Poetry has the power to make us aware of what is hidden in the shadows...those places that we seldom see or want to see...the poet's voice scrapes away the facade of an issue and lays bare for all to see what has been denied. By providing a voice to these mute realities, poets have throughout history altered the course of events by enlightening readers and encouraging them to take action to stop wars,
halt injustice, and to reach out to their fellow man. Like those poets who have proceeded me, I am motivated
by the same desire to bring about the social changes necessary to enhance the quality of life for those
around me and around the world and to give voice to those who cannot speak for themselves
Check Out: "the adventures of Kilroy on YouTube : (https://www.youtube.com/my_videos?o=U&sq=the+adventures+of+kilroy)
Bea In Your Bonnet: First Sting is a collection of germinal poems featuring Aunt Bea. Aunt Bea’s voice is one I’ve heard almost every day of my life. Family observations, lessons, and advice given to me and every other family member who had the good sense to listen. Her homespun philosophy most likely will not be found in any collegiate textbooks or for that matter in any local town crier newspaper catering to city dwellers. Indeed, she has a different way of viewing the world; a bit old fashion, sassy, and steely at times but a viewpoint which has engaged my imagination and heart. I sincerely hope you too will find some morsel of wisdom in her personal observations and interpretations of life’s events, but do watch out for her stingers.
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Read Between the Minds 
You know Charlie, I have often wondered if the people at the funeral parlours steal the rings before they seal the casket.
I suspect so if they have not been removed by the family…if there is any family.:-(
This poem is stunning, Charlie! Absolutely stunning, my friend!
So much told in these words. Somehow, I’m glad that the ring stayed on the finger… I really enjoyed this.
emptied of life and recalling the love that placed it there…wow…
Beautiful! and very, very sad…
How on earth did you manage to create this photo, Charles? It speaks much more than a 1,000 words.
I used three images to create this one…using photoshop to create the visual part of the story to go with the poem.
What a beautiful but sad poem – that image is amazing – the shades of gold!
fabulous charles. it touched the heart and filled it up with warmth.
Two things emptied of their substance in a moment – what war takes
Always appreciate the direction you point your reader
A sad tale, but your words and image are amazing.
This one: hard on the heart.
Great poem.