Poetry

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March 1, 2025

In Time’s Embrace


What then in time’s embrace
Time and time again again
Speaks now of universe’s vast expanse

Near-sighted vision up close
Blocking out all other input
Enveloped by me me here and now

Or far-sighted eyes ever on the horizon
Unable to relate to other souls
Ever craving more more to gain

What then speaks and what is heard?
Do eyes look but do not seek?
Each day’s gift a treasure before us

Would we succumb to the smog about
Or discover true Light to clear away?
Shine bright streams to birth Faith

Lift worn arms to God’s sheltering presence
Full in this moment this hour this hope
And smile in that gift of inward peace

Charlotte-Anne Allen

February 15, 2025

Preparation


Look ahead to what is needed
What may be coming and should be heeded?

Be it home or work or play
What will be done by end of day?

Now, do not stress, for we can make do
But acting wisely is important too

If notes are needed, then jot them down
Put on a smile and do not frown

Not caught up with worry and in a big rush
Take time to see beauty, open ears, and hush

Then do your best and show you have cared
Draw a breath, take one step, and as able… be prepared

Charlotte-Anne Allen

February 8, 2025

Mid-Winter Morn


Towering giants
stretch their bare arms
To cloudy sky

Weekend dreamers
Slumber in warm cocoons
As quiet reigns

Soft breeze
Gently stirs bushes…rustling
In morn’s dim glow

Feathered residents
Silently huddle in chilly patience
Winging fleetingly aloft

Footsteps sound
Crunching on dry grass and leaves
Delivering morning meals

Nipped nose
Draws in crisp fresh air
This mid-winter morn

Charlotte-Anne Allen

January 26, 2025

Tag


A childhood game of joy and fun
Reaching out to touch someone

…Can call to mind on any day
Of what we do and what we say

Are we choosing to extend a smile
To be courteous and go that “extra mile”?

…Social media says, “Look at me”
Consider now just what we see

Whether in passing or sharing deep
This world around us, may God keep

Value each other, recognized, known
Let’s tag someone… We’re not alone

Charlotte-Anne Allen

January 5, 2025

Reflect


As light upon a quiet lake
Sun’s beam glinting, reaching… cast

So, look into life’s mirror
Images, moments… of time past

Lift your head and see the light
Now contemplate… of what will last

As bobbing crafts in calm waters or
Storms’ choppy waves… see an ever-pointing mast

Our great God is ever with us
Reflect, look once again… at love so vast

Charlotte-Anne Allen

December 14, 2024

“As…So” for Christmas


As a star lead the way… so God leads us still

As a donkey faithfully carried the load… so God takes our own burdens

As the stable was a welcome shelter… so we are thankful for our homes

As angels rejoiced and delivered good news… so we share that good news with others

As shepherds cared for their flock… so God cares for his children

As the baby was dependent on others… so humankind needs God

As the mother loved the child… so God loves us

As wise men brought gifts… so God sent his own son as a gift to all

As Christmas trees remind us of life and joy… so be filled

As wreaths speak of unity and eternity… so share goodwill and compassion

As candles light the way… so Christ lights our hearts and way

As bells celebrate Christ’s birth… so celebrate new beginnings

As carols tell the wondrous story… so may our hearts be filled with wonder and hope

As Christmastide leads us to Jesus… so may our lives follow Him

– from “As… so Proverbs”
Charlotte-Anne Allen

December 7, 2024

Bells Ringing


Bells ringing, bells ringing
Joyful voice of celebration

Christmastide leads to the Christ child
One born in a manger to shine for all

Hear the bells this hopeful season
Join your voice in thankful praise

Far from earthly power or fame
True wealth comes from love’s compassion

Heed you now the bright bells sounding
Hearts drawn to star’s wondrous path

Charlotte-Anne Allen