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

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 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. 

"A Conversation about Life and Death" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Rainbows Amidst Storms"

"A Review of the Master's Series of Poetry"

The Master’s hands were strong and hard

from years of work as a carpenter

just like his father.

The creation of His hands had a gentle quality

such as the toy camel and shepherd

He was crafting this night.

His sister had begged Him to make a toy for her child.

With love and humor, He worked several nights.

In the back of the villa, the room was small and cramped,

making the carving difficult as the oil lamp light flickered.

Entering the doorway with a quiet sweep of the door blanket

came His sister’s oldest son.

Many questions burned in the mind

of this young man on this night.

Quietly, he approached the Master

so as to not disturb His carving.

The young man whispered,

“Master, do you have time to speak with me?”

Gently and with love the Master set the little wooden carving

aside and reached for the boy’s shoulder saying,

“What is troubling you this night,

son of my sister?”

The boy replied,

“I am afraid about death

and where I will go when I die,

since no one alive

has ever been to the place that dead people go,

and returned,

how am I to know what to expect?”

With patience and the deepest of kindness

toward the concerns of the young man,

the Master spoke,

“Telling humanity of the world beyond death

would be like explaining

the sight of sunrise or sunset to a person

who had always been blind”

He further explained,

“Beyond our lifetime is a world inconceivable to the

senses of man,

beyond every gift rendered in this world around us. 

It is a world of being in the midst of eternal love

and never fearing again.

It is knowing light beyond any light we now know of

in this world.

It is never being alone again,

but cherished in the arms of a mother,

so will it be in the arms of our God forever

in eternal love,

peace and happiness.”

So He spoke to me,

the Master of my life.  

 

"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.

"The Question," The Master Series, copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Rainbows Amidst Storms"

A beautiful day beckoned.

The sides of the hills were golden

with fields of grain. 

 

The Cypress trees were green

among great expanses of gleaming flat rocks.

An ideal day born for the enjoyment of the sun

and the wondrous words of the Master.

 

The crowd began to thin toward the afternoon sunset.

The Master was weary.

Many were the questions of the day.

The answers required much of His strength to loudly speak

the words of wisdom to the crowd. 

 

As the Master prepared to depart

a young man in the crowd shouted a question

in His direction.

  

The Master’s followers tried to quiet the man

to preserve their Lord’s voice.

They knew He was exhausted from the

long day of preaching.

 

The young man shouted again,

“Master, what can I do in my life that would be

pleasing to my Lord and God?”

In hearing this question

the crowd stopped movement

in their departure.

 

The crowd turned as one toward

where the Master stood.

Raising up to His full height

the Master looked over the crowd

with the kindest of smiles and He said,

 

“The mirrors of your own souls are within the eyes of

your brothers and sisters.

If you see hunger in those eyes around you

break the bread and share it.

 

If you see sorrow

share your tears with your brethren.

If fear overcomes your neighbors

stand with them

for numbers overcome fear.

 

Above all of these

love your neighbor

as you love your children.

My love protects your brethren

as it protects you.

 

This sharing of your love in my Father’s name

will be pleasing to your Lord and God.

In this sharing of your love without reserve

without reward

without a counting

will you be given

the glories of eternity.”

These words were spoken this day 

by the Master of my life.

“The Shadows of The Dark” copyright 2012 John J. Rigo, a poem about overcoming Depression, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

I have fought this battle before.

I lost.

It starts with those that are closest to us.

They remind us of our shortcomings

rather than our victories in life.

We fight but seem not to overcome

the weight that falls upon our spirit.

We cannot find anyone to reach out to.

Those that we thought cared about us

or loved us

really are not sincere in their hearts.

We no longer live under illusions.

We feel that our life is over.

Our very breathing becomes heavy

the weight upon our lungs for air becomes heavier.

The battle for light begins.

We must reach again for the strength of our Lord.

We must armour ourselves.

Before us lays the battlefield.

Prepare for the good fight.

“A Thank You” copyright 2012 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

It is the twilight of my life.

It is a time that I wish to render a “Thank You”

to all those who have passed in my life

who rendered me genuine love and friendship.

To those who were there as friends

when I badly needed their encouragement

and their love.

Thank you for sharing your hearts and minds with me.

“I Too, Fight Darkness and Discouragement” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo

Of Special Note:  This poem was originally posted on May 19th, 2010.  Reading it again today respired me to continually attempt to inspire and assist others in my WordPress family who are fighting this dreaded disease.  I thought I would repost it again for today in my sharing with you, my readers.  As you can see, as with many of us,  fighting Depression can be a daily task in our lives. 

 

 

I too fight darkness and discouragement.

Yesterday I prepared to permanently close this web blog.

A withdrawal from a calling of many years.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 

I felt my work was not doing any good out there.

I felt the friends of my life

those that truly rendered me their love

where long gone from this earth.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 

I found myself wanting to withdrawn to myself.

In reviewing my life

I found other places in my past

that seemed to be happier places

then where I was now.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 

There are many that have hurt me

through the years.

Step-children, who never said a simple

thank you for given them

many years of my life

without so much as a hug.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Friends that I looked up to

who have disappointed me greatly.

Individuals that the process

of forgiveness of their stupidity

would not come easily to me. 

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

It was 1:30 a.m. this morning

that I awoke with a start

It was my Lord calling to me.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

A calling to me to continue to share

His gifts to all that would read my work.

So here we are again

you the reader

and my poems.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Poems telling of my own journey.

A journey that brought me

to the most important place in my life.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

A place with my Lord

in revealing to me

His personal Love for me.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Blessings to you all in your journey’s of this day.

It will be a most beautiful day in the glory of God’s

Vision for each one of us. 

"Realization" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

 

Picture couresy of Bing

 ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 

Multicolored lighting amidst the sound

of rhythmic thunder pounded the huge hall.

The laughter and droning noises had a hollow, metallic sound.

The human Ferris wheel was in motion around the center spoke.

Quick glaces, smiles…some real, other’s set in concrete faces.

There was quiet desperation set in the eyes of many.

Touching in passing moments of movement were soft, warm bodies

pressed against arms, hips brushing fingertips.

Out of loneliness I sought this place,

a passenger on a self-made time machine.

I am tired of too many futures coming to this moment.

I want the warmth of my youth.

Child-book romance, where just the touch of a hand,

freezes time in its beauty.

Primitive drums change tempo,

the words are lost to the sensation of physical self.

Reality is moved to the edge of pulsating light beneath

the feet of bodies in tune with the sound.

Paired dancers locked in self-love,

and unaware of each other.

A checkerboard of kings and queens without mates,

in a game without end. 

Surrender, whispers the voice within.

A reflection on a mirrored wall looks intently,

at a standing figure.

A misplaced look of aging shown in

salt and peppered hair, with growing signs of age,

around the eyes,

the dream of youth shatters.

The Guardian of Time Present,

leaves through the portal marked “Exit.”

The dream is no more.

“Empty Words” copyright 2012 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

Your lips move forming words of love.

They seem to be words without substance.

I tried to believe in the truth of them.

I now realize you do not look upon me

as your Knight in shining armor.

Nothing can be sadder than not having love in life.

Still I believe in love.

I have seen glimpses of love in my life.

There were moments that such love

touched my life.

I now believe love in its real meaning

will be with my Lord.

I now understand

that in spite of all its sham

life teaches us

that love indeed

is a rare thing.

It is a gift

that is given to a few.

“When I Was Young” copyright 2012 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

When I was young

I never thought I would get old.

When I was young

I believed love from another was eternal.

When I was young

I thought all my dreams would come true.

This day as I look into the mirror

I now see the lines of old age

upon now a unyouthful face.

I found that true love is a fleeting thing.

I have learned that the paths of life

are filled with broken dreams.

On this day of my coming Seventh Birthday

I thank my Lord and Savior for this humble life.

In spite of my aging body

my broken heart 

my crushed dreams

the gift of this life

was truly

a wonderful thing.

"Words Upon My Stone" excerpt from "Roses Amidst Thorns" copyright 2005 by John J. Rigo

Someone asked me once

what I wanted to be,

when I finally grew up.

I said to them, “Let me be a poet

with words that are never forgotten,

in my journey of life.

 

Let my journey be one of joy

discovered in sorrow,

to all of those who read my words.

 

When death finally enters my door,

a special note upon my stone,

I request be placed in memory of me,

upon an earth that I visited

for a short time.

 

Let the words in simple chiseled letters,

read thusly, ‘He was not a simple man,

for God did not make him so.

He only wanted to be simply known

as God’s poet.’

 

 

 

 

 

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

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,

for this magic

overtakes me

in this moment

forever locked

in your embrace.

 

 

"There Are Many Doors" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

He stood quietly in the room.

His voice, though low in tone,

seemed to rock the air about Him.

The words were gentle and with love.

Pointing to the doorway, He said,

“There are many doors to eternity;

any doorway can be the right doorway to enter,

if entered with love and faith in God.

He will guide you and protect you in your travels.

First, you must learn to give complete

and unselfish love to Him.

Second, you must render complete faith in your Lord,

for whatever befalls you,

the Lord will stand at your side,

and you shall overcome,”

so spoke, the Master of my life.   

"What Can I Do This Day?" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

 

The road we travel is not the same road for all of us.

When you see someone in pain.

Reach Out!

Give some part of yourself to make their day,

a day filled with less pain.

Love goes beyond just words in our daily life.

We need to give beyond ourselves.

Reach Out!

Give a part of yourself.

You will only become more human

in your caring and giving.

Reach Out!

You too, have felt the pain of loneliness

and deep blackness.

Love came to you in blessings you never thought would be.

They came to you.

Reach Out!

Remember to share your fortune.

We are one,

that is the soul of all of us.

"Yea, Through the Grace of God, Go I" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

Overcoming Depression During the Christmas Holidays of 2011

 

I have been where you are,

a hell of loneliness and despair.

Had I created this place in my past,

as you are now, where I was once?

I ask myself what pains cross your mind,

as this day of many comes to you?

 

Do you hunger?

Are you without sleep?

The night only brings fear for your life.

Are you without anyone who cares

where you are this day?

Are you missed?

 

I, too, have been where you are.

From ashes of the mind did thou raise me,

from a pit of worldly hell.

It was not my talents of mind

nor spirit that lead me from this dark world.

It was my prayers.

 

You never failed to hear me,

when I cried out to you.

When I tried to end this life,

you spoke gently to me,

asking me to be patient

and wait one more day.

 

One day lead to another.

Finally, the sun began to shine again,

in your blessings and your love for me.

Thank you Lord,

for giving hope to the hopeless,

as you gave to me.

Thank you Lord,

for loving me when I was without love.

Yea, Lord, without your grace,

would now I be lost.  

 

 

In Memory of Paul M. Yeager of McKinney, Texas "If I Should Die Before You" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

 

 

Last night, my dear friend Paul Yeager of McKinney, Texas passed away.  Paul was one of the last true American war hero’s who served unselfishly the McKinney, Texas’ community for many years.  Reference this link: http://www.turrentinejacksonmorrow.com/detail.php?id=6218   This poem is dedicated to his family:

 

 

If I should die before you,

I will await you on a silver beach,

with a golden sun.

If I should die before you,

time will not move,

until your steps are heard behind me.

I will know it is you.

I will hear your eternal breath,

your low laughter as you approach

to join me.

If I should die before you,

on the most perfect of days,

together, we will watch the waves,

the breakers, making only the most

perfect of patterns

in a world that never has a bad day,

on a silver beach

with a golden sun,

in a special place,

for you and me.

"Beyond Pain and Into Love Again" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

When such pain goes beyond

metal against metal,

pushing and tearing,

beyond the tolerances of strength.

 

Truly, oh, what passion

lies within thee,

when finding release again,

in one who will truly love you again,

in the truth of their spirit and heart.

 

Heart be still,

mind, be of strength,

love awaits.

This time to carry you beyond

the eternal doors of joy and happiness.

"My Journey" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Rainbows Amidst Storms"

I have walked through the waters of sorrow.

Tears, blocking the sun of day,

as I stumbled each step of the way.

My voice softened to a whisper of sound,

in calling my Lord.

I am weary from pushing these feet,

wanting to rest, but cannot.

Was the answer I seek finally before me?

 

It was only when I finally gave up on me,

and turned to thee, that the answer awaited me.

Only through sorrow and pain,

can we know what Jesus gave us through His death.

Death of the mind, death of desire, death of worldly want,

only then can we surrender to His will,

and give up our own,

do we find Him, in the midst of eternal love.

A garment of light to carry us forward,

so that we never will shed a tear again.  

"We Only Come This Way…Once" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Rainbows Amidst Storms"

We only come this way…once,

with only one gift

to give to others.

The gift is ourselves.

Without payment or reward,

we give our all for some cause,

more worthy than self.

What could be a finer or more treasured gift?

In giving, we are passing on the greatest of gifts,

which was taught by one,

a very long time ago.

He gave His life to grant eternity for our souls.

His wonderful gift has neither equal nor comparison.

We can only try to reflect His treasure in our own human weakness,

by trying to give the gift of our love to humanity.

True love, in Jesus’s character,

is unselfishly placing others,

above ourselves. 

"Remembering You" copyright 2008 John J. Rigo upcoming Book III, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

I am glad I am here,

to remember you.

In recalling our time together,

there were many joys.

There were also times of sorrow,

we shared in those times.

We had something very special,

in the friendship we shared.

It has been many years,

since you passed on,

still,  I think of you,

each day,

and remember. 

"The Tree of Life" copyright 2007 John J. Rigo upcoming Book III, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

I carved our initials in the Tree of Life.

What value has love, in ‘death, do us part?’

Is love a flash of light in the long darkness of night?

Flesh to flesh in being born,

then death, without memory,

unable to behold,

to recall at will in deep detail.

Will thoughts become ashes,

that are scattered in a soft wind?

My love to you, dearest one,

is forever more,

upon the Tree of Eternal Life,

from the first garden,

of eternal promise.

A promise of Love,

never lost,

but always remembered,

in the heart of our Lord,

that will never be lost,

or forgotten,

in the passing of time. 

 

“Passion” copyright 2005 John J. Rigo “Roses Amidst Thorns”

Is not passion, part of being human,

part of the eternal of all of us?

Burn on, those ancient memories of love,

never lost, but remembered in the heat

of the mind, felt in the heart, living in the soul.

Let me live, knowing that once, or many times,

was I truly loved, beyond all of this,

to where there is a place special to only us.

A place that my hand never feels alone.

My breast never aches for your touch.

My loins never feel the cold of night.

In that love that binds us,

forever held in each other’s arms.

Through this time, forever in our one love,

beyond end, forever to be always,

you and me.

"Fear Not" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

Fear not in returning to the den of thy enemies,

the Lord is thy shield against all thy enemies.

The Lord has declared the destruction

of all those,

who curse you,

slander you,

plot against you,

and attempt to destroy you.

Return to the den of thy justice,

and tribulation in hand.

Watch,

as justice is carried out,

as the heads of thy evil enemies,

roll beneath your feet. 

"Life Has It’s Moments" copyright 2008 John J. Rigo upcoming Book III, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

I awoke with a start this A.M.

One thirty in the morning,

like it was getting up time.

My mind reviewed my life,

in what seemed a ten minute review.

 

I realized that my happiness,

was not an on going thing,

but living each day with punches

of emotion from time to time.

Flashes of awareness of time

coming to a dimming light.

 

I thought of shopping

at the grocery store

the other day.

The dark haired young lady,

a black sweater,

jeans, and flowing

black hair.

 

Passing me in the aisle,

both of us,

avoiding the other’s eyes,

afraid to confront the other,

in passing.

 

At the last moment,

we looked at each other.

Her face flashed into an

explosion of a smile toward me.

All I could do,

was sheepishly,

smile back.

 

I thought,

“What is this old fart,

smiling at this beautiful,

young woman;

what does she see in me,

to bring such a smile?”

 

Perhaps she saw,

the ghost of my youth passing.

At that moment,

I thought,

“Life has it’s moments,

flashes of insight coated in

sheer delight and happiness,

a sliver of time,

in our daily lives.”   

"Often, I Think Of You" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Rainbows Amidst Storms"

  

Often, I think of you

in the time of our youth,

when it was just us.

 

Sunshine glowed when we were together.

The grief of our former lives made us a pair.

Then, our lives were simpler,

filled with few things,

but rich in much love.

 

Somethimes I wonder if you think of me on occasion.

Did you put aside, as I have,

the separation of our love,

the anger,

the hurt,

that we both suffered?

  

Beauty is in those memories.

The thoughts of us at that time are sweeter

and more beautiful when they cross my mind.

 

In daydreams of simpler times,

my thoughts question where you are now

and did you find happiness?

 Did you have the children, that we never had?

 

Althought many years have passed,

I send to you my love from a former time,

with blessing for your happiness.

 

 

I also send my wish and hope,

that in the eternity to come,

we will meet as loving friends.

Until then, often, I will think of you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Tears of Recall" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Rainbows Amidst Storms"

Sometimes, a tear comes to my eye.

At first, I know not why.

Then it comes,

the links of the past.

Moments of tenderness,

of love,

that seen imprinted

forever in my soul.

It has not been with so much as one,

but many,

in the links together,

in a chain of life.

Some moments were of extreme sadness,

some joy beyond belief,

some with the surprise of a child,

in discovering something.

A light ignited within me,

that before, was not there.

It was just a moment,

a look into the eyes of another,

that said that these few seconds,

were very special.

A touch unlike no other.

The tear is for the longing of such moments,

and time spend

in just loving another,

in those special ways,

that will never go away.

 

"The Death of my Daughter" Part One, copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

Author’s note: Posting this poem is very difficult for me, hence the reason I must post it in parts. I appreciate your patience in reading it.

…………………………………………………………………………………

The first time I saw Rhonda, she was nine.

A dirty face, she had, that looked up at me with a look of loss,

and string long hair, in a badly worn homemade dress.

Her feet, without shoes, looked like they had not been washed in a week.

She could have easily posed for an adoption poster.

You know the kind, with the desolate landscape in the background.

I had dated her mother for about a month.

She never told me about these other two children,

the ones her aging elderly parents were keeping for her.

One morning, as I awoke from her bed,

she had already left early for work,

and left a note on the dresser.

The note said, “I now this will be over for us.

I never told you this,

but I have two more children,

and not just one, in my six year old boy.”

(to be continued)

"The Death of my Daughter" Part Two, continued….. copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

The note went on,

telling of her love for me,

telling of her fear of losing me.

An apology for not telling me about the children,

when she first met me.

She revealed the truth of her lie,

that she had three children,

not just one.

That evening when I stopped by her place,

I could see the tears,

the fear in her eyes.

I said, “Let’s meet those two other children.”

(to be continued) 

"The Death of my Daughter" Part Three, continued…copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

As the beginning of this poem indicates,

there was Rhonda,

her eight year old brother,

standing next to her,

who looked even more pitiful

with his bowl haircut.

It was Rhonda,

who took my heart away that day.

Fourteen years latter,

shortly after Rhonda graduated from college,

with her proud Master’s Degree in Music Education,

I divorced her mother.

(to be continued) 

"The Death of my Daughter" Part Four, continued…..copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

Rhonda and I went out to lunch

prior to the divorce date from her mother. 

Rhonda Lewis was her name.

She turned out to be a beautiful woman.

Her hair was long,

blond and beautifully cut.

Her eyes were a strong blue,

with a direct look of confidence.

As I spoke to her that day,

she looked at me as a detached doctor.

There was no emotion in her eyes.

I told her,

I could not love her any more,

if she were my own daughter.

I wanted desperately to keep my relationship with her,

as her father.

Her words came from her lips like a sword to me.

“I cannot do that,” she said,

“I must remain loyal to my mother.”

I explained I understood that would always love her mother,

her feelings had nothing to do with my feelings,

for she would always be “my little girl.”

Her mind was firm.

I was left in ashes.

(to be continued) 

"The Death of my Daughter" Part Five, continued….copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

I heard later,

that Rhonda had her PhD in Education,

and was teaching in a college in Arkansas as a professor.

It was twenty years latter,

from the date I divorced her mother,

the phone call came to my home,

while I was away on a business appointment that afternoon.

My wife took the phone call.

The neighbor said,

“I am sorry about your husband’s loss,

can I bring this dish over?”

My wife remarked,

“But my husband does not have a daughter,

you are mistaken.”

(to be continued)

"The Death of my Daughter" Part Six, continued….copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

That evening when I came home,

my wife related the call.

“Daughter! I don’t have a daughter, Oh my God!

Could it be Rhonda,

my little girl?”

It was evening.

Rhonda had just finished teaching a class.

She was talking to her fiance’ on her cell phone.

They had planned to be married in a week.

She was walking with a “walk” light,

across a quiet street,

when the drunk,

high on drugs,

hit her as his truck sped through the red light.

Witnesses at the scene said the impact

cut off both her legs,

and carried her over two hundred feet,

before the truck crashed into a tree,

further down the street,

crushing her tangled body,

on the front bumper of the truck.

Rhonda died at the scene,

in the caring arms of a stranger.

She was a beautiful woman of forty-two,

with all her life before her.

We had not seen each other in over twenty years,

she was my little girl then,

and she still is now, my little girl.

Rhonda will always be the little girl

who looked up to me with eyes that said,

“Take me home and love me,

for I am now,

your little girl.”  

Question? copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

A singular line horizontally drawn.

Above, a blue sky.

Below, a deep ocean of blue.

Is it the end of the world,

or the beginning of another?

Standing still,

there is no answer.

Only by moving forward,

do we realize there is more

beyond a singular line.

Attitude?

Perspective?

Are they not one,

and the same?

 

"Together" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Rainbows Amidst Storms"

Together we stand

in showing our love for the Lord.

Our hands are held between us

to make our love for each other stronger.

This our special time to carry us

with His help through the sadness

and tribulations of this life.

Together, we are one

in His love for us.

Let us give each other

our love without count and beyond tally.

On this day, we will show our love

for our Lord and each other.

One day, we shall all be together

in eternity within the arms

of His love.

Amen.

"I Am Overcome in the Joy of Your Love" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Rainbows Amidst Storms"

My Lord, my God, I come before you,

your humble servant,

overcome by the love Thou has shown me,

as one of your creations.

One made in the image of your

encompassing and eternal love.

I ask, as your servant,

for the wisdom to know Your will

so that you may find pleasure in me.

May I bring pride and further joy

to you in your creation.

When the darkness of days were before me,

you were my Light, when no hope was seen.

You were my Friend, when all turned away from me.

In the depth of my deepest sorrow and loss,

You helped me rediscover the joy of Your

eternal love for me.

I surely would dammed

throughout eternity without the Light

of Your love before me.

I pray each day to do only Your will as my God.

Let me not be overcome by my foolish pride,

nor ever feel that the blessings,

You fill each day of my life,

are from my efforts.

The greatest gift that You chose to give to your creations,

you gave to me, which is the choice of free will,

to love or not love You,

every day of this physical life.

Give me courage,

and keep me mindful

of Your love each day.

Protect me from the evil of the world,

that awaits me in the possible fall,

from Your Grace.

In my awakening each day,

as I greet the miracle that is around me,

never let me forget the joy,

that overcomes me when finding,

and being in Your love for me.

And, if it be Thy will,

let my soul

stay in your love,

abiding in your eternity,

that awaits me.

 

"I Remember Fondly, Christmas’ Past" copyright 2005 by John J. Rigo, selection from "Rainbows Amidst Thorns"

Courtesy of lostseed.com

(The little boy’s story in the poem is true and a time from my own past.) This Christmas Season of 2010, I was thinking of my Father. This poem mentions him several times. I remember how dirty he was when he came home from work when I was a little boy. My Father was an iron and steel worker.  After he came home and took a bath, my Mother would then attempt to clean the ring out of the bathtub from his bath.  Many times with close to a half hour of scrubbing, she still could not get it out.  In those days, my Father made about a hundred dollars a week.  He worked very hard for that money. 

***************************************** 

 

 

I remember fondly, Christmas’ past,

our first tree alive with lights

before it caught fire later that week.

I remember fondly, the Christmas with toys.

Never before had my brother and I received toys.

How angry my Father became when we broke several

toys after a few hours of play.

It was my Father’s first Christmas bonus

as a steel worker.

He spent that bonus on toys for us that Christmas.

He thought those toys would never break.

I remember fondly, a special Christmas as a kid

when no money was available whatsoever for toys.

We found a punch-out cardboard castle in a

department store window.

One dollar and ninety-eight cents was the price of that

castle.

My young brother and I played with it for days.

A punch-out castle was the best toy we ever had.

I remember fondly, Christmas past,

acting in the church Christmas pageant.

I was a little child with the beard of a prophet,

shaking in a spotlight in the church play.

It snowed that night.

My best friend and I asked

permission to keep wearing the beards.

A most beautiful snow floated through the air

as we walked home together.

The dirty streets of the city were made

clean and white with heavy, swirling snow flakes.

We sang church carols walking home,

our arms around each other’s shoulder.

How close to baby Jesus we were back then.

I remember fondly, Christmas’ past,

when life seemed so much simpler.

Joys more easily shared with

laughter much deeper than now.

Still, I thank God that I had those Christmas’ past,

even to this special day of a new Christmas.

Another December which will also will soon be gone

into the misty memory of another Christmas’ past.  

A Christmas Poem "After All This Time" copyright 2008 John J. Rigo upcoming "Passion Amidst Apathy"

After all this time,

my mind still turns to you.

Our love embers still burning

in the halls of my memories of you.

Still reaching for the feel of you,

next to me.

The sweet smell of you,

the sound of your sleeping breath,

bringing peace to my aching soul.

Where ever you may be this morning,

know out there in the cold cold night,

there is one who loves you

beyond all that is precious to me.

After all this time,

I still love you.   

"Whispering Trees" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Rainbows Amidst Storms"

The trees,

nature speaking to us,

reminding us of a time

in the past.

A time when

men and women

were closer to God.

Closer to the beauty,

and sometimes the anger of nature,

but still beauty in all of its glory.

Yes, the trees still whisper

that we are still a part of all of this.

Nothing has replaced

our relationship with God.

All we need to do,

is take the time,

to listen to the trees.

"My Gift" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

 

 

 

 

December 18, 2011 at OZ on Cedar Creek Lake, Texas

My gift to you is neither gold or silver.

Diamonds can never hold the light of this gift.

Pearls will will never glow beyond the of this gift.

It is everlasting and eternal.

Within the gift is enclosed the song of angels.

Another part of the gift is the gentle breath of God,

given in love to his creatures.

In many ways, this gift has life within it,

as it changes and grows.

My only valued possession of priceless value is this gift.

I give you this gift freely without restraint.

Beyond death, it will always be yours.

I give thee my love, my love. 

 

 

"The Myth of Perfection" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

Many have the belief that there is perfection in this world.

It does not exist on this earth and plane for us.

We are only privileged to see, feel and hear parts of

perfection, but never the whole of perfection.

The pieces that represent the beauty of God and heaven

are shown in glimpses each day,

in our lives on this earth.

It is our soul that catches these flashes of eternity,

and renders us the perfection of God.

It is through prayer and centering ourselves in the

love of God, that we are privileged to gain knowledge

of the eternity that is before us.

"Love Recalled" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Rainbows Amidst Storms"

If you and I met at a different time in space and place,

would we be more than people who passed formal greetings?

Would our eyes pierce the beauty of our souls,

beyond the imperfections of flesh, to the heart of us?

In your eyes, would I see more than me?

Would we know at that moment that something

wonderful was happening for you and me,

at a time in starless memory?

Could we have been lovers,

entwined in the depth of each other,

warm and soft against the cold days of black nights,

to rise together with joy and ecstasy?

Could we always have had a love

that had been one in unity for us?

The moment passes quickly.

My being reaches for that moment;

it is already gone.

"It Is Done" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo from poetry book, "Roses Amidst Thorns"

 

1959 Painting by John J. Rigo, titled, "Mother's Sorrow."

 

The gate stood high and firm before the light of paradise.

It had been this way for thousands of years.

The only light revealed was the light of God

through its bars.

A sound of longing was heard

from the millions of souls before its barrier.

There seemed to be no hope for reunion with God.

The day of days,

the hour of redemption

finally came to this place,

beginning with a cry of joy

from these souls.

Beyond the gates a cross appeared,

equal to the height and width of the gate.

The joy formed a song of everlasting love

on the lips of these souls.

It was a song unlike any sound ever heard before

or since this moment.

The words, “It is done,” were heard above the song.

The gate was no more.

The souls of God’s creation were returned home.  

"Friends of a Lifetime" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Rainbows Amidst Storms"

With the passing of time,

I have come to realize that there are truly

spaces that are never filled

by the loss of friends who were very personal

to my mind and heart.

Through the years, do the memories of Cliff and Tom

constantly come to my mind.

Never are they dead in my heart.

I see each of them, special, in their concern for me

as the friends they were to me and yes,

the love they rendered to me.

Have they been replaced in the void left by their absence?

No, that no one has accomplished.

Cliff was the short, large man from the deep South,

always with a tale of lesson and advice not wanted,

but when given, seemed well placed.

He spoke of home and craw-fish,

his Mother and his victories in life,

never of his losses.

You knew he was special,

a special person to know.

The same stories he related never got old,

just deeper in meaning.

The straight-laced, IBM type of guy was Tom.

He seemed to have found victories too early in his life,

burning, dying as a shooting star.

An anger was present about him that could never be explained.

Tom loved a good meal and good drinks.

Save the waiter or waitress who spoke too much while serving!

He was there to savor the moment,

should it be his last.

As Tom’s life was coming to an end,

he maintained his pride to the last minute in a VA hospital,

wearing a blue blazer that no longer fit;

no one cared about his past.

I miss Tom’s advice to me,

his laughter at my watch that he thought was such a great sales

job because I had to push a button

to tell time.

His loud laughter rang in the night,

raising high his special drink,

to wish me and all, the best of life.

I miss both of these men.

They were the special friends of a lifetime,

never to be replaced.

They are in my heart each day,

with the warmest of love to my dearest friends,

Cliff and Tom.

Whenever you both may be in the great wonder of it all,

I am one person,

who misses you both,

oh, ever so much.

 

"By This Path" Revised, copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Rainbows Amidst Storms"

By this path,

the Lord has brought me to the present.

By this path,

I have found His love for me.

Before I found this place in His love,

I was a lost sinner in the depths of sorrow and darkness.

By this path,

My Lord has brought me everlasting joy and His glory.

I have found him, or did He find me?

Bless this path.

Bless this day.

Blessed are we, who are truly in the mist of His love. 

"There Was a Certain Grace" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

There was a certain grace to the look of him facing death.

He did not seem to have succumbed to the idea of dying.

He stood tall and proud with a direct look into your eyes.

His bearing, his eyes, said many things.

His eyes said he had lived a life of honor and without shame,

as to who,

and what he was,

as a person.

 

If he was guilty of any deep emotion,

it was to have loved too much.

He had loved many in his life,

giving all he had to give,

to each relationship,

without a reserve held.

He was always the one hurt the deepest in the leaving.

 

If you ever knew him,

you would never forget him,

whether for a few minutes or several years,

in the sharing part of a day with him.

He lived as a man,

protecting the ones he loved.

He loved in the best of circumstances.

He loved in the worst of circumstances.

 

I am glad I got to know him on a personal level.

There were days of doubt in knowing this person.

“Yes” as one said about him in a dissenting way,

“He always came out smelling like a rose.”

 You ask, “How did I know this man so well?”

It was easy knowing him,

for you see,

he was me. 

 

"What Is This Thing That Cries Out Within Me?" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

What is this thing that cries out within me?

Is it a spirit that hungers for freedom?

“Freedom from what?” my mind asks in cold, hard terms.

 

 

My life seems about things.

Things stack, things store away; a room full of things.

A bank account with growing numbers, but it seems,

it is all about the balances.

 

 

I look into the mirror because they say mirrors never lie.

What I see is not what I am.

I am like unto the spirit of youth locked in a dark, gray cell,

listening to the sound of time on the clock

growing more loudly each day.

 

I find myself dancing alone at times.

I love what the sound of music does to my body.

I go back to that mirror, with sweat dripping down my face.

I am still puzzled by the face that stares back at me.

 

There is a pleading look in my eyes.

They cry out, “See me, see me, I am not dead!”

A ghost I have become from growing older with time.

 

I move through my life seemingly untouched by the sounds

of laughter from my past, the smells of loving sweat,

the memory of gentle lips touching the back of my neck.

 

I feel like my body no longer remembers the joys of passion.

Yesterday, I sat in a room noticing many things.

They were little things, but important things, that let the gift of

beauty be shared by one such as me, hungry for their taste.

 

The gentle curve to a neck,

that seemed to never end.

The movement of material,

on a full soft breast,

as the breath of the beholder

played with the movement.

 

Eyes with color of the lightest blue,

with mystery whirling with their depths,

of thoughts yet unspoken or shared with anyone.

I heard that voice within me cry out, “See me, see me,

I am not dead, but alive! Hear my cry, feel my need, I am alive!”

 

I left the room without a word.

There was a slight smile on my face toward you,

as there was a similar smile on yours.

Silent thoughts unshared, upon our departure.

 

Two ships passing on a huge ocean,

with a wave of the hand toward each other

across desolate waves.

When will this voyage end?

What distant shores await each of us? 

"Early Twilight" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

As I reach the early twilight of my years,

I find myself constantly asking myself,

“Is there such a thing as happiness?”

My mind seems to look back,

more than forward.

I find myself remembering days of laughter

and a certain freedom.

I go back into my past and remember days when I was happy.

It seemed in those days there was an element of simplicity to my life.

In different ways, I try and reach for those moments in the present.

It is like reaching for life’s brass ring;

the moments are never there.

The price of reality and maturity is a heavy one.

The understanding of youth wasted on the young

now makes sense.

I look into the mirror and what looks back;

an old man.

Yes, in my heart there still lies the youth of my past,

ever playful is this heart,

alive with joy of the anticipation of each day.

Is this truly now, what my life is all about?

 

"You and Me" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

We sit quietly,

you and me.

I trace your lips

with the tip of my finger

Your smile at my joy comes so easily to you.

The corner of your mouth dimples,

showing a special wrinkle that always speaks

beauty to me.

The pressure of your lips pressed on my hand,

is warm and safe,

with just a hint of passion

during a moonlight evening.

I kiss your neck,

ever so lightly,

with a breath in a rush of air upon your ears.

You then giggle and start to laugh.

With the rise of your breasts in a deep breath,

you reach and place your lips,

warm and soft against mine.

My heart pounds within my being.

I rest on your chest,

It is a perfect evening

with just you and me.

"I Had A Miracle Today" Revised copyright 2008 John J. Rigo upcoming book "Passion Amidst Apathy"

The item itself,

was of no great value.

It was a matter of principle with me.

Keeping track of things in my life,

seemed important to me.

It was my way of confirming to myself,

that I had control in my life ,

and over my life.

The truth was, I did not.

 

I looked for days

for that item.

Sometimes checking the same place,

more than a half a dozen times.

 

This was at a time in my life,

that I was asking God,

if my life was pleasing to Him,

and I was serving His will.

 

A place that I had looked into

many times before,

a black zippered bag,

I opened it,

and looked into it,

the sixth time.

To my utter surprise,

with a chill of discovery,

the item laid plainly

before my eyes. 

The item was now there.

 

Was it a miracle rendered to me?

Was I blinded to seeing it before?

Did God, give me sight,

where I had none before?

God speaking to me in His way?

Thank you God,

for hearing me,

for loving me,

and letting me know,

You are

truly God.

 

"Perfect Love" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Rainbows Amidst Storms"

I have found the perfect love in Jesus.

He redeemed me with His love,

when I believed none was there.

As I left the earthbound,

material things of this world,

I was lifted up to the heavens.

Before me lay the gates of joy

covered with the tears of my redemption.

Awaiting my entrance were all the people

that I ever loved and deeply grieved their passage

from this earth.

Open arms did I find; hugs of love, was I given.

Upon entering those gates of joy,

beyond sight and time,

I saw a garden laid before me.

It was a garden of the trials and tribulations

of my life on earth.

They were but one small pea

compared to a field of His love.

I have found the perfect love in Jesus.

He redeemed me with His love,

when I believed none was there.

Now, I have been found.

  

"The Monster In Our Town" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

It came a long time ago.

When fields stretched for miles,

and not a home was in sight.

 

They came with hope,

then there were those

that came with greed.

 

The greed became a monster

wedged in their hearts.

A monster wanting what

belonged to others.

 

It took land from its

neighbors for pennies

on the dollar because

they were too weak to fight back.

 

Places where the monster

had touched with hunger,

the town’s gold disappeared.

 

The monster got hold

of the hearts of

the bankers,

the newspaper reporters,

the city politicians,

and those with badges

that showed

the light of day

but not the darkness

of their hearts.

 

The monsters took the

town from me

and my family,

without a cry of warning

from the town square.

 

The town was finally

destroyed by the monsters of greed.

The dreams and hopes

of earlier times

were no more.

"A Soldier’s Farewell" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns

Nato Headquarters ICEDEFOR, Cosmic Top Secret Registry control Administrator 1962-1963

(Above picture of Johnny Rigo, age 20, Buck Sergeant, USAF, serving in NATO Command, Iceland Defense Force)  

 

 

It is time to say goodbye.

I can see my sadness in your eyes.

Is this the goodbye kiss that will aways 

be in your memory?

 

 

Press closer to me,

imprint my soul with your being.

Please do not look into my eyes,

the sadness will always be there,

until we are one again,

in our happiness. 

(Below picture, age 17, Basic Training and Administrative Tech School,  1959-1960) 

Johnny Rigo, top row, third from Left, Served Honorably USAF 1959-1963

 

"I Broke Your Heart" copyright 2008 John J. Rigo future book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

I broke your heart.

I know when the deed was done.

I knew then,

as I know now,

I was in love with you.

More afraid of failure,

than giving myself to you.

I still can hear in my soul,

the sound of your tears,

on the tape from that day.

Two hours of tears and screaming

my name in agony.

I was the center of your agony,

in my rejection of your love.

It has been twenty-five years,

since that day.

A day never goes by,

that my thoughts turn to you.

In my being,

I now know,

that the joy I knew with you then,

will only come again in my death,

and hopefully the joy of heaven.

If you are reading this,

at this very moment,

know this is one,

who will always love you.

"The Insight of Our Lives" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

Every so often,

God in His mercy,

renders us the insight

of our lives.

The purpose of all of this,

which most of the time,

remains hidden.

 

It is a way of keeping the gift before us.

A way to show us what we are here for,

and what is ahead.

A way of sharing the joy,

to encourage us,

to reward us,

to place us on the path of wholeness.

 

It is but part of second,

a flash of memory that lingers on,

leaving the shape of hope

and faith bound to us,

within the depth of us.

"Our Dance" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns" (Former winning poem in a Collin County, Texas writing contest)

What is the name of that song?

It does not matter, let us be silly and dance,

swirling and twirling across the floor.

Our youth flashes before our laughing faces.

Yesterdays move into the now of our beat together,

swirling steps into the footprints of ashen time.

For a golden time, our memories of the pain in our past is no more.

We have each other,

with our own very special song,

and our own very special dance. 

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

 

 

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.          

                                                                                      

 

                                                                                                                                

 

"I Will Never Be Far Away" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

I will never be far away,

no matter where you are.

My heart will always be with you.

Never will you have to seek,

to find me,

for I will always be,

as close as your heart.

There is a special place,

for you and me,

a place that will never go away.

A place where each day is made for you and me.

A place where each day becomes an eternal string of pearls,

as we love,

and laugh through each setting sun.

Rising together,

each morning,

with a song upon our lips,

singing of our love for each other,

through this eternity,

and all others,

to follow.

"Memory" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns" (Note: to be considered PG13)

I closed my eyes:

The after-image of her was printed on the backside of my mind,

the look of her, neck bent backward, eyes closed.

That beautiful curve from her neck to the tip of her breast,

with a slight hint of sunrise upon the horizon of her smile.

As a spirit, I loved her,

unaware of my own physical feelings.

It seemed I could not satisfy my need

to give her my love.

The flow seemed forever.

From moment to moment, I explored her,

no part untouched or savored.

There was no shame in loving her.

We were eternal spirits reunited in the flesh of our eternity.

I opened my eyes:

I am haunted by her,

for the image remains.

"My Wish" (Revised) copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

Within my soul beats the heart of my eternity.

Memories within a mind not forsaken,

nor to ever be forgotten.

 

Long kisses,

held close,

to the soul of us.

 

In love,

and in sadness,

still brings light.

 

That is my fate,

that is my wish,

that the beauty of this moment,

will forever be.

"Are You Out There?" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

Within me lies the hope,

that you are out there,

waiting for me,

as I wait for you.

Days of sparkling laughter,

between us,

yet to be ours.

Days and nights of love and passion,

still awaiting our meeting.

Hasten time,

for it all goes by too quickly,

the time left to us,

as I await,

for my bride of hope,

love,

and laughter.

"A Terrible Thing to Waste" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

A heart is a terrible thing to waste.

If one comes to you with this offering,

do not scoff too quickly.

Love is a precious gift.

It is precious to the one who gives love,

and very precious to the one who receives it.

Do not be hardened to this gift.

Accept this gift with kindness,

and tenderness.

Love is the joy of life.

Love is the light of life.

Love is the soul of life.

Be thankful and gentle,

in the receiving of love,

even if this love,

is not the love you seek.

Remember, one day,

you will be judged as a human.

You will be judged to the degree that you loved.

More importantly,

how kindly you received love.

Love, in its many forms,

is God showing

His face to us.

A heart is a terrible thing to waste. 

"Perfect Love" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Rainbows Amidst Storms"

I have found the perfect love in Jesus.

He redeemed me with His love,

when I believed none was there.

As I left the earthbound,

material things of this world, I was lifted up to the heavens.

Before me lay the gates of joy,

covered with the tears of my redemption.

Awaiting my entrance were all the people

that I have ever loved and deeply grieved

their passage from the earth.

Open arms did I find;

hugs of love, was I given.

Upon entering those gates of joy,

beyond sight and time,

I  saw a garden laid before me.

In the garden were the trials and tribulations

of my life on earth.

They were but one small pea

compared to a field of His love.

I have found the perfect love in Jesus.

He redeemed me with His love,

when I believed none was there.

Now, I have been found. 

"I Seek Not" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Rainbows Amidst Storms"

I seek not praise or adoration,

just the warmness of your touch.

A friendship that seeks not reward

nor return.

A connection of understanding

between these gulfs

that separate us as humans

from different times and places,

even though we have not lived the same.

Love that overcomes all barriers between us,

without fear,

without reprisal,

to continue into time without limit for us.

To finally find,

at some point ahead,

the binding of our souls,

that will never leave us,

alone again.

 

 

 

"Singing In The Rain" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

I am singing in the rain with you.

Our feet dancing between the raindrops.

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 truly our moment,

of our love together,

just signing and dancing in the rain.

"Why Did It Take This Long?" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

Why did it take this long

to discover how much I love you?

All those days and nights are gone now.

I could have shared that time with you more deeply than I did.

Kisses rendered with soul, instead of obligation.

Why did not share my fears with you?

Had I gotten to the place, that fear of being a fool,

was more important, than sharing my soul with you?

I say to you, my friend, remember this,

“If love sits next to you each day,

render to that love,

praise and appreciation each day.”

In so doing,

your days will not be filled with regrets,

as my days are now filled,

with spent sorrow.

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

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?

"The Blessings of Our Love" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Rainbows Amidst Storms"

To take what we have for granted

is a human thing.

Only when it is gone,

do we finally come to realize

how important little things in our life,

really are.

Death can be so final.

No longer is there a chance to do things better.

We now have the chance to live life a greater

and more wonderful way.

How blessed you and I are

in this point in our lives.

We have finally found the best things about

our life together is about the most simple of things.

Moments like touching each other for no reason at all,

in the quiet of our time together.

Warmly remembered times,

like the kiss,

when not expected,

“I love you,”

when not expected

It is not grand that we have this chance

to be together.

A chance to share what is really is important,

the sharing of just being together and most importantly,

knowing that everything is as it should be,

in our life together.

We were meant to be with each other and

that is a good thing.

Most wonderfully,

within the beauty of this life,

that our sharing of this life,

is in God’s plan for us.

 

"A Special Prayer" copyright 2008 John J. Rigo upcoming book "Passion Amidst Apathy"

Lord, Bless this day.

Bless me.

Weaken my enemies.

May I be pleasing to You,

in rendering Your Word to others.

"If I Were God" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

1959 Painting by John J. Rigo, Titled, "Mother's Sorrow"

If I were God,

would I have done things any differently?

In the mist of my creation,

would I have made beings,

who would worship me,

built into their souls?

I think not,

for love is only love,

when given freely.

Is it not said,

that we are made in His image?

Would not His Love be the ultimate,

universal love?

If we would give our life for the one we loved,

would God render any less,

in giving His life for us?

In God’s love for us,

would enduring a day of pain,

be a fair exchange to insure that all those He loved,

would be with Him?

If you were God,

would you have done the same for me?  

"An Earthbound Angel" copyright 2008 John J. Rigo upcoming "Passion Amidst Apathy"

My Bride, Linda Terry-Rigo

She spoke of death, matter factually.

She told me what the afterlife was.

The detail was clear and without doubt.

An earthbound angel returned,

to quiet my fears and give me peaceful assurance.

Who was this creature that gave me this gift,

with such authority?

I had known her for over thirty-five years.

We have been together over eighteen years.

She is the wife of my dreams.

A true “Giver of Life” is my bride.

How blessed, am I, this day,

to have time shared with her.

Thank you God,

for this gift of life to me.  

"Us" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Rainbows Amidst Thorns"

I am only for you.

A kiss given here

or a caress there.

Together, our lives are a bouquet

marked by each petal of love

gently falling away

to our time together.

"Dreams" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

Dreams, dreams,

I step into the world of my dreams.

Dreams of you.

Your lips touching mine,

my arms around your waist.

I am holding you close.

We are breathing as one.

Kissing as one.

Is this real or is it not?

Let me not awake,

from this place,

where there is only,

you and me,

just,

dreaming,

dreaming.

"Recalling" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

In all the things

thou are to me,

I remember now,

then recall latter

the twinkle of your laughter

as you followed me quietly,

as I ran from you in anger

over some silly thing.

There you stood

as I turned,

with the biggest

of our smiles.

It was your way

of saying,

“I am sorry.”

As I remembered now,

you knew more than anyone,

the many ways

one can say

“I Love you.”

Did I remember also to let

you know this in my heart,

at a time when it was

important to tell you

that I also love you,

oh, so very deeply. 

"Awaken To Love" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Rainbows Amidst Storms"

 

 

 

"Sunshine filled the room"

Last night a dream entered my peace.

It was you, sobbing.

Crying for what could have been, 

but it was not.

Outside of your world everything seemed perfect.

To others, your world was without want.

It was not.

A part of your soul was seeking,

but not finding,

some special part of understanding.

The part that was compassion,

of tenderness,

that was not in your moment of being.

Was there hope to bind this wound,

a wound so deep?

My arms reached for you.

Held you tight with lips to your ear.

Whispered, I love you,

I care,

I know your pain,

and I will always be here for you.

You slowly smiled.

Sunshine filled the room.  

"Reunion" Copyright 2008 John J. Rigo upcoming poetry book "Passion Amidst Apathy"

Today I thought of all the people

that touched my life with love.

Many are names remembered,

and many, sadly, names that have been forgotten.

 

To each of you, I render my love,

and eternal appreciation for sharing

a part of yourselves with me.

 

Many of you, I will never see again,

in this life.

Many of you, have passed from this life.

 

We shall all met again,

in God’s Love in our forever time together.

Cocoons for a short flicker of light,

before unfolding our wings in eternal flight.

"The Dark Angel Amidst Us" copyright 2008 John J. Rigo upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

Amidst us stands the Dark Angel,

joyful at each victory gained against us.

A free will to choose Good or Evil,

a gift from our Loving God,

is a part of our daily struggles.

The weapons of the Dark One are many.

Darkness that covers our mind with sorrow

in our latter years,

to place us in a void of hopelessness,

and fear.

Lost of health, lost of loved ones,

bringing doubt to our aging minds.

Are we to be snatched from His Love at our

Eleventh hour before death?

Render your darkness to God’s Love and Power.

The Lord will lift you above this Evil.

Never fear, never give in to distrust nor hate,

in the darkness that attacks you .

The Dark One’s only reward in eternity is suffering;

while yours, will be in the Light of God’s Love forever.

"I Cannot Imagine Life Without You" copyright 2008 John J. Rigo upcoming poetry book "Passion Amidst Apathy"

The words came like a knife to my heart.

It was evening, and we had just gotten in bed.

The words were whispered in the smallest of voice from you.

We were lying side by side, with my arm around your waist.

This was always, in all these years, in how I went to sleep with you.

The words were, “I don’t want to leave you” in an almost sobbing voice.

Then it was your silent breathing again.

 

I tried to visualize my life without you.

All that my mind gave back was a blank screen.

Lord, did I not pray enough for You to watch over her?

After all these years, the darkness of cancer returns to my bride.

And what of the cure?

 

 

Killing her body in order to make it better?

We build Atomic bombs to kill our enemies.

Accomplished the impossible, in placing mankind on the moon,

and returning them.

Yet we must see those we love,

be placed at the edge of death,

in order to get better.

I am angry with the greed and ignorance of man. 

 

"Lord, What Does Thou Desire for the Rest of My Life?" copyright 2008 John J. Rigo upcoming poetry book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

A fish following the stream of life.

Going with the flow was the majority of my life.

Finally, twenty years ago, I gave my life to His care.

The blessings that followed,

were beyond my dreams.

I now face the last days of my life,

unsure of what is pleasing to my Lord.

Desiring only to finish my life in a way,

that will be His plan and wishes for His creation.

As each day passes,

I become more aware of the speck of dust,

I am in His creation.

To know that His presence is close to me,

and His Love, no less than any of His other creations,

only humbles me further.

I kneel in homage and worship to my Lord.

May I be so bold, as your humble servant,

to ask your guidance in how I can spent the rest of my life,

in bringing pride to my Father, 

who has given me life,

and the blessings of this life.

Lord, hear my prayer,

“Lord, What does Thou Desire for the rest of my life?”    

  

Will You Change This Fate, This Christmas of 2011? "Ghostly, Do I Walk" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Roses Amidst Thorns"

Chains of sorrow upon my neck,

reaching for the ones I knew,

unable to touch.

A slight breath of air,

words spoken, but not heard.

My world is full of “If I could’s,”

no clock to turn back on my regrets.

I offer only a prayer to my unseen God

to let this end.

I say to you,

there is no time left

but the time of this moment.

Time to forgive,

time to say, “I love you.”

Time to give of yourself,

for all that you could have done,

with this precious thing called Life.

In so doing, perhaps you not also be,

on this ghostly path,

that may never end for me.

"The Serpent Takes Many Forms" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Rainbows Amidst Storms"

The meal was simple,

one of bread, fruits, and vegetables from the field.

The conversation was good-natured,

and spirited among the men.

He sat among them quietly,

with a smile of love upon His gentle face.

These men had been with Him for many months.

They were closer than His brothers of birth.

He called to the server for a bowl of water,

and a simple cloth to wash His hands.

They stopped speaking, and turned to Him.

They knew the time to listen had come.

With courage, the one closest to Him asked,

“Master, how am I to know the face of evil?”

“The Serpent takes many forms,” said the Master.

He placed His hands together,

each fingertip touching the other,

forming a circle.

“Within this circle appears air,

and nothing to fear,

but I say unto you,

the Serpent can take any shape or form,

seeminly without consequences of punishment or terror,”

said the Master.

“At the beginning of eternity,

when my Father make your souls,

an awareness of knowing evil.

He rendered to your souls an eternal power against evil.

When my inner voice speaks to you,

know then,

my brothers,

evil is next to you.”

The Master, eyes lifted upward,

cautioned,

“Only by crying out your God’s name,

will you be protected from Evil.”

Then, He lowered His head sadly lamenting,

“To ignore this warning will place you in the hold

of the serpent,

and you may become forever lost.

So, I say to you,

your heavenly Master and Father,

I love you beyond the value or joys of this world.

Keep your faith,

and ye shall be with us,

in love and light in eternity.”

so He spoke to me,

the Master of my life. 

 

"Chemo" copyright 2008 John J. Rigo upcoming Poetry Book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

I could see the sadness in her eyes,

as each chunk of her golden hair came forth in her hand.

She placed her once shining, golden flax into a plastic bag,

to be reminded of the beauty,

of her hair.

Her hair stylist assured her that baking soda,

washed gently in her hair would prevent the falling of her hair,

from her scalp.

In giving her this suggestion,

the stylist refused to cut her hair shorter,

in order to make the lost, easier to bear.

The stylist was wrong.

Bear witness to the shining and blotched scalp,

where beautiful golden hair once resided.

Nightmares of her past returned to her.

Remembrance of a childhood ring worm of her head,

returned to haunt her again,

of laughing classmates,

finger pointing to stocking capped head.

The Spector of Death upon a black chair,

drove her to the decision to move forward,

to this dreaded treatment.

Was the fear real or made to fill the pockets of her doctors?

Payments for the Rolls convertible that sat,

shiny and pale green,

in the doctor’s slot of the cancer treatment center.

A large cow-like-barn room,

where milking looking machines of death,

pumped their questionable medicine into their hosts.

A winged angel of slow death,

masked as an Angel of Life,

to claim another possible victim,

in its green flow of money,

from perhaps, its victims?

Dear God,

please protect,

the one I love so dearly,

from this possible,

self-inflicted treatment.

"Footprints Upon The Landscape" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo upcoming poetry book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

The sand is pushed aside as my feet are placed upon the landscape.

My footprints quickly disappear as I move forward in my quest.

Blowing winds leave the mark of my path, but for a second,

a mark of passing that becomes neither a longing memory

or a recall by the passing landscape.

Are we too, a grain of sand lost to a moment of time?

"A Gift Of Treasure" copyright 2008 John J. Rigo upcoming poetry book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

I tried to think of a gift,

that would be special to you.

A gift of treasure that would endure,

thru the days of your life.

Would gold and jewels,

things that could rust,

and turn to dust,

in the sands of time,

be such a gift?

I think not,

for the earth holds many trinkets from the ages.

Trinkets buried deeply in the earth,

long forgotten of their purpose.

Forgotten of the song, they held, so long ago.

I give thee my words of my heart,

that are enclosed within the eternity of my soul.

Eternity, with such a gift,

that will go beyond the decaying trinkets of the earth.

If it is God’s will that death should temporary seperate us,

this gift shall be my seal of love,

to clothe you in the light of my love,

and carry you forward to the day,

we shall meet again in the eternity that is before us.

It will be a place without pain,

hurt, or further sorrow for us.

A place where we shall again open the seal of my love.

A place where we will laugh again in joy each day,

in the wonder of our love.

"Walk Tenderly On My Dreams" copyright 2008 John J. Rigo upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

Walk tenderly on my dreams,

for my dreams are me,

with my soul exposed.

Judge not,

the worth of my hopes,

nor the possibility of their reality. 

If you are without encouraging words,

then seal your lips in speaking of my dreams.

Are we not without hope,

when stripped of our dreams and aspirations?

Look to yourself and ask,

when were your own dreams scattered against

the rocks of time?

Take not your anger,

with yourself,

against those,

who still have hope.

"The Connection" copyright 2008 John J. Rigo, upcoming book "Passion Amidst Apathy"

We knew immediately that there was something very special

between us.

It happened in the first moment our eyes met and our hands

touched.

We reached into our minds within the same second for a prior

memory of us.

The memory was a distant eternal calling of another time and

dimension.

We both knew, it was not of this time, in this space, in this

moment.

Both of our eyes wanted to turn away in embarrassment,

as our faces flushed in the awkwardness of the moment.

A warm recalling passion overtook our thoughts. 

We mouthed our formal greetings,

like children at play.

Our voices slightly breaking in forming the words,

of formal greeting.

An instant heat played upon our lips,

and in the electric of our hands touching.

We knew in that very moment,

a lifetime of prior lovers,

had been before this moment in time.

Without reason for the meeting to linger,

we regretfully broke the magic that bound us.

Where we meant to be rejoined again?

"The Song of the Bottle" copyright 2008, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

It was a simple glass bottle,

that gave me a gift of song,

that day.

It was a beautiful sunny day,

on the waterfront side of my home.

With a fresh cold, iced beer,

I sat on the back porch.

The breeze was beautiful as diamonds of light,

sparkled off the water before me.

A curious thing happened as I slowly drank that beer.

The outside wind played through the empty part of the bottle. 

A song, like no other, played through the glass.

It was a haunting song of eons,

from another time.

As I drank more liquor from the bottle,

the song changed in pitch to a sweeter song.

It came to me at that moment,

that God’s gifts to us are never ending.

In prayer,

I gave thanks to God,

for His gifts to me,

that day,

and the song of the bottle.

 

 

 

"The Last Judgement Bench" copyright 2008 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

It was a long day of preaching and answering many questions by the Master.

Toward the end of the day an ancient elder of the nearby village asked the

Master the following question.

” Master,”  he shouted above the multitude,

“Tell us of the Last Judgement.”

The Master replied,

” The Judgement Bench sits before the Gates of Heaven.

On this day Trillions of souls will stand before this bench.

The total of all the eternal souls that have been born and died in eternity.

The scales of judgement will be in the total hearts of all.

Each soul will stand before all in total recall of all the details,

of their lives on the physical earth.

No trespass will be hidden,

no hurt upon others forgotten,

but revealed to all,

to see, to feel within,

their own individual spirits.

The sincerity of one giving up themselves

to Jesus will also lay in the balance of judgement.

To those, that the scales of justice weigh

heavily against them,

the gates of hell will swallow them

for their last time to an eternity of suffering,

without the light of God before them.

To those, who died with repent on their lips,

to those who gave their lives to Christ in their lives,

with deeds of love and goodness,

to these,

the Gates will then open,

to an eternity of peace and joy.

So, it will be on that day,

that all will stand

before the Judgement Bench,”

so said the Master of my life,

on this day.

"The Power Of His Love" copyright 2008 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

The Power comes forth.

It is the power of His Love for us.

All that one has to do,

is believe.

All one has to do is believe,

in the Power of His Love.

His Love is for all of us.

Get on your knees,

Thank God,

for the Power of His Love.

Joy will now be yours.

Your enemies are now dust.

Darkness is no longer your fate.

The Light of Eternity and Love,

is now yours.

"The Miracle of Our Lives" copyright 2008 by John J. Rigo, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

A Picture of Eternity? Book Cover to Second Published Book

Flickering candles at the doorway to eternity.

The time of our lives in this world,

seemly not worth noting in the scheme of the universe.

Yet, our God in his Love for us,

fills our lives with such joy,

in knowing Him.

Beyond the valley of tears,

Beyond the lost of love,

beyond the caverns of fear,

beyond the dark rooms of hell itself,

He has brought us to bath in His light of Love.

Lives of ticking seconds,

streaming in light years of

moving hours around a dying sun.

Should we not spend each day,

in good works in His glory, worship, and honor?

Only by His individual touch in the mircle of

our births,

can we understand this grand gift given to us.

A gift to be able to find our ways again,

in being rejoined again,

with the Master of our eternal fates.

"The Bradford Pear Tree of Club Lake Trail" copyright 2004, a lost poem recovered, preview poem, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

A Pear Tree am I,

unchanged by the lost of a part of me.

I am the same,

nothing has changed,

there is just less of me.

Why do you stare a me,

as you pass?

Am I so different then before?

I still smell the air,

feel the sky,

and warm myself in the sun of day,

soak the rain of day,

amidst the storms that roll into my horizon.

 

I still dream of dreams,

yet to come,

for I am and still am,

the mighty Bradford Pear Tree of Club Lake Trail.

I was taller,

fuller, and prouder,

than I am now,

but still the Bradford Pear,

the tree you looked upon each day,

with such pride.

Have I changed so much from those days,

when you looked so lovingly at me?

 

The change came slowly over the years.

Worms chewed in the joy of my wood,

seeking the essence of me.

I grew,

but as each leaf fell,

I became closer to my death.

 

The death of cut wood and broken twigs,

laid upon a ground now unknown to me.

What changed me so quickly and without warning?

It was shortly after midnight,

the storm came.

Wind tearing at the very soul of me,

Wind ripping my inner part out,

to lay useless,

and with only partial life upon the ground.

 

I am still the same,

the Bradford Pear,

I live,

I breathe,

I sun,

even with fuller leaves,

than before.

 

Should you now love me less,

for not being as powerful,

and mighty as before?

I love you no less,

for you see,

I am, and will always be, 

your Bradford Pear Tree of Club Lake Trail. 

"A Prayer To A Loved One" (Revised) copyright 2008 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

As I stand before the doorway of death,

let the last vision that I will hold

be that of you.

Let my soaring soul be forever imprinted

with memories of you.

Let not my journey be far,

before at last,

I am in your arms again.

Let my lips be sealed in a kiss from you,

bearing witness

to our eternity together.

 

"By His Manger" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Rainbows Amidst Storms"

Set aside your burden at my manger.

I have come to give My Love to you.

Side aside your fears,

put away your tears.

Have I not promised by my arrival,

eternal, everlasting joy to you.

Light beyond sight,

sound in tune with angels’ voices,

singing in My Love for you.

Come closer and bathe in my light.

Look into my eyes and see the innocence,

in the truth of My Love,

and care for you,

now and forever. 

"One Night" copyright 2005 John J. Rigo "Rainbows Amidst Storms"

  

 

"Look into My Eyes, and See My Love for You"

Steely, the night shown against iced blackness,

with a white diamond star blazing in the heavens.

Hints of soft voices whispered in the wind.

The weary shepherds pushed forward on their staffs,

looking forward to the comfort of their tents.

Beyond the hills, the sky glowed.

A choir of voices was heard with a sweet clarity,

the sound of bells vibrated among the sound of horns.

The animals spooked, deaf to the commands of their masters.

The wind increased in its volume and strength.

The shepherds were filled with fear.

Light overshadowed the darkness,

during the midst of night.

Within the light formed,

the most beautiful soft,

white, and gold of human-like forms,

shining against the sky.

The shepherd’s breath stopped in their throats.

Filled with excitement and happiness beyond their capacity to describe,

their skin prickled.

Heavenly voices brought words to their ears;

words singing of kindness,

understanding,

peace,

and anticipation to these men of the field.

The voices told of a special child that would

unlock the gates of fear and bring eternal love,

to the future of the world.

This happened on a special night,

a long, long time ago. 

 

 

 

 

 

"The Old McKinney Square Is Gone" copyright 2008 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

The Old McKinney Square is gone.

The place of adventure and discovery,

that I found in 1970,

as a young man.

My background was of one born in New York City.

I had no trinkets or heirlooms from my past.

Old decaying Brownstones in Harlem had no such things,

especially from the poor family of an iron and steel worker.

 

I discovered the joy of collecting antiques,

on the Old McKinney Square in those days.

The collecting became a passion for me,

as I called each antique a precious find.

There was a magic in those crowded,

dusty shelves, packed with hidden mystery.

Each shop owner, and each dealer,

became first name friends,

with a smile and greeting,

as I searched,

a part of each day. 

 

It was about 2001,

that my quests were no more,

for you see,

I ran out of space for those treasures. 

 

Today in another May in 2010,

added to my life,

I decided to again,

visit my Old McKinney Square.

 

The warm friendly faces,

that I once knew,

where gone into the dusty trail of time.

The crowded shelves of discovery were no more.

The store fronts were new,

Their new chic names in Gold letters on them.

The antiques were new,

made to look old.

They lacked a certain warmth,

and history in their shiny new look.

 

My heart filled with sadness,

for I then realized,

I too would soon be gone,

as the Old McKinney Square is gone,

never remembered,

but forgotten,

as all my sweet memories,

of joys past,

will also be gone,

into the eternal sunset.

"The Magic Christmas Bells of Florence Street" copyright 2008 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

This is a magical Christmas story from my past.

It was a new beginning for my life in 71,’

a new marriage and becoming the Step-Father

of three children was my accomplishment.

It was Christmas eve, 

just a few minutes before midnight.

We just got home from a trip to a family

gathering in Dallas.

It was cold with clear night skies,

as we began to hear the sound of sleigh bells

over our home.

We all stood outside the front door

of our home in amazement,

as we hear the bells from far away,

come closer overhead,

then pass over our house,

then on to the distance in sound.

We could not see anything overhead,

but we all knew that evening,

truly,  St. Nick and his sleigh,

had passed,

somehow,

over our home.

 

 

"Sam Has Left The Building" copyright 2008 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

Losing a dear friend is always a very sad thing; having that lost happen during the Christmas season is especially sad (Sam passed away on December 15th, 2008).  To me, Sam Shields was a very special individual, and I will miss him very much.  Following is a link to his memorial site:  http://obit.baue.com/obitdisplay.html?id=613556&listing=Current

Sam was a beautiful man.

A man of presence,

standing six foot five,

at over two hundred and fifty pounds.

He had the gentle qualities of a Teddy Bear.

I never remember Sam being anything but,

warm, generous, with words of kindness,

on every occasion we were together.

If I could have had someone to pick,

as an older brother,

I would have picked Sam.

Sam died suddenly from a massive stroke.

The doctors said his life could have been saved,

but he would have been a total vegetable.

I know Sam would not have wanted that. 

Sam had been an engineer with Boeing

for forty-six years.

He never spoke of what kind of work he did.

He would laughingly say, “If I told you, I then

would have to kill you.”

I am going to miss Sam terribly.

They do not make men,

like him,

anymore.

 

 

"A Christmas Memory From Long Ago" copyright 2008 John J. Rigo, upcoming "Passion Amidst Apathy"

It was our first Christmas together.

We both were eighteen,

with barely more,

than the clothes on our backs.

I was just out of basic training,

in the U.S. Air Force.

She had just graduated from high school,

and then wrote a bus to Savannah, Georgia,

to join me,

the love of her life.

We had rented a several room apartment,

on the second floor of an old Savannah home.

It was in a falling-down condition.

The gifts we shared were inexpensive,

but meant the world in their value,

and meaning to each of us.

She gave me a St. Christopher’s medal of Silver,

while I gave her a Catholic missal.

She wanted to become a Catholic like me,

prior to us getting married.

I took a picture of her opening her present.

The smile upon her face was beautiful.

It was a Christmas in 1960.

It will always be a Christmas,

I will always remember.

The lesson I learned,

that day was,

the love between us,

was truly,

the greatest gift,

we could have shared,

that Christmas. 

 

"If I Could Speak the Right Words" copyright 2009 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

If I could speak the right words of endearment,

would you rush to be at my side?

Have we not been seeking the same dream,

a dream yet unfounded in our time,

upon this world?

If I could speak the right words,

I would tell you how long I have been seeking you.

The space in my heart was never filled by others,

for they were not you,

my love.

If I could speak the right words,

they would tell you that I will immediately know,

it is you,

when you are before me.

The moment that our eyes will meet,

we will know,

we finally found each other.

If I could speak the right words of endearment,

they would tell you of the eternity that I have spent,

in seeking you.

A half soul,

a lost wanderer,

a knight without a grail,

have I been.

Complete my being.

Awaken at my side,

make us one,

never to be alone again,

for the eternity,

that is still before us.

"A First Love Returneth" copyright 2009 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

I awoke this morning with a start.

I had no thought of her,

or dream of her for that matter,

in over forty-five years.

We were to met again,

in the dream.

I was nervous and fearful in seeing her again.

Within the dream, I realized, she truly was my first love,

in discovering passion in my being with a woman.

I guess, I had blocked her from my mind,

all these years.

As I waited to see her again,

I recalled all those nights of long ago,

that sweating love making with her.

It was Summer, when we met.

Even with the air conditioning at full blast,

we both sweated profusely in love making. 

She was as tall as me, at six feet,

blond, blue-eyed with beautiful fair skin.

During the time we were together,

I could not believe that I was so blessed,

in being loved by a woman like that. 

I do not know what I did,

to lose her love for me.

I am sure,

I also blocked that from my mind.

In the dream,

we sat across from each other,

moving our lips,

but unable to form words,

at the sight of each other.

We knew.

We felt the surge of our old passions,

for each other.

There was nothing to forgive,

between us.

There was,

only the love to remember,

between the both of us.

It was such a great dream.

Loved with such passion,

is such a gift to us in our lives.

I awoke from the dream,

with tears in my eyes.    

"Dreams of Revelations" copyright 2009, John J. Rigo, A lost poem recovered that will be found in upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

I awoke this morning,

with the warmth, taste, and smell of my dreams,

still lingering upon my body.

My lips were still moving in formed words,

of forgiveness, on my part,

with a request for forgiveness of those,

whose warmth I felt upon me.

 

I awoke with a joy,

and a sadness,

beyond words to describe.

I felt the need to tell of this dream,

this past night.

 

It was a dream of forgiveness,

forgiveness of the past.

A rejoining of old loves,

long gone from today,

but not forgotten.

The joy of reuniting was pure,

and without hurt.

The embraces were real.

The words of happiness real.

 

There was no bitterness,

other than the sweetness of memories from the past.

We had long forgiven each other,

for our past hurts.

Hurts rendered,

by our own lacking of thought.

 

The joy of the moment,

was all that was important.

I fought to hold on to those moments.

I did not want to let them go.

Moments of love, happiness,

revisited from days past.

 

Is this what love and happiness is all about,

in its reincarnation from the past?

Is this what the past-over in death,

to another life, is all about?

 

A new life with forgiveness,

behind us, and only joy before us?

If it is so, then I face death with hope and joy.

No longer will I have,

the dark fear that use to follow me.

 

Thank you Lord,

for giving me insight this day,

from the visits of my night.

I face this new day,

seeking new signs,

of my Lord’s Love for me. 

 

 

 

 

    

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

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 they went to my toes.

Truthly knowing what I know now,

would I have taken more time,

to savor every moment then,

in remembering every detail,

of the places of my youth,

where my magic red shoes,

would have taken my heart.  

“Haven of Hope” copyright 2009 by John J. Rigo, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

climbing Back from Defeat in the "Haven of Hope"

It can be a place of hope.

A shelter of caring love,

and future dreams.

A second chance for many,

and a third chance for others.

A shelter beyond just protection,

against rain, wind, heat and cold.

A complex overcoming the appearance of lost hope.

Warm beds, class rooms and a library at its core,

offering new lifetime friendships in a common bond.

A destination that never closes a door to those who leave.

Helping hands with hearts exposed,

in words and deeds rendered,

to those, who were without hope.

Are we not as great,

as the least among us?

A new start for children,

for beatened mothers,

for our lost warriors,

returning from war.

A light burning ever so brightly,

in showing all who come,

that love, is not only just a word.

The “Haven of Hope,”

a diamond in our mist,

shining ever so brightly.

"The Loss Of A Love" copyright 2009 John J. Rigo upcoming "Passion Amidst Apathy"

It was a cold black cloud that overcame me.

An unknown evil sucked the very air from the room.

I wanted to scream, but could not.

I felt waves of tears within the folds of my body.

A tightness in my throat, I could not explain.

A flood of tears within my being, being held back,

from some inner strength of will.

I realized my best friend was no longer.

A heap of once shiny metal on a field of battle,

was now the very heart and soul of me.

Destroyed beyond any possible flashes of laughter.

Destroyed at the very core of me,

was this once shining light.

When I saw the truth, now fully realized in its

cutting reality, there is no pain that could be greater.

My love is no more.

A valley of tears lies before me.

Was there any way to remove this spear,

that now cuts deeply into the very soul of my spirit.

I cryed to the heavens,

but was not heard.

Please God,  I moaned,

“Remove this torment from me.”

This deep sadness,

that now drapes my body.

Drapes the light of each,

of my future days.

“Spare me this torment

dear God,”was my final cry. 

"Hugs" copyright 2009 John J. Rigo upcoming book "Passion Amidst Apathy"

There is something wonderous about a hug.

It is a way of saying,”you are special to me.”

A step beyond the boundries of formal convention.

The assurance of a heart touching a heart.

A touch of comfort to calm a grieving heart.  

A cheek touching a cheek,

with a kiss of greeting.

Whether a man to man,

or woman to woman,

or man to woman,

or woman to man,

there are no limits to showing

our love for another.

We are all souls in His creation,

with an eternal bond between us all.

The hug is the sign of our sisterhood and brotherhood.

Let it not become forgotten in your life,

it is precious honey to the wounds of this life,

forever giving,

forever loving,

in the wonder of love

to us all.

 

 

"There Are Times" (Revised) copyright 2009 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

There are times

that reaching back in our memories,

is the only way we can attempt

to rediscover happiness in our present lives.

As hard as we try,

those memories remain swirling mists,

from the times of our fleeing youth,

never felt again,

nor tasted.

We cry out in an agony of painful want,

but find no release.

Could this place in our lives,

be but a preview

of an unending terrible hell?

We are only left with an undisclosed  fear,

that possibly a heaven does not exist,

but is a creation of imagination,

out of our own fears. 

“Is this all there is?” we whisper,

in a silent room in our minds.

Only by our prayers

to our Lord,

prior to our earthly deaths,

will we find joys beyond the ones,

we have experienced in this world.

We will find glorious happiness in another world,

by the promises of His Word.

Upon that moment,

let what was my blinded eyes,

in the temporary joys of this world,

be opended again,

to the eternal glory of His Name.

"The Warrior King and the Messenger" copyright 2009 John J. Rigo, A Texas Commentary

The warrior king looked down upon the trembling servant with these words, “How am I to trust the wisdom of your king, who sends you with this message, if he hides his real name behind a false one?”  He went on further in his discourse by saying, “Does your king lack courage.  Does he not have the backbone of a man or is he really a woman hiding behind a man’s name who claims to be a king?”  The king then had his soldiers remove the servant from his presence.  The servant’s head was cut off before the sun set upon that day.

Each day I am constantly amazed by the many web sites and forum boards that carry postings of individuals who use cover names out of fear instead of their own real names.  How can one take any of these postings seriously when the posters hide behind a mask?  For all we know, it can be a simple program on a computer somewhere generating all  these postings across the net in an attempt to control public opinion.

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

If I could create the perfect poem,

my poem would remove sorrow from the world.

Bring smiles where there were tears.

Mend broken hearts and return love again.

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.

"Her Eyes Were Also Brown" copyright 2009 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

It was an open house of a new resident in the community.

I sat on table near a corner of the room,

a kind of observation post of those coming into the room.

There you stood looking at me from afar.

There was a blackberry in your hand texting someone.

You came and sat next to me.

You asked me if the room seemed warm.

You told me your hands were sweating.

I explained that I got a kind of butterflies when I met new people.

I learned through disciple long ago to overcome being uncomfortable.

Forty years in sales changes many things about an individual.

You could not be more than eighteen,

brown hair and the deepest of brown eyes.

You kept looking a me strangely,

like you had always knew me.

A memory came to my mind.

It was my childhood bride of eighteen.

You looked very much like her.

Her eyes were also Brown. 

I remembered how I felt about her.

I loved her in a special deep way.

There is something about a first love,

that always makes it special in memories through life.

I saw her in you,

the hair,

the eyes,

the way you smiled at me.

We talked of college and your first year.

The difficulties you were having with some of your studies.

You said goodby in a formal way and left.

It was like you leaving again.

I think of you often and those early days

in my life that we shared as two lost children together.

There always will be something special about you,

and those days in my mind,

many years ago.

Take care my love,

wherever you may be this day.

Remember that I still think of you,

and yes in my way,

yes, I still love you.

"I Have Never Gotten Comfortable With Death" copyright 2009 John J. Rigo, upcoming book "Passion Amidst Apathy"

My mind still does not accept they are gone from this world.

I find myself, many a time reaching for a phone,

to call them.

It is a select group,

these souls that were a part of my life.

Some are friends,

that cannot ever be replaced,

in the deep meaning of their unselfish love of me.

Others, are my parents who I felt I never really knew as people.

There was the apple of my eye,

my step-daughter of many years.

Truly the only daughter,

I ever knew in my life.

There were others,

that I would have liked to have known better,

they were gone,

without any notice from my life.

At times, I find them in my thoughts,

mind speaking with them about different things,

reaching and seeking unresponsive council  from now,

an unfamilar place in my heart.

I know they are not really gone,

they are just in a different place than me,

a place that beckons me as my own death comes closer each day.

You see, I never have gotten comfortable with Death.

So, my dear friends,

my dearest of loved ones,

make a place for me,

where again we can laugh and love,

and talk about all that is around us each day,

of the eternity before us. 

"Sometimes It Pays To Count Your Blessings" copyright 2009 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book "Passion Amidst Apathy"

Sometimes it pays to look back on our lives.

In so doing,

we can then take time to count our blessings.

Today, after a run to our local post office,

I decided to detour to my old home within

a few miles of my completed task.

The house, an old frame was terribly run down.

It was built in the early 1900′s.

I remember the day well,

moving into that house that we freshly painted,

as a newly married young man of twenty-eight.

With my new bride came three step-children,

ages six, eight and going on ten; two boys and a girl.

I had no previous experience as a Father.

My new wife was a secretary for a local construction company,

while I had just started work for a local Ford dealership in town,

as a salesman.

My average paycheck in 1970 was under four hundred a month.

The house was just off College street in McKinney, Texas.

We financed $6,5oo on the purchase of that home.

Five people in a three, very small bedroom room with the grand total, of one bathroom.

Since those days, and our divorce almost fourteen years latter,

shortly after the graduation of my step-daughter from Baylor College with a Master’s degree in Music, much water, has passed

under that olde’ bridge.

Today, that step-daughter is dead, killed by a hit and run driver.

The oldest boy I never did hear from again, after his graduation from North Texas.

As to the youngest one, who today, should be in his mid forties,

perhaps is currently in Huntsville prison.

Today, as a senior,

I now look at my bride of almost twenty years,

grow more beautiful in my eyes each day.

I count each day, the many blessings that have come to me,

since those days, almost forty years ago,  in the early seventies.

I am reminded today, in a bill that came in the mail today,

that the monthly bill to keep the lawn mowed at my second home on the lake,

is more than the commissions I drew as a car salesman back in those days.

God is great,

and my blessings are beyond every dream, 

I have ever held.

Thank you Lord,

for this day,

and the life you have rendered me,

after I finally gave my life to you,

almost thirty years ago.  

"Good Wins This Day" copyright 2009 John J. Rigo, upcoming book "Passion Amidst Apathy"

The shining armour of light deflected evil this day.

Evil looked upon itself and reeled back in disgust of its own image.

The blade of right was swift and unseen by the evil ghost.

Spilled upon the dark mirrored floor was Evil’s own horror.

Rivers of corruption flowed from Evil’s heart,

To a place of darkness,

only known to it.

Where light will never enter,

and the pain of lonilness,

will forever be enduring.

Good has won this day.

Forever gaining strength,

to do battle,

another day.

 

"Sticks and Stones" copyright 2009 John J. Rigo, forthcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

I am reminded of the child’s chant,

“Sticks and stones will hurt my bones,

but words will never harm me.”

One should not react in passion to pieces of trash

hiding behind a site name on the Internet.

Those who post slanderous words against another

have no spine.

A crawling snake is their closest ally.

True suffering, was demonstrated by our Lord,

Jesus Christ,

as he was beatened and crucified as a criminal.

Lord, protect me and bless me,

as I worship and adore your name

through eternity.

 

 

"Most Devastating" Revised, copyright John J. Rigo, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

There is nothing more devastating,

then someone you have loved beyond all others,

tells you they do not love you.

Suddenly, the person before you,

is a complete stranger.

You can feel your heart breaking,

into a million pieces.

You know you deserve better than that,

from the one you protected and cared for,

over many years. 

Why does life seem so cruel when one finds themselves,

turning away from,

the person they thought of,

as their best friend? 

To have this happen as one finds themselves,

in their golden years is especially cruel.

Truly life on this earth,

can be such a sad thing. 

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

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 of woman.

Your love of God and Jesus but a front,

a lie to all.

Deep within your heart lies hate still 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 and 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.

"My Beautiful Church Home" copyright 2009 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

  

 

"Another View of God's Church"

I have been to many churches in my lifetime.

None can compare to the beauty of my church.

My church lies outside my back door.

Before me lies miles of beautiful water,

its beauty more clarifying upon a Sunrise morning.

The clouds above this church of God’s home,

are higher than any church steeple.

There is no wall or ceiling painting to equal,

the clouds above my church.

No gilded statue that equals the sun’s glory,

as it breaks forth upon the horizon.

There is no choir that rises above the sweet sound,

of the wind that sings across my ears.

There is no preacher, preaching to me,

nor a basket asking for my coin.

No where else can one,

be any closer to God.

"My Beloved Survivor" copyright 2009 (Possible PG13 rating) John J. Rigo, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

She stood naken before me in the bathroom.

Before me I seen her beauty,

Amidst the scars of her two battles.

Breast cancer,

twice in a ten year period.

Her left breast was twisted almost inward.

The scar under her arm pit made her nipple,

bend inward toward her chest wall.

Upon her right breast the burn was clearly seen.

It was where six weeks of radiation were done,

in one week. 

The right side was caved inward in this area of burn.

Her nipple stood straight, high and proud on this breast. 

This was the breast that the doctor suggested,

that she also have chemo due to her second bout.

Her hair had long grown back from this terror,

of a heart wrenching attack on her entire body.

As she smiled at me,

and kissed the top of my head,

I thanked my Lord,

for putting this beautiful,

and strong woman,

in my life.   

"There Is A Message in My Heart for You" copyright 2009 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

"There is a Place in My Heart for You"

There is a message in my heart for you.  It is written by my Lord, Jesus Christ.  He compels me to render this message to you.

You are My creation from my very own heart.

I Love you beyond all eternity.

I have made a place for you to always be with Me.

Never will you fear again,

or know of sorrow.

You will never be alone again.

You will spent  eternity in the mist of everlasting love.

Take My hand,

step into the darkness with courage.

In so doing,

will the joy of light,

be before you.

 

"That Happy Place In My Mind" copyright 2009 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

There is a happy place in my mind.

A place of loving memories.

A place where I have experienced love from another.

It is a place that belongs to no other.

It cannot be taken from me.

The joyful light that fills that room,

cannot be clicked off by anyone.

It was a more gentle time in my life.

A time when another made me feel special.

Their words were kind,

their touch was with love.

It is the place I am,

when you ask me,

“what are you thinking?”

You see,

in this place there is no meanest,

no words of hurt upon my soul,

no seeming lack of thought.

You created this special place for me.

It was built word by word by you.

Words of discouragement.

Words of anger.

Words of bitterness.

Finally you reached a point,

that you completedly ripped out my heart.

In this place,

I again,

find my heart.

A heart that now remembers,

what it was like,

to be truly loved,

by another.

 

"The Lord Is Always There For Me" copyright 2009 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

The Lord is always there for me.

When the darkest of days,

overcame me,

the Lord taught me patience.

He rendered me courage,

and finally brought

sunshine back into my life.

The Lord is always there for me.

When sorrow broke my heart,

in the lost of a loved one,

He spoke gently to me of

the eternity before me,

an eternity to be rejoined again,

with my lost love.

The Lord is always there for me.

When all those who I counted as my friends,

turned from me,

the Lord stood firm in His Love for me.

He taught me that heaven would not be

a crowded place,

but a place filled with all those,

of good heart with a beautiful soul,

who always loved me,

through this earthly life.

The Lord is always there for me.

What a love I truly have in Jesus,

in the Lord always being there for me.

"If I Must Go, and You Will Stay" copyright 2009 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

If I must go,

and you will stay.

If it be,

but a little while.

 

I take with me,

the feel of your lips,

upon mine.

 

The smell of your hair.

The gentle sound of your breathe.

The yearning press of your body,

against mine.

 

Hold the belief,

my dear one,

that this earth,

will fall away.

 

In so doing,

will eternity,

be our forever,

home.  

"My Poetry is not really Sad" copyright 2009 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

She said my poetry was sad.

Sometimes I cry when I read it.

Much of it is happy memories;

the reaching back is what is hard.

I close my eyes and squeeze my mind.

Remembering every detail.

Each smell, each touch, each feeling,

in those memories.

Youth has no appreciation for its time.

I know that now.

I miss the loves of the past.

Not so much the individuals,

as much as the beauty of those moments.

Happiness, like flashes of thunder in a horizon.

Blinking fireflies in a warm summer night,

watching a full moon lowering itself in the night.

Kisses that lingered, long past the actual kiss in sweetness.

Youth still abides in me upon a lined and scarred face of time.

Oh hasten Heaven, for surely that is where my youth,

now resides.

"It Was My Sweet Jesus" copyright 2009 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

It was my sweet Jesus,

who brought me to the light,

from the darkest place in my life.

It was my sweet Jesus,

Who loved me,

and kept me safe,

when no one cared,

whether I lived or died.

It was my sweet Jesus,

Who protected me against,

the darkest of evils,

that befell my life. 

It was my sweet Jesus,

Who showed me the beauty of heaven,

when I no longer believed in Him.

It was my sweet Jesus,

Who answered my prayers,

when I cried out in pain and agony.

It was my sweet Jesus,

Who brought joy to my heart,

and hope for my soul.

It was because of my sweet Jesus,

that the eternity before me,

is now filled,

with the promise,

of His eternal Love for me.

"An Unnamed Magic" copyright 2009 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

Within each of us,

lies an unnamed magic.

We are like shining mirror,

reflecting the beauty,

the eternal power of creation,

of our Lord and God.

We are His perfection,

in His creation.

Our Lord’s every joy

abounds in us.

Have faith and believe.

The joy and wonder,

of our eternities,

lies before us,

in the wonder of His work.

"A Memorial Day Poem" copyright 2009, Revised, John J. Rigo, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

John J. Rigo A/lC, Registry custodian, Cosmic Top Secret Registry for ICEDEFOR from June 62' to June 63'

Your lips will move, and rendered me praise,

this Memorial Day.

Yet the words you will speak,

will not be from your heart.

You see,

you are a Democratic Liberal.   

In your youth,

you became a professional student,

in order to avoid serving your country.

The truth is,

you feel anyone who serves,

is a fool.

You feel differently than my Father,

in his own love of our country.

My Father came to his country,

at age sixteen,

on a boat to Ellis Island,

from Northern Italy.

My Father had three goals,

they were to seek,

“Honest work,

learn to speak English,

and to become,

an American citizen.”

My Father felt it was a privilege,

to be an American Citizen

of this great nation.

Today, I look about me,

at the millions who came to my country,

illegally,

and without any desire,

to seek honest work,

or speak our language,

or ever to become American citizens.

As head leader of our Nation,

you travel the world,

apologizing for the glory of our Nation.

To those who have worked hard,

lived within their means,

watch their own children serve our country;

you ask them to share their hard-earned living,

with those,

who hate our country,

have no work ethic,

nor honor toward others.

Your policies are destroying the fabric of our country.  

My fellow citizens,

who I have served,

with honor for my country,

do not let this continue and happen to

our country.

Step up,

at the voting booth,

this coming November in 2012.

“Let us take back our country,

from those who do not love her.”

     

"Blessings, A Special Gift” (Revised) selection from "Roses Amidst Thorns” copyright 2005, John J. RIgo

Taken Sunrise on Black Friday, November 25th 2011 in Gun Barrel City on Cedar Creek Lake in Texas at OZ our lakehome

The following poem from my first published book, has been a favorite  poem for many years.  It has been republished several times in the Dallas Morning News, The McKinney Courier Gazette, and various major web sites.  From my family to yours, our best wishes and blessings.  

Over the last year, I am especially appreciative of all the positive feedback I have received on this WordPress web site.  Thank You All!

 

Blessings, a special gift from God.

Given in prayer,

given when no hope

seems apparent.

 

 

Blessings bring joys when there is darkness,

laughter where there are tears.

Could these blessings be,

but tears from God?

 

 

A way that our God lets us know,

that He truly is there,

and, yes,

He does exist?

 

 

At times these gifts are given,

when never expected,

to let us know,

truly love and concern,

is there for us all. 

 

 

If you have forgotten on this day,

the many special blessings rendered to you.

In this blessed thing called Life.

Get on your knees,

render thanks to our God.

 

He will only bless you,

with more of His eternal Love.

 

"A Voice To Be Heard" copyright 2009 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, "Passion Amidst Apathy"

 

Within me a voice calls to be heard.

 

Sonnets of love lost, and found again

 

in the spirit of my sweet Jesus.

 

Raise not your halting hand in ignorance.

 

Let not your lips cease my songs of poetry.

 

My songs are my life.

 

I have faced death,

 

with fear sucking the breath from me.

 

It was my prayers to God,

 

that lead me to the light of His Love.

 

Let my stories be heard.

 

There are those that need to hear my story.

 

In so hearing will the light that I found,

 

will also be their light of hope and joy.  

“The Dream” copyright 2009 John J. Rigo, new poem for upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

In the dream,

I felt I was truly loved.

I did not know who she was.

A nagging thought,

said we had known each other,

in another time and place.

She was young.

She was beautiful.

 

She kept on kissing me.

They were deep kisses of passion.

I had not felt like that,

in a long, long time.

 

It was a gift from my youth.

It was truly,

a beautiful dream.

 

                      

                              

“The Lost Blessing” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, new poem for upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

The Blessing was laid before you.

Yet, you were too blinded by your own magnificence,

to see the light at your very feet. 

You felt your knowledge was beyond,

mere mortals.

Your high learning,

only brought before your brain,

a blindness of thought.

The Sender of the Blessing,

lowered His head in shame of you.

Your ultimate goal of life,

was to carry His name,

with a great pride.

Now you carry a deep shame.

As each week passes,

the absence of the blessing,

becomes more clear to others.

Fingers are pointed to your back,

whispers made in a hush,

as you pass. 

The sins of your ignorance,

has now become clear to others.

Let it be known,

that I forgive you,

as I forgive the dog,

which mistakenly pisses,

on my leg.

I forgive you,

as I forgive the ant,

that bits my hand.

By your own ignorance,

you have brought us a great blessing.

In spite of your own hurtful,

and ungodly nature toward me.

The love of my life,

has only grown more stronger.

In the loving bond we carry,

in the face of the stupidity,

that you so well displayed.

We now will be the greater guardians.

in the future,

of the many blessings,

that have been given to us.

Be assured in the future,

that these blessings,

will never be yours again.

 

Quote by unknown author:  “The Worse of Religious Hypocrites, can be found in Pastors, within their own churches.”

 

 

“They Don’t Make Men Like Joe Anymore” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, selection from upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

Joe passed away on February 12th, 2010.

It was after the record snow storm of February 2010.

The power went out in their home.

He and is wife, Christine were moving into temporary

quarters in the New Comfort Inn of Mabank, Texas,

when he quietly passed on.

Joe would have been 81.

Joe was a sweet, loving and very kind man.

He loved McKinney, Texas.

Whenever he spoke of McKinney,

his face took on a glow of peace,

his childhood, his friends, his memories,

were many of those days in McKinney.

There was a deep longing in his voice,

for some of those memories.

Some of those memories were with extreme joy,

while others seemed to carry regret.

As with all of us,

one could not have lived a full life,

without a certain amount of regret.

I will miss Joe,

and our talks,

when he sat down with us to visit,

at the “Seasons” restaurant in Mabank, Texas.

Joe was proud of his wife, Christine.

Joe loved Christine,

with the deepest of love.

I myself, only have one regret,

that I did not have more time,

to know Joe Burton even more.

People like Joe are very special humans.

Sadly, in this day and age,

there are not enough,

special people,

to go around,

for us all. 

 

 

“I Am the Only One, That Can Sing My Song” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy” Revised

Within each of us there is a song.

The song is like no other,

it is ours alone.

 

It is the song of our lives upon this earth.

It sings of our victories,

it remembers our defeats.

 

Would we have shown courage,

by never loved at all?

Would we have shown our creator,

a lack of passion,

by not living totally in the gift of time,

that He so generously gave us?

 

I lived as a man,

a creation of my God,

in the singing of my song.

In those I loved,

I gave more than I received.

If one was to be hurt by the ending of a love,

I was always hurt the most.

 

I gave all in my being to protect the ones I loved.

In the pains that I endured,

I suffered in their recall,

more than once.

 

My song renders no apologies,

for being made in His image.

The Passions is what separates us,

from the wooden fence post.

 

I have breath, I have cried,

I have laughed till I cried again.

In so doing, have I found,

the humor of my creator,

in making my song,

one that will be heard,

throughout eternity. 

“Realization II” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

 

Proposed Book Jacket for upcoming poetry book, "Passion Amidst Apathy" by John J. Rigo

It was a like a double slap to my soul,

when the full realization came to me this morning.

The best parts of my life are behind me.

It was now the reality,

it was all downhill now.

  

From this point,

it will be the aging process taking  its toll.

Sickness, pain, grieve, sorrow will be common daily friends.

Many medical professionals will call this a state of depression,

while I consider that one should be mature to stand up to a reality check.

 

The greatest gift that I can hope to maintain,

is the gift of my memory of time in recalling my life.

The times that I felt I was truly loved.

Loved to a depth beyond just words.

It seem the word “Love”  is carelessly used by many.

 

I have found myself in a place,

that the greatest peace comes to me,

when I am totally alone with my God.

Speaking with Him,

as my closest friend,

brings me great comfort.

 

There has been more disappointments in my life,

with those who claim to be “Men of God.”

I now look at my experiences with organized religion,

as another form of cosmic joke on humans.

 

It is all about buildings and the ego’s of their care-takers. 

A mistaken belief drilled into the minds of individuals,

that our God awaits in some ego-centered church structure.

Nothing could be further from truth in our Loving Lord’s plans for us.

 

I have now come to the realization that organized religion’s goal,

is to separate us from our loving bond with God.

Churches are places of the world,

not places in time and space,

that strengthens our relationship with God.

 

I pray each day,

for more wisdom to know my Lord.

I now know that blessed wisdom,

lies within my own being.

 

At this point in my life,

I must take more time to listen,

to the whispered words of my best friend,

and companion.

That spirit……….

…………. is…. my Lord and God. 

“It’s The Sadness That Takes Us Out” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, selection from upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

They call insight…. Wisdom.

Wisdom is the deep sadness of old age.

A biting reality that was,

but will never be again.

We become ever grateful for the pressed hug.

The feel of flesh upon our own.

Memories sparked in an unexpected,

full body hug of total surrender.

Our minds go back.

Youth, with aches or pains unexpected,

as now, that wake with us,

each morning.

A crying desire within,

of the youthful, carefree loving,

of many hours,

stretched over days.

These moments,

will never be ours again.

It’s the sadness that takes us out.

Chipping away,

at our nightly desire,

to waken again.

And if we are so blessed,

a dream of softness and passion,

from long ago,

that brings a cry of joy,

from our very soul,

of those days and moments,

that will never be ours again.

 

“The Gathering of God’s Men” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

"A Gathering of Buzzards in the midst of sheep"

  

It was a small community health club where they met,

these men of “The Clothe.”

The meeting was twice a week.

A gathering of buzzards,

discussing their frightened flock of sheep.

They discussed the personal lives of their church members,

amidst laughter, as if they were, young girls in a locker room.

They spoke of the mental depression, the illnesses, and even

the marriage break-up’s of their charges within their churches.

Upon hearing of a transfer of one of their members to another’s church,

there was even more loud and boastful laughter among these men.

There was no subject regarding their charges,

that was too personal,

and too confidential,

for them to discuss among themselves.

Faithful church members,

were nothing more,

than chess pieces on a board,

to these men.

Jesus wept.

 

 

Famous Quote: “There is no more dangerous experiment than that of undertaking to be one thing before a man’s face, and another behind his back.”………….General Robert E. Lee (1807-1872)

Benjamin Franklin Saying: “All that’s necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.”

“Finding Our Biggest Joys In Life” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

 

 

 

 

"All Joys Lead To Him"

 

 

 

Life has many lessons to teach us.

Among these is finding the greatest of joys of life. 

When we look to others to bring us that joy,

we will always find disappointment with our lives.

The light of true happiness is within our own selves.

It is shared and nurtured by only one Being,

and that is our Lord and Savior.

Do not look to your fair weather friends,

or those who claim to love you.

They will only bring you sadness and disappointment.

Perfection in Love and Friendship is only found in God.

Seek Him, Love Him, and Worship Him each day  of your life.

In so doing, will you finally find,

the joys of eternity,

that are just before you.

“A View of God’s Church” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, Texas’s Commentator

 

 

Saturday Morning in Gun Barrel City, Texas on Cedar Creek Lake

The above picture was taken this morning, Saturday, March 6th, 2010 at approximately 6:40 a.m. at Cedar Creek Lake in Gun Barrel City, Texas. The view is from our back porch while we were drinking coffee.  The thought came to mind of how silly us humans are in the building of ego-centered churches.  The preacher’s and minister’s preach of God’s presence.  With all their fancy talk and fixtures they still can not equal God’s glory of His presence, on a morning such as this.  God loves you, and wants you to know, He is there for you, each hour of each day.  (Picture taken with a 2.0 lens on a Samsung Instinct cell phone.)

“My Beloved, the Ultimate Servant” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

Linda, "The Ultimate Servant"

 

 

My Beloved just left.

The Ultimate Servant is she.

Always giving,

always receiving little in return.

More and more each day,

am I now believing that God,

must be a woman.

When she leaves on another mission,

of mercy and care for another,

I always find myself in sadness.

Never does it seem,

that I ever have the chance to tell her,

how much I love her,

and how precious she is,

to me.

“Bring Joy and Laughter To Your World” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

There are enough Dip-Shits,

and Selfish people in this world.

Their very acts of thougthless words,

and deeds create the Depression of the world.

Make a difference in your own world each day.

As much as you can,

bring Joy and Laughter to your world.

Upon each person that you met each day,

find something joyful, fun or good to say about them,

or to them.

In so doing, will you be bringing the Joy of God’ Love,

to all.

“The Sandals of Jesus” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

The Sandals of Jesus are only worn by very special Ministers.

They walk with the greatest of thoughtfulness towards others.

Any form of harm whether physical or mental

would they never bring to another.

True gentle souls are they

in their centering of their love of God.

Always thankful.

Always demonstrating appreciation

for every kindness that comes their way.

They speak not of darkness but of light.

They are light,

that brings peaceful joy to others.

Many lay claim to wearing these sandals

but few are worthy to touch

even the straps of Jesus’ sandals.

So I ask you the “Godless Ministers of God,”

to remove those sandals from your feet,

for you are not worthy

to have the name of Jesus

pass your lips,

much less,

wear His sandals.  

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

“Many go by the title, ‘ Ministers of God,’  but few are worthy.”  Saying by John J. Rigo, Texas Poet and Commentator

“As Death Comes Closer to My Door” copyright 2005 John J. Rigo, poem from “Rainbows Amidst Storms” Revised

As death comes closer to my door,

my eyes, though weak, seem to become clearer,

about what I see about me.

Something about the look of God’s creations,

that I did not notice before now,

In seeing this creation,

a wonderment stops my breath.

 

It it the sound of wind singing,

that I had not noticed before now?

Is it the vastness of the night skies filled with a beauty

beyond words that I cannot describe?

 

I find myself noticing beauty in people,

a beauty that before,

I did not see.

I see beauty in the old, the sick,

the visions that I used to turn away from seeing,

but no longer do.

 I feel the pain and joy of other people;

I used to not feel such things.

The laughter of a child,

ringing like a heavenly bell,

pealing in a meadow,

sounds in my ears.

Is this God’s way of saying,

“Look at what you have missed earlier in your life?”

I am not sure,

but I do know,

now I have become more thankful.

More thankful each day,

for the gifts God has given to me.

 

I seem to be getting closer to heaven each day.

I now know, what I see, hear and Feel,

are all but a small part of what will be in God’s world.

 

I can only hope,

that in this twilight of my life,

I might become worthy,

in the areas that I have been unworthy.

May I be worthy of the love and blessings,

He has given me in this life.

Thank you God,

for this day.

 

“Cover For My Third Book” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming “Passion Amidst Apathy”

Cover for My Upcoming Third Published Poetry Book

“A Dream of a Past Friend” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

I dreamed of Tom last night.

Tom has been dead over thirty years now.

Tom was my best friend for a very long time.

I think of Tom often,

but never dreamed of him before.

 

We were in a sort of “holding place.”

Tom was happy to see me,

but there was a certain sadness about him.

He missed his Daugther and his Son.

In the dream, it seemed, they too,

had been death for quite a long time.

 

Tom went to a phone booth to call them.

The Living calling the Death.

I told Tom, he needed to be in the place,

where his children were.

 

One moment he  was there with me.

The next moment Tom was gone.

I know Tom is happy again.

He is in heaven,

with his children.  

“A Prayer To Dispel Evil” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming “Passion Amidst Apathy”

Saint Michael, my Protector, I call on you in the Mighty Name of Jesus to Protect my Beloved,

from the Evil that the One,  of the claimed Cloth of Good, has brought upon our household.

Remove all powers from The Evil One and there covey of assistants that have brought a dark shadow across my Beloved. 

Let Evil One’s darkness be forever be removed from this moment to ever darken our home again.

Let my Beloves’ Goodly Spirit be renewed again by the Love of my Lord and His protection.

Thank You Jesus for letting the Mighty Michael stand in place in our home,

forever guarding us from this Evil,

to never hurt us again.

“A First Love, Remembered” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

 

 

Age seventeen, top row, third from left.

 

What time never erases,

is memories of a first love.

A sweetness of innocence never regained again.

 

It was a brief five minutes that our eyes met that summer day.

I, a young man with the blue uniform of a brand new Air Force Recruit.

Tall, strong and youthful at seventeen,

still in the midst of basic training at an Air Force Base.

 

You, at sixteen, with a beauty that was clear and eternal of the moment.

My bus was leaving,

the connection of our eyes was unmistakenable in their connection.

In just minutes we swore a forever love between us.

 

Truly that moment was a magic that will never be again.

Two parts of a universe,

meeting in a most unlikely place.

 

It has been fifty-one years since that meeting.

Still I remember you from time to time,

in Oh! in such vivid detail.

 

I wish you Love in the journey you took beyond,

the days of our permanent separation,

five years latter.

 

Was I then a vessel of a lost ship,

for a very long time.

The haunting of a First Love,

never leaves Love’s Way.

 

“In The End, Evil Defeats Itself” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

My Brothers and Sisters,

one belief to remember,

is in the end,

Evil defeats itself.

 

Once Evil was part of the heavenly Good.

In falling from the Sight of God,

did Evil still have great power.

Never will this power,

overcome Good.

 

Should Evil come upon you,

believe in the Lord.

Have Faith in the Lord.

Love the Lord with all your being.

Patience,

with prayer,

will destroy Evil.

I know this to be true.

Praise and Glory to my Lord,

and God.

 

“‘Red, White and Blue,” A Poem, and Personal Story, Dedicated to 9-11″ copyright 9-11-2001 John J. Rigo, poem selection from “Rainbows Amidst Storms”

   

 

 

courtesy of life.com

The following poem was written on the afternoon of 9-11.  It relates to the sorrow and pain of our country losing loved ones in a senseless killing of innocence in the deaths of 2,973.

“Red, White and Blue” copyright 9-11-2001 John J. Rigo

Red, White and Blue are the colors before me on this day.

It will be a day remembered by numbers used to summon help.

Nine, One and One, bring only the recall of white dust,

rock, and twisted steel in a sea of sorrow.

Can these tears wash away the pain

that this day brings?

Tears shed for those we love and are no more.

I cry out for my Brothers and Sisters in the depth of pain

that befalls their hearts.

Could there be a greater sin,

then a day so dark?

I think not.

I pray for peace, comfort, and hope,

for the souls rejoined with my Lord this day.

Red, White and Blue,

I cling to thee for hope, peace,

and healing in Thee.

For Thou are the only One,

Who can bring sense to this gruesome day of pain.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Personal Story:  I was born and raised in New York City.  My younger, and only brother, Richard Rigo of Smithtown, New York worked as a building engineer within blocks of ground zero.  He commuted every day to his building in the city from Smithtown.

On the morning of the attacks, my concern was for his safety.  Blessfully, he was on his way to work when the attacks began.  He returned home safely.

“What your Best Friends Are” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, Texas Commentator

One of my dearest friends from over thirty years ago, was a gentleman by the name of Cliff Russell.  Cliff is dead now.  At that time, he was the Father, in a loving spirit that my real Father never was, between his drunken whisky binges.  One day while in my thirties, I related to him, my disappointment with an individual that I thought was a friend. 

Cliff, had an easy way about him, when he was offering advice. It was that “home-grown” attitude from being born and raised in Louisiana.  He related, “Johnny, let me show you, what your best friends in life look like.”  Slowly, he withdrew from his pocket a roll of  twenty dollar bills.  As the saying goes, “The roll was big enough to choke a horse.”  

Cliff went on to say, “This is your ‘Little Green Friends.’  They will keep you warm when you are cold, cool when you are hot, and will buy you all the company, you will ever want, when you are lonely.”  To this day, I have never forgotten, one of the most important lessons in my life, from my dear Friend, Cliff Russell.

 

“The Touches of Love” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

The gift of memory is the gift I treasure most.

In that memory is memories of the touches of Love in my life.

A kiss of deep felt emotion and love,

when not expected.

The touch of your hand behind my neck,

gently stroking my neck with your fingertips.

The way you reached for my hand,

when we were walking together,

a squeeze of hand that said, ” I am here, and I love you.” 

The full body hug of your endearing body formed to me,

in a “Hello Greeting” when we had been apart for a while.

To touch, to feel, and know one Loves you within the Passion,

that only being humans,

brings to us.

“The Touches of Love” that makes all words,

pale into memory.

“A First Love, Recalled” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

The piano played a familiar melody in my memory.

Images of summer came to mind.

We were in love.

Warmed by our dreams,

and the oneness that was us.

 

Wherever each of us were,

we were never apart.

Our bonded souls filled all spaces between us.

The melody of that summer will always be.

For you see,

a first love,

never dies.

“Could That Poor Soul Be Jesus?” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

Many a time that my eyes beheld a poor soul of the streets,

have I thought, could that person be Jesus?

Jesus returning to earth to see if we are still worthy of His Love?

When your eyes sadly behold such a vision,

and you feel a pull on your heart,

do not hesitate to share your brief wealth at that moment.

Remember, if it were not for grace of Jesus,

it could be you in those rags of the street.

Let your Lord know in a real way,

that His creation of you,

was a worthy project.

Reach out and give this soul,

a part of your self,

as well as your day.

Jesus, will be pleased with you.

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

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.

“There Is A Whole Lot of Fear Out There” Revised, copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

There is a whole lot of fear out there.

Only with Courage can we overcome.

Being fearless in a frightened world,

is within our daily prayers.

Let us not falter in our belief,

in the Glory of God.

He will lead us to victory in every battle.

Praise to our Lord,

Glory in His Name.

An Eternity of Love,

awaits for those,

who believe. 

“Signs of God’s Love” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

Signs of God’s Love for us,

abound before us.

We must not be blinded to see it,

nor receive it.

Our lack of sight,

nor our ability to receive such gifts,

are lost to us,

by own very own angers,

and lack of forgiveness.

Only by becoming aware of our shortcomings,

in the eyes of our God,

with the help of Jesus’ individual Love for us,

will these many blessings,

become ours.

 

“Remembering The Moment” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming book “Passion Amidst Apathy”

I am glad I am here to remember this moment.

There were dreams that I did not want to awake from.

There were days with those that I knew truly loved me.

They were days I did not want to end.

At times in the remembering there are tears.

The tears are not from sadness but for the happiness of the moment.

Will those dreams ever come again to me?

I think not for the flowers of youth bloom but once in our memories.

Precious memories that we hold on tightly close to our hearts.

Thank you for this day in my gift of rememberance.

“Stand In Fear, Of The Lord’s Justice” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

I stand with courage in the shadow of my Lord.

The Lord blesses me with His Love.

The Lord protects me from those who attempt to bring me harm.

His justice surpasses any justice man can render their enemies.

My enemies are fools.

As the fallen Angel thought of himself as a God,

he believed his own strength exceeded the Lord.

He shivers in fear before the Light of the Lord.

I kneel in homage and praise of my Lord’s Name,

with humble thanks for His timely justice.

 

 

“The Pastor’s Hands Trembled” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

To all it seemed all was well with the Pastor.

Within his heart he knew the mask he worn was false

for his heart was false in his represented Love of Jesus.

He had known this for a very long time.

His Father was a preacher and he carried the burden 

of a preacher’s son.

He knew deep within his own soul

he was not worthy of walking in the sandals of Jesus.

He knew of many he had hurt with the evil that lurked

in his own heart.

Yet he always felt too important to admit his wrongs.

He noticed it this morning upon awakening. 

His hands were trembling.

As the day passed on

the trembling became worse.

He now knew that his trembling hands

would never again

be able to hold

upon his death

the keys to heaven.

 

“Remembering Cooperstown” (Revised) copyright 2010 John J. Rigo,Upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

A Winter Scene from Cooperstown, N. Y.

Yesterday was a visit to the Carrol Clinic in Dallas.

My back and hip had been hurting me for some time.

The findings were not good.

A Class Four hip.

A crack in my spine bone.

Two disks in my spine fused together.

I knew when it happened.

A Fall over ten years ago while attempting to trim a tree,

in our front yard.

The fall at that time resulted in nine staples in my head,

and eventual surgery on my knee.

The other injuries laid in wait.

My future in enjoying the rest of my life was in doubt,

with the activities, I enjoyed so much in my past.

 

 

My mind went back to Cooperstown in upstate New York.

I was sixteen and working the summer on a dairy farm.

It was part of the “Fresh Air Program” of New York City for young men.

I remembered the rolling hay wagon.

Throwing ninety pound bales of hay,

eight tiers high on the wagon.

I remembered the muscles in my arms,

my strong thin waist,

with a tan equal to a black man.

We worked hard that Summer.

It was the “Haying Season.”

The work went fourteen hours a day,

seven days a week for two and half months.

Looking back now,

I now realize how really happy I was,

each of those summer days in Cooperstown.  

“We Are Proud To Announce, we are a Top Editors’ Choice” copyright 2012 John J. Rigo, Publisher and Author

We are proud to announce that the WordPress site  “Spirit Filled Poetry”  aka http://spiritfilledpoetry.wordpress.com was chosen to be the “Top Editors’ Choice” for an international site called Bloggers.com.  Bloggers.com consists of thousands of blog websites across the world.  

“Love Is Like Eating Potato Chips” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming book “Passion Amidst Apathy”

Love is like eating potato chips,

Once you have had it,

you cannot get enough of it.

I have been loved.

I know what love is.

You can keep those one-way relationships.

You know the kind,

where you are always the giver,

while others are the takers.

From this point on in my life,

I plan to save my love for those,

who are both givers and takers.

Till then my dear friends,

chat, text and e-mail away,

with your lusterless humor,

and empty friendships,

with each other.

The only fools in your games,

are yourselves.

 

 

“I Understand Your Pain” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

from woman2womanwebsite.wordpress.com

I understand your pain.

Your anger overcomes you in being treated so badly.

You strike out at all others in this pain.

The one you are hurting the greatest,

is the soul of your being.

  

I understand your pain.

To have given so many of your good years to such a man.

A man who abused you each day of those many years.

He trashed your heart.

He spat on your very soul.

He now parades his new love,

each day, before you.

  

I understand your pain.

How blessed you are this day.

He now has exposed his evil to you.

You can now leave him behind you.

Thank God each day.

The one that he will abuse each day,

is another, and not you.

  

I understand your pain.

You are still blessed with your beauty of form.

You are still blessed with the power of your mind.

You will now have soon, a new life before you.

  

I understand your pain.

Cease to be a continuing partner in his evil.

Let go, of him.

Let go, of his created pain upon you.

Let go, of his efforts to remove the beauty of your life,

In finally so doing,

will you find,

Peace,

Love

and Joy

in your Life.

A Christmas Gift that does not require packaging “A Touch of Kindness” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, forthcoming “Passion Amidst Apathy”

There are many things I remember about my past.

Each memory,  stones that built who I am today.

The memories that have stayed with me the strongest,

are those that recall when my life was rendered,

a touch of kindness.

I remember the days well,

in vivid detail.

The words spoken.

The smile given.

The touch of a hand upon my shoulder.

 

So in this day,

it is within your power,

to pass that touch of kindness,

to another.

In so doing,

you will be giving,

a memory of strength to another,

in their darkest times. 

“Ah…Where Has the Romance Gone?” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, forthcoming Poetry Book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

It was a surprise dinner at a new Italian restaurant.

He observed a couple sitting in the corner.

The man was speaking quietly without much body language.

The young beautiful woman before him sat transfixed in listening to him.

Her eyes told the story.

She was interested in what he had to say.

The care, the love showed in her eyes as she rendered her full attention to his words.

Have you ever noticed that couples sometimes stop listening to each other?

This was such a night for him,

as he related to his his bride of twenty years,

some difficult times in his past.

Her remark was,

“Well, I guess you got to eat some humble pie,

in those years,”  with a gleem in her eyes and wide laughter,

upon her face.

That evening when they got home,

The man sat on the bedroom bed alone.

It was for a long time.

Tears rolled down his his cheeks,

he was not sure………..,

why?

“Singing Our Own Praises of the Lord” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, Selection from future book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

The question that comes to our minds,

is one that asks of the why of our existence.

Many would lead us to believe in only their way to understand.

Each of us are as individual as each star that burns in the heavens.

Each made in His image to sing as a choir of His Love and Praises.

 

The paths to finding ourselves in knowing His Love are many.

Do not be discouraged by the selfish ends of many,

or those who make fun and light of your way of praising the Lord.

The Lord’s knowledge of His Love did not end with the Bible,

or any other works that come before you.

Continue on your path of discovery,

without discouragement.

 

Continue to write your poems of your love of the Lord.

Continue to sing the songs of your love that are created by His inspiration.

For His Love is everlasting and never-ending in its song and words.

Remember, you are never alone in sharing your praises of Love with Him.

He will be there long after all those who attempted to hurt you and discourage you,

are long gone from this earth,

as well as the heavenly place,

He has waiting for you.  

“The Gift of a Stranger’s Smile” (Revised) copyright 2005 John J. Rigo “Roses Amidst Thorns”

 

 

 

Courtesy AngelsByEve.com

It was one of those days that nothing seemed to be going right.

My mind filled with racing thoughts,

going different ways.

Questions, questions with seemly no answers,

as I pushed through the crowd,

of wherever I was going.

Suddenly,  in my own world,

I looked up,

and there you were,

passing me ever so quickly.

The smile that you gave me took my breath away.

A stranger’s smile in a maddening world. 

There was such kindness in that smile of yours.

The warmest of feelings overcame me.

Peace and Joy was brought to my racing heart.

Long after you were gone,

I tried to remember,

what you looked like.

Were your eyes Blue or Brown?

All that remained in my mind’s eye,

was the memory of that very special and endearing smile.

A smile that brought a smile to my own lips.

With a nod of my head,

I gave thanks and appreciation,

for this gift from a stranger.

 

Long after this time,

a strange thought came to my mind.

Could angels be walking this earth,

to remind each of us,

that love can be,

the gift of  the day? 

 

“A New Year Promise” copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, forthcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

Ah my love,

here we are.

Another new year to share between us.

Will there be another for next year?

Let us imagine, this may be our last one together.  

I never want to leave your side.

If I must.

I want you to know,

I will love you beyond eternity.

You see,

I am you,

and you are me.

We are one.

God made it that way.

I also love God,

This wonderful day of Christmas.

Take my hand,

let us walk,

let us talk,

of how we will,

spend our eternity together.

“If Time and Money….”, copyright 1997 John J. Rigo, Upcoming Poetry Book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

 

 

“If Time and Money….” (Revised) copyright 2011 John J. Rigo

 

If Time and Money were no object.

I would string a row of hearts,

signed individually with the words,

“I Love You,”

to go around the world.

If Time and Money were no object.

I would etch your name on the highest mountain peak,

for all to see in declaring my love for you.

If Time and Money were no object.

I would have every poem ever written about Love,

be signed with my name,

and given to you.

If Time and Money were no object.

I would insure that you would never again,

have a sad day in your life.

 If Time and Money were no object.

I would be sure you would never have to worry again,

about gaining another pound. 

If Time and Money were no object.

I would insure that when looking into a mirror,

you will never see another wrinkle again.

 

 

 

“The Greatest Poem of All Time” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, Texas Commentator and Poet

It is my belief that every poet in their lifetime, wishes to write that one poem, that is unforgettable through the ages.  As one who writes poetry as a hobby, as part of my non-profit charity work, I am no exception.  To me the greatest poem ever written was “Desiderata” by Max Ehrmann in 1927.  An example of this poem can be found on: http://www.fleurdelis.com/desiderata.htm  It is my hope this poem in its reading will bring extra light to your day.

“Love Thyself” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, Upcoming Poetry Book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

One of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves

is to learn to love ourselves.

In loving ourselves

we realize that the premise that we must love another

such as ourselves is not part of the growth

that is part of our eternity.

In loving ourselves

we are no longer open to the qualities of others

in their own personal failures in loving themselves.

In this way,

in the path of eternity,

that we all walk,

all those we will met,

will then be complete unto themselves

as we have also become.

“Heaven Will Not Be A Crowded Place” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming book “Passion Amidst Apathy”

Much is said about what Heaven may be like.

In the senior years of my life,

In observing the goodness of humans,

In those who stand against Evil each day of their lives,

I have no doubt,

that Heaven will not be a crowded place.

 

“The Return of Angels” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

The dream returned.

Angels returning in my dreams.

There was a sense of familiarity.

Intimate in nature, centered in comfort and peace.

I felt loved beyond time itself.

Never to feel lonely again.

Never to have fear again.

It seemed to be a connection,

between the two Angels.

A dark-headed Mother,

and a fair-headed daughter.

They both hugged me.

They stroked my face gently.

They both held me close to them.

It was with a great feeling of love,

that I felt when I awoke this morning.

Angels returning to me,

in the night,

to let me know,

that “Yes,” 

am I truly loved. 

“The Vision” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, forthcoming poetry book “Passion Amidst Apathy”

Amidst the crowd,

I looked up from my thoughts,

and there you were.

The smile told me,

you were watching over me.

Caring for me,

Loving me from afar,

protecting me.

It was a flash from eternity,

that allowed me this vision.

Thank you God,

for not forgetting me,

and continuing,

to Love me.

“These Hollowed Halls” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, the newest poem from our Texas’ Poet, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

We will not walk these hollowed halls again.

That is why we must always live in the moment.

Memories will replace those moments.

Embrace Love when it is within your reach.

Remember to always render appreciation for Love.

It’s moments are forever fleeing in the passing of time,

becoming more foggy and misty in time. 

 

Feelings are pictures of those times,

that special look,

that only a first love gives.

The burning embrace of passionate love.

The comfort of awaking from a deep sleep,

from a night of close spooning.

Dancing together as one,

in that one special evening.

 

To have loved,

to been loved,

that is the greatest gift of all.

Best to have had the memory,

to shed a tear upon,

then none at all.

Thank you Lord,

for rendering me another  day,

to Love again.

“End of Day Thoughts to My 69th Birthday” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

The Sun has set upon my 69th Birthday,

earlier this year.

It was not a special day.

A few friends of my wife who called her today,

mentioned it,

as a courtesy thought.

I received a kinda of sexy birthday card from my wife.

It played a Happy Birthday Song when I opened it.

There were no gifts,

truthfully I am past the need for gifts in my life.

I thought back to other times in my life when Birthdays,

especially mine,

seemed very important to others.

Those wonderful people are now long dead.

I remember one particular surprise Birthday party,

it was one when I was in my mid 40′s.

The gal I was dating,

went to a lot of trouble gathering all her friends,

to surprise me with a cake, 

a present,

and even horns.

That truly was a special day in my life.

To know that I was loved that much.

Still with a note of sadness in my life,

I am thankful this day for this Birthday,

and the knowledge that truly somewhere,

my poetry has helped someone,

find their way.

A Poem in Memory of Nancy R. Bahrenburg, “I Will Never Be Far Away” copyright 2005 John J. Rigo, excerpt from “Roses Amidst Thorns,” Book I of the Amidst Series of Poetry Books

It was with deep sadness that I heard of the passing, in the death of Nancy R. Bahrenburg, wife of Fred Bahrenburg.  In my memories of her in years passed, she was a sweet and gentle woman.   Everytime she seen me, she always hugged and kissed me, like a long lost sister.  I know she will be missed by many.  The following poem is dedicated to Fred, her husband in that the following poem might bring him some measure of peace and comfort:

I will never be far away,

no matter where you are.

My heart will always be with you.

 

Never will you have to seek,

to find me,

for I will always be,

as close as your heart.

 

There is a special place for you and me.

A place that will never go away.

Where each day is made for you and me.

 

Each day,

a part of an eternal string of pearls,

as we love,

and laugh through each setting sun.

 

Rising together,

each morning with a song upon our lips.

Singing of our love for  one another,

through this eternity,

and all others,

to follow.

 

“Elvis Is Still In My Heart” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

http://www.elvisconcerts.com/newspapers/press391.htm

It seems just like yesterday that Elis died.

In all the years that have passed since that sad day,

he is still in my heart.

His passion, his being, his songs spoke of my own feelings.

You see,

I grew up with him.

I remember being blessed in seeing him in person.

It was Dallas 1975.

I had a tenth row seat.

I could see the sweat on his forehead.

For months afterward,

I had dreams of that time,

I got to spend with him.

There will never be another Elvis.

“What Is This Thing, That Cries Out Within Me?” copyright 2005, selection from “Roses Amidst Thorns” http://lulu.com/texaspoet

What is this thing that cries out within me?

Is it a spirit that hungers for freedom?

“Freedom from what?” my mind asks in cold, hard terms.

 

My life seems about things.

Things stack,

things store away;

a room full of things.

A bank acoount with growing numbers,

but it seems,

it is all about the balances.

 

I look into the mirror because they say,

“Mirrors never lie,”

What I see,

is not,

what I am.

I am like unto the spirit of youth,

locked in a dark, gray cell,

listening to the sound of time on the clock,

growing more loudly each day.

 

I find myself dancing alone at times.

I love what the sound of music does to my body.

I go back to that mirror,

with sweat dripping down my face.

I am still puzzled by the face,

that stares back at me.

There is a pleading look in my eyes.

They cry out,

“See me, see me, I am not dead!”

 

A ghost I have become from growing older with time.

I move through my life,

seemingly untouched by the sounds of laughter from my past,

the smells of loving sweat;

the memory of gentle lips touching,

the back of my neck.

 

I feel like my body,

no longer remembers the joys of passion.

Yesterday, I sat in a room noticing many things.

They were little things,

but important things,

that let the gift of beauty,

be shared by one,

such as me,

hungry for their taste.

 

The gentle curve to a neck,

that seemed to never end.

The movement of material on a full soft breast,

as the breath of the beholder,

played with the movements.

 

Eyes with a color of the lightest blue,

with mystery whirling within their depths,

of thoughts yet unspoken or shared with anyone.

I heard that voice within me cry out,

“See me, see me, I am not death, but alive!

Hear my cry,

feel my need,

I am alive!”

 

I left the room without a word.

There was a slight smile on my face toward you,

as there was a similar smile on yours.

Silent thoughts unshared,

upon our departure.

 

Two ships passing on a huge ocean,

with a wave of the hand,

toward each other,

across desolate waves.

When will this voyage end?

What distant shores await each of us?

 

“Do You Have A Story of Dealing With Depression?” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, Publisher, upcoming news site: http://txe-news.com

 

 

 

 

The Light of Knowledge Can Overcome Depression.

Today in our American Society, the single most deadly disease is Depression.  In over a half century, this disease of the mind is still a mystery to the medical profession.  Many famous men and woman through the centuries have had this disease and  overcame it, while others, learned to live with it, on a daily basis.

Many times, in just having the ability to share your story, is the first step in overcoming this disease.  Keeping this disease at bay can also be accomplished by this approach.  If you are one who is currently dealing with depression, had overcome depression, or currently dealing with it, on a day-to-day basis, I wish to share your story on my WordPress Blog site. 

Whether you wish to identify yourself or wish not to, is an option that is yours.  Send me your stories to share.  In so doing, many on the internet that are in a dark place, without seemly the hope of light, will find such, in reading your story.   

An Investment Opportunity copyright 2011 John J. Rigo

Waterview from rear of home facing South. Note our dock on right, and rising sun to the left of picture.

In the hard times of our current economy, there are few long-term investments that bring substantially above market returns.  The following link will take you to such: http://jewelofcedarcreeklaketx.com   

“That Special Time” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, newly written poem for upcoming, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

It was a very special moment,

It was morning as I opened my sleepy eyes.

Your arms encircled my body.

You held me tight,

your nose snuggled in the curve of my back.

It was a very special time in my life.

Knowing that one is truly loved,

what greater blessing can we ask of life?

“In Memory of David Allen Waldschmidt ‘WoJo’” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, Texas Commentator

Today I attended the funeral of “WoJo” as he was affectionatedly called by his fellow officers in both the McKinney Police Department, and the Sheriff’s Department of Collin County.  WoJo was our customer in our State Farm Insurance Agency ( Linda Terry State Farm Insurance, McKinney, Texas) for almost ten years.

Everytime WoJo came to our office on insurance business, he was always a joy to be around.  WoJo was an officer in both the Sheriff’s Department and the McKinney Police Department for a total of thirty one years.  He was the longest serving officer on the McKinney Police Department.  He will be greatly missed by me, my wife, and my office staff.  Beside being a fine human being, he was the ultimate in the best, of what a peace officer should be.

“You Can Tell a Lot About A Person” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

You can tell a lot about a person,

in how they treat their dog.

I have hear that dog,

cry out for her master,

many a day,

and nights.

She is about fifteen now.

She has endured tempertures in the teens,

while being left outdoors.

She has swellered in heat above 100,

while being left outdoors.

An electronic fence guards her escape from this prison.

The fence is in the front of the house,

no less.

Many a morning does the smell of her poop,

fill the air of their neighbors yard.

You sure can tell a lot about a person,

in how they treat their dog.

“Memories of Us, are Few” copyright 2011, John J. Rigo, Texas Commentator

John J. Rigo's name on the Veterans War Memorial in Mabank, Texas

John J. Rigo's name on Veterans War Memorial in Mabank, Texas

As a senior, I know there is not unlimited time in my life to be in this world.  I believe we all want to leave some part of us in the world.  Something beside a tomb stone in a forgotten grave yard some place.  Perhaps the kind of grave yard where the tomb stone lays flat on the ground.  A place where machines run across huge expanses of tomb stones while mowing.

I am proud to say, there is a place marked for me.  It is a memorial of beauty in an East Texas town of Mabank, Texas.  The memorial is a salute to perhaps, some of the happinest days of my life.  It was my four years of active duty in the Air Force.  Knowing that this place exists where my name is among those who have served our country with honor, brings me a truly wonderful peace. 

“Proud to Announce: Poetry work now available on iTunes” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, Author and Publisher “Amidst Series of Poetry Books”

I am proud to announce that my published poetry works are now avilable for downloads for $4.99 each.  My two published books, “Roses Amidst Thorns,” and “Rainbows Amidst Storms” can be order in book format thru: http://lulu.com/texaspoet . The ITune downloads can loaded to IPhone, IPad, IPod touch and IBooks on your computer. All profits from my published poetry go to serve ”The Homeless Cause in the State of Texas.”  Follow the following link for those download instructions: http://itunes.apple.com/us/book/roses-amidst-thorns/id443469516?mt=11 .

“Honoring My Fellow Veterans This November 11th 2011″ copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, Texas Commentator

 

Basic Training and Adminstrative School, U.S. Air Force 1959, Lackland Air Force Base, Texas

 

 

Administrator, Cosmic Top Secret Control Registry for Headquaters ICEDEFOR under NATO Command, 1962-1963, John J. Rigo Airman First Class, Age 21

This blog posting is an opportunity to honor both fallen soldiers and living veterans across our nation. Only us former veterans who served can understand the bond we share, in the Love and Honor that we render to our country.  Served honorably from 1959 to 1963 in the U.S. Air Force in both SAC and the NATO Commands, John J. Rigo.  My fellow veterans, and families who have lost loved ones, in service for their country, feel free to post your comments on this blog posting to celebrate this November 11th, 2011.

“Major Change on My Blog Site” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo Texas Commentator

 

John J. Rigo, International Poet, Winner of Collin County Poetry Award

To My Poetry Lovers:

If you will note, my poetry site has been modified to illustrate my poetry work, with few personal commentaries.  When a commentary is found, (I believe there is less than five) it is to give further information on my current poetry work, and future published poetry work.  As with my current work, and my future third published poetry book, all profits from these books, are given to assist the “Homeless Cause in the State of Texas.”

For personal reasons, I have decided to re-format this site, and have it remain a poetry site now, and in the future.  At some time in the future, my past Commentaries, as well as my future Commentaries will be posted on a separate WordPress Blog on the basis of “By Invitation Only.”   Viewers that are screened carefully, will have access to that future site.  In all cases, it will be individuals, that I have great confidence in, in their individual feedback to my Commentaries, as well as have confidence, in their personal loyalty to me.

Thank you for your patience over the last few days, while this, my poetry site, was being reformatted, and not being available to the public for internet view.  You will also note that the “Facebook” automatic connect option/connect program is no longer available on my blog, and has been removed permanently from this blog.

My Prayers for your Blessings in your individual Journey’s,

John J. Rigo

“A Major Landmark for Texas’ Poets Reached” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, Texas Commentator

We at “Spirit Filled Poetry” from “Texas’ Poetry” are proud to announce the reaching of a landmark in our sites’ hits.  A few days ago, we hit the Sixteen Thousand Mark, a landmark counter for a WordPress site featuring poetry from a McKinney, Texas’ poet. Our thanks go out to all those who have particiapted with “positive” feedback to our site over the last year and a half.   

“A Declaration of Love of the Lord” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

Thou has blessed me beyond the dreams of my youth.

Thou protected me when I fell into darkeness in the middle of my life.

Thou guarded me as I walked thru the fires of hell and Evil.

I lied screaming in darkness, within the hell of eternity, but never, did you forsake me.

You showed me the torment of others, so that I might offer direction and comfort to others in Your Name.

In my childhood, you appeared before me, upon me, did you place your Sign upon me.

When I asked for an angel to be beside me, you granted my wish, in bringing such into my life.

Even to this day, you turn back all evil that is directed toward me, and bring a return wrath upon those, who attempt to harm me.

Lord, guide me this day.

Assist me in becoming worthy of the many gifts of Love, Thou has given me.

My Lord, My God, I Love You, with all of my earthly heart, and my eternal soul.

Make me a servant who brings joy to Your Eyes.

“A Prayer For The Continued Blessing of Sight” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

A very dear friend of mine is currently dealing with issues regarding his sight.  There is a possibility that blindness is before him.  I wrote this poem/prayer for him.  If you, or someone you know is dealing with these issues in their lives, be sure to pass on this poem/prayer to them:

 

My Lord, I humble myself before You this day.

With You, all things are possible.

You have healed the sick, made the lame walk, 

the deaf hear, the blind to see again.

The dead have risen to life by Your command.

As your humble, and still unworthy servant,

I come before You this day to ask you to heal my eyes.

Heal my vision dear Lord,

so that I might continue on my life’s journey,

in finding ways,

to serve you.

Amen 

“The Forgiveness Letter” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming book “Passion Amidst Apathy”

I found myself at the apex of my life.

It was not a twelve step program that entered my mind,

but a way to seek “Forgiveness.”

The list was long,

and difficult to put together.

 

Many of the names were from many years ago.

A great amount of time was spent in finding addresses.

Many of the people of the list,

were long dead.

 

It was a form letter I composed.

It began, “This letter is written to ask for your forgiveness,

for any hurtful thing said or done to you in our relationship.

Please accept my apology for such actions on my part.”

 

There is now a large pile of letters with stamps on them,

awaiting in a box to be mailed.

Some will be returned “undelivered.”

 

A large number of my addresses will never respond. 

A few will write back simply saying that the apology is accepted.

A greater number will write back listing my sins upon them,

and close with black bitterness in their closing written words.

 

Then there will those who are the exceptional of heart.

In their return letters,

they will also accept responsibility for any hurts,

brought to the prior relationship. 

 

There will be a wonderful result in sending these letters.

I did seek “Forgiveness.”

Whether is was given or not,

is not important.

 

What will be important,

I will then know,

who my neighbors in heaven,

will be.

 

 

 

“Go Down With Obama” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

"Riding into the "Valley of Debt" with Obama

Go down with Obama,

was the rallying cry of my great country.

Into the valley of debt rode the millions.

Upon their backs laid their now defunct,

IRA’s.

 

Their horses sucked in their last breaths,

as the storm clouds of a depression,

engulfed them.

 

Oh, our great leader Obama,

will praises of your name,

be sung down thru the ages,

or will your name be cursed,

by the children of these riders,

who have lost their dreams? 

 

Into the valley of bankruptcy rode the millions,

in their last days of glory.

In the deep recesses of the valley,

was this cry from the disenfranchised and the idle,

“Oh Save Us Obama,

from the Valley of Work, Taxes, and Love of our Country!”

 

“The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing to work and give to those who would not.”  A Quote by Thomas Jefferson 

 

“The Secret to Happiness and Peace” (Revised) copyright 2010 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

There is a secret to happiness and peace.

It is there for all of us.

Simplicity in surrender is part of that secret.

It is when we can “give ourselves up” to the Love of our Lord,

will we then find true happiness and peace in this world,

and the eternal life before us.

When we do such,

we will need no one in our life,

nor will any procession be of any importance to us.

The Lord in His Love for us,

will render us all of these things,

today, tomorrow, and through eternity.

With this gift of His Love,

we will also find,

that we will never be alone again.

“Giving My Pain to the Lord” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

It was ten years ago.

The fall was fifteen feet while trimming a tree.

I was blessed in not becoming paralyzed.

Eight staples in my head.

A damaged knee requiring surgery.

A lifetime of pain with two fused disks in my back.

I refuse to be confined to a wheel chair from a possible surgery.

The question was how to deal with the pain each day.

I did not want to become a drug addict nor an alcoholic.

I prayed for an answer.

The answer came.

“Giving my pain to the Lord.”

Each day the pain is a reminder of the blessings of my life.

The very blessing I have in glorifying His name in my pain. 

“The Judgement of Our Gifts” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

One day,

We will walk the path of light.

Unsure if our Lord will be pleased with us.

Will we be met with an embrace of Love,

or will we see disappointment in the Face of our Saviour?

Least we forget the gifts of our Lord.

Will we then be judged,

on how we shared His gifts?

“What Could Be More Important?” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

What could be more important in this life,

than knowing you truly made a difference?

Knowing you brought love to others,

encouragement to others,

laughter and joy to others,

especially when darkness was about in their lives. 

What could be more important

than sharing the wonderful news of the Love of the Lord,

for us all?

“Another Milestone Reached, Over 20,000 Hits”

As of this week, the “Texas’ Poetry Site” reached another milestone of 20,000 plus hits.  My deepest thanks and appreciation to the WordPress family, and all those who share my spiritual poetry work. 

“Discovering The Sister I Never Had” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

There are times in our lives,

that are very special,

in a wonderous discovery.

I had finally found the Sister,

I never had.

 

Such it was,

in meeting you last night,

in the conversation and time we shared.

 

When meeting a heart such as yours,

I am more convinced than ever,

that heaven truly exists.

A place where Love abounds.

 

Thank you for seeking me,

before you left,

and making me feel special,

with two kisses,

upon my cheek.

 

That evening after your exit,

your departure left my heart sadden

without your presence. 

“I Believe In America” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

I believe in America.

Land where my heart lives.

It is a land of accomplished dreams.

a land of courage,

a land that accepts all comers,

a land that gives hope to us all.

 

America overcomes all those who attempt,

to bring evil to her shores.

America is the beacon of freedom to the world.

America is my land,

America is my home,

if you do not love her,

please leave her.

 

“The Intimate Moment” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

 

 

Picture Courtesy of Jessie Veeder of the Veeder Ranch

It was a beautiful bank of clouds that was before us.

She turned her back toward me.

Her hands held my arms around her chest.

Each of my hands cupping her breasts.

She pushed her body against me.

Two becoming one in standing before that beauty.

It was an intimate moment,

I will never forget.

 

“I Will Never Be Loved Like That Again” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

The realization brought a choking to my throat.

My eyes swelled in tears.

The realization came to me fully,

that I will never be loved like that again.

The youthful memory of having a woman look at me like that again.

The reflection of a hero in her eyes.

Reflected also in the shining armor of a knight.

Ah sweet memories,

if only the taste of those kisses,

could return again.

Would I know again,

the joy of love.

A Public Service Post For McKinney, Texas: “Check Out Your Stockbroker” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo

We are in a day and age where many have lost their life savings due to unethical stockbrokers in our nation. Recently, a close political activist in our community passed on to me a link that assists in checking out local stockbrokers, not only in McKinney,  Texas, but also in Collin County, Texas, as well as our state.  All one has to do is to type in the name of your broker, and check off the box for agree to terms (a lack of responsibility of website with what is done in the public domain in revealing the information). Click on the link below:  

http://brokercheck.finra.org

Hunt intensifies for missing $600 million

  

The Full Realization that your McKinney, Texas' Stockbroker has Ripped-Off your Life Savings.

Update December 15, 2011:  According to the news this amount has now risen to One Billion, 200 Million in monies that have disappeared.  Another reason to close check the reputation of the broker who currently handles your investments.

The above Headline and the following link indicates the tip of the iceberg when it comes to security fraud, and rip-offs by investment and financial brokers across this country: Hunt intensifies for missing $600 million.  Thievery and rookery exists everywhere in this field, even in a city like McKinney, Texas.  There is hope out there, for you the individual investor in protecting yourself from such scam artists.  Recently a well-known community activist sent me a link that helps you the individual investor protect yourself from such scammers in McKinney, Texas, by checking out their reputation and backround at no cost, nor sign-ups on your part.  The information rendered by this link is public, as well as the information rendered on your own individual security broker.  Take time to protect yourself.  All that is necessary is to check off the box, and type in the name of your broker in McKinney, Texas.  You will be surprised on what you will find on some of the high-profile names in this profession, that live in our community:  http://brokercheck.finra.org

“Standing Before Evil” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

I stood before Evil.

Evil called me crazy.

I have no fear of my enemy.

The Lord stands with me.

Prepare to met your mate,

the Devil.

The Eternal Fires

will now be

your new homes.

“Dedicated to Honorable and Decent Men Everywhere.”

“Suppose There Is A Place Like Heaven; Would You Have The Right To Be There?” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

Suppose there is a place like heaven,

would you have the right to be there?

Would your life be an example to others?

Would you demonstrate passion and love to others in your life?

Would you put the happiness of others above yourself?

Would every secret thought in your heart be one you would be proud to share with others?

Would you be the kind of human,

who would bring pride and love from your creator?

Suppose there is a place like heaven,

would you have the right to be there?

Would you be,

an example of Love, Tolerance, and Forgiveness toward others?

Suppose there is a place like heaven,

would you have the right to be there?

“Christmas Lights” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming Poetry Book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

It was the mid 80′s when I drove thru Eldorado.

I lived on the wrong side of tracks in McKinney, Texas at that time.

It was Christmas time and each home was beautifully ablaze with lights.

Each home was different, each yard more stricking than the last with decorations.

I thought to myself, “It must be wonderful to live here. To live in such beautiful homes.”

It has now been twenty-six years since that evening.

I have now lived in my dream community for over ten years now.

This will be the first Christmas, that my home will not be ablazed with lights.

The majority of these homes are no longer decorated for Christmas.

The newbies in the community have lights,

the old timers have not.

The spirit of Christmas has left us.

We have lost something special here.

Have we let Evil have its way?

Evil that has overcome our city?

Evil that has overcome our state?

Evil that has overcome our country?

Evil’s name is Obama. 

Eldorado no longer has Christmas lights.

“True Forgiveness” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

It was a long time ago that I hear this story about “Forgiveness.”

It was said that when we ask God for forgiveness,

then all memory of our sin is totally removed from the memory of God.

What a beautiful thought, to think that the creator of everything,

can wipe His Eternal Mind of all memory of our transgressions,

once we seek His forgiveness.

Each day of my life, I am constantly amazed in how many claim to follow the Lord.

Yet in their daily actions, as so-called Christians, their hearts are not truly sincere.

Remember this day to be the Christian you claim to be.

When the one closest to you reviews their past in conversation,

please do not take joy in reminding them of their past sins.

If God can forgive and forget,

then you should also be able to do the same.

Christmas Thought #1: “Let Go; Let God” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

It is time to reflect on your life.

So you feel you have done a good job of being in control?

Did you ever believe that God had a plan for your life?

Were you too busy, too self-absorbed, too important,

to listen to God’s whispers in your ear?

In comparing time in its length,

which do you think is longer,

eternity, or the length of your own lifespan?

Has the thought ever entered your mind,

that your Creator is not pleased with you?

Do you think today,

would be a great day to change your life?

Are you ready today,

to Let Go, and Let God be in charge?

“The Three Most Important Words” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

This is the sixty-ninth Christmas holiday of my life.

Reaching this place in life gives one much to contemplate.

One becomes greatly aware that death is close to one’s door.

It is a time in my own life to review what has always been important to me.

 

This Christmas season is especially lonely for me.

My closest friends of many years ago,

are long death.

There is a loneliness in me that will not go away.

 

I recall fourteen years of my life.

It was a time of a former marriage.

I became overnight the step-father to three children,

that no one else really wanted.

 

From age twenty-eight to forty-two,

I worked very hard to support those children.

Two boys and a girl at ages six, eight and nine,

when I married their mother.

 

Within a year of my marriage,

I realized I had made a mistake.

I married the wrong woman.

My only thought was,

“Who would care for these children?”

 

The eight and nine-year old were abandoned by their Father,

when they were just babies. 

There was never any child support for any of them. 

I could not walk away from caring for them.

 

It was fourteen years later from the date,

that I married their mother, that I sought a divorce.

The boy and girl I took thru five and four years of college respectfully.

The girl who was the oldest was the “apple of my eye.”

She has been long death now.

Killed by a hit-and-run driver where she was a professor,

on a college campus.

 

I have never hear from the two boys again.

As I look back at that time in my life,

I do not ever recall having any of those three children,

throwing their arms around my neck and simply telling me,

“Daddy, I Love You.” 

 

As I now think about my life,

there have been many in my life,

that I thought,

maybe they loved me,

but I never remember hearing those words,

in quite that way.

 

As the sunsets come upon another Christmas Holiday,

I now feel as I look over my life,

of what in life,

is the most important words of life,

I now believe the three most important words in life are:

“I Love You.”

 

 

 

 

A Public Service to My McKinney, Texas’ Viewers: “Protect Your Life Savings in 2012″ copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, Texas’ Commentator (exception is granted on accessing link to this posting, without Publisher’s permission)

The future of Corporate Investment Security Brokers who ripe off their clients.

Is your lifetime of savings actually safe with your local McKinney, Texas’ stockbroker?  Does your church, whom you support, have a large part of their investments with a corporate-investment-type stockbroker?  Does your company have large investments funding your retirement income through a corporate-type-investment stockbroker?  Check out the reputation of your McKinney, Texas’ stocker on-line, who is handling these investments, before it is too late for you: http://brokercheck.finra.org

“Baby Jesus Lives” copyright 2011 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

I somehow lost Baby Jesus at Christmas.

I know they say Baby Jesus was born in September.

Still it never mattered to me.

Each Christmas I was filled with excitement of the news,

of Baby Jesus’ birth.

That changed several years ago.

My family discovered a religion between Jewish,

and something else.

They tend to make fun of the New Testament.

They say Jesus was just another man,

like other famous men in the Bible.

I been a get alone in all of this.

Still in my heart,

I know Baby Jesus came to save me.

Baby Jesus opened the gates of Heaven to all of us.

In my heart Baby Jesus is my Lord and Savior.

There is no Christmas tree at my home.

There are no lights upon my home.

No presents awaiting under a tree.

Still in my secret heart,

I know Baby Jesus came for me.

“2012: A Year To Awake From Apathy” copyright 2012 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

Picture of Tail of Air Force One with American Flag Removed. Obama's Symbol now on Tail.

Prior to reading my poem, please click on the following link: http://factsnotfantasy.blogspot.com/2010/01/obamas-make-believe-life.html  This is one of the most powerful commentaries that I have ever read on President Obama.

 

2012, a year of history for our country.

It could be the year that will completely change our country.

A year when our very flag will be no more.

A year where our flag will be replaced by the symbols of Obama.

A year where our very God will be replaced.

Our new national God, 

will be the Gods of the Muslim-Islams.

Let us bring hope, vision and strength back to our country.

Defeat Obama in 2012!

“A Prayer for a WordPress Member” copyright 2012 John J. Rigo

My dear Lord and Savior.

I come before You this day in a prayful request.

My request is for your healing of my WordPress friend.

Take away her physical and mental limitations this day,

that distance her from the joy of knowing Your Love.

Bring success in her goals,

and wealth to her life.

Thank you Lord,

for hearing my prayer this day.

“Twilight Suffering” copyright 2012 John J. Rigo, upcoming poetry book, “Passion Amidst Apathy”

As I approach the twilight time of my life

the answer has come to an important question.

The question deals with the pain, the suffering, the depression,

that we all must deal with 

in our elder years.

Why should our minds,

or our physical bodies deteriorate in such a way?

In tearful recall of our youth,

is that all we are left with?

I thought of Jesus,

my Lord, and Savior,

I thought of His suffering before His death.

There is much about this world that can bring happiness

and blessings.

There are many things that our physical bodies wish not to depart from.

Whether it be the beauty created by our God

or the love connections

that are so important to us.

Could our suffering be but a gift from our Lord?

A way to make the release easier from this physical world?

Perhaps in the suffering is the blessing

in knowing we are going to

a far happier place in our eternity.