“Hospitalized” copyright 2015 by John J. Rigo, Texas’ Poet and Commentator

My new home for five days. Copyright 2015 John J. Rigo, Texas’ Poet

Found myself checked into a Kaufman County hospital under the Texas Presterian chain of hospitals yesterday afternoon.  It is pemounia.  Hopefully in five days I hope I will be home again.  It takes something like this to  realize that one is destructable.

“Crosses” copyright 2015, John J. Rigo, upcoming third poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

My Memorial to my four years of active duty in the U.S. Air Force. Many are not blessed in having a memorial while they are living. Thanks to Mabank, Texas, a small city of class on Cedar Creek Lake in East Texas. Copyright 2014 John J. Rigo

Proposed Cover for my third non-profit poetry book.

There are crosses

across the plains

of my life.

 

Each cross

a friend

a past love

a step-child

an ex-wife.

 

Memories of them

will always be with me.

The path of coming death

do I also walk.

 

Thank you Jesus

for rendering the love

of these souls

on the path

that I walk.

 

I know we shall

all met again

in the glory

in the joy

before us all.

VIDEO: SNL – 60 Minutes with Obama – “Did you know that ‘I’ Stands For Islamic?” with Commentary by John J. Rigo, copyright 2015, Texas’ Commentator and International Published Poet

Within the seeds of humor from this Saturday Night Live beginning program (click link below this commentary; be patient, the video takes about three minutes to download) lies the truth.  That truth is that President Obama has done more than any one individual in the history of the United States in destroying the very foundations of what made the United States the greatest free nation on the planet.

There is only one hope and prayer for the United States of America.  That hope and prayer is that our country will have the strength and courage to remove President Obama from office as President of the United States. 

VIDEO: SNL – 60 Minutes with Obama – “Did you know that ‘I’ Stands For Islamic?”.

“Singing In The Rain” copyright 2005 John J. Rigo, poetry book I, “Roses Amidst Thorns”

Singing in the rain (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Singin’ in the Rain (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

 

“Dancing in the Rain” by John J. Rigo, picture courtesy of tumblr.com

I am singing in the rain with you.

Our feet dancing between the rain drops.

Our cares belong to tomorrow.

Our hands clenched while skipping over puddles.

 

Just singing in the rain together.

This is truly what love is all about.

You and me together

with glistening raindrops

upon our laughing faces.

 

This is our moment of our love together

just singing and dancing

in the rain together.  

  

"Our Day" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

 

 

 

Courtesy of footage.shutterstock.com

A bright blue sky day.

Water with a spray of diamonds.

Rays of warmth upon my face.

 

You at my side

with that special smile

that I love above all expressions

that pass over your face each day.

 

Let us hold this close to us

in what seems not enough time for

just the two of us.

 

Cherish this day

love this day

with all we have.

 

For we will never know

how many

if any

of these days are before us.

 

We have each other

with our love for one another.

What could be worth

more than just this day?

“A Bitter Lonilness” copyright 2015, John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

“Does True Love take an Eternity to Find?” copyright 2014, John J. Rigo. Picture courtesy of Google Image Search.

I awoke this morning with a spirit of bitter lonilness upon me.

It was a chill of my heart I could not explain.

It was a reality check that came upon me.

 

A realization that the joys of my youth would never be recaptured again.

I would not know the beauty of a kiss in youthful passion again.

That feeling of oneness with another that binds us to happiness.

 

Is it the creeping years that makes me feel such this day.

Hard as I try to reach back to other times when I felt such

I come up with hollow hands.

 

Let this day pass quickly.

I am afraid there will many more like this.

Still I pray and hope

sparks of the past

will return again tomorrow

to give me another chance at happiness.
.

“A Dream Moving Forward in an East Texas’ Vineyard” copyright 2015, John J. Rigo, co-owner of Stewart-Rigo Winery

 

Stewart-Rigo Winery in East Texas copyright 2015 John J. Rigo

Stewart-Rigo Winery in East Texas copyright 2015 John J. Rigo

Stewart-Rigo Winery in East Texas copyright 2015 John J. Rigo

Stewart-Rigo Winery in East Texas copyright 2015 John J. Rigo

Our vineyard project was moving along beautifully on February 20th, 2015, prior to the great rains we have received since then in the Cedar Creek Lake area of East Texas with the placement of trellises for our future vineyard.  A neighbor came into the property “Curiousity Seeking” that afternoon.  He is the owner of ten acres in the area.  

The neighbor’s comment on entering our open security gate was, “The community is in an uproar as to what is going on here!”  I guess he and his friends never seen the beginnings of a vineyard before Lol. When it comes to bottled wine, have no doubt they never drank any wine above “Thunderbird.”

Another great lesson learned, “the old neighbor helping neighbors is a thing of the past in the country these days.”  If you fall asleep at the wheel you will quickly find your wallet weighing less with advice from these folks!

Will Hillary Clinton be the First Secretary of State Convicted of Treason? with Commentary by John J. Rigo, 2015, Texas’ Commentator

With the recent revelation on Mrs. Clinton’s e-mails, this posting applies more today than when the article by a WordPress Member was written.

“My Daily Prayer Each Day: Please Remove Obama From Office” copyright 2015, John J. Rigo, Texas’ Commentator

Courtesy of nosmokeblown.com
“My Daily Prayer: Remove Obama From Office” Copyright 2015 John J. Rigo

Each day I begin my morning with a prayer, “Please God, Remove Obama from Office.” Perhaps if we as a nation make this our daily prayer, this Evil upon our land will be removed from the office of President of the United States.

“12 year old makes ‘Obama doesn’t love America’ video, then this happens to his Facebook page” A Reblog with Commentary by John J. Rigo, copyright 2015

Four Cheers for you young man for speaking in loud words what we are all feeling as a nation.

a12iggymom's Blog

The 12 year old boy (more of a man than Obama will ever be though) who made an incredibly viral video about how Obama doesn’t love America is learning first hand how conservatives are silenced in the media
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yUtirCf-RfU

The video has amassed 1.2 million views in 9 days.

See Video and Read more at http://www.youngcons.com/12-year-old-makes-obama-doesnt-love-america-video-happens-facebook-page/#Fm5FoZt9XKlfPwRO.99

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“FCC, You can NOT see the 332 pages of regulations on the internet” a Reblog with Commentary by John J. Rigo, Texas’ Commentator, copyright 2015

The steps taken in turning a country into a dictatorship is well known. This is one of those steps.

a12iggymom's Blog

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“An Important Message To My Republican Representatives” copyright 2015 John J. Rigo, Texas’ Commentator

 

“Message to My Republican Representatives: Resign” copyright 2015 John J. Rigo

As a conservative Republican voter and supporter of many years, I respectfully request you as our Republican Representatives in both the House of Representatives and Senate to dutifully resign from office.  As representing our great country you have failed miserably in removing President Obama from office thru the Impeachment Process.

Now that as Republicans with a majority vote in both houses, it is beyond my personal belief that you as representatives of our great country stand in shaking fear of this tyrant that stands in the office as President of the United States.  The list of lies that President Obama (I use the word “President” before Obama’s name with no pride whatsoever) is well know and documented as previous posting in January of 2014 so testifies and his known lies goes beyond this list.

To now insure full control of our country from a Democracy to a tyrant controlled country, Obama has now put into place total control of “Free Speech” by his now control of the internet.  It is just a matter of time, such TV stations as FOX and postings such as this will no longer be possible under Obama’s rule.

Recalling President Clinton was impeached for basically getting several “Blow Jobs” by a young intern in his office, the list of Obama’s misdeeds should be justified enough to bring on the Impeachment of Obama.  Again, if you as my representatives lack the courage to fight and overcome this evil named “Obama,” please resign and step-down and allow some true “Citizen Servers” to serve our country as Republican representatives.

 

“A Review of President Obama’ Lies” A Commentary by John J. Rigo. Picture courtesy of Google Image search.

A reading of the comment section of the local Cedar Creek paper in East Texas, The Monitor, occasionally brings a beautifully written commentary by a local resident.  In the Sunday, January 19th, 2014 issue such a commentary is written by Jim Romer of Tool, Texas in the “Letters to the Editor” under the heading of “Famous Presidential Lies.” 

Nixon:  “I am not a crook.”

George W. Bush:  “Read my lips, no new taxes.”

Clinton:  “I did not have sex with that woman, Miss Lewinsky.”

President Obama: 

“I will have the most transparent administration in history.”

“the stimulus will fund shovel-ready jobs.”

“I am focused like a laser on creating jobs.”

“the IRS is not targeting anyone.”

“it was a spontaneous riot about a movie.”

“I will put an end to the type of politics that breeds division, conflict and cynicism;”

“You didn’t build that!”

“I will restore trust in government.”

“The Cambridge cops acted stupidly.”

“The public will have five days to look at every bill that lands on my desk.”

“It’s not my red-line-it’s the world’s red line.”

“Whistle blowers will be protected in my administration.”

“We got back every dime we used to rescue the banks and auto companies, with interest.”

“I am not spying on American citizens.”

“Obama care will be good for America.”

“You can keep your doctor.”

“If you like it, you can keep your current healthcare plan.”

“Premiums will be lowered by $2,500.” 

“I knew nothing about “Fast and Furious” gun running to Mexican drug cartels.”

“I knew nothing about IRS targeting conservative groups.”

“I knew nothing about what happened in Benghazi.”

“I have never met my uncle from Kenya who is in the country illegally and was arrested and ordered to leave country over 20 years ago, and I have never lived with that uncle. (Obama finally admitted on December 5th, 2013, that he did know his uncle and that he did live with him).“

The biggest lie of all, “I, Barrack Husein Obama, pledge to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States of America.” 

"The Journey" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

…..is never lost. Picture courtesy of John J. Rigo copyrighted 2013

 

A ship in the sea of life

riding each wave of life

seeking the warm sun of each day.

 

The beauty of each dream as night falls

is never lost as it heads

toward the curve of each horizon.

 

Storms will blow

onward do we flow

in love and courage

by His hand.

 

Tomorrow brings the knowing in His love

the vastness of the ocean

is not so alone.

 

As long as we believe

we will never be alone.

 

For His love

surpasses all of this.

 

This and time beyond

this brief sea of life.          

                                                                                      

 

                                                                                                                                

“Dealing with ‘Old Timer’s” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, preview poem from “Passion Amidst Apathy”

A New poem from Texas’ Poet, John J. Rigo. Picture courtesy of Google image search

So, let me see if I understand this,

“When our memory goes, who we are, then goes?

There is something deeply heart-breaking about that.

 

How do we measure our progress as humans,

when our previous memories are no longer?

Are we truly blessed with an Eternal mind of Spirit,

where our memories are never lost?

 

How will our God judge us,

if there is no recall of our sins,

or our glories in His name?

 

Is this when trusting God is so important?

Trusting that He will return to us,

our precious memories of the gifts of this life?

 

I can only hope so.

For without my memories of you,

would this life seemed without purpose.

“Snow Day at Cedar Creek Lake: Not a Good Day For Water Sports” copyright 2015, John J. Rigo, Texas’ Commentator

Snow Day at Northwood Shores on Cedar Creek Lake in Gun Barrel City, Texas. Shot with Samsung smartphone on February 25th, 2015 at 9:57 a.m. by John J. Rigo. Copyright 2015 by John J. Rigo

"What Is The Secret Key To Eternal Life?" copyright 2008 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy" The Seventh poem of the Master’s Series

 

 

“One of Seven Poems of “The Master‘s Series of Poetry.”

On this day

the Master revealed

His greatest gift to mankind.

 

This gift was rendered on a mountain of stone

reflected on a setting sun

to a multitude of many

in one of the many lessons

given to multitudes in those years. 

 

The question

that came toward the end of that day

was, “ Master, what is the greatest gift

that God gives to all of us?”  asked the young

man in the multitude of that day.

 

The Master replied,

“The greatest gift that my Father gives to all

is the secret of Forgiveness.

 

In rendering forgiveness to ones self

and also forgiveness of others

does a sinner reveal

the keys to heaven

and the eternal Love of our Father.

 

Forgiveness assures the eternal love of the Father

and being in the arms of His Love forever.”

So said the Master of my life

on this day.

“It is Snug Weather at Cedar Creek Lake in East Texas” copyright 2015, John J. Rigo, Texas’ Commentator

photo taken by John J. Rigo on February 23rd, 2015 at 9:44 a.m. with Samsung II smartphone at Northwood Shores on Cedar Creek Lake from Lake front home called “Oz.” copyright 2015 John J. Rigo

“A Review Of President Obama’s Lies” copyright 2014 John J. Rigo, Texas’ Commentator

“A Review of President Obama’ Lies” A Commentary by John J. Rigo. Picture courtesy of Google Image search.

A reading of the comment section of the local Cedar Creek paper in East Texas, The Monitor, occasionally brings a beautifully written commentary by a local resident.  In the Sunday, January 19th, 2014 issue such a commentary is written by Jim Romer of Tool, Texas in the “Letters to the Editor” under the heading of “Famous Presidential Lies.” 

Nixon:  “I am not a crook.”

George W. Bush:  “Read my lips, no new taxes.”

Clinton:  “I did not have sex with that woman, Miss Lewinsky.”

President Obama: 

“I will have the most transparent administration in history.”

“the stimulus will fund shovel-ready jobs.”

“I am focused like a laser on creating jobs.”

“the IRS is not targeting anyone.”

“it was a spontaneous riot about a movie.”

“I will put an end to the type of politics that breeds division, conflict and cynicism;”

“You didn’t build that!”

“I will restore trust in government.”

“The Cambridge cops acted stupidly.”

“The public will have five days to look at every bill that lands on my desk.”

“It’s not my red-line-it’s the world’s red line.”

“Whistle blowers will be protected in my administration.”

“We got back every dime we used to rescue the banks and auto companies, with interest.”

“I am not spying on American citizens.”

“Obamacare will be good for America.”

“You can keep your doctor.”

“If you like it, you can keep your current healthcare plan.”

“Premiums will be lowered by $2,500.” 

“I knew nothing about “Fast and Furious” gun running to Mexican drug cartels.”

“I knew nothing about IRS targeting conservative groups.”

“I knew nothing about what happened in Benghazi.”

“I have never met my uncle from Kenya who is in the country illegally and was arrested and ordered to leave country over 20 years ago, and I have never lived with that uncle. (Obama finally admited on December 5th, 2013, that he did know his uncle and that he did live with him).“

The biggest lie of all, “I, Barrack Husein Obama, pledge to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States of America.” 

“Am I Now Lost to my Time?” (Revised) copyright 2012 John J. Rigo, with Commentary on President Obama, Upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

Courtesy of freerepublic.com

 

Commentary from  September 25th, 2014:  I am reposting what seems to be a popular poem that I wrote regarding our President.  Earlier in the year while undergoing a medial procedure, my doctor and I shared our despise for President Obama.  Truthfully, I always choke up when I have to use the word “President” before Obama’s name.  If anyone in our history was not worthy of the title, Obama is surely the one.

 

My doctor is of course, an educated man but sadly lives in denial regarding the powers of Obama.  His take is that President Obama will never be impeached but is now “boxed in” and will not be able to bring any further harm to our country.

 

I tend to realize that this is the attitude of the majority of educated individuals that I come upon in my daily life.  There seems to be a trend where there is a lot of shouting and crying over the lying regime that Obama has put into place in our country but nothing is being accomplished by the Republican party, a party that has truly lost its way in leadership for our country. 

 

To my way of thinking reality will only set in when the majority of the white middle class of this country are herded into Federal “Care Camps” under Obama as they await the new gas chambers built by his administration.  When that day comes I will be dearly holding my American Flag and fighting to the death in an attempt to save my country from the tyranny of Obama. 

 

 

 

Somewhere along my journey

I stepped into a time machine.

I do not remember exactly when it happened.

I stepped forward in a strange land where a language

was spoken that did not sound like any tongue I knew.

 

The beings looked like me.

The planet seemed the same

but it was not.

 

There was a new god

in this land

in this dimension.

His name was Obama.

 

I looked closer at the eyes

of those about me.

Their was a strange blankness

in their eyes

an emptiness of spirit

I could not explain. 

 

I eagerly sought a sight of a flag pole

to see what land I might be in.

My eyes sought the Red, White and Blue.

 

Instead I looked with fright upon a flag

all to familiar from a past election.

It was the flag of Obama.

God did not save us.

"The Eternal Kiss" John J. Rigo copyright 2005 "Roses Amidst Thorns"

 

 

Courtesy of Favin.com

I kiss thee

with my heart

upon my lips.

 

My breath held

in anticipation

of the moment.

 

Held so long

afraid to take

that next breath.

 

This magic

overtakes me

in this moment

forever locked

in your embrace.

 

 

“We Are All Seekers” copyright 2015, John J. Rigo, poem for upcoming book “Passion Amidst Apathy”

“We are here to glorify the Name of our Lord and Savior which is Jesus Christ.”copyright 2015 by John J. Rigo. Image Courtesy of Google Image Search.

We are all Seekers of the truth of our existence

The question that haunts us all is “Why Am I Here”?

The answer lies in its simplicity. 

We are here to glorify the Name of our Lord and Savior

that Name being “Jesus Christ.” 

“If I Could Be Anything I Wanted to Be” copyright 2012 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

 

 

 

Courtesy of sligofbay.hubpages.com

If I could have been anything I could have been

I would have been a healer in my life.

The placing of my hands upon a sick individual

would bring a healing.

 

What a wonderful gift it would be

to see the blind have sight

the lame walk

the mentally ill be whole

any sickness

any stage of pending death

all would be healed

while saying a prayer

in the name of Jesus.

 

If I could have been anything in my life

I would have been a healer.

I would not ask for this gift for myself

but to render it all those loving individuals

that I meet each day

that truly love Jesus.

 

Lord grant me the gift of a healer

thru my deeds

thru my poetry words

thru my prayers.

A Banner Day, “Over 66,000 Hits” copyright 2015 John J. Rigo, Texas’ Poet

Courtesy of umazzing.com

As of February 17th,2015 the “Texas‘ Poetry Site” reached another milestone of 66,000 plus hits.  My deepest thanks and appreciation to the WordPress family, and all those who share my spiritual poetry work, as well as my Texas’ Commentary posts regarding my new communities in Henderson County, Texas, Eustace, Texas, Gun Barrel City, Texas and the Nation. 

“The Beginning of Our Trellises For Our Vineyard” copyright 2015, John J. Rigo, co-owner of Stewart-Rigo Winery

Trellises Installs on Stewart-Rigo Winery in Eustace, Texas, copyright 2015, John J. Rigo co-owner

The picture of several trellises installed this date of February 15th, 2015 is the beginning of 22 rows of such trellises that will be 200 feet long.  They are faced running North and South at 10 degrees to maximize sun exposure.

“Childhood Memory” copyright 2012 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

 

 

Courtesy of tatoodonkey.com

I recalled this memory.

I was five or six

it was the middle of morning

when I hear my Mother moaning

in the lowest of voices

as to not wake my Brother or me.

“Please John, don’t hit me again.”

“Please don’t hurt me.”

Please….Please, you are hurting me.”

 

It has been sixty-five years

since that memory.

Still every once in a while

that memory returns

to haunt my very soul.

My Father came in late that night.

He had been drinking.

“Air-Heads Abound Behind Home-Improvement Counters in Gun Barrel City, Texas” copyright 2015 by John J. Rigo, Texas’ Poet and Commentator

“Young pretties working home-improvement counters of local hardware stores” copyright 2015 John J. Rigo. Image courtesy of Google Image Search

“Give me the older, more mature home improvement order personnel in hardware stores” copyright 2015 John J. Rigo. Image Courtesy of Google Image Search

I have been a resident of Gun Barrel City, eight years now.  Six of those eight years as a weekender, the last two as a retiree (If I ever get thru my wife’s project goal lists).  Generally when it comes to any purchase of a home improvement project or supply over a hundred dollars, I generally get three bids for the items and or work.

What I have observed lately is a disturbing tread in home improvement stores in the area, to wit, Loew’s and Groom and Son in Gun Barrel City and Mabank respectfully.  Both stores seems to have their order counters abounding in young pretties, woman 25-30, who in my humble opinion are “Air-Heads.”  They have no place behind the counter of a hardware store of any kind.

It must be a new marketing approach of upper management and owners of these local franchisees in the area.  Truthfully, as an old crusty business man in my early 70’s, I do not think with what is between my legs when it comes to spending my money.  I am not impressed with pretty young things attempting to do price quotes or handle my home or farm improvement projects for my homes or investments in the area.

Give me the “Old Days” when that counter sales person was a “Crusty-Individual” like me, who actually knew what they were talking about and doing in that profession.  Lowe’s and Groom and Son in the Cedar Creek lake area of East Texas, get back to being professional again!

“Lowe’s of Gun Barrel City, Texas Will Not Extent 10% Discount to Working Farm Veterans!” copyright 2015, John J. Rigo, Texas’ Commentator and Poet

Lowe’s Logo courtesy of Google Image Search. “Is Lowe’s of Gun Barrel City Texas dishonoring working farm Veterans?” copyright 2015 John J. Rigo

There is no doubt about it, Lowe’s the home improvement store located in Gun Barrel City, Texas has the “Only Game in Town.”  This is especially so in this Cedar Creek Lake Community 45 minutes North of Dallas, Texas.  What is especially interesting that this area is also known for having a large population of “Honorably Discharge Veterans.”

Many are recent returnees from war zones in foreign lands who thru retirement or various disabilities have settled to the Cedar Creek Lake area of Texas.  Many of these individuals live on small farms in the area, seeking to make a living off the land in the area with an AG exception in place.

As to myself, I am an honorably discharged Air Force Veteran with four years of active service.  My period of service is 1959-1963.  I do not fall into the category of a recent veteran from war, but like other honorably discharged members of the military, I qualify for Loew’s 10 percent discount on what Loew’s classifies as “Personal Purchases.” 

With my recent retirement at age 70 with my wife of a State Farm Insurance Agency out of McKinney, Texas two years ago, I became additionally blessed with the purchase of a 30 acre farm with an in-place AG exception, nine miles from our eight year ownership of a lake front home in Gun Barrel City.  We spent our time between these two homes.  The farm produces award-winning hay and is currently in the process of planting a vineyard.

I may also point out that over the last eight years between the extensive remodeling on our lake home and equally extensive remodeling on our farm and ranch, my wife and I have spent a good-sized fortune with Lowe’s in Gun Barrel City, Texas.  Up until this past Monday, we were always pleased with Lowe’s and her service

My background is fifty years experience in sales and sales training has served me well over the years and has brought me to the observation that one of the huge problems with our current economy in the United States is that “Bean Counters” control the county, as well as corporate America, many times to their disadvantages.

Hence we come to a Lowe’s Corporate rule that I came across this past Monday while making a substantial purchase of home improvement material for our farm which currently has an in-place AG tax exemption.  It seems Lowe’s would not render me “Both the exception from taxes on my farm material purchase ‘AND’ still give my ten percent veteran’s discount.”  A corporate program, I personally find both “stupid and ridiculous.” 

When I asked to speak to the actual store manager regarding this, all I found myself was surrounded by what I felt were a bunch of ill-informed and “flunky-type, so-called assistant managers.”  After an hour of being given the “run-around” I elected to take my ten percent discount and withdrawn my tax exception certificate for use on our farm.

Discounts in the area for veterans are common place in the Cedar Creek Lake area because of the huge veterans population.  Even the local Denny’s gives a ten percent discount to Vets on meals.  With all the current governments noise about serving “returning vets,” it would seem to me, that in a county where we have declining farms and job opportunities for vets, that a veterans who owes a farm with an in place AG tax exemption should be able to have their tax exemption honored and receive their ten percent discount.  What is your take on this?

"My Magic Red Shoes" copyright 2009 John J. Rigo, upcoming "Passion Amidst Apathy"

Courtesy of favena.blogspot.com

 

 

At times it would be nice

to have a pair of magic red shoes.

Just clicking them together three times

would do the trick.

 

Suddenly I would be transported

to wherever my mind of memory

would wish to go.

 

At this very moment

I could easily think of a dozen places

I would love to be at this moment.

 

Each time frame

would place me at a time and place

where I felt greatly loved.

 

Where there was a skip in my step

and a constant grin on my face.

I can easily bring to mind

scenes of such places in my past.

 

Skipping through a mall with her

like a school child.

Dancing with her

for the first time

with my arm around her waist. 

 

Ah yes then their were those

first kisses

always soft

always remembered

always joyful

in the way those kisses went to my toes.

 

Truthly knowing what I know now

would I have taken more time

to savor every moment.

 

Time in remembering every detail

of the places of my youth

where my magic red shoes

would have taken my heart.  

"The Abuser" copyright 2009 John J. Rigo, Revised upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

 

“The Abuser” A Poem by John J. Rigo

 

Commentary for January 10th, 2015:  Much is said about spousal abuse, especially about husbands abusing their wives.  Rarely is addressed is a wife’s abusive behavior toward her husband, especially in the area of verbal abuse.  In my own life’s experience, nothing kills love quicker that the nasty and bitter tongue of a woman toward her man. 

 

Example of such behavior, is the wife, who just getting ready to turn over in bed at night, after the mandatory kiss, has to open her trap to make some criticism of her man before going to sleep. Sometimes, I start to actually believe that certain religions that treat woman like luggage, are truly on the right track! 

 

The words were hammered blows to my heart.

A stranger would dare not speak such words to me

crushing fists would they find

quickly pounding their bodies.

The slap of the glove upon their face

to face certain death on the field of honor.

 

The answer to your acts are simple enough

you are an abuser.

Your love of God and Jesus

but a front

a lie to all.

 

Deep within your heart lies hate

pouring on one who has loved you

beyond all others.

A faithful friend

you no longer are to me.

 

I have seen your soul.

It is dark

black 

ridden with the shit of the world

upon your lips.

 

Oh where

oh where

did my love go.

 

You are without honor

heroism

or truth

in your declared love.

"The Master Speaks of God’s Love" copyright 2008 (Revised) John J. Rigo upcoming poetry book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

 

 

“………..pointing to a star”

 

 

The night sky was a deep black with blazing stars

over the Master and His disciples

this particular night along the sea of Galilee.

It was a time of quiet contemplation of the beauty of God’s work.

 

Within the group of His disciples

one disciple had a troubling question.

With reverence he approached the Master with his question.

“Does God’s Love for us have bounds when remembering our sins in His Eternal Memory?”

asked the disciple quietly as to not disturb the other men in the group.

 

The Master lifted His Head toward the night sky

and pointed His finger to a bright star saying,

“As you look upon the stars in the night sky

many have long changed in form

and are no more. 

 

The distance is so great in the travel of that light

that we still see those suns prior to their changing of form. 

So it is in the breath of God’s Love for us

it is also beyond the width

depth and height of such distances from us.

 

Since His Love for us is unconditional

so is His memory of our sins.

In asking His forgiveness of our sins

their memory no longer exists in eternity.”

So spoke that night

the Master of My Life. 

“The Dream Becomes a Reality in Earnest” copyright 2015, John J. Rigo, Commentary on Stewart-Rigo Winery

Unloading VSP Trellis for vine wire. Average weight 300 lbs. Hole for each nine inches each. Will encompass an acre and a half. Copyright 2015 John J. Rigo, Stewart-Rigo Winery in Eustace, Texas.

VSP Trellis for wine wire hanging system. Start of planting project for acre and half. Copyright 2015, John J. Rigo, Stewart-Rigo Winery in Eustace, Texas.

Starting a vineyard is much more than starting a vegetable garden.  The success or most of time, failure of such a dream is common.  Many a started vineyard today has rows of wood posts with wire and no plants or at best the dying remains of once was a dream in a vineyard. 

We have prepared long and hard for our dream.  185 hours of study thru UC at Davis, out of California.  Knowledge is power in the wine growing business.  There are no short-cuts.  Finding the right soil in the right location, with the right water is a must.  That is why our search took two years when the dream started over twenty years ago.

Two years ago, we found our farm.  It is on the Wilcox Aquifer, some of the greatest water in Texas, it was number one in our search for a farm.  What you see above is pictures of the VSP Trellis System being unloaded.  There will be three more loads like this for the complete system. 

It is two and seven-eights inch new pipe.  It was a purchase of brand new pipe costing about $5,000 and taking two men, two months to cut and fit this piping. This system will be there for a hundred years for this vineyard.

(Special Note: Infrared and daytime camera’s constantly patrol the property for an instant alarm in an attempt to tamper with said equipment. The instant alarm goes to the Henderson County Sheriff Department. The “Castle Law” applies in any and all trespassing). 

"If I Could Create The Perfect Poem" copyright 2009 (Revised) John J. Rigo, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

 

 

Courtesy of guardian.co.uk

If I could create the perfect poem

my poem would remove sorrow from the world.

It would bring smiles where there were tears.

Mend broken hearts and return love again.

 

The perfect poem 

would replace all loneliness

with the Joy of God’s Love.

Friends would never be lost again

but be eternal in their friendships with us.

 

Each day would start with the songs of birds.

Each night would end with the sighs of night.

Every soul would find God

and never again be separated from His Love.

 

Every kiss would be with true love

and never of betrayal.

The Devil would be finally destroyed by God.

We would all reign in Paradise

in the mist of joy

forever.

 

 

 

“10 Short Medieval Poems Everyone Should Read” A WordPress “Freshly Pressed” selection with Commentary by John J. Rigo, Texas’ Poet and Commentator, copyright 2015

John J. Rigo, WordPress Blogger, Texas’ Poet and Commentator, copyright 2015 John J. Rigo

It has been a while that I have visited “Freshly Pressed” on the WordPress program. Several years ago, I had issues with some of the selected WordPress blogs, hence a form of disconnect on my part on this portion of so-named WordPress high-profile selections. I found this selection “interesting” in pointing out the various forms of poetry from ancient history. It is hard reading, but bits of insight to poetry writing can be found if one practices patience in its reading. To my way of thinking the best of what should represent the best of “Freshly Pressed” should come from the “Most humble of us WordPress Posters.” The majority of us are not professional writers, nor art-enabled posters who wish to demonstrate the “higher priced” programs WordPress sells in its marketplace. Again, this my own “humble take with seven years now with WordPress; WordPress is my only “social network.”

Interesting Literature

Looking for some great short medieval poems which are easy to read? Look no further than this, our latest post…

Medieval poetry can be a daunting field to dip into (to mix our metaphors terribly). Although Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales and Dante’s Divine Comedy are masterpieces and essential reading, perhaps the best route into medieval poetry – as with any poetry – is to start small. What follows is our pick of the best short medieval poems written in English.

They are all presented in the original Middle English, because here at Interesting Literature we believe that that’s the best way to read the poems. This does mean that several words/phrases need glossing, so we’ve done this briefly before each poem. All of these poems were written (or at least written down) some time during the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries: our source for them is the excellent Penguin book of Medieval…

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“See Photos of Vintage Coca-Cola Signs from New York City to Bangkok” A Reblog of a Misleading posting to a Jewish Country Hater, with a commentary by John J. Rigo, Texas’ Poet and Commentator, copyright 2015

Of  special note on February 5th,2015:  This WordPress Blogger has attempted to hide the offensive posting mentioned in this posting by burying it below about two dozen postings.  Patience will reveal it. 

This Reblog on the Cola signs is misleading by this WordPress member who has become a follower of my site. Going just past the posting you will come across a posting that  attacks the Jewish Nation with “hints” that the posting is “ISIS” inspired.  A posting showing the flag of Israel in a Toilet, and a nude little boy pissing on the Flag of Israel. One of the reasons I have removed the “Likes” posting ability off my poetry site is that I have a feeling like all media in this country, the ISIS terrorist are using the WordPress platform for communication between themselves. Hopefully, the CIA and FBI will take a closer look at this individual and observe why his “following posting” cannot be Reblogged. I myself am a retired Catholic and think of myself still as a Christian who believes Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior. I have asked this jerk to unfollow me. His “respect” comment on his blog site is strictly a ploy and misleading. What he reposts shows his hate for both Christianity and the Jewish Nation, which I believe is the United States closest friend in the world in spite of President Obama. If anyone can advice me on how to block a “Follower” I would be appreciative.

ISMAIL MB

See Photos of Vintage Coca-Cola Signs from New York City to Bangkok.

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“Today Was My Birthday” copyright 2015, John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

Today was my Birthday.

Approaching three-quarters of a century

on the planet Earth. 

Praise to my Lord and Savior

Jesus Christ for the many blessings

He has rendered me.

 

Author unknown. Courtesy of Google Image search.

My thoughts turned to God today.

I thought how many tears He shared today.

on the sadness of man upon the earth.

“The One Change in Our Laws: That Would Change the Future of the United States” copyright 2013 John J. Rigo, Texas’ Commentator

Courtesy of birthtourism.wordpress.com

Today the United States of America is on a dangerous path in its future.  On our current course we now have a nation where the average ethics, approach to excellence, average intelligence of our citizens is falling to new lows within U.S. society.  By the very nature of our immigration programs, have we brought the strength of our country to a new low. 

A country that allows its borders open to any illegal immigrant looking to drop their child on U.S. soil speaks volumes of the changes that need to be made to our immigration laws.  Defining what makes a true U.S. citizen should go beyond dropping a baby on our soil. 

Each child that is born on our shores by an illegal in this country represents hundreds of thousands of dollars in “Freebies” in community services, education and food stamps over the lifetime of now, what is now a “Legal, U.S. Citizen Child.”  This is a burden that the middle class U.S. Citizen of our country can no longer afford. 

We, as a country need to redefine what constitutes a legal U.S. Citizen.  A child born of a mother who is not a U.S. citizen should not automatically become a U.S. Citizen.  In fact the requirement should be for a child to have the status of a U.S. citizen should be that both parents be U.S. citizens at the time of the birth of that child.

By Line:  John Rigo is a first generation Italian.  Mr. Rigo’s Father came to the U. S. at age 16 thru Ellis Island from Northern Italy in 1926.  Mr. Rigo fondly remembers that his Father had two main goals in life.  One, was to become an American citizen, and Two, to speak excellent English to where no one would know he was a foreigner, he achieved both goals.

“February 2nd, 2015, Chris Kyle Day,” copyright 2015, John J. Rigo, Texas’ Poet and Commentator

Chris Kyle Day on February 2nd, 2015 in the state of Texas. A salute by a Texas’ poet and Commentator, John J. Rigo, copyright 2015. Picture courtesy of Google Image Search.

The new Governor of Texas has declared February 2nd, 2015 as Chris Kyle Day.  To the family and friends of Chris, our condolences at their loss.  A special salute to Chris this day from our family to you, for being the hero, that we only hope to be, in the love, the passion and heroism you demonstrated for America.

“Nuke ISIS” Commentary by John J. Rigo, copyright 2014

The Evil Face of ISIS. Picture courtesy of Google Image Search.

 

Courtesy of crocodilestament.com “If Regan were here today, ISIS would not exist.” quote by John J. Rigo, copyright 2014 Texas’ Commentator

There is not doubt in any United States citizen, that ISIS as a terror group is the greatest evil to be upon our earth.  These are vicious killers who have lost their rights to life itself in their killing of men, woman and children.  Killings by burying their prey alive and cutting off their heads in public executions demonstrates that fact.

President Obama please grow some balls as our President.  Become all you claim to be as a man and as our President over the last five and half years.  Use our limited nuclear arms capacity in field war http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/tactical_nuclear_weapon with ISIS and completely destroy them.  As to any captured terrorist, insure no trial but public executions within a day of their capture on the field of battle while insuring all such beheadings are televised.

“The Giant Slowly Awakens” copyright 2015, a poem by John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book “Passion Amidst Apathy”

Picture Courtesy of Google Search.

Courtesy of nosmokeblown.com
“Can Impeachment of Obama Save the United States?” A Big “Yes” to this question.

The middle class of America is slowly awakening.

Our flag is America.

It is not the flag of Mexico.

It is not the flag of the Muslim world.

Close our borders.

Close all Mosques within our borders

that support ISIS.

Defend the country we all love.

We stand for America not in just words but deeds.

America is not only about its Negro population.

America is not only about its Hispanic population.

America is also about its Caucasian population.

America cannot stand two more years of Obama.

Remove President Obama from office.

We must remove the Henchmen of the Democratic Party

from the government of America.

“Yes Obama…… Has” picture courtesy of Google Image Search

“Hang-On to Your Ass, the ‘Crash’ is Here” copyright 2015, John J. Rigo, Texas’ Commentator

Folks it is here!

“The Coming Wall Street Crash of 2015” copyright 2015 by John J. Rigo. Picture Courtesy of Google Image Search.

“A Cease and Decease Order to UPS (United Parcel Service)” copyright 2015, John J. Rigo, Texas’ Poet and Commentator

UPS Symbol (United Parcel Service) courtesy of Google Image Search.

The UPS (United Parcel Service) Customer Center on 4200 Samuell Boulevard in Mesquite, Texas. Image Courtesy of Google Image Search.

This is a Cease and Decease order directed toward the supervisory personnel of the UPS (United Parcel Service) of the Mesquite Customer Center located at 4200 Samuell Boulevard in Mesquite, Texas.  It also applies to the two UPS delivery personnel who “attacked” the door of my home at 104 The Lee Way, Gun Barrel City, Texas 75156 on January 7th, 2015; additionally, Danijela Zuza, Claims Specialist of Liberty Mutual Insurance part of Helmsman Management Services representing UPS who is not qualified to do an insurance adjustment on a dented waste basket. Exception to this order is the UPS Store located in Gun Barrel City, Texas and its owner and working personnel; also included in this exception is the website: http://buildasign.com

You are hereby directed this date of January 27th, 2015 to cease and decease all harassment by any and all means of communication, including e-mails, text messages, any and all social medias and any and all personal phone calls from all directed personnel in this notice toward me, my family and/or my homes in the East Texas area, including Gun Barrel City and Eustace, Texas. Violation of this order will result in the filing of both civil and criminal charges against the parties involved.

Signed This Date of January 27th, 2015,

John J. Rigo

104 The Lee Way

Gun Barrel City, Texas 75156 

 

“choosing names” A Reblog with Commentary by John J. Rigo, Texas’ Poet and Commentator, Copyright 2015

Many times we tend to forget that the beauty of God’s Love for us is simple and direct. There is no great Secret to It.  It exists as the universe exists.

a north east ohio garden

and other idle speculations.  if naming a flower id or ego which would you choose ?  no answer.  just the question.  here is the flower.  oh if you simply must know look to the bottom.  the hybridizer’s answer lies there…

7/13    Ego

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“Special Report: Notes on Another Clinton Scandal: Was Vince Foster Killed? – Of Course, He Knew The Clinton Secrets” A Reblog with a Commentary by John J. Rigo, Texas’ Poet and Commentator

It seems to me that the Democratic Party has a great skill in leaving bodies behind in all they do when it comes to Presidents. How many bodies will Obama leave behind?

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“ISIS DECLARES ALL GUNS ILLEGAL IN IRAQ” A ReBlog with Commentary by John J. Rigo, Texas’ Poet and Commentator, copyright 2015

A Special “Thank You” to http://gunnyg.wordpress.com for having this Reblog on his site. 

When one reads between the lines, what is happening within our own borders in the United States, the Obama Administration has encouraged and expanded “No-Go-Zones” for both the Black Community and the quickly growing Muslim communities, whose main goal in the future of “Middle-class America,” is their “Total Destruction” as a ‘Class’ in our country.

All of this is being done, while at the same time the Obama administration is attempting by “Executive Orders” and thru the Democratic Congress to remove all guns from the “Middle-Class,” so that they will not be able to defend themselves from the future attacks from both the “No-Zone Black and Muslim Communities.”

“Our New Sign is Posted” copyright 2015, John J. Rigo, co-owner Stewart-Rigo Farm and Ranch of Texas

Shortly after posting our signs for both our future vineyard and winery and farm and ranch we discovered that the name of “Silver Star” was associated with many low quality products in the State of Texas, hence our name change to “Stewart-Rigo” which represents the proud maiden name of my wife and my last name. The beautiful picture on the new farm and ranch sign actually comes from a picture taken of our farm and ranch.

Stewart-Rigo Farm and Ranch of Texas

New Sign for Stewart-Rigo Farm and Ranch of Texas formerly “Silver Star” copyright 2015 John J. Rigo

We are proud to announce that our new name of our farm and ranch is now posted.  After research and finding the name of “Silver Star” itself was associated with many low quality products in Texas, we decided to change our names on both our future winery as well as our farm and ranch.  The name consists of the proud maiden name of my wife and my last name.  The view on the sign comes from our own ranch. 

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“A Note to Some of My WordPress Followers: Get Off My Ship” copyright 2015, John J. Rigo, Texas’ Poet and Commentator

Courtesy of kelihasablog.wordpress.com

As you read my posting heading I have no doubt some of you find my heading post shocking.  The heading is how I really feel.  In fact as of today I would like to see the count of my Followers drop to about a fourth of the 477 that I currently have.

Yesterday I observed another shocking tread on the WordPress Program from one of my followers which to my observation explained why I always seen a “Like” hit from him on almost 100 percent of my poetry postings.  When I read his poetry more closely on his site of about 3300 followers, I realized he was copying my own poetry work.  Not exactly word for word, but very close.  I also became aware he was a “Raghead” and not a Christian in his faith.  I respect and honor all faiths but I do not attempt to become big buddies of those who attempt to belittle my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ…..so please “Unfollow Me.”

I have been with WordPress for about six years.  This blog of three is my most active sites.  I did have one several years ago that I closed down for a period after 25,000 hits because of constant attacks on the site from other “Non-Christians.”  Happily WordPress has made provisions for that in the last couple of years in their excellent Spam reducing program in place.

What I believe is the core value of WordPress is the sharing we all can do by our Reblogging and comments.  Truthfully I find the “Like” function on WordPress boring and useless and as of this posting, have removed that option from my WordPress Blog site.  If you “Like” what you read, then take the time to “Comment” or “Reblog,” it truly is a simple procedure on WordPress.  As far as the daily count, it is a daily way for me to know if my message is getting out there.  You see I am not about selling wares, unless it is currently about selling one small piece of my real estate holdings for charity giving purposes.

What has brought me to this point in sharing my WordPress Blog in a public way again is the basic sharing of my journey in its revelation that our Lord and Savior is there for all of us in the name of Jesus Christ.  How that came to me and how I attempt to Bless His Name each day.  So truthfully, if you are not along the same path as me, just be kind and get off the site.

All of this came to full realization to me yesterday when I asked a follower who was always hitting my posted blogs to Reblog my work from time to time, he actually refused.  He said his site was all about him and he “Never Reblogged the poetry work of others.”  Beside copying my work and he being a “RagHead” I now understand why he felt that way.  I asked him nicely to “UnFollow.”

So  again to those of you that are truly my friends and one and the same in my belief system, “Welcome,” to those of you who are not willing to Reblog my work from time to time………..”Get Off My Ship.”

“A Message to My WordPress Followers” copyright 2015, John J. Rigo, Texas’ Poet and Commentator

Stewart-Rigo Winery
Stewart-Rigo Farm and Ranch of Texas, copyright 2015, John J. Rigo

Poetry writing for me fills many needs.  First, it is a creative outlet for me.  Two, it is my way of the sharing of my life’s walk through the mercy and love of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior.  Three, it is a way of giving back thru the charity work that my wife and I do for the communities we currently live in (Henderson County, Texas) and have lived in (Collin County, Texas) and the pride we share this date in our past remodeling project of one of Texas’ most beautiful homeless shelters, the Samaritan Inn of McKinney, Texas. 

There is no ego trip on my part in sharing the count amount of hits on my blog site, surpassing over 65,000 hits as of this posting, but a desire to share my blessing and the knowledge of Jesus’ Blessings with as many persons, as I can.

In that light, I request my 477 Followers to Reblog postings of those poems thru their own WordPress Blog sites on poems that that carry special meaning to them.  Thank you for your Support over the last two years.

Blessings in each of your Journey’s,

John J. Rigo