Free To Be Me is a tribute to all the Seekers that have nurtured my belief that we are all one. Each poem meditates on an aspect of being human and wanting non-other than to share in the possibility, that we can look upon the face of God, and see our reflection. In this collection of poetry, which I have written over the years, I only have the words to repeat what the universe has whispered in my ear, spoken with a virtuous breath not my own, for I borrow all that I am from all that has been and is. In the title poem I offer this book as a gift to bring the reader the peace of mind that comes from believing in yourself, and finding the way, to finally say "I'm free to be me".
The Journey Home, a narrative poem, is the story of Thomas (a dreamer) who sets off on "The Path", to follow the twists and turns of "The River of Life." Along the way Thomas encounters new companions and experiences, as well as discovering new ideas, questions and new learning. Some bring him feelings of warmth and happiness and others, fear and doubt. His ultimate learning comes when he awakens to find that love is always with you, even when you think you are alone. As with all journeys the destination is always the same, for whether we understand it or want to, in this present experience, we are inevitably returning to the source. Thomas's journey is one of initiation, curiosity, exploration and understanding. Dissatisfied with the way things were, Thomas set out on a journey to find a better place, a home away from home. "He was not running away from where he had been for he had come from a home that held his heart but felt he needed to explore, needed to venture beyond his front door." He carried with him in his backpack all the hopes and dreams a young lad could muster along with, as he was soon to discover, the fears and doubts that go along with them. Along the way he would meet Grandfather Time, the apparitions Danger and Delight, Mr. Crane and a Lady with the voice of an angel. He would walk in the shadow and the light and be carried along in the River of Life. Grandfather Time would teach him, "Everything happens for a reason, and in its own time." Danger and Delight would show him that "There were two sides to everything, and he could choose to journey, in the darkness or the light." And Mr. Crane told him, in a round about way, "He had to go his own route, following his heart as well as his brain." The question Thomas found himself asking over and over again, "Is it all about Love," was finally answered by the Lady with the angel voice.
'Every once and awhile one needs to wrap themselves in forgiveness, and forgetfulness...it's the only way to release the hook, lean into it, no resistance, no pulling away.' From the first poem in Gone Fishing, the poet takes you on a journey where each verse meditates on an aspect of being human, living in the light and letting it go at that. This collection runs the gamut of relationships, spirituality, impermanence, and a romance with life, the poet asking if you believe in happy endings.
Drawing on observations in an oasis of words, John takes us to places that hold an energy of love with poems that speak to each reader with a message of hope and inspiration. In awe of the mystery of life the poet brings clarity to the heart and soul of what matters in our day to day, and provides comfort for those who need a friend, and a hug. You are invited to walk in your own garden, and look at all the wonder you have nurtured, a garden cared for reflecting the way you have beautifully tended the world around you.
Learning to Lean Back on Living is a journey of self-discovery providing new ways for self-reflection, and examining where we fit into the grand scheme. It's an exploration of what it means to be authentic, looking in the mirror and loving to live in a momentary reflection of ourselves. The poems in this collection are lessons on leaning back and welcoming each day into your awareness, as you would your lover's arms.
A collection of poetry divided into a trinity of themes about life with a clowder of felines, life as a single parent, life in a world of creativity. All-encompassing unconditional love, heartbreak, and the wonder of a loving relationship with the world we live in. Poems to touch the heart, the mind, and the soul of who we are as imaginative and creative beings.
