HOPE FOR SPRING

One by one they waved a wing, As thunder struck its gong,
Discharging from a cloud to earth, Its sharp and flashy song.
Inhabitants sought shelter as, Thunder peeled its calls,
It's time to make some changes friends, The message came to all.

Silent inside messages, Rushed from each cell within,
Called for inner changes for, All beings - fish and fin.
Migrations call included growth, Long feathers for each wing,
Extra fat to hibernate, To last until the spring.

Migrations from the ocean's depths, Knew just where to go,
For season's food supply and homes, Each inner being knows.
Bird's lyrics sang of summer's shade, For pilgrims restful way,
Of energies from earth and air, Bye-bye to summer's rays.

In final dance of pure delight, Their brilliance swept the sky,
As flower's beauty bowed to earth, Leaves whirled a swift goodbye.
Seed's promise of the spring to come, New life once more to rise,
Again to grow and gladly serve, Creator has devised.

Tuning to each challenge new, Man may serve and grow,
Fulfilling plans, true heart's desire, Each soul in secret knows.
Within the heart there dwells a light, That waits throughout its sleep,
That springs to life when called upon, Life's purpose now to keep.

Attuning to what soul has planned, We'll find Earth's purpose here,
No more to dwell in winter's chill, When called, casts out our fears.
Spring comes in hearts with God's great plan, New light returns to Earth,
Decisions to make needed change, From heart's within, new birth.

Suzie-Q's words congratulate Cicero Sings and sends love to all.

SAYINGS OF THE SAGES - GAUGUIN

Eugene Henri Gauguin 1848 - 1903, A French painter and writer
who also worked with wood carvings, using local people as his
subjects. In 1891 he settled in Tahiti and the Marquesas Islands.

"The soul constitutes the generating center of all its organisms,
the pivot around which everything gravitates. When the organism
breakes up, the soul survives to continue its metamorphosis. Some
say no one has seen a soul, forgetting that neither has anyone seen
an atom of matter or air."
Thank you Mr. Gauguin for your profound thoughts and your
love for all things in nature that encourages and inspires me, as
well as many others. I add these thoughts to honor you.

I watched a dainty stem stretch forth, From rocky clay and loam,
Unfolding leaves and buds and flowers, From its small earthen home.
It told me of the acts of man, That come a seed in mind,
To throw a shoot and gather root, To set in soil of time.

And as man adds his energies, To thoughts that may suggest,
He builds upon this framework, As deeds become a guest.
And as with children, thoughts may come, That bring great pride and joy,
When fresh new minds are guided right, And discipline employed.

But when the mind in wanton play, Permits its energies,
To dally in a dance of death, With negative disease.
Affinities thus formed take root, And seek to join with flesh,
To plant prehensile tentacles, And cause the body stress.

Like giant cancers, block the gate, And ramparts of the mind,
But daily work with truth can melt, Those cataracts that blind.
And magnetize into the life, Through energy of mind
Health and wealth and happiness, As thoughts bring forth in kind.

Restoring life to harmony, Attuning with the soul,
Affirming truth - Beliefs that loose, The tentacle's control. Your
mind will bloom a fragrant flower, And growth will daily bear,
Thoughts of love that bring like fruits, For all around to share.

SAYINGS OF THE SAGES - RUSKIN

John Ruskin, 1819 - 1900, English author and reformer.

"Every noble life leaves the fibre of it interwoven
forever in the works of the world."

John Ruskin was an advocate of truth and morality. Also as an art
critic, he defended the landscape painter, Joseph Turner, who had
been attacked because he had changed his style from imitations of
the old masters to a more personal technique.
He won the Newgate prize for poetry in 185l and wrote "King of
the Golden River." a charming fairy tale. He invested in various
schemes to rescue poor people from the slums by providing land
to help grow their own food. It failed, perhaps because it did not
promote industry.

Thank you John Ruskin for your enlightening thoughts that brings
these words from my "quill."

It's good to think of those who live, And follow beauty's way,
Whose lives of joy and love and warmth, Glow like a sunny ray.
And sends a deep desire within, That waits in soil of time,
To hearken to the Master's voice, And find this peace sublime.

To feel a oneness with all things, All fauna, plants and clans,
And feel these bonds of unity, In line with nature's plan.
And as we move through lands and climes, View nature on our way,
A lovely essence will be found, Through peaceful golden days.

Through willingness to change our ways, New body language learn,
Love's universal song of peace, Life's meaning will discern.
No more need warlords of the Earth, Ransack the world around,
More learning from the centuries old, When love's law is unbound.
Suzie-Q

SEASON'S MESSENGERS

Sprinkles from a leaden sky, Announce that fall is drawing nigh,
No bugles sound, nor bagpipes play, As thunder's drums peal, "No delay." Magnetically in touch with all, Each plant prepares for season's call.
They celebrate with colors bright, As summer smiles and waves goodnight.

Brown and gray Earth's artist takes, And later white for each snowflake.
Heavy skies with breezes call, Preparing for the dance of fall.
And from the cups of palette's form, Paints red and gold as trees transform.
The painted leaves from palette's cups, In dazzling costumes, all dress up,

Colors flash from every form, Dance with the breeze as they perform.
Ripened fruits in colors bright, Added glow with orbs of light.
Birds took notice of these signs, And readied flight to southern climes.
With trills of thanks and liquid song, All nature joined the happy throng.

SAYINGS OF THE SAGES - HERDER

Johann Gottfried von Herder, 1744 - l803, German Philosopher,
teacher and pastor. Loved and encouraged the songs of the
people. Among his writing was "Outlines of a Philosophy of the
History of Man." He greatly influenced Johann Wolfgang von
Goethe, poet, dramatist and statesman who lived from 1749 - 1832.

"Have you never observed that children will sometimes, of a sudden,
give utterance to ideas which make us wonder how they got
possession of them. They break forth like a full stream from the earth,
an infallible sign that the stream was not produced in a moment from
a few raindrops, but had long been flowing beneath the ground."
Thank you Johann von Herder, for this fascinating
observation. I honor you with these words.

The Universe a gift has given, Pressed in form and time,
A soul and body consciousness, To use through Earth's lifetime.
And from Creator's tree of life, A tender hopeful shoot,
To savour free what mind decrees, When gathering life's fruit.

When used, the gifts of life increase, This tree of knowledge grows,
Resplendent in love's wondrous wrap, No bounds its giving knows.
And through the framework of the mind, Thoughts and works will
come, Uniting spirit with the flesh, The marriage bond is one.

The body love its counterpart, Its mate throughout life's time,
And nourish with great care and love, Both body and the mind.
Who loves and trusts his body, A faithful mate has won,
Who does not care to be aware, Finds ancient bonds undone.

To wander lonely through the world, Each begging and betrayed,
To fill a psychiatric couch, Or seek out questioned aids,
And fall a prey to proffered ways, With chemical confusion,
Not know the score - demanding more, And find it an illusion.

But when the soul and body merge, With universal plan,
Its loyalty and trust renew, And travel hand in hand.
In garments of an earthly guise, This marriage bond with soul.
A dwelling for the All-That-Is, And one with all earth's whole.
Suzie-Q

BIRDS HAVE PICNICS TOO

Notes announcing picnic fest, Sang through the cyber air,
Some feasted first at Eileen's place, A bird bath also there.
From east, west, north and south they came,
And flew without a care.

It sounded like an orchestra, With trills and liquid song,
Practicing in swoops and swirls, All ages came along.
Pine beetles fresh in salads greens, And grains in good supply,
That spilled from overloaded trucks, Barley, wheat and rye.

They talked about the seasons flight, Fall would soon be here,
No paper maps were studied since, They tuned to inner ears,
They visited and bragged about, Home and family too,
Played and showed their speed and song, It was a grand review.

They gave advice with chirping sounds, The routes they took in fall,
To reach the warmer southern range, The latest news and all.
And then a sky cloud blinked that said, The sun sinks soon tonight,
They ate the crumbs that humans left, And soared toward the heights.

Zooming through the cool night air, They sang their evening songs,
Then tucked their beaks behind a wing, And dreamed 'til daylight's gong.
When traffic sounds would stir the air, And surely wondered why,
People had to board a plane, And couldn't learn to fly.

PLEASE HAVE LUNCH WITH ME

Crisp and green and filled to brim, With super powers I'm told,
I purify and clarify, Both the young and old.
I soothe the nerves along the way, And tune life's magic stream,
I power your very lifeline and, Shine through your body's beam,

For calcium, just help yourself, To strengthen body's brace,
My silicone gives energy, Each cell requires a trace.
As building blocks, there's no compare, My master carpenter,
Sends iron for strength with phosphorus, Throughout your life,
I'm sure.

Complex B - I have it all, You may not need those pills,
Keep me on your menu list, "It helps keep you from ills.
I can bring my green leaf friends, They love to share as well,
Friend spinach dances with delight, While hiking hills and dells.

I banish arthritis foes, And keep the flu at bay, And humor
for your blood supply, And lymph required each day.
I'll be a modest, helpful friend, I assimilate so well, And send
your stress right out the door, With salad luncheon bells.

Eyes and ears, I nourish both, With gelatin, my friend,
Green leaves are best, most every kind, Varieties - no end,
Grate me, slice me, dice me, Let me be your guest.
Every day, in every way, You'll find I am the best.

I'll tune you, tone you, help you, I'm at the Grocery store,
I'm fresher from your garden patch, It makes you want some more.
Keep me on your list good friend, LETTUCE is my name,
Let me be your luncheon friend, You'll be so glad you came.

SAYINGS OFHE SAGES - SADOWAY

E. Sadoway, 1915 - 2006 Homemaker, Mother and runner.

"The most important things in life are home, family, honesty,
kindness and fairness to all."

Elizabeth "Elsie" Sadoway had many roles in life but when I asked
her which ones were most important to her she didn't hesitate; as
shown above. Since the dictionary's definition for "sage" is, "a wise
counselor, venerable in judgment, showing wisdom and prudence,"
I realized I had been living next door to one for seven years.

Tales of Elsie's early days on the Manitoba prairies found her in first
grade not knowing the English language. When the teacher asked her name
she didn't understand. Her older brother answered for her, "Elizabeth."
"That's too long" the teacher said, "we'll call you Elsie." Frightened, she
ran for home, all eight miles alone. Elsie became the name that the
teacher and others used for the rest of her life. Both are nice names but
her mother continued to call her by the birth name she had given her. She
soon adjusted well and was prominent in many ways, including being the
best runner who always won the races for her age group.

Though loss of sight had dimmed her eyes, A smile lit up her face,
When speaking of her children three, Her cards brought up an ACE.
From the heart, her wisdom shone, Things not taught at school,
But in each action, word and deed, It was "The Golden Rule."
"Doing unto others as, You'd wish done to you,"
Now why can't nations try that style, To solve their problems too,
Instead of rushing off to war, With weapons as their tool.

Thank you Elsie, my daily walking pal, for being the wonderful
person that you were, and still are, in your heavenly abode. When
having dinner with her son and wife, she sometimes brought me a
wrapped piece of BBQ salmon that her son had made and it came
with such a lovely smile. Kindness in action.

SAYINGS OF THE SAGES - HUGO

Victor Hugo, 1802 - l885, French novelist and poet
Author of Les Miserables in 1862. One of the greatest
teachers of democracy. An opponent of Napoleon III, he
deemed it wise to go into exile in a country home on the
Isle of Guernsey. His complete works covered forty volumes.

"Strong and bitter words indicate a weak cause." Again he said:

"Go to rest with prayer. . having for your pillow the infinite; love,
belief and hope, look kindly upon mothers nursing their children
on their doorsteps of humble cottages, walk through the world
without malevolence, do not knowingly crush the humblest flower,
respect the needs of birds, be as one with watering pot in hand, only
let your watering pot be filled with good deeds and good words.
The beautiful is as useful as the useful." Thank you Victor Hugo for
your wonderful legacy of books and wise words left to us. I add these
lines and suggest you record your own special thoughts for posterity.

Resentments held within the heart, Creates a stumbling zone,
That harms like lava's molten flow, With sharp and roughened stones.
Our own reality we form, The daily walk makes clear,
The way we handle thoughts and deeds, We move to higher spheres.

This sojourn here provides a chance, To prove how strength of will,
With careful choice of thoughts and acts, Can change the physical.
And as the inner state of soul, Receives priority,
We join Divine creative role, And share its harmony.

Suzie-Q

DINNER AT THE FARM

What's for dinner, Mom, today?" The children had arrived,
From plates like painter's palette forms, They counted rounds to five.
Their tummy's counters waited too, For refills for their store,
Raw foods and proteins - no trans-fats, As enzymes called for more.

The salad - green, Mom had foreseen, Would fill their enzyme needs,
And throw in free that Vita C, That always did good deeds.
"She's washed them too, from residue." A grateful system cried.
"The eggs are boiled, potatoes baked, Hurrah, there's nothing fried."

Past years, it seemed that quality, Had often been ignored,
What mattered only was the taste, Folks otherwise felt bored.
And never thought to note the tones, Of anguish felt within,
When foods that held preservatives, Came down to fill each whim.

The sugar coated canon balls, Could ruin Units B,
And armies of more additives, Slaughtered A and E.
And carbonated beverages, Just like the Trojan horse,
Held hidden soda savages, That wiped out more of course.

A regular Kamikaze band, Was organized for flight,
Then healing cells must build recruits, To mend them overnight.
Past battles fought could tell a lot, Like one called DDT,
Where good cells suffered pain and loss, At cancer's firm decree.

But scientific research done, And mother's probing too,
Showed caution coming up the track, To win a grand review.
And time with understanding showed, Each person played a role,
With doctors, mothers, teachers too, All helping reach the goal.

Of loving care for these least ones, The humble body cell,
With nature's food with rest and care, Would cast a lovely spell.
Within its orb to emanate, In waves of silent sound,
In rhythmic ribbons of healing love, Spread joy and health around.

SAYINGS OF THE SAGES - LIVERMORE

Mary Ashton Livermore, 1820 - 1905, nee Rice
Suffragette and reformer. In 1869 she was founder of
"The Agitator" which later merged into "Woman's Journal."

Very nice of Mary Ashton Livermore to stay with her dream.
Twenty four years after her death her dream became law
and in l929 women were recognized as real persons
and were able to vote. Thank you Mary who with the help of her
husband Rev. David Livermore, for creating more justice and
harmony in our world. I dedicate the following poem in your honor.

The trees of Earth their bounties brought, Vines gave melons sweet,
Sun and soil with riches poured, And made all lives complete.
What more could Earth her bounty give, Creator's perfect plan,
Could we be satisfied with all, These gifts from God to man?

All watched while military man, Made ready an attack,
To conquer nations, nature, all, His clan said to ransack.
But intuition often said, That deep within man's soul,
A spirit dwelt from God Supreme, To play a peaceful role.

With patience in a wordless way, Showed how with peaceful toil,
A love and care for all life's forms, Would banish this turmoil.
Others heeded not heart's voice, Made plans to change Earth's plane,
Rejecting those who sought for peace, And spoke of personal gain.

Sang anthems loud with clans and crowds, Sought armies, guns and power,
Munitions hoards and sharpened swords, Filled noisy days and hours.
Still others spoke of spiritual gain, Told of heart's small voice,
That promised man a way of life, Of love and peace by choice.

All watched the warlords of the Earth, Ransack the world around,
As patience of the centuries held, While love's true law lay bound.
Desire for "Oneness" with all things, Showed need for beauty's way.
Where lives of joy and love and warmth, Glowed like a sunny ray.
No more need husbands, sweethearts go, Into a distant land,
For greed and gain their brothers maim, Oppressing other bands.
Through willingness to change his ways, New body language learn,
That universal song of peace, Life's meaning to discern.
Suzie-Q

FAMILIES HAVE A PICNIC

My younger sister's first grandchild now has a child of her own and
and with her husband to help decided it would be nice to have a get together
with all the relatives who could come. Everyone thought it was a great idea
so we met at a central place at Herald Park near Sunnybrae. An August 2008 Sunday provided a semi-sunny day that was just perfect for the occasion. A BBQ was available and each family brought food enough for their family and tables were set up. Then everyone shared according to food preferences. It was great meeting new family members, several not yet one year old, and so
interesting to touch bases with those we hadn't seen for awhile as we realized how important it is to find time for family fun together in spite of busy lives.

Here are a few words that further remind us how important family is.

Stitched in the fabric of our hearts, Our children come and stay,
May later leave for other lands, But hearts don't go away.
Another thread, another stitch, Adds the marriage touch,
But still that first stitch always stays, Families mean so much.

As twists and turns of time stitch more, Grandchildren may appear,
A beauty that none else can make, As they add their loving cheer.
Then comes along the Golden Years, The fabric's beauty grows,
Time, with stitches magic touch, Some call it growing old.

It should be called "maturing" now, As galleries appear,
And pictures decorate the walls, completing family's sphere.
Age and illness may take place, God offers exit doors,
But as each honors body's health, Long life can be assured.

All those years of lessons learned, As each day's choice is made,
Honoring God's gift of life, As time forms your facade.
To walk through life with no regrets, Shaping generations new,
Stitching, with encouragement, We share, as life renews.

CONVERSATION WITH TREES

Once more we hear you call our name,
The music speaks, your wish is plain,
We view your trees that climb these heights,
Promise voice and pen and your words write.

"You are our hands - you are our feet,
Our job - to help give light and heat,
Earth's sustenance we help provide,
We cannot from these beetles hide.

They bite our bark, suck our life's blood,
We can't produce a cone or bud,
From naked branches, our needles fall,
Please listen to our desperate call.

For us you can do this small deed,
In word and sound declare our need.
With pen and voice your words proclaim,
Remember, it's your future gain.

Your homes and comforts we provide,
We both have needs - to all confide.
We give you health - the air you breathe,
Your words and voice from you we plead.

Rainforests call from distant lands,
They too need help, You can command.
Pollued air you've left, we clean,
Delicious foods for your cuisene.
Our gratitude for help you lend,
With rustling leaves, our thanks we send."

RESOLUTIONS

Ever dreamed of being a hero,
Maybe save a life,
Add years of living to your own,
With no real work or strife?
Well listen up good pilgrim,
With this year's speeding time,
Make a resolution plan,
Start now your upward climb.

The cash you give tobacco kings,
Instead can be your gift,
No needs? then share another's need,
Your health will feel a lift.
Non smoker? You're already wise,
But challenges may come,
The cash you give to processed foods,
Make arteries feel glum.

They want to keep you living long,
The heart calls "Please help me,
The gifted ones like your kind self,
The world has need of thee."
This always comes full circle as,
Your gift returns once more,
The life you saved has been your own.
Your health feels great - restored.

The joy you've brought to other's lives,
Your own life will be blest,
Both giving and receiving health,
For both, you are the best.
Already you're a leader, friend,
A little club could start,
Where ideals of the future years.
Will play a wondrous part.

DANCING WITH FRIENDS

Colorful canary gowns, Flash their shades of gold,
Dancing through the foliage, Includes both young and old.
Inviting each, "Please be my friend, My promise of delight,
So join us in our banquet room, We can make you
feel just right."

And all the while we're swinging 'round, We shed all fancy duds,
And pirouette like skating stars, No need for frothy suds.
My special friend is calcium, We dance so well together,
Distributing to inner guests, The feel of fancy feathers.

You'll find us with your salad greens, That decorate your plate,
Avoiding starches as a food, To keep you feeling great.
Refreshing morning breakfast brings, A scrambled egg with toast,
Whole grains, your tea with lemon juice. Few carbs, they're
blanched out ghosts.

At times, we join another troupe, Green limes, they're juicy friends,
They dance among the salad greens, Another magic blend.
So squeeze my juice, With water mix, They shine your teeth as well,
Helps utilize your calcium, To reach each body cell.

So help yourself to greens each day, Keep body fit and strong,
While dancing with these partners, You'll find your life prolonged.
Imagine all those extra years, More family fun together,
Greens work well with every meal, In sun or cloudy weather.

SAYINGS OF THE SAGES - FRY

Elizabeth Fry, 1780 - 1845, Quaker Prison reformer.

In 1810 Elizabeth Fry became a prison reformer
in the Society of Friends.

After seeing the dreadful conditions of women in Newgate Prison,
she devoted her life to prison reform at home as well as abroad,
and helped the homeless through charitable societies.

We do not have copies of her exact words, but I offer this
poem in her honor and feel it will further her cause.

What great reformers have expressed, Can be performed by you.
The image you see of yourself, Is just what you can do.
No limitations need there be, From parents, church and school,
The Master said "we all are lights," Both He and us - that's cool.

The Latin says "religio," Means bind together well,
Integrity and harmony, In modern parallel.
With clouds of doubt dispersed we face, The present point of power,
Since vista's of the future form, From what we do this hour.

With unity and harmony, In mind and will each day,
Unspoken understanding brings, A peace that none can stay.
That feeling of a unity, Each one part of the whole,
And binding all together lets, Creative spirit flow.

Suzie-Q

SOUL SONG

From whence does inner music rise,
That needs no sounds or notes,
And does not form itself in words,
Or written rhymes or quotes.
That rises deep within the heart,
To chase the clouds away.
No need for instruments to sound,
As silent heart-touch plays.

No trumpets or pianos play,
To hear this music clear,
The music each one plays each day,
Walks with us through the years.
Sensations deep within the heart,
Send pantomimes of song
As silent lyrics rise within,
And feelings come along.

Creations from each silent heart,
Are felt and sensed each day,
A gift that springs from inner song,
A touch along the way.
To reach the hearts of those you meet,
That shares with all creation,
While walking in your own small town,
Or palace or great nation.

GRANDKID'S GAZETTE

Today I'd like to share with you a page from the Grandkid's Gazette. The idea came to me when the first grandchild arrived. I had often thought about how great it would if I could now read about my early days with my family before I could record anything for myself. The Gazette is issued monthly mainly for family members who request copies. Perhaps this will inspire other grandparents or great-grandparents to record the main events about the early days of their grandchildren. Busy mothers and grandmothers make scrapbooks, after all a picture is said to be worth a thousand words and easier now with today's handy/dandy digital cameras, but dated words present another angle and often record their quotes. The nine month old let out such a cute giggle this morning. I thought babies used only smiles when charmed or pleased. Apparently Grandpa is a master at playing peek-a-boo.

Grandparents as well as uncles and aunts often come during summer vacations to enjoy more family time together. A typical Sunday morning finds the parents with other family members at church in a rear seat row, not too far from the nursery in case one of them gets bored with the sermon. Small children usually stay in the sanctuary during the singing. Grandchildren move quietly from one grandparent or uncle and aunt's lap to another. Sometimes the Dad has Mommie cuddled in his left arm with the youngest on her lap - a bundle of three. The middle child is often on Grandpa's lap and has decided that the list in his upper left shirt pocket is not folded right and would look so much better if she fixed it. First she works with the folding ritual as she maneuvers around for a flat place to fold it right. Grandpa is a little concerned - lists are important after all and gently tries to retrieve it. She finally has it folded exactly right and places it safely at the proper angle in his pocket. Then she wreaths a lovely smile as if to thank him for being patient that seems to convey, "I knew you would understand that it had to be done just right. You deserve to look as neat and nifty as you really are." When the service is over, we move to the exit. The oldest child remembers something and reaches loving arms to her Great Grandmother saying, "You didn't get my hug yet today." They enjoy giving and receiving hugs with both sets of grandparents.

Lest you think all these grandchildren are born perfect it should be noted that their parents no doubt have been careful to regulate their sugar content at breakfast. One of the grandmothers once told that during their son's early school days he was usually the "perfect" child - unless it was the day sweets had been served at school during a birthday celebration. She even reported it to the daily newspaper and I still have the clipping that was published about it. She may have been the one who first precipitated the present day improvements of the menus for school lunches.
Love, Great Grandmother - Gazette Editor, and Copy Reader - Grandpa.

GRANDPARENTS SOMETIMES HELP

Sometimes grandparents can help with new or old ideas.
Here's an example when a recent problem came into focus.
Let's see if the family poet can put it shorter in rhyme and reason.

New landed souls are sensitive, To understand new needs,
Daily feeling parent's love, Pre-School can bring new deeds.
Even at their Sunday School, Change can puzzle them.
We'll all meet at a restaurant, Need time for stratagems.

One child says, "I'm staying here, I won't leave my car seat."
Okay, then stay, (her folks will come,) Her sadness is complete.
One grandpa comes along and says, "Why are you so sad?"
"Just look, my whale is cut in half, My picture is so bad."

"Just look at Dede's picture here, Her whale's all there, all whole,
She says mine shows its just half there, Did it hurt his inside soul?"
But look, Gramps says, he's telling you, "Your page spells out my name.
Just like the books Mom reads to you, Names in print give fame."

"Oh - thank you Grandpa, I see now, My page ran out of space,
Words are here to tell us more," Gramps had picked an ACE.
Satisfied - when parents came, No more need be told.
Tender talking filled the need, Better far than gold.

"Thanks Grandpa for helping me, Now that I understand,
Here's a great big hug for you, It's good to feel so grand."
Now why can't nations try that style, to solve their problems too.
Instead of rushing off to war, With weapons as their tool.

SAYINGS OF THE SAGES - HOWELLS

William Howells, l837 - 1920, Writer of many books.

"Never speak of the faults of one's friends, it
mutilates them. They can never feel the same afterwards."

Thank you William Howells for this reminder, for it seems
the fault finder may have wounded the self as well.
These words I add to further applaud your wise words.

In wisdom find no fault at all,
Or cherish some ill will,
That kills love's flower, and spoils the bower,
That kindness frames with skill.
The best for all, true wisdom seeks,
And daily powers of mind,
To build the urge that will apply,
What wisdom's search may find.

In quiet moments wisdom speaks,
Each problem has a cure,
The answer lies within its plot,
And search can make it yours.
This way of life our friends will learn,
The way we think and act,
Experiences with those around,
The business we transact.

Each gracious, kindly word, a way,
To cultivate your bower,
Unfolding beauty from within,
As lovely as that flower.

Suzie-Q

SAYINGS OF THE SAGES - JORDAN

David Starr Jordan, l851 - 1931, U.S. naturalist and
College President.

"Has our race through life's rush gained some on the
direction on the Law of Love? If we have done our
part in this struggle, our lives have not been in vain."

I feel sure that David Starr Jordan was a real star in many
ways during his 80 years on Earth and no doubt some of
his "star dust" sprinkled then is still affecting us now and
and for many years to come. The first letter I received after
my book 'In Touch' was published had these encouraging
words, "Your book, 'In Touch' has changed my life for good
and I thank you so much." I like to think that many people
will leave a poem or even a sentence that defines the gifts
or gains in life or a story that tells what they feel their main
legacy was left for others who follow to remember and enjoy.
I dedicate these words in Mr. Starr's honor.

For from the things terrestial, We form celestial wings,
Fulfillment, joy and happiness, Rise from our springs within.
The joys we bring to others when, A harmony we share,
Full circle comes, we can become, A spiritual millionaire.
The things of ease and pleasure that, Are found upon this plane,
Harm only if we worship them, Or use for selfish gain.
Desires physical we have, And have a proper place,
When spiritualized with soul's bright fire,
Life moves with ease and grace.

From wellsprings of the soul within, That nourish and bring light,
Material things are spiritualized, When goals are kept in sight.
When acts of others cause distress, And bring on grief and woe,
Transmute revenge to helpful ends, Restoring smoother flow.
Researching motives for man's acts, We find that mind and soul,
And what these two will dwell upon, Will shape our life's true goal.
Suzie-Q

SAYINGS OF THE SAGES - EMERSON

Ralph Waldo Emerson, 1803 - 1882, Essayist,
lecturer, philosopher, and poet against slavery.

"Days come and go like muffled, veiled figures sent
from a distant friendly party, they say nothing, and
if we do not use the gifts they bring, they carry
them as silently away."

Thank you Ralph for stimulating the thinking of many.
Your words are a challenge to more wisely value time.

A grand, ungilded man of stone,
Inscrutable through time,
Looks through remote antiquity
And toward man's upward climb.
Perhaps this faultless carving took,
A hundred years of toil,
But many centuries more of search,
Its mysteries time has foiled.

Its memory holds five thousand years,
In retrospect to see,
Unbroken tides of time and space,
Rolling o'er life's sea.
Though carved from stone, a sentient face
Has watched great empires rise,
And then diffuse through selfish acts,
And cause their own demise.

From grandeur to decay they move,
Until all seek to learn,
The way of love, respect for all,
And thus true honor earn.
To live with beauty greater than
All kingdoms formed by man,
Enchanting realms of consciousness,
And live the Master's Plan.

Suzie-Q

SAYINGS OF THE SAGES - DEMOSTHENES

Demosthenes, 384 - 322 B.C. Orator

"Small opportunities are often the beginnings
of great enterprises."

He was regaraded as the finest example of Greek
oratory. Sir Winston Churchill has been called
the 20th Century Demosthenes.

He was only seven when his father died, and was soon
swindled out of his inheritance by his guardians. He
trained himself in oratory in order to be able to
conduct a lawsuit for the return of his property. It
was said he overcame his speech defect by talking
with stones in his mouth.

Here are a few challenging words to encourage
new beginnings that any of us may be contemplating:

Picture what you value most, Imagine this can be,
How far our expectations rise, Is just what we will see.
Faith's inner spiritual knowledge joins, Life's Universal
force, Transforms from miniature psychic form,
To physical resource.
For all things known exteriorally, Are first formed small
within, The master matrix of the psyche,
Brings forth its outer twin.

So things that happen physically, Begin in rhythms fresh,
With feeling tones that rise and fall, As spirit blends with flesh.
Life's music forms from thoughts within,
To shape beliefs we hold, That alter actions, change our lives,
The world that we behold.
Each day an opportunity, To set beliefs afresh,
To play the music of the soul, Life's energies made flesh.
Suzie-Q

FAMILY MUSIC

Silent songs from children's hearts,
Hold feelings mothers share,
And that includes the fathers too,
Your child feels your care.
This gentle silent symphony,
Is shared with family too,
Siblings and grandparents - all,
Sincere, and always true.

Tiny fingers cannot reach
To play piano notes,
Or music on a stringed guitar,
Or voice and lyric quotes.
These rhythms from a childs soul,
Expands to those around,
Peeks through their sweet and silent smiles
That need not form a sound.

A special bond is formed within,
That words cannot express,
Through eternities of time,
More than a friend or guest.
Oh sure we love all sincere friends,
But nothing can compare,
With lengths and breadths and depths of love,
That their heart's music shares.

And all they ask is simple foods,
Sweet milk from mother's breast,
Or other foods as there is need,
And body care - you've guessed.
And as each day we tune into,
Their own sweet smiles of love,
The music from their loving hearts,
Show to us God's love.
Suzie-Q

THE GOLDEN WINDOWS

An ancient legend tells about, An alpine boy whose folks,
Lived high upon a mountain top, Above the valley smoke.
The shining rays of morning sun, Danced on a town below,
Showed windows made of solid gold, Beyond the ice and snow.

And every night he dreamed and prayed, And hoped that one great day,
He'd travel down that winding path, If he could find the way.
And touch those windows made of gold, And see the people there,
Who sure must never have to work, Or ever have a care.

And so one day he started out, At sunrise clear and bright,
The windows flashed their golden rays, Just like a guiding light.
He scarce took time to see the flowers, That waved to him near town,
And hurried through the rippling grass, Before the sun went down.

And on the dusty windblown streets, Folks hurried here and there,
And no one saw the unknown child, Or even seemed to care.
A kindly woman sensed his need, And helped him in his plight,
"The golden windows? there they are, High on that mountain bright."

The sun shone on his own small home, From rosy skies that night,
Flashed 'round its gold and scarlet rays, Showed golden windows bright.
And as the night breeze tucked the hills, And flowers in for rest,
A starry mantle covered all, A dream explained his quest.

The gold he found in that small town, Lay in that heart so kind,
That gave him warmth and food and love, And cheered his worried mind.
And found through time that values true, Come from the heart within,
Where grows the kindom of God's love, A'midst the outward din.
Suzie-Q

SAYINGS OF THE SAGES - DRUMMOND

Henry Drummond, 1851- 1899, Educator, Writer

"Half the world is on the wrong scent in the pursuit
of happiness, They think it consists in having and
getting and in being served by others, it really
consists of giving and in serving others."

Henry Drummond attended universities in both Scotland
and Germany. He taught Science and later conducted
evangelistic lectures in Africa, U.S. and Canada.

It would be interesting if it had been possible to have left
audio tapes for posterity. Here is my comment on his saying.

The pleasures that we may pursue for ease or selfish gain,
Like fleeting moments slip away, An empty soul remains.
To span the bridge of empty dreams, and pay its heavy toll,
Reflections of those wasted years in ebbing waters flow.

A basic sin of selfishness clings to its hidden core,
That can reshape with change of thought, and happiness restore.
For happiness will hinge upon beliefs that we empower,
That join with God's Creative Force, to make each new hope ours.
Sincere desire with prayer and deeds, will happiness be found,
A store of love to touch all life, that glows to all around.
Suzie-Q

SAYINGS OF THE SAGES - MANN

SAYINGS OF THE SAGES

Horace Mann, 1796 - 1859
Educator, Abolitionist

"Doing nothing for others, is the
Undoing of ourselves."

Thank you Horace Mann for this
stimulating and thoughtful saying.
In your honor, I add these words.

The seed remains within itself,
Of all influence alive,
For as we've dealt our fellow man,
The thorns or flowers thrive.
Those acts of mercy, sown in truth,
And justice, always show,
A like reward, within its realm,
To reap what has been sown.

As patient, kindly, helpful hearts
Send forth their healing rays,
Both giver and receiver share,
In joyous interplay.
And when the weeds of negatives,
Are plucked to plant good seed,
New thoughts bring new realities,
To change our ways and deeds.

And learn the body's destiny,
When caring writes our theme,
On one wave length we build a life,
We leave upon this beam.

Suzie-Q

PICNIC MEMORIES AT ORION

Past memories rest comfortably somewhere in our minds and souls ready to pop up when a familiar name or event comes up or even just at random when a familiar food item is served. The end of the school year, close to Canada Day
called for that one community picnic of the year. With spring seeding and school over the end of June, everyone looked forward to a day of respite before haying season. The empty jars were brought up from the basement and made ready for canning. One year I counted 400 jars of peas. The gardens must be hand watered from the rain barrels when the rains refused to come. The grain harvest would start late in August and on into September. The faithful chokecherry, the one local wild fruit was made into jam and lined the basement shelves along with the peas and beans.

Now we're going to look in on this once a year Community Picnic. We knew who would likely be bringing a favorite item not usually found on our own table. Prominent in my memory is the first time I ever tasted that jiggling jello treat. The picnic was always held at the McIntosh Trees, located about a mile from our one-room country school where one teacher taught all eight grades. The McIntosh family had planted a large grove of poplar trees as a windbreak to ward off the chilly fall and winter breezes. Located at the edge of the desert area called the Sand Hills, only the wild chokecherry could survive in that soil and the family moved elsewhere. But they left a lovely legacy for the rest of us - this beautiful grove of trees that the family had hand watered until they reached a wellspring deep within the sand. It is an analogy for us spiritually, reaching inward to tune into our soul's desires.

Each family brought food prepared from items grown in their gardens, Beans and potato salads topped with eggs sliced lengthwise. Our gardens provided rhubarb and raspberries if the summer rains arrived in time. Egg salad and jam sandwiches were good but no peanut butter was available at that time. Whenever I now make jello it takes me back to our small community near Orion, Alberta. Mothers brought cakes and cookies to have with our jello. The only fast food available came from the kitchens of the mothers and the fast feet of her daughters, speeding around helping her make preparations. Among those at the picnic was Dr. Samuel Bartlett. He came from a long line of medical doctors and for unknown reasons left Boston and filed for a half section in our area beside the Ketchum Creek. He dug an underground home and carried water for his large garden from the creek that flowed from Cyprus Hills at the spring run-off. The only evidence of his home was the round metal chimney protruding above the snowbanks that provided heat for cooking, and warmth in winter. No air conditioning was required in the summer. Of course electrical hook-ups were not available anyway. Nice to have a medical doctor near in case someone broke a leg during the picnic races held for various age groups and at the last a game of softball. Why he left Boston was not known and his secret went with him when he passed away in his eighties. He was an expert at setting broken bones and when the city doctors later offered him a position at their clinic he declined. He charged no fees but if someone would come mostly in their horse drawn wagons or buggies he always went with them to deliver a baby or whatever was needed. He left tall stacks of medical journals that arrived in the mail each month. I suspect his father may have given him this subscription each year, perhaps hoping he could come home and join his own practice. Evening chores brought us home for farm chores as we locked up picnic memories in our treasure boxes and looked forward to our next community gathering at Christmas.

SAYINGS OF THE SAGES -

Honore de Balzac, 1799 - 1850, French Writer

"Silence and meditation are the means of following the Way . . It is thus that the separation takes place between Matter, which so long has wrapped its darkness round you; and Spirit, which was in you from the beginning . . . and now brings noon-day to your soul."

Thanks Mr. Balzac or your profound words. He was hailed at the time as the Napoleon of Letters, second only to Shakespeare. He lived in a small garret and sometimes wrote up to eighteen hours a day trying to pay his debts. He died of exhaustion at the age only fifty one having completed only two-thirds of his major project to reclassify French society, having written more than 100 works within 20 years. He married a Polish countess with whom he had corresponded for 18 years but died in less than five months. Her wealth had come too late.

I am adding here a quote from my book, "In Touch." Page 116.

I walked in silence 'neath the mellow light, Of moonbeams shimmering on the lake below, And asked the Guide of all the Universe for wisdom, in my quest to find an answer - On values and ideals in life, and how To find a focus in its pulsing form.

The moondrops melted on each wave that rose, As rhythmic patterns marked their flow in time, In fantasy their leaps of life I joined, Through undulating moonbeams to unfold, A sense of energy embracing all, Who share in turn these pristine powers of old.

And from some secret, silent depth within, A vision rose to show a spirit born. Embarking on the waves of space and time, An inflorescent soul who reaches out, To form a secret self, its hidden flower. As shoreline buds unfold and seek the light, Just so a willing heart in freedom bears, Love's fruits, as fragrant as this blooming bower.
Suzie-Q

SAYINGS OF THE SAGES - MACDONALD

George MacDonald, 1824 - 1905
Scottish Writer

"Instead of a gem, or even a flower,
cast the gift of a lovely thought into
the heart of a friend."

George MacDonald was a graduate of
the University of Aberdeen, Scotland.
Thank you George for leaving this
and many other wonderful thoughts to
bring joy and challenges into our lives.
I honor you with these words.

As thoughts are formed within the mind,
They grow a certain flower,
And from this shoot, there forms a fruit,
For good or evil power.
As in the act, so is the seed,
And all its fruits that grow,
Man sets his bounds for happiness,
And mind directs life's show.

Great depths of thought love dwell within,
Await our invite call,
A balance that will harmonize,
And bring a peace to all.
For happiness dwells in the heart,
Not bought or sold or learned,
No thief can steal this precious thing,
It only comes when earned.
Each day an opportunity,
For kind and gentle speech,
Each act a pearl upon life's string,
True gems within our reach.
Suzie-Q

THE UNWELCOME IMMIGRANT

Among the huddled masses, That from Europe came,
A tiny golden visitor, Staked its claim to fame,
Somewhere in storage passage with, No ticket by its side,
It threw a shoot and anchored root, In new lands, far and wide.

Content to live in wastelands, Its golden flower thrived,
In backyard tenement clutter 'twas, Just thrilled to be alive.
On barren soil or homestead, This hardy alien grew,
Its seedballs - games for children, To scatter joy anew.

Unlike the dashing rosebud, Whose thorns a child may fear,
The friendly dandelion waves, A stately stem with cheer.
Strong winds and rain may damage, Other dainty flowers,
But this sturdy willing immigrant, Stands tall through every shower.

"Just weave me into garlands, I am a friendly flower,
To bed I go at sunset, And rise a decent hour.
If you're hungry, you can eat me, As food I am complete,
I travel through America, A friend to all I meet.

If on your lawn I've landed, Forgive me, if you please,
My golden crown turns snowy white, And soars with every breeze,
To carry on as nature planned, Though once despised by man,
One day we'll bring life-saving cures, Of ills throughout the land.
Like you, I love America, My new home stem to tip,
Sharing nourishment and beauty, I'm grateful for my trip.
Suzie-Q