Whispers

Lean into the silence

let loneliness fill the soul

Only when it is empty

can the heart be made whole

Wisdom is never shouted

it is whispered from within

Love is never doubted
nor lost in a madding din

Find quiet places
within and without
where listening is easy
and whispers resound

Be silent and be still
the universe will provide
be emptied and be filled
peace will enter and abide


© Francisco G. Rodriquez, 2017

Marrow of Sadness

I have sucked the marrow of sadness
from the bones of broken relationships.
I have been thirsty for love that vanishes
like a water mirage in the distant heat.

This is the desert of advancing age,
where the slippery sands of past decisions
shift and glide beneath my feet,
and regret, like a scorpion, skitters and stings.

The horizon is open, boundless and humbling.
The sun is shining, merciless and bright.
The skeletons of past love and conquest
lay bleached by the burning white orb.

The days stretch into distant forever,
and nights are bitter, cold, and silent.
Still, I am alive, so I press onward;
lost, perhaps, but determined to survive.

So I suck the marrow of sadness
from the bones of broken relationships,
and take from that meager nourishment
the strength I need to finally make it home.

© Francisco G. Rodriquez, 2017

Little Arms

How can such little arms
give such mighty hugs?

How have you captured
my heart with your
little smile?

My granddaughter.
The light of my eyes,
the breadth of my soul.

You are a blessing
like your mother before.

A tiny angel of joy,
with headstrong will
and an open heart.


You will be a titan,
an amazement of strength
and intelligent resolve.

Be kind to your mother,
she will always need your love.

Let God's beneficence
shine down on you
all the days of your life.

Promise to join me someday
far from now
in a place where pain and death
are but distant tales of yore.

And know that here in this life
I cherish the bounty of love I feel
every time you wrap me
in your powerful little arms.


© Francisco G. Rodriquez, 2017