(I Don’t Make No) Resolutions
Apologies to Jagger and Richards
By Larry Linville
I don’t make no resolutions
Please don’t give no contributions
‘cause I try, and a try,
And I try to make them
But I only, yes I only,
I only seem to break them.
When I’m watching on TV
And Dr. Phil lectures me
Saying I must make these vows
To cause actions that arouse
He needs to let me be
No no no
Hey hey hey
I guess you now can see
I can quit the parody
You can draw your own conclusions
‘cause I ain’t making resolutions
I won’t try, no I won’t try
So let me just say goodbye
Hey hey hey
Happy New Year!
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
Monday, December 31, 2007
Friday, December 28, 2007
What's been happening?
I don't like to let too many days pass without posting something. It's my belief that people quit checking blogs that aren't changed very often. You all have blessed me by checking in over 1500 times and I appreciate it.
My poetry mind seems to be taking a few days off. I wrote so many poems for the Nativity series and I guess it taxed my creativity. I keep looking for inspiration and I'm sure I'm not far from that next poem.
Just to bring you up to date on my forthcoming book of poetry -- the manuscript was edited by a reader and he sent me an attached file with his corrections. I was able to go through his work and either accept or reject it. I sent it back as an attachment. So that is done.
On January 15th, I will be on a conference call with the "design team". We will work on the layout of the book both inside and outside. After that, it shouldn't take long. I am hoping to have the book in my hand by early March. I wrote my first poem last year in March at a retreat and I would like to take copies with me to my friends who are at that retreat annually.
I have shared with you today a picture of the "Old metal desk" which started all of this. Rough looking, isn't it? That will be on the cover of the book.
I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and that you are still celebrating Christmas.
Larry
My poetry mind seems to be taking a few days off. I wrote so many poems for the Nativity series and I guess it taxed my creativity. I keep looking for inspiration and I'm sure I'm not far from that next poem.
Just to bring you up to date on my forthcoming book of poetry -- the manuscript was edited by a reader and he sent me an attached file with his corrections. I was able to go through his work and either accept or reject it. I sent it back as an attachment. So that is done.
On January 15th, I will be on a conference call with the "design team". We will work on the layout of the book both inside and outside. After that, it shouldn't take long. I am hoping to have the book in my hand by early March. I wrote my first poem last year in March at a retreat and I would like to take copies with me to my friends who are at that retreat annually.
I have shared with you today a picture of the "Old metal desk" which started all of this. Rough looking, isn't it? That will be on the cover of the book.
I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and that you are still celebrating Christmas.
Larry
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Keeping Christ in Christmastide
Keeping Christ in Christmastide
By Larry Linville
Gifts are unwrapped, room is a mess
“So let’s clean up this old pigpen!”
And all the family pitches in
to put things in order again.
Put the decorations away
and throw away that dry old tree
then we will run back to the mall
and join in the big shopping spree.
Sadly this happens ev’ry year
by those who were so very loud
who complained over and over
with the “keep Christ in Christmas” crowd.
Christmas begins on Christmas Day
but they are ready to move on
and the twelve days of Christmas
are here but our Jesus is gone.
This is not the fault of the PC
or other people we have blamed.
It is because we have ignored
the Yule season so unashamed.
Just the once I come to beg you
to keep the Christ is Christmastide.
Take the spirit of the Advent
and let it in your heart reside.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
By Larry Linville
Gifts are unwrapped, room is a mess
“So let’s clean up this old pigpen!”
And all the family pitches in
to put things in order again.
Put the decorations away
and throw away that dry old tree
then we will run back to the mall
and join in the big shopping spree.
Sadly this happens ev’ry year
by those who were so very loud
who complained over and over
with the “keep Christ in Christmas” crowd.
Christmas begins on Christmas Day
but they are ready to move on
and the twelve days of Christmas
are here but our Jesus is gone.
This is not the fault of the PC
or other people we have blamed.
It is because we have ignored
the Yule season so unashamed.
Just the once I come to beg you
to keep the Christ is Christmastide.
Take the spirit of the Advent
and let it in your heart reside.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
Sunday, December 23, 2007
The Christmas Fridge
The Christmas Fridge
By Larry Linville
Our tree is standing with its lights aglow
while outside are some falling flakes of snow.
Our souls filled with thoughts of a white Christmas
bringing peace to the hectic pace with us.
Stockings are hung by the chimney with care
as the crèche gives the mantle a great flair.
The ribbons and pine cones and mistletoe
give our little house such a special glow.
But there is a special decoration
in a very different location.
The fridge is there to hold all of our food
but now holds pictures and sets a new mood.
Pictures of family and friends hang there
which came in our cards from people who care.
So each time I go to get food to eat
I am greeted with this great Christmas treat.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
By Larry Linville
Our tree is standing with its lights aglow
while outside are some falling flakes of snow.
Our souls filled with thoughts of a white Christmas
bringing peace to the hectic pace with us.
Stockings are hung by the chimney with care
as the crèche gives the mantle a great flair.
The ribbons and pine cones and mistletoe
give our little house such a special glow.
But there is a special decoration
in a very different location.
The fridge is there to hold all of our food
but now holds pictures and sets a new mood.
Pictures of family and friends hang there
which came in our cards from people who care.
So each time I go to get food to eat
I am greeted with this great Christmas treat.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
Saturday, December 22, 2007
The Night that Music Died
The Night that Music Died
Larry Linville
The choir had practiced many weeks
for the program on Christmas Eve.
The congregation all gathered
for a great blessing to receive.
Just before the service started
a mean virus began to spread
to the entire choir membership
and settled in their throat and head.
With headaches and laryngitis
they all wondered how they would sing.
Just then the church bell fell apart
and there was no way it could ring.
When the Church organ was turned on
several sparks began to fly.
Some screechy noises then were made
which caused he director to cry.
The pastor stood and said a prayer
asking God to take the lead.
In a desperate voice he prayed
and soon he had started to plead.
They didn’t know just what it was,
a light shone very, very bright.
None could find words describe it,
it was a mysterious sight.
As the choir began the program
their voices became very clear.
As the choir director listened
She couldn’t hold back a big tear.
Without the organ music
and singers who were hoarse
the music was so beautiful
like it was from another source.
It was like an angel chorus,
a sound which they’d never heard.
It lifted up in harmony
the “Good News” message of God’s word.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
Larry Linville
The choir had practiced many weeks
for the program on Christmas Eve.
The congregation all gathered
for a great blessing to receive.
Just before the service started
a mean virus began to spread
to the entire choir membership
and settled in their throat and head.
With headaches and laryngitis
they all wondered how they would sing.
Just then the church bell fell apart
and there was no way it could ring.
When the Church organ was turned on
several sparks began to fly.
Some screechy noises then were made
which caused he director to cry.
The pastor stood and said a prayer
asking God to take the lead.
In a desperate voice he prayed
and soon he had started to plead.
They didn’t know just what it was,
a light shone very, very bright.
None could find words describe it,
it was a mysterious sight.
As the choir began the program
their voices became very clear.
As the choir director listened
She couldn’t hold back a big tear.
Without the organ music
and singers who were hoarse
the music was so beautiful
like it was from another source.
It was like an angel chorus,
a sound which they’d never heard.
It lifted up in harmony
the “Good News” message of God’s word.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
Friday, December 21, 2007
The Tone Deaf Caroler
Most of my poetry rhymes. I keep trying free verse. I'm not how well I've done, but here is a try.
The Tone Deaf Caroler
By Larry Linville
He loved music
Especially Christmas carols.
When the church went to sing
he exuberantly joined right in
standing next to the door
the elderly heard his loud voice
above all the others in the group.
The leader moved him at the next stop
and had him in the middle of the choir
but his loudness
caused the others to move away.
He found himself at the back next time
he could hardly see the door
but this didn’t stop him
and his volume button was turned up
nearly as high as it could go.
Every stop he was moved around
by his disgruntled choir
not only was he singing loud
but as far off tune as possible
yet the smile on his face
glowed like the Christmas star
as his joy of the season
overflowed.
And even though
he never found the tune
he expressed his Joy To The World
better than the trained voices
who were always on perfect pitch
with their faces very flat,
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
The Tone Deaf Caroler
By Larry Linville
He loved music
Especially Christmas carols.
When the church went to sing
he exuberantly joined right in
standing next to the door
the elderly heard his loud voice
above all the others in the group.
The leader moved him at the next stop
and had him in the middle of the choir
but his loudness
caused the others to move away.
He found himself at the back next time
he could hardly see the door
but this didn’t stop him
and his volume button was turned up
nearly as high as it could go.
Every stop he was moved around
by his disgruntled choir
not only was he singing loud
but as far off tune as possible
yet the smile on his face
glowed like the Christmas star
as his joy of the season
overflowed.
And even though
he never found the tune
he expressed his Joy To The World
better than the trained voices
who were always on perfect pitch
with their faces very flat,
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
A Homeless Christmas
A Homeless Christmas
By Larry Linville
Where do you hang your stocking
in your little cardboard home
which you have insulated
with some discarded foam?
Even if you had a chance
and it was given you for free
where underneath your bridge
would you put your Christmas tree?
How does it feel to hold your
“will work for food” sign
as most people drive by
to go home where they dine?
Do you wonder at the people
and think it is so odd
they ignore your desperation
while arguing about God?
Do you know you’re like Jesus
and he was just like you?
There was no room in the inn
so he was homeless too.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
By Larry Linville
Where do you hang your stocking
in your little cardboard home
which you have insulated
with some discarded foam?
Even if you had a chance
and it was given you for free
where underneath your bridge
would you put your Christmas tree?
How does it feel to hold your
“will work for food” sign
as most people drive by
to go home where they dine?
Do you wonder at the people
and think it is so odd
they ignore your desperation
while arguing about God?
Do you know you’re like Jesus
and he was just like you?
There was no room in the inn
so he was homeless too.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Did They Do What They Detested?
Did They Do What They Detested?
By Larry Linville
“Don’t take Christ out of Christmas,” they shout
while they spend their spare time going out
to try to find all the bargains and the sales
and their love of possession prevails.
They’d go to worship if they had time
but they’re counting each nickel and dime.
They should read the story from God’s Word
but wild parties are much more preferred.
They’ve cookies and candy to prepare
but they can’t squeeze in time for their prayer.
They spend hours decorating the house
and the stress makes them yell at their spouse.
They get Santa’s picture with their kids
and they update all their eBay bids.
Wrapping presents well into the night
but they stop to arrange their plane flight.
Does it ever sink into their heads
when they finally rest on their beds
that Christ was not in their Christmas plans?
They crowded Him out with their own hands.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work
By Larry Linville
“Don’t take Christ out of Christmas,” they shout
while they spend their spare time going out
to try to find all the bargains and the sales
and their love of possession prevails.
They’d go to worship if they had time
but they’re counting each nickel and dime.
They should read the story from God’s Word
but wild parties are much more preferred.
They’ve cookies and candy to prepare
but they can’t squeeze in time for their prayer.
They spend hours decorating the house
and the stress makes them yell at their spouse.
They get Santa’s picture with their kids
and they update all their eBay bids.
Wrapping presents well into the night
but they stop to arrange their plane flight.
Does it ever sink into their heads
when they finally rest on their beds
that Christ was not in their Christmas plans?
They crowded Him out with their own hands.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work
Thursday, December 13, 2007
The Ice Percussionist
The Ice Percussionist
By Larry Linville
On a December day
The skies became gray
Releasing drops of rain
Frozen where it landed
Some on the roads
Complicating persons with the best balance
Other drops collected on power lines
And the beautiful trees
With some brown leaves still hanging
The beautiful glistening branches
Began to bow in prayer
Asking for a miracle
Either for the rains to stop
Or the weather to warm
But their prayers were denied
And the darkness of night
Hid them for view
And made way for the
Percussionist
Who gave his special drum roll
All night long
The sharp staccato of a snare
Was heard when each limb
Was overcome by the weight
One by one the rat-a-tat
And soon a cymbal roll
As the whole limb
Came crashing to the ground
Occasionally the big bass drum
Gave its big boom
When the transformer on the pole
Shot sparks into the air
And turned off lights in houses
All around
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work
By Larry Linville
On a December day
The skies became gray
Releasing drops of rain
Frozen where it landed
Some on the roads
Complicating persons with the best balance
Other drops collected on power lines
And the beautiful trees
With some brown leaves still hanging
The beautiful glistening branches
Began to bow in prayer
Asking for a miracle
Either for the rains to stop
Or the weather to warm
But their prayers were denied
And the darkness of night
Hid them for view
And made way for the
Percussionist
Who gave his special drum roll
All night long
The sharp staccato of a snare
Was heard when each limb
Was overcome by the weight
One by one the rat-a-tat
And soon a cymbal roll
As the whole limb
Came crashing to the ground
Occasionally the big bass drum
Gave its big boom
When the transformer on the pole
Shot sparks into the air
And turned off lights in houses
All around
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
The Changes of Christmas
I was visiting my Aunt Bettie who is in rehab at a nursing home to recover from a broken arm. After a wonderful visit with her I walked the halls as I left and saw a woman in a wheel chair. As I came home these words were running around in my head.
The Changes of Christmas
By Larry Linville
before she could walk
she sat on Santa’s lap
and cried
because she was scared
by the bright red uniform
and long white beard
in later years she put stars in the catalog
to mark the toys she wanted for Christmas
and her mother helped her
write a letter to Santa
after marriage, she took her children
to cry on Santa’s lap
and she helped them bake cookies
to leave for Santa
on Christmas Eve
now she spends her December days
in a wheelchair
in the halls of a nursing home
staring at the Christmas wreaths on the door
hour after hour
she receives only a few Christmas cards
which a nurse reads to her
over and over again
visiting caroling groups sing in her room
as she stares blankly into their eyes
and sometimes smiles
but she’s not sure why
she gets some of the Christmas dinner
in her mouth
the rest fall to the floor
like wrapping paper used to land
all around a Christmas tree
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
The Changes of Christmas
By Larry Linville
before she could walk
she sat on Santa’s lap
and cried
because she was scared
by the bright red uniform
and long white beard
in later years she put stars in the catalog
to mark the toys she wanted for Christmas
and her mother helped her
write a letter to Santa
after marriage, she took her children
to cry on Santa’s lap
and she helped them bake cookies
to leave for Santa
on Christmas Eve
now she spends her December days
in a wheelchair
in the halls of a nursing home
staring at the Christmas wreaths on the door
hour after hour
she receives only a few Christmas cards
which a nurse reads to her
over and over again
visiting caroling groups sing in her room
as she stares blankly into their eyes
and sometimes smiles
but she’s not sure why
she gets some of the Christmas dinner
in her mouth
the rest fall to the floor
like wrapping paper used to land
all around a Christmas tree
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Mary's Challege from Gabriel
Mary’s Challenge from Gabriel
By Larry Linville
Gabriel told Mary she would have a boy
for her and everyone as a source of joy.
Can you imagine how shocked she became,
pledged to Joseph but not sharing his name?
Did she have the choice to say “no” to her God?
The angel didn’t ask – which seems very odd.
Instead she accepted it with all of her heart
not knowing what it would take to play her part.
She visited Elizabeth to see
if she was with child as he said she’d be.
Liz was with child like Mary had been told
which strengthened her faith and made her more bold.
With this new faith she followed God each day
and obeyed God’s instructions all the way
not knowing all the trials she’d endure
but feeling all the time she was secure.
That faith led her through the short days ahead
and stayed with her after her son was dead.
But it also led her through the dark skies
outside that grave from which he did arise.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
By Larry Linville
Gabriel told Mary she would have a boy
for her and everyone as a source of joy.
Can you imagine how shocked she became,
pledged to Joseph but not sharing his name?
Did she have the choice to say “no” to her God?
The angel didn’t ask – which seems very odd.
Instead she accepted it with all of her heart
not knowing what it would take to play her part.
She visited Elizabeth to see
if she was with child as he said she’d be.
Liz was with child like Mary had been told
which strengthened her faith and made her more bold.
With this new faith she followed God each day
and obeyed God’s instructions all the way
not knowing all the trials she’d endure
but feeling all the time she was secure.
That faith led her through the short days ahead
and stayed with her after her son was dead.
But it also led her through the dark skies
outside that grave from which he did arise.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Nativity -- The Birds
Nativity – The Birds
By Larry Linville
The angel’s news to the shepherds was heard
by an inquisitive little gray bird.
His wings were flapping as he flew straight back
to tell all the birds in their little shack.
When he sang his news a new tune came out
and birds came together from all about
joining their voices in a giant song
of praise imitating the angel throng.
Their lullaby soothed the baby to sleep
and gave a welcome to shepherds and sheep.
They had never sung just like this before.
Their former bird songs were thrown out the door.
People in town wondered what was so wrong
as they heard the birds sing another song.
They asked to see if there was new danger
and learned of the babe born in the manger.
I am told if you’ll go out on Christmas Eve
and listen closely and try to believe
you’ll hear the birds sing a different song
and you’ll soon find yourself singing along.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
By Larry Linville
The angel’s news to the shepherds was heard
by an inquisitive little gray bird.
His wings were flapping as he flew straight back
to tell all the birds in their little shack.
When he sang his news a new tune came out
and birds came together from all about
joining their voices in a giant song
of praise imitating the angel throng.
Their lullaby soothed the baby to sleep
and gave a welcome to shepherds and sheep.
They had never sung just like this before.
Their former bird songs were thrown out the door.
People in town wondered what was so wrong
as they heard the birds sing another song.
They asked to see if there was new danger
and learned of the babe born in the manger.
I am told if you’ll go out on Christmas Eve
and listen closely and try to believe
you’ll hear the birds sing a different song
and you’ll soon find yourself singing along.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Naivity - The Wise Men
Nativity – The Wise Men
By Larry Linville
Among the greatest scholars of their day
who traveled from a country far away.
It required great determination
to reach their distant destination.
How many times did they want to say
“let us turn back – it’s too far away.”
But they were driven to follow the star
knowing their mission was not that bizarre.
According to Herod’s calculations
it may have been two years between nations.
The star which they followed as they did roam
ended not at a manger – but a home.
Although they didn’t arrive at a manger
with them the good news went to a stranger.
Their presence with him was so uplifting
and they started the practice of gifting.
Their lives must have changed from this episode
and we are so thankful they’d been so bold
before they left they knelt down to pray
and returned to their home another way.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
By Larry Linville
Among the greatest scholars of their day
who traveled from a country far away.
It required great determination
to reach their distant destination.
How many times did they want to say
“let us turn back – it’s too far away.”
But they were driven to follow the star
knowing their mission was not that bizarre.
According to Herod’s calculations
it may have been two years between nations.
The star which they followed as they did roam
ended not at a manger – but a home.
Although they didn’t arrive at a manger
with them the good news went to a stranger.
Their presence with him was so uplifting
and they started the practice of gifting.
Their lives must have changed from this episode
and we are so thankful they’d been so bold
before they left they knelt down to pray
and returned to their home another way.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
Friday, December 7, 2007
Nativity -- The Goat
Nativity – The Goat
By Larry Linville
You don’t see the goat at the stall.
Paintings don’t show him there at all.
But he was there as I am told.
He was there in the old sheepfold.
Shepherds used him to lead the flock.
Out in front he would always walk.
He tried his best to do his part.
He loved to serve with all his heart.
He felt close to the baby boy
but this wasn’t a cause of joy.
He identified with this child
with some ideas that were so wild.
A scapegoat dies so others live.
This causes him his life to give.
The goat’s presence was a bold sign
of the future of the Divine.
All the goat could do was to stare
and wish he wasn’t really there.
But he knew so well in his mind
this sweet child would die for mankind.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved. Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
By Larry Linville
You don’t see the goat at the stall.
Paintings don’t show him there at all.
But he was there as I am told.
He was there in the old sheepfold.
Shepherds used him to lead the flock.
Out in front he would always walk.
He tried his best to do his part.
He loved to serve with all his heart.
He felt close to the baby boy
but this wasn’t a cause of joy.
He identified with this child
with some ideas that were so wild.
A scapegoat dies so others live.
This causes him his life to give.
The goat’s presence was a bold sign
of the future of the Divine.
All the goat could do was to stare
and wish he wasn’t really there.
But he knew so well in his mind
this sweet child would die for mankind.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved. Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Nativity -- The Shepherds
Nativity – The Shepherds
By Larry Linville
They worked hard from dawn to sunset
and they were seldom out of debt.
They followed sheep the whole day long
and seldom ever heard a song.
Thus they couldn’t believe their eyes
when from the strangely brightened skies
an angel chorus serenade
startled them and made them afraid.
They wondered why they were so blessed
to hear this news before the rest.
Never had God chosen before
to give a message to the poor.
They must have doubted as they went
to see what this strange message meant.
They were so excited to see
it was like they said it would be.
Could they have left an impression
that influenced Jesus’ vocation.
“I am the good shepherd” he said
just like those who came to his bed.
As they took care of their sheep
the message they chose not to keep.
Instead they spoke to everyone
about God’s gift of his only son.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
By Larry Linville
They worked hard from dawn to sunset
and they were seldom out of debt.
They followed sheep the whole day long
and seldom ever heard a song.
Thus they couldn’t believe their eyes
when from the strangely brightened skies
an angel chorus serenade
startled them and made them afraid.
They wondered why they were so blessed
to hear this news before the rest.
Never had God chosen before
to give a message to the poor.
They must have doubted as they went
to see what this strange message meant.
They were so excited to see
it was like they said it would be.
Could they have left an impression
that influenced Jesus’ vocation.
“I am the good shepherd” he said
just like those who came to his bed.
As they took care of their sheep
the message they chose not to keep.
Instead they spoke to everyone
about God’s gift of his only son.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Nativity -- Mary
Nativity – Mary
Larry Linville
My decisions were all made for me
as a woman I was never free
to even decide whom I would marry
and I want to say this is scary.
Joseph to whom I had been engaged
was much older when it was arranged
and I was just a shy teen-aged girl
which set my life in a great big whirl.
Another big choice was made for me
and all I could do was just agree
to bear a child whose father was God
such a request was extremely odd.
My long journey left me sore and weak
and I rested in a shed so bleak.
Then I was honored to give a birth
to a boy who would bring joy to earth.
Shepherds came to the manger to pray
and tell me what the angels did say.
I treasured all these things in my heart
as I watched them all turn and depart.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
Larry Linville
My decisions were all made for me
as a woman I was never free
to even decide whom I would marry
and I want to say this is scary.
Joseph to whom I had been engaged
was much older when it was arranged
and I was just a shy teen-aged girl
which set my life in a great big whirl.
Another big choice was made for me
and all I could do was just agree
to bear a child whose father was God
such a request was extremely odd.
My long journey left me sore and weak
and I rested in a shed so bleak.
Then I was honored to give a birth
to a boy who would bring joy to earth.
Shepherds came to the manger to pray
and tell me what the angels did say.
I treasured all these things in my heart
as I watched them all turn and depart.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Nativity -- The Angel
Nativity – The Angel
By Larry Linville
Gabriel was so excited
as we angels all united
lifting voices as a chorus
to praise the new child born for us.
We wanted to sing for a crowd
with voices of which we were proud.
But Gab said that we’d go to the hills
and there we would use our great skills
to sing the good news to the poor
shepherds who’d not been blessed before.
T’was the reason for the location
in this place below our vocation.
The shepherds couldn’t believe their eyes
when they saw us singing in their skies.
They listened to what we had to say
as we turned and then we flew away.
But the shepherds left in great haste.
Not a minute for them to waste.
At the manger where each shepherd saw
that we told them the truth after all.
They told young Mary all they had heard
and everything they knew had occurred.
And Mary pondered it in her heart
as she watched all the shepherds depart.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
By Larry Linville
Gabriel was so excited
as we angels all united
lifting voices as a chorus
to praise the new child born for us.
We wanted to sing for a crowd
with voices of which we were proud.
But Gab said that we’d go to the hills
and there we would use our great skills
to sing the good news to the poor
shepherds who’d not been blessed before.
T’was the reason for the location
in this place below our vocation.
The shepherds couldn’t believe their eyes
when they saw us singing in their skies.
They listened to what we had to say
as we turned and then we flew away.
But the shepherds left in great haste.
Not a minute for them to waste.
At the manger where each shepherd saw
that we told them the truth after all.
They told young Mary all they had heard
and everything they knew had occurred.
And Mary pondered it in her heart
as she watched all the shepherds depart.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
Monday, December 3, 2007
The Innkeeper
Nativity – Innkeeper
By Larry Linville
I had just purchased my little inn
when my whole world began to spin.
Caesar’s census brought a big crowd
making our little town very loud
I needed more time to learn my trade
before I faced the endless parade
of travelers from far and from wide
to find a place they could reside.
My place was packed to overflowing.
This couple came and she was showing.
My heart hurt me when I had to say
"There is no room you must go away."
If I had known then what I know now
I wouldn’t have roomed them with the cow.
I was so sad and I couldn’t sleep
as I closed the door and watched her weep.
There was more action in that shed
when I went down there to take some bread.
I wanted to apologize
but they hugged me with happy eyes.
A baby boy was born that night.
It was a very eerie sight.
He laid in the manger like a king
and I thought I heard some angels sing.
Years later I had bought a new place
and my life moved at a hectic pace.
I bought some inns in Jerusalem
and I made lots of money with them.
This baby who had become a man
came to me with the strangest plan.
He wanted to rent an upper room
for a Passover meal I presume.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
By Larry Linville
I had just purchased my little inn
when my whole world began to spin.
Caesar’s census brought a big crowd
making our little town very loud
I needed more time to learn my trade
before I faced the endless parade
of travelers from far and from wide
to find a place they could reside.
My place was packed to overflowing.
This couple came and she was showing.
My heart hurt me when I had to say
"There is no room you must go away."
If I had known then what I know now
I wouldn’t have roomed them with the cow.
I was so sad and I couldn’t sleep
as I closed the door and watched her weep.
There was more action in that shed
when I went down there to take some bread.
I wanted to apologize
but they hugged me with happy eyes.
A baby boy was born that night.
It was a very eerie sight.
He laid in the manger like a king
and I thought I heard some angels sing.
Years later I had bought a new place
and my life moved at a hectic pace.
I bought some inns in Jerusalem
and I made lots of money with them.
This baby who had become a man
came to me with the strangest plan.
He wanted to rent an upper room
for a Passover meal I presume.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Nativithy -- The Cow
Nativity – The CowBy Larry Linville
A cow was resting in the stall
in a corner beside the wall
when the couple came inside
and soon a new baby cried.
The cow was always so content
but wondered what all this meant.
She watched it all from afar
by the light of a new star
Maternal instincts drew her near
for what she could see and hear.
She felt that love which Mary had
and, like Mary, she was so glad.
She called the animals aside
and became their faithful guide.
She showed them how to say a prayer
as each one shed a joyous tear.
She told them how much they were blessed
to welcome this young special guest
and sent them out when morning came
to spread God’s love in Jesus’ name.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
A cow was resting in the stall
in a corner beside the wall
when the couple came inside
and soon a new baby cried.
The cow was always so content
but wondered what all this meant.
She watched it all from afar
by the light of a new star
Maternal instincts drew her near
for what she could see and hear.
She felt that love which Mary had
and, like Mary, she was so glad.
She called the animals aside
and became their faithful guide.
She showed them how to say a prayer
as each one shed a joyous tear.
She told them how much they were blessed
to welcome this young special guest
and sent them out when morning came
to spread God’s love in Jesus’ name.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Nativity -- The Sheep
Nativity -- The Sheep
By Larry Linville
I hadn’t been born for long
when I heard the strangest song
sung by angels up on high
from the brightest starlit sky.
“Peace on earth” I heard them sing
as they told us of a king
born on this such special night
as the shepherds shook from fright.
My weak legs weren’t working right
as the shepherds took their flight
to see what the angels told
on this hillside so very cold.
To a barn they sped with us
to check out this cause for fuss
we entered a little stall
and stood there all filled with awe.
In a manger a boy laid
the shepherds knelt down and prayed
I crept up to take a peek
at the child who was so meek..
On my back legs so I could see
as he looked right back at me
with a big smile on his face
which caused my heart start to race.
We didn’t know that some day
after we had gone our way
cloth from my wool he would wear
when his message he’d declare.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved. Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
By Larry Linville
I hadn’t been born for long
when I heard the strangest song
sung by angels up on high
from the brightest starlit sky.
“Peace on earth” I heard them sing
as they told us of a king
born on this such special night
as the shepherds shook from fright.
My weak legs weren’t working right
as the shepherds took their flight
to see what the angels told
on this hillside so very cold.
To a barn they sped with us
to check out this cause for fuss
we entered a little stall
and stood there all filled with awe.
In a manger a boy laid
the shepherds knelt down and prayed
I crept up to take a peek
at the child who was so meek..
On my back legs so I could see
as he looked right back at me
with a big smile on his face
which caused my heart start to race.
We didn’t know that some day
after we had gone our way
cloth from my wool he would wear
when his message he’d declare.
© Copyright 2007 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved. Larry Linville has granted Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
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