Poetry in Motion

Poems have played a big part in my life. Since I was a very young child I loved poetry and rhyming verses. By the time I reached Fifth grade I was even invited to participate in recitals at school. Public speaking terrifies me. But there is something about reciting someone else's words, beautiful words, words that hold meaning for the reader as well as the writer, that calmed my fears and allowed me to perform poem after poem. I still remember those poems from my childhood and many more that I have memorized in my lifetime.

I have even written a few of my own when the occasion inspired me. My father, a minister, would come to me with a thought for a sermon and ask me to think about writing a poem for him to read. I was proud to have him recite my work. Proud that he thought enough of it to want to read it in front of the congregation. God inspired me from time to time and it's always a thrill when the words come together. It might be a poem for a loved one's funeral or anniversary, my niece's wedding, poems about my son growing up or a humorous Thanksgiving poem for the family bulletin. Life, as it comes along, written in prose.

So, I've decided to share some of my favorites with you. I doubt that you will see any that I've written show up on this blog...but you never know...

What are your favorite poems?