
Daniel 7:9-14 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 113 (Psalter, UMH #834)
Call to Worship (Daniel 2:20-23a (Common English Bible)
Unison Prayer by Pastor Ruth Foss
Prayer of Dedication ((GBOD Nov. 2012)
and sermon – “Take Me Now!”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
November 18, 2012


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,030+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

to sit with princes

we will be lifted from the ashes
from our poverty
seated with the angels
the others God gathers
to sit with the princes
of heaven and the earth
to be gathered for God’s purpose
redeemed from the world


====
November 23, 2012
Worship Theme: “The Coming End of the World”
Mark 14:24-32 (The Message Bible)
“The Coming of the Son of Man”
The Lesson of the Fig Tree”
“The Necessity for Watchfulness”
Revelations 19:11-16 (The Message Bible)
Daniel 7:9-14 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 113 (Psalter, UMH #834)
Call to Worship (Daniel 2:20-23a (Common English Bible)
Unison Prayer by Pastor Ruth Foss
Prayer of Dedication ((GBOD Nov. 2012)
and sermon – “Take Me Now!”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
November 18, 2012


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,030+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

lifted from the ashes

the lost, the abandoned
the widows, the homeless
those who have been forgotten
God remembers, to give comfort
lifted from the ashes
to be made equal with the princes
worthy in God’s sight
gathered with the others
the lost, the abandoned
those who have been forgotten
redeemed, justified
to sit with the princes


====
November 23, 2012
Worship Theme: “The Coming End of the World”
Mark 14:24-32 (The Message Bible)
“The Coming of the Son of Man”
The Lesson of the Fig Tree”
“The Necessity for Watchfulness”
Revelations 19:11-16 (The Message Bible)
Daniel 7:9-14 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 113 (Psalter, UMH #834)
Call to Worship (Daniel 2:20-23a (Common English Bible)
Unison Prayer by Pastor Ruth Foss
Prayer of Dedication ((GBOD Nov. 2012)
and sermon – “Take Me Now!”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
November 18, 2012


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,030+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

For the Homeless, the Unwanted - v2

A place for them,
the unwanted, a place
safe, warm, to gather
welcome, safe, from judgment

a key to enter in
support for those suffering
a meal, a hug,
understanding,
sanctuary.

within these walls,
a regular place to come
and to find acceptance
a meal together
hope on the journey


-----
Edited November 23, 2012
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,030+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Street People – v2

The street people
homeless and alone
the shepherds watching
in the cities, the urban landscape
in the dark, the cold night

They would be the ones
going to the place under the bridge
where the Christ child was born
there to find the father and mother
the child wrapped as best they could

Kneeling at the Savior’s bed
a box, newspapers, that was all
there in the cold of night
hearing the songs of the angel choir
answering the angels’ call

Out into the world
proclaiming the Messiah’s birth
wondering who would listen to the message
such humble witnesses
alone in the night, out in the streets

---------------

edited December 30, 2016

Street People – v16

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2016/12/street-people-v16.html

(merging edits to version 2 and version 15)

edited December 4, 2015

Street People – v15

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2015/12/street-people-v15.html

(editing version 14)

edited/merged December 3, 2015

Street People – v14

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2015/12/street-people-v14.html

(merging edits with version 13, version 6, version 7, version 8, version 9,

version 10, version 11, and version 12)

edited/merged December 2, 2015

Street People – v13

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2015/12/street-people-v13.html

(merging edits to version 3, version 2, version 4, and version 5)

edited November 12, 2015

Street People – v12

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2015/11/street-people-v12.html

(merging edits to version 2 and version 7)

edited November 7, 2015

Street People – v11

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2015/11/streetpeople-v11-thestreet-people-lost.html

(editing version 3)

edited November 2, 2015

Street People – v10

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2015/11/street-people-v10.html

(editing version 2)

edited October 16, 2015

Street People – v9

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2015/10/street-people-v9.html

(editing version 6)

edited October 14, 2015

Street People – v8

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2015/10/street-people-v8.html

(editing version 4)

edited May 1, 2015

Street People – v7

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2015/05/street-people-v7.html

(editing original again)

edited March 23, 2015

Street People – v6

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2015/03/street-people-v6.html

(editing version 5)

edited February 17, 2015

Street People – v5

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2015/02/street-people-v5.html

(merging edits to version 2 and version 4)

edited February 10, 2015

Street People – v4

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2015/02/street-people-v4.html

(merging edits to version 2, version 3, and original)

edited January 17, 2015

Street People – v3

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2015/01/street-people-v3.html

(editing version 2)

Edited November 23, 2012

Street People – v2

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2012/11/street-people-v2.html

December 20, 2009

Street People

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2009/12/street-people.html

Alive Now Daily Reflections for December 14, 2009 to December 20, 2009

http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-december-14-20/

Luke 2:1-7 (December 18, 2009)

Luke 2:8-20 (December 19, 2009)

&

Luke 2:6-7

&

Advent Christmas offering letter

Suncook United Methodist Church

Suncook, NH

All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See all 42,680+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Advent, Advent Conspiracy, Alive Now, Christ, David, Emmanuel, Faith, God, Joseph, Luke 2, manger, Mary, Methodist, Poetry Where You Live, prophesy, servant, stable, police, homeless, America,

#Advent #AdventConspiracy #AliveNow #Christ #David #Emmanuel #Faith #God #Joseph #Luke2 #manger #Mary #Methodist #prophesy #servant #stable #police #homeless #UMC #America

Innocent Blood – v3

That troubled land, torn and split apart
knowing war, strife, far too long
for four thousand years
for some escape through there, to a land
once of oppression, now of refuge

Once of hope, now of struggle
back into that land, give and take
the struggle of the brothers,
of Ishmael and Isaac

Locked in bitter conflict
over their father’s inheritance
innocent blood shed; in the stories,
in the news, innocents in the cross-fire

Forever under threat, ruthless, indiscriminate
rage and fury, power, authority, nations and people
land of the saints, of the martyrs, ancient, tribal
never finding peace, on earth

In that rich land of promise
brothers in bitter struggle
innocent blood, spilled,
crying out from the ground
for God, for Allah


=====
Edited November 23, 2012
“Innocent Blood – v3”
November 23, 2012
“Innocent Blood – v2”
after writing several poems on this topic
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/search/label/Gaza
&
announcement of a cease fire
between Gaza (Hamas) and Israel
November 21, 2012
&
the tragedy of the fighting in Gaza and Israel
and the source of the conflict
in the division of Ishmael and Isaac
the sons of Abraham
&
original poem
January 14 and 15, 2009
“Innocent Blood”
Matthew 2:13-23
and words of Bishop Peter Weaver,
in his Partners in Ministry email
1/14/09,
“♦ THE TERRIBLE VIOLENCE IN THE GAZA STRIP is deeply disturbing. Hundreds of innocent civilians, including children are being caught in the crossfire. Last week, after we celebrated Epiphany (Jan. 6, the magi visiting Bethlehem) I thought about the rest of Matthew 2 where Herod sets out to kill all the "innocents" under two and Mary, Joseph and Jesus head for Egypt....probably through Gaza! Both the Palestinians and Israelis fear and react to violence from the other side and to a long history of threats and actions that are indelibly etched in their memories. Tragically, every additional death and injustice etches new memories in new generations who will grow up with even more hatred and determination to "win", no matter what the means of terrorism or oppression. "An eye for an eye, leaves everyone blind"
How can peace with justice be found?
A Quaker saying, based in the Gospel, points the way. "There can be no peace without reconciliation. There can be no reconciliation without forgiveness. There can be no forgiveness without giving up the hope of a better yesterday." In other words, holding on to the deeply etched bitterness of the past prevents us from embracing a new future of peace. Nations do it. Families do it. Churches do it. Pray that we might all become peacemakers. Pray for the land we call "holy."”


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,100+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Innocent Blood – v2

That troubled land, torn and split apart
knowing war, strife, too long
Escape through there, to a land
once of oppression, now of refuge
Once of hope, now of struggle
back into that land, give and take
the struggle of the brothers,
of Ishmael and Isaac
locked in bitter conflict
over their father’s inheritance
innocent blood shed; in the stories,
in the news, innocents in the cross-fire
forever under threat, ruthless, indiscriminate
rage and fury, power, authority, nations and people
land of the saints, of the martyrs, ancient, tribal
never finding peace, on earth
in that rich land of promise
innocent blood, spilled,
crying out from the ground
for God, for Allah


=====
Edited November 23, 2012
November 23, 2012
“Innocent Blood – v2”
after writing several poems on this topic
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/search/label/Gaza
&
announcement of a cease fire
between Gaza (Hamas) and Israel
November 21, 2012
&
the tragedy of the fighting in Gaza and Israel
and the source of the conflict
in the division of Ishmael and Isaac
the sons of Abraham
&
original poem
January 14 and 15, 2009
“Innocent Blood”
Matthew 2:13-23
and words of Bishop Peter Weaver,
in his Partners in Ministry email
1/14/09,
“♦ THE TERRIBLE VIOLENCE IN THE GAZA STRIP is deeply disturbing. Hundreds of innocent civilians, including children are being caught in the crossfire. Last week, after we celebrated Epiphany (Jan. 6, the magi visiting Bethlehem) I thought about the rest of Matthew 2 where Herod sets out to kill all the "innocents" under two and Mary, Joseph and Jesus head for Egypt....probably through Gaza! Both the Palestinians and Israelis fear and react to violence from the other side and to a long history of threats and actions that are indelibly etched in their memories. Tragically, every additional death and injustice etches new memories in new generations who will grow up with even more hatred and determination to "win", no matter what the means of terrorism or oppression. "An eye for an eye, leaves everyone blind"
How can peace with justice be found?
A Quaker saying, based in the Gospel, points the way. "There can be no peace without reconciliation. There can be no reconciliation without forgiveness. There can be no forgiveness without giving up the hope of a better yesterday." In other words, holding on to the deeply etched bitterness of the past prevents us from embracing a new future of peace. Nations do it. Families do it. Churches do it. Pray that we might all become peacemakers. Pray for the land we call "holy."”

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,690+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Poems about the struggle in Gaza (Palestine) and Israel, as originating in the inheritance battle of Ishmael and Isaac

Poems about the struggle in Gaza (Palestine) and Israel, as originating in the inheritance battle of Ishmael and Isaac (with very different portrayals in the Quran (Koran) and the Bible

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/search/label/Gaza


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,980+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Can Isaac share, can Ishmael forgive

Can Isaac share
a part of his blessing
the brothers still fighting
over the inheritance

Abraham’s sons still dying
struggling for the land
hope in the cease fire
but is peace really at hand

Still fighting for his blessing
for the promised land
for an inheritance worthy
of the patriarchs

Two sons of the father
faithful, rewarded
the inheritance, the promise
the fruit of his seed

Ishmael was the first-born
but he did not earn the blessing
his fell to another
to his brother Isaac

Can Ishmael forgive him
his brother, Isaac,
can their descendants live
together in peace

Can they share the land
this rich blessing
their joint inheritance
can they live together in peace


====
Edited November 23, 2012
merging two poems,
“Can Isaac share – v2” and
“Can Ishmael forgive him – v2”
November 22, 2012
&
announcement of a cease fire
between Gaza (Hamas) and Israel
November 21, 2012
&
the tragedy of the fighting in Gaza and Israel
and the source of the conflict
in the division of Ishmael and Isaac
the sons of Abraham


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,100+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

for the sunshine

for the sunshine, for darkness
for the seasons in their turning
thankful to You, oh God
Your promise, our seeking

for the light, for the shadows
for summer, for winter
thankful to You, oh God
our Rock, our Redeemer

for family, for friends
for the harvest, your bounty
thankful to You, oh God
our Savior, your Spirit

for all people, the nations
a prayer for true blessing
for peace to wash over
this troubled world

for the sunshine, for darkness
for the truth of your promise
mercies you have poured out
your love shining through


=====
November 23, 2012
remembering to whom we are thankful
this Thanksgiving season
&
Thanksgiving 2012
Pembroke – Allenstown Community Thanksgiving Service
at First Congregational Church of Pembroke
http://www.pembrokechurch.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40672
Pembroke Street
Pembroke, NH
November 21, 2012
&
offering for Allenstown – Pembroke Interfaith Food Pantry
http://cs.newhampshire.com/blogs/hooksett_editor/archive/2009/11/25/There-are-many-ways-to-make-the-holiday-bright.aspx
&
Philippians 4:4-7
And homily, “Gratitude”,
by Father Crowley
&
including the pastors:
Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
&
Pastor Mike Mativity
http://www.gccnh.com/
Grace Capital Church,
Concord, NH
&
Reverend Jim Howard
First Congregational Church of Pembroke
&
Father Edmund G. Crowley
http://www.catholicnh.org/directory/index.cfm?intType=1&id=72
St. John the Baptist Catholic Church
Allenstown, NH
&
Reverend Richard Babcock
Sunrise Baptist Church
Allenstown, NH

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,030+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

thanks for the great mercies and promises

We give You our thanks
to God for our blessings
thanks for God’s great mercies
for God’s promises to us

We give thanks for all our blessings
for the bounty, the harvest
the grace of Christ’s sacrifice
God’s mercy on us


=====
November 23, 2012
remembering to whom we are thankful
this Thanksgiving season
&
Thanksgiving 2012
Pembroke – Allenstown Community Thanksgiving Service
at First Congregational Church of Pembroke
http://www.pembrokechurch.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40672
Pembroke Street
Pembroke, NH
November 21, 2012
&
offering for Allenstown – Pembroke Interfaith Food Pantry
http://cs.newhampshire.com/blogs/hooksett_editor/archive/2009/11/25/There-are-many-ways-to-make-the-holiday-bright.aspx
&
Philippians 4:4-7
And homily, “Gratitude”,
by Father Crowley
&
including the pastors:
Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
&
Pastor Mike Mativity
http://www.gccnh.com/
Grace Capital Church,
Concord, NH
&
Reverend Jim Howard
First Congregational Church of Pembroke
&
Father Edmund G. Crowley
http://www.catholicnh.org/directory/index.cfm?intType=1&id=72
St. John the Baptist Catholic Church
Allenstown, NH
&
Reverend Richard Babcock
Sunrise Baptist Church
Allenstown, NH

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,030+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

the arms of the shadow

the arms of the shadow
the sturdy trunk
like the rugged cross
where Christ died for us

a promise in the shadow
God’s covenant with us
that Christ will return
that the Spirit is with us

looking down for a moment
on Thanksgiving morning
a picture of eternity
frozen in shadow

a cut out remaining
a silhouette of frost
the old sugar maple
imprinted on the grass

the shadow of the maple
white on the ground
the frost yet remaining
until the sun moves around

a promise in the shadow
in the cut out of white
God’s presence with us
in the shadow of the night

Christ will come again
to gather us in
the white of his mercy
washing the red of our sin

====
Edited November 23, 2012
the arms of the shadow
Edited November 23, 2012
a whisper in the shadow
Edited November 23, 2012
a silhouette of frost – v3
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2012/11/a-silhouette-of-frost-v3.html
Edited November 22, 2012
a silhouette of frost – v2
November 22, 2012
a silhouette of frost
&
the sugar maple’s shadow kept the frost outline
as the rest of the frost melted this morning
on the church lawn
&
remembering to whom we are thankful
this Thanksgiving season
&
Thanksgiving 2012
Pembroke – Allenstown Community Thanksgiving Service
at First Congregational Church of Pembroke
http://www.pembrokechurch.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40672
Pembroke Street
Pembroke, NH
November 21, 2012
&
offering for Allenstown – Pembroke Interfaith Food Pantry
http://cs.newhampshire.com/blogs/hooksett_editor/archive/2009/11/25/There-are-many-ways-to-make-the-holiday-bright.aspx
&
Philippians 4:4-7
And homily, “Gratitude”,
by Father Crowley
&
including the pastors:
Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
&
Pastor Mike Mativity
http://www.gccnh.com/
Grace Capital Church,
Concord, NH
&
Reverend Jim Howard
First Congregational Church of Pembroke
&
Father Edmund G. Crowley
http://www.catholicnh.org/directory/index.cfm?intType=1&id=72
St. John the Baptist Catholic Church
Allenstown, NH
&
Reverend Richard Babcock
Sunrise Baptist Church
Allenstown, NH

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,030+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

a whisper in the shadow

looking down for a moment
on Thanksgiving morning
a picture of eternity
frozen in shadow

a cut out remaining
a silhouette of frost
the old sugar maple
imprinted on the grass

only for these fleeting moments
as the morning warms the ground
November sun rising
the church lawn becoming wet

the shadow of the maple
white on the ground
the frost yet remaining
until the sun moves around

a whisper in the shadow
in the cut out of white
God’s presence with us
in the shadow of the night

God here with us
with the morning light
a joy within us
the whole world bright

====

edited December 28, 2015

a whisper in the shadow – v3

(editing original)

edited February 7, 2015

a whisper in the shadow – v2

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2015/02/a-whisper-in-shadow-v2.html

Edited November 23, 2012
the arms of the shadow

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2012/11/the-arms-of-shadow.html

Edited November 23, 2012

a whisper in the shadow

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2012/11/a-whisper-in-shadow.html

Edited November 23, 2012

a silhouette of frost – v3

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2012/11/a-silhouette-of-frost-v3.html

Edited November 22, 2012

a silhouette of frost – v2

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2012/11/a-silhouette-of-frost-v2.html

November 22, 2012

a silhouette of frost

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2012/11/a-silhouette-of-frost.html

&

the sugar maple’s shadow kept the frost outline

as the rest of the frost melted this morning

on the church lawn

&

remembering to whom we are thankful

this Thanksgiving season

&

Thanksgiving 2012

Pembroke – Allenstown Community Thanksgiving Service

at First Congregational Church of Pembroke

http://www.pembrokechurch.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40672

Pembroke Street

Pembroke, NH

November 21, 2012

&

offering for Allenstown – Pembroke Interfaith Food Pantry

http://cs.newhampshire.com/blogs/hooksett_editor/archive/2009/11/25/There-are-many-ways-to-make-the-holiday-bright.aspx

&

Philippians 4:4-7

And homily, “Gratitude”,

by Father Crowley

&

including the pastors:

Pastor Ruth Foss

https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss

http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss

http://www.pstruthsermons.blogspot.com

sermon blog

http://www.pstrruthfoss.blogspot.com

meditation blog

http://pstrfoss.wordpress.com/

“God’s Whisper” blog

Suncook United Methodist Church

Suncook, NH

&

Pastor Mike Mativity

http://www.gccnh.com/

Grace Capital Church,

Concord, NH

&

Reverend Jim Howard

First Congregational Church of Pembroke

&

Father Edmund G. Crowley

http://www.catholicnh.org/directory/index.cfm?intType=1&id=72

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church

Allenstown, NH

&

Reverend Richard Babcock

Sunrise Baptist Church

Allenstown, NH

All of my poems and photographs are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See all 40,460+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

a silhouette of frost – v3

looking down for a moment
Thanksgiving morning
a picture of eternity
frozen in shadow

a cut out remaining
a silhouette of frost
the old sugar maple
imprinted on the grass

only for these fleeting moments
as the morning warms the ground
November sun rising
the lawn becoming wet

the shadow of the maple
white on the ground
the frost yet remaining
until the sun moves around


====
Edited November 23, 2012
November 22, 2012
&
the sugar maple’s shadow kept the frost outline
as the rest of the frost melted this morning
on the church lawn
&
remembering to whom we are thankful
this Thanksgiving season
&
Thanksgiving 2012
Pembroke – Allenstown Community Thanksgiving Service
at First Congregational Church of Pembroke
http://www.pembrokechurch.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40672
Pembroke Street
Pembroke, NH
November 21, 2012
&
offering for Allenstown – Pembroke Interfaith Food Pantry
http://cs.newhampshire.com/blogs/hooksett_editor/archive/2009/11/25/There-are-many-ways-to-make-the-holiday-bright.aspx
&
Philippians 4:4-7
And homily, “Gratitude”,
by Father Crowley
&
including the pastors:
Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
&
Pastor Mike Mativity
http://www.gccnh.com/
Grace Capital Church,
Concord, NH
&
Reverend Jim Howard
First Congregational Church of Pembroke
&
Father Edmund G. Crowley
http://www.catholicnh.org/directory/index.cfm?intType=1&id=72
St. John the Baptist Catholic Church
Allenstown, NH
&
Reverend Richard Babcock
Sunrise Baptist Church
Allenstown, NH

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,030+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

the lavish table of life

Thanks be to God
for all that is
for creation, the heavens
the earth where we live

Thanks be to God
for the lavish table of life
for abundance, the struggle
for the journey here with us

Thanks be to God
for God’s loving care
for the scripture, the Savior
God’s love come down

Thanks be to God
for all that we share
the harvest, the bounty
our hope in God’s care


====
November 23, 2012
title from piece, “The Cure for a Turkey Hangover”,
by Lillian Daniel
http://act.ucc.org/site/MessageViewer?em_id=47925.0&dlv_id=63184
&
remembering to whom we are thankful
this Thanksgiving season
&
Thanksgiving 2012
Pembroke – Allenstown Community Thanksgiving Service
at First Congregational Church of Pembroke
http://www.pembrokechurch.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40672
Pembroke Street
Pembroke, NH
November 21, 2012
&
offering for Allenstown – Pembroke Interfaith Food Pantry
http://cs.newhampshire.com/blogs/hooksett_editor/archive/2009/11/25/There-are-many-ways-to-make-the-holiday-bright.aspx
&
Philippians 4:4-7
And homily, “Gratitude”,
by Father Crowley
&
including the pastors:
Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
&
Pastor Mike Mativity
http://www.gccnh.com/
Grace Capital Church,
Concord, NH
&
Reverend Jim Howard
First Congregational Church of Pembroke
&
Father Edmund G. Crowley
http://www.catholicnh.org/directory/index.cfm?intType=1&id=72
St. John the Baptist Catholic Church
Allenstown, NH
&
Reverend Richard Babcock
Sunrise Baptist Church
Allenstown, NH

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,030+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Extending Thanksgiving

not a day but a belief
a feeling in our heart
extending Thanksgiving
one day at a time
wanting to give
to share how we have been blessed
our gifts, out talents
to the whole human race

not a day but a belief
a feeling in our heart
extending Thanksgiving
one day at a time
yearning to share
the abundance, God’s grace
the harvest, our love
to the whole human race


====
November 23, 2012
remembering to whom we are thankful
this Thanksgiving season
&
Thanksgiving 2012
Pembroke – Allenstown Community Thanksgiving Service
at First Congregational Church of Pembroke
http://www.pembrokechurch.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40672
Pembroke Street
Pembroke, NH
November 21, 2012
&
offering for Allenstown – Pembroke Interfaith Food Pantry
http://cs.newhampshire.com/blogs/hooksett_editor/archive/2009/11/25/There-are-many-ways-to-make-the-holiday-bright.aspx
&
Philippians 4:4-7
And homily, “Gratitude”,
by Father Crowley
&
including the pastors:
Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
&
Pastor Mike Mativity
http://www.gccnh.com/
Grace Capital Church,
Concord, NH
&
Reverend Jim Howard
First Congregational Church of Pembroke
&
Father Edmund G. Crowley
http://www.catholicnh.org/directory/index.cfm?intType=1&id=72
St. John the Baptist Catholic Church
Allenstown, NH
&
Reverend Richard Babcock
Sunrise Baptist Church
Allenstown, NH

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,030+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Gratitude must be shared

Thanksgiving, our thankfulness
gratitude must be shared
our blessings, our faith
we are to give, to share
to open our hearts
the bounty, the harvest
the gifts of God’s love

Thanksgiving, our gratitude
all that we have
our bounty, the harvest
the gifts of the lands
we are to give, to share
to open our hearts
the blessings to be poured
the gifts of God’s love


====
November 23, 2012
remembering to whom we are thankful
this Thanksgiving season
&
Thanksgiving 2012
Pembroke – Allenstown Community Thanksgiving Service
at First Congregational Church of Pembroke
http://www.pembrokechurch.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40672
Pembroke Street
Pembroke, NH
November 21, 2012
&
offering for Allenstown – Pembroke Interfaith Food Pantry
http://cs.newhampshire.com/blogs/hooksett_editor/archive/2009/11/25/There-are-many-ways-to-make-the-holiday-bright.aspx
&
Philippians 4:4-7
And homily, “Gratitude”,
by Father Crowley
&
including the pastors:
Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
&
Pastor Mike Mativity
http://www.gccnh.com/
Grace Capital Church,
Concord, NH
&
Reverend Jim Howard
First Congregational Church of Pembroke
&
Father Edmund G. Crowley
http://www.catholicnh.org/directory/index.cfm?intType=1&id=72
St. John the Baptist Catholic Church
Allenstown, NH
&
Reverend Richard Babcock
Sunrise Baptist Church
Allenstown, NH

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,000+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.