A Child's Christmas Prayer

A Child’s Christmas Prayer
By Larry Linville

Dear Jesus,
I’m just a little kid.
I’m not so old you know
but I just keep wonderin’
how your star has such a glow.
You could have stayed in heaven
but you came down to this earth
and made the greatest sacrifice
though I have no special worth.

When you had a birthday party
each and every year
did you know I’d celebrate it
as I sing Christmas songs right here?
Did you get many presents
besides frankincense and gold
and did you have a happy toy
you could just sit and hold?

I wish I could have been there
with shepherds and their sheep
to look upon your sweet face
as you laid there fast asleep.
But since I could not be there
I just ask and pray
that you will be here with me
on this special Christmas Day!
Amen

© Copyright 2008 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.

Seduced Labor

Seducing Labor
By Larry Linville

She approached with her face one big smile.
She had great news she wanted to say
so she spoke so loud everyone could hear
no matter if they stood far away.

“I’m a grandma for the first time,” she said
and she looked with great pride at her neighbor.
“They took my daughter to delivery
and they carefully seduced labor.”

It would have been wrong for me to comment
or correct the wrong work she used.
So I just congratulated her
and did not reveal I was amused.

“Did they put a HyVee in her arm?”
I asked in my best orneriness.
Unaware I had said anything wrong,
“As a matter of face,” she said, “yes!”

© Copyright 2008 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.

Garth Brooks and Worship

Garth Brooks and Worship
By Larry Linville

I dreamed I went to worship
in a great big concert hall
with seats as far as you can see
and the ceiling was so tall.

Then the music started loudly
and the lights began to flash
as Garth Brooks came running
while I heard the cymbals crash.

The crowd stood and waved their arms
as they sang on every song
at full volume each one sang
and they never got it wrong.

Then my dream took a crazy turn
as only in dreams it could
and Jesus Christ was standing
where moments ago Garth stood.

I began to see excitement
that worship seldom reveals
with people showing the depth
of where every person feels.

“Friends in Low Places” seemed to
explore our lives lived in sin
but “We Shall Be Free” gave us
the joy to smile, shout, and grin.

“The Dance” reminded us of joy
when we surrender all our cares
and recall when things are unclear
as he sings “Unanswered Prayers.”

“Thunder Rolls” reminds of power
when Jesus died on the cross
“If Tomorrow Never Comes”
helps us survive every loss.

We feel how the disciples felt
when the tomb was all sealed up
but our joy returned when we heard
“Ain’t Goin’ Down til The Sun Comes up.”

© Copyright 2008 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.

Memories of Children's Pageants

Memories of Children’s Pageants
By Larry Linville

Watching children’s pageants
down through all the ages
with programs all printed
in thousands of small pages.

They are always different
and yet so much alike
from the red-haired freckled lad
to the high-pitched squeaking mic.

Some dress in fancy clothing
reflecting the latest styles.
Others ill-fitting costumes
which bring us many smiles.

Haloes made from hangers
with tinsel of bright gold
on angels extremely shy
and others very bold.

Bathrobes on the shepherds
almost covering their clothes.
Little girl lifting her dress
while picking at her nose.

Cute little sheep on all four,
how quickly each one crawls
while they had long floppy ears
on caps glued with cotton balls.

Virgin Mary dressed in blue
held Jesus very near
as winged angels sang to her
and told her not to fear.

Some songs were known to us.
We’d heard them many times
but others were different
with modern sounding rhymes.

Some sang the tunes off key
and others softly sang.
Those who had no stage fright,
O how the rafters rang.

When the last words were spoken
and the last song was complete
with tears of joy inside
we sprang up from our seat
to cheer our friends and offspring
for every song and word
and no one could convince us
it’s not the best we’ve heard.

© Copyright 2008 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.

Dasher and Dancer

Dasher and Dancer
By Larry Linville

Dasher and Dancer
the first two reindeer
have a unique story
that you ought to hear.

Brother and sister
when they were born
a pair of twins
on that Christmas morn.

Dasher was first born
at the rise of the sun
and he got his name
by showing up on a run.

Dancer was second
or so it would seem
moved to the music
she heard in her dream.

They were Santa’s first choice
when he first got his sleigh.
He wanted to start out with
those who would play.

Dasher was chosen
to move things along
and Dancer gave them
great movement with song.

Year after year
their names were called first.
If they had worn buttons
for sure they would burst.

Once they asked Santa
why he made all this fuss.
So he told the story
of Christmas and us.

He held up a dolly
and told of a child
born in a manger
as sweetly he smiled.

And Mary and Joseph
journeyed so far
to stay in a stable
out under a star.

He told of the donkey
on which Mary rode
proud he had been
to carry his load.

He told of the sheep
who stayed in a field
as angels arrived
and their message revealed.

With all the animals
involved in this story
they seemed so honored
to share in the glory.

So every Christmas
as they lead Santa’s sleigh
they see their task
as both work and play

© Copyright 2008 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.

Little Known History

Little Known History
By Larry Linville
I heard it said so it must be true
about William Penn and so I’ll tell you.
His father’s sisters were nice ladies
but their business was often shady.

They hired these fellows who rode in ships
and committed crimes up to their hips,
stopping every ship that sailed the seas
unloading their cargo with great ease.

They became famous both far and wide.
Their business and ethics would collide.
When they were nabbed there was a great dance
for they had the Pirates of Penn’s Aunts.

© Copyright 2008 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.

Paper Not Colored On

Paper Not Colored On
By Larry Linville

Her wisdom in words far exceed her years.
She spoke in uniqueness one seldom hears.
People besides her parents amused
at the creative language this child used.

“I feel like a piece of paper,” she blared,
“That’s never been colored on” she declared.
From out of nowhere this gem was stated
like other sayings she had created.

I laughed loudly and then I had a thought
that this young lady had just said a lot.
If all of us start life as a blank page
what is found on it is kind of a gauge.

A life which is lived alone and unused
is often a life which is very confused.
But life which is filled with activity
has multiple colors that all can see.

© Copyright 2008 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 Shack

A few months ago I saw some clergy friends reading a book titled, "The Shack" by William P. Young. My thoughts were, "It's another of those fad books." They all talked about how good it was but I knew it would run its course and soon would be replaced by another book. Then a friend sent me a copy. I started reading and soon I was absorbed in the book.

Let me be quick to say that I'm not an avid reader of "recreational" reading. By the time I do the reading I need to do to prepare for sermons and to keep up on the latest new I need to be an effective pastor, I've done a lot of reading. It is not relaxing to just sit and read. I confess that even though it might sound anti-intellectual. Sorry!

This book captured my attention and challenged my concepts. It also touched my emotions. I started losing control of my emotions when I was in my 30's. At that time I found tears in my life when it was inconvenient -- like in a worship service or a wedding or a funeral. I even moved to the point that I cried at movies. After a long time I accepted the fact that I could still be a "manly man" and show my emotions.

This is the only book I can remember reading that caused tears.

It would be wrong to tell all about the book. You need to experience it yourself. Let me say that it helps me to see God's grace in a way I've never seen it before. There is so much judging done by those who call themselves "religious". This book sheds a new light on it.

I highly recommend this book for your reading. If you're like me -- not much of a reader -- it will be worth turning off the TV and spending some time reading.

God will bless you.

Questions for John the Baptist

Questions For John The Baptist
By Larry Linville

Oh John, who in the world were you,
where did you look to get your cue?

Tell me, was your clothing from God
or did you enjoy looking so odd?

Who put you on a diet like that,
were you afraid of getting real fat?

What’s the appeal for locusts, my friend,
or was that just all you had in the end?

What did you hear when you were a child
that made your manhood so very wild?

Did your mother tell of this cousin you had
when you were still such a young lad?

Had your paths ever crossed and did you talk
and did the two of you take a long walk?

Who convinced you he was the One
whom the world would know as God’s special Son?

© Copyright 2008 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.

Phone Call From A Friend

Phone Call From A Friend
By Larry Linville

A good friend called me up today.
We didn’t have too much to say.
Our business issues soon were done
but our talking had just begun.

We’d had long talks in our past
which always gave us both a blast.
Some things were from deep inside
where our greatest thoughts reside.

Today we picked up from where we stopped
right at the point where we had dropped.
Talked about family and how work was going
and how each others spirit was growing.

We laughed at so many funny things
and how we fell when we tried our wings.
We explored the things which we were reading
and where God seemed to be leading.

Although he lives many miles away
we seemed to both play and pray
although neither wanted to hang up the phone
again our relationship had grown.

Soon I’ll see this friend face to face
and we’ll pick up our talk at the same place
where it was when we say goodbye
as a new conversation God will supply

© Copyright 2008 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 Least of These

I will include this poem in my sermon on Sunday.
It is based on Matthew 25:31-46.


The Least Of These
By Larry Linville

I was hungry. . .
For food and you gave me groceries
For attention and you listened to me
For justice and you helped me write letters
I was thirsty. . .
For knowledge and you tutored me
For achievement and you encouraged me
For safe water and you helped dig a well

I was naked . . .
With my mask removed and you accepted me
Emotionally and you helped me look inside myself
Morally and you led me by example

I was a stranger. . .
In a new community and you made me feel at home
At your church and you introduced me to others
I was sick
And you prayed for my healing
And you visited me in the hospital
And you brought a meal to our family

I was in prison
To my fears and you helped calm my fears
To my limitations and you helped me see new options
And you visited me and wrote letters

I am the least of these and I am Jesus

© Copyright 2008 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.

Speaking Engagements Sought

I keep trying to find opportunities to speak to groups on the subject of poetry and my book in particular. My first goal is to recover my investment in getting my book published. I still have a long way to go. Once I reach this goal, I will have another book ready to go. I have now written over 230 poems so there is surely a second book in there.

I've been asking persons to try to get me opportunities to speak at civic groups, church groups or any other group that needs a program. I have had to find programs in several different civic groups and I know it is difficult.

I would love to speak about how I got into poetry and share poems in the book as well as other poems which are not in the book.

Of course, I would hope to get a chance to sell a few books, but if that didn't happen, I would enjoy sharing this new passion in my life.

If you have contact with such a group or if you know someone who is, I would appreciate it if you would suggest me as a program.

WD-40 Or Fight

WD-40 Or Fight
Larry Linville

He shared some good news with the guys.
To most of them it was a surprise.
Their coffee group looked for the latest
and felt that made them the greatest.

At their age aches and pains are not new
and they always welcome a new view.
He said, “I’ve found some good new, guys,
I promise it’s not a bunch of lies.”

They always proclaimed it is true
‘cause so many tried to fool you.
They looked around and then they winked.
Other than that nobody blinked.

“Have you tried WD-40?” he inquired.
He knew they would all be very inspired.
“My arthritis has quit hurting me,
and no other reason that could be.”

Because they respected this good friend
they tried very hard to comprehend.
And each rushed out to a hardware store
and bought a can to spray on their sore.

Now they gather for coffee each day
and pass around a can and spray.
It costs them quite a bit of money
And really makes the coffee taste funny.

Part of Me

Part of Me
By Larry Linville

Part of me
Clings to the small child she was
A decade ago
Pushing her in a swing
Making her laugh until she hiccupped
Kissing her “boo-boos”
And applying a band-aid
Watching cartoons on TV
When I’d rather see a ballgame

Part of me
Feels like it was just yesterday
Listening to the piano
And those monotonous scales
With the starting and stopping
And those clashing notes
Watching her hit the T-ball
Wondering if she’d run toward first or third
And
As a taller girl
Getting rebounds and shooting the basketball

Part of me
Can’t realize
She’s comes so far
As an all-state musician
An accomplished pianist
An inspired Christian
Who knows her goals
For her life ahead

Part of me
Sees her parents in her
Sacrificing and sharing
In bad times and good
Nurturing the talents she inherited
As she mirrored them both
Providing a home where church was central
And serving
Was a response to God’s grace

Part of me
Is trying to capture
How I felt as a Senior
Excited to take life’s next step
On my own
Scared and yet determined
To fulfill my “call”

Part of me
Can hardly wait
To watch her grow
And take her place
As an outstanding citizen
With accomplishments galore

All of me
Overflows at the gift of love
I receive from her
By who she is
And what she will become
To bring so much to so many

And, all of me
Thanks God
She’s
Part of me.

© Copyright 2008 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 Autumn Leaves

The Autumn Leaves
By Larry Linville

The autumn leaves begin to turn
as they have always done each year.
The reds and yellows lead the way
then the others start to appear.

There are so many colors
and a variety of hues
that seem to take our breath away
at the panoramic views.

You’d think with all these colors
they would clash with other trees.
But they form a huge masterpiece
as they gently move in the breeze.

Why do people differ from trees
as we let our colors divide.
We could also be a masterpiece
if we’d allow God’s love to reside.

I guess the trees just depend on God
to bring out His beauty His way.
If we would just be like the trees
we’d be a beautiful bouquet

© Copyright 2008 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.

That Can Of Soup

That Can of Soup
By Larry Linville

Remember that little can of soup
a small part of your grocery list?
You could have just thrown it away
and it would never have been missed.

Then the church announced a food drive
for a food pantry down the street
and you took that little can of soup
to share for someone else to eat.

It was only one small can of soup
in that great big stack of food.
It seemed so insignificant
but you hoped it would do good.

I went to that food pantry, friend,
because my shelves were bare
and I picked up that can of soup
so proudly sitting there.

When all my food had been used up
and my hunger pangs grew strong
I ate that little can of soup
and sang a little thankful song.

That little can of soup you gave
might not have been much for you
but it was a big help to me
it helped to get me through.

© Copyright 2008 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.

Robo Call

Robo Call
By Larry Linville

I just had my first robo call.
It nearly drove me up the wall.
Lies came flying from my phone.
And even though I was alone
I yelled as loud as I could cry
“That is a great big stupid lie.”
He hit me with another lie
And I say, “Hey, Wait, stop it guy!”
I was quick to identify
that this was not a real guy.
But what could I say or do
before this robo call was through.
I started pounding on the keys
I think it was on the “threes”.
All too soon the call was complete
and I was jumping on my feet
I guess the calls will come each day
and there is nothing I can say.
I wish there’s something I could do
and someone that I could sue.
I hope they call while I am gone
to put a yard sign in my lawn
instead of just sittin’ and grievin’
I’ll use that yard sign to get even.

McDonald Coffee Group

McDonald Coffee Group
By Larry Linville

They gather daily with their cup
to tell each other what is up.
They have the same place to sit
and if you’re there, they’ll pitch a fit.
And each chair has the same face
always sitting in the same place.

The golden arches are outside.
They’ll be there until all have died.
Coffee sometimes tastes real good
but often not the way it should.
They never gossip – you know that’s true
but if you’re missing they talk of you.

They discuss all the local news
with their variety of views.
Politics is discussed in full
so things never get very dull
‘cause the facts don’t get in the way
of the opinions that they say.

Look for these groups across the nation
the next time that you a vacation.
Sometimes they make a lot of noise
and they always act like grown up boys.
People notice they are around
and often greet them with a frown.

It’s not Cheers but much the same
‘cause everyone knows your name.
It’s like a club without the fees
where they are free to shoot the breeze.
But it’s not a church that they would make
because they are all wide awake.

The Prodigal Father

The Prodigal Father
By Larry Linville

He asked if I would pray with his friend
who wanted to get his drinking to end.
I’d seen him all around the little town
as a town drunk whose life was always down.

The three of us talked and then we prayed.
I don’t know how long we really stayed.
Then a difficult question he posed
to see if the church’s doors were closed.

“If I go to church will they accept me?”
I searched for an answer to help him see.
“Some don’t even accept me,” I said
“but most of them will.” And he shook his head.

Although he feared the greatest rejection
God warmed the hearts and blocked their objection
and reached out through them with complete grace
as members shared their immediate space.

He attended there for many a week
to change his life he struggled to seek.
And one day with joy shining in his eyes
he asked if I thought he could be baptized.

He flew into his new life on a run
and re-connected with his estranged son.
This new relationship grew each day
and they both worked to put the past away.

It’s good their love grew very strong
but it wouldn’t get to last for long.
Cancer raised it’s cruel ugly head.
In a few months the father was dead.

He died very early one sad day
as the son and I held his hands to pray.
His life may have too soon come to an end
but his once distant son was now his friend.

© Copyright 2008 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.

Conversions

Conversions
By Larry Linville

The same folks came each week
and sat in the back two rows.
No one was ever invited
no Toms, no Harrys or Joes.

The same old hymns were sung
and a dollar put in the plate.
After prayers they ran to their cars
because they could hardly wait.

They were loving people
and very loyal and true.
But they didn’t share the faith
and their church never grew.

At the annual meeting
all the reports were made.
One question was about their growth.
Pastor’s report was not delayed.

How many conversion last year?
How many souls were “won”?
“the furnace is now propane gas,
so I guess conversions were one!”

© Copyright 2008 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.

You Prayed

You Prayed
By Larry Linville

My burden was heavy.
Grew heavier each day.
I was feeling alone
but then you knelt to pray.

I knew not you had done it
when I had no where to turn.
I was feeling helpless,
my heart about to burn.

God knew you were praying
although I never did.
But my bucket of pain
had just released its lid.

My burden was lifted
and still it is today
because you took the time
to take a knee and pray.

© Copyright 2008 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.

Small Church Finds The Answer

Small Church Finds The Answer
By Larry Linville

The small town church was feelin’ low.
Their struggling preacher had to go.
Soon another preacher came
but the church sank deeper in shame.

The new preacher tried hard to lead
but the church continued to bleed.
Nothing seemed to make things new.
No new visions – not even a few.

Right after church one Lord’s day
all board members were asked to stay.
They sat on the front two pews
to share with hope each other’s views.

One by one suggestions came
but it was not more than just a game.
Then a woman rose to her feet
with words that weren’t very discreet.

“If we want the church to change,” she said,
“We should pray.” And to the altar she led.
The church was very shocked for a while
then one by one they came down the aisle.

Every board member that gathered there
knelt at the altar rail in prayer.
No one told them when they were through
but each left with a mission to do.

Would you believe things changed that day
because one old lady knelt to pray?
And people didn’t think it was odd
to turn their problems over to God.

© Copyright 2008 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.

DON'T GIVE UP

My greatest fear about this blog is when I go a number of days without a new poem. I guess that might be an irrational objective. You've seen me say several times that I fear if my faithful readers keep checking in an there is no updated material -- they may quit checking in.

With that said, I apologize because the schedule I've been running has slowed down my creativity. The week of bronchitis really took the wind out of my sails. I've had a lot of extra demands on my time.

The poems will flow again. I'm positive about that. Don't give up.

It's Not Writers' Cramp

It’s Not Writers’ Cramp
By Larry Linville

Why is it called writers’ cramp?
I don’t have deep sudden pain
or muscles that contract
and I do things I disdain.

Spasms aren’t part of my life.
Horses called “Charley” don’t grab.
I don’t wake up in the night
with pain that makes me feel drab.

I have ideas that don’t move
as I sit and play with my pen
if I’m at the kitchen table
or at my desk in the den.

My thoughts just seem to collect
and lay there suspended in space.
Nothing seems to make them move
no matter how fast I may race.

I don’t think “cramp” is the right word
for this lack of creation.
A more appropriate phrase
is Author’s Constipation!

Stock Market Fell Along With Me

Poems have been hiding from me. I'll find them again soon.

I was at a Cursillo last weekend and I developed my reaction to the high mold level. It started with a sore throat and then I started coughing. The weekend demanded a lot of my time and I wasn't able to eat correctly and sleep enough. My blood sugar rose and I began coughing more and more.

Sunday evening I came home and slept.
Monday I wasn't feeling well enough to go to the gym. I went out for small duties I do at North Star and met with my co-pastor to set our preaching dates from January through Easter. Then I came home sat to watch congress pass the "bail out". It's of interest to me because much of my income now depends on the stock market. As the vote (which everyone promised would succeed) went south, the stock market dropped and so did my healthy feelings.

Of course, the stock market didn't cause me to feel sick, but it didn't help.

I awoke at the normal time this morning. I don't feel like going to the gym. I still cough a lot. But I face this day knowing things will get better. The prayer group at Paradise will be praying for me.

I will soon feel like working on my sermon.
I will soon be writing poetry.
I will face each day knowing that God is with me and the God who sees a sparrow fall to earth also sees the things I need.

As you read this blog, will you pause a moment and thank God for being with you?

About My Book

How about a commercial?
I have sold about 130 books personally. A few have been purchased on line. I'm simply trying to cover the cost of producing this book. When that is done I will be ready to print another book. I make more money on the books I sell personally. If it is someone at a distance, it is just as easy profitable for you to order it on line. Any bookstore can order it. If you live a distance from me, go to your local bookstore or Barnes and Noble or Borders.

To those who live in the area, I would like to remind you that Christmas is coming and these would make wonderful gifts.

I am also looking for speaking engagements. Most clubs are always looking for speakers. I would be happy to give a program on poetry and read a variety of my poems. I would have books with me that I would be willing to autograph. I am charge $11.00 (which includes tax).

On October 19th, I am scheduled to attend worship at McMurry and then I will have books for signing following the service. I also plan to have books with me at the District that afternoon.

On October 26th I will be attending the Centennial at Turney and I will have books with me.

I am Larry Linville and I approve this commercial.

Spider's Web

Spider’s Web
Larry Linville

I was mowing the yard the other day.
A big spider web was right in my way.
Big fat spider was looking at me.
Don’t know what he did but I had to pee.

The web collapsed as I drove away.
I don’t know what the spider had to say
when I came by I looked for him again
on the web he was starting to spin.

The next afternoon the web was in place.
He stared at me with his big ugly face.
A piece of paper was hanging for me
and he pointed so I’d be sure to see.

It had a poem he wrote in his fright.
I guess he’d written it during the night.
As I took time for the spider’s verse
it really made me fell so much worse.

“This human ran right into my home.
He had no hair, he was a chrome dome.
He tore my web from where it had rested.
A web that lasted when it was tested.

“He seemed to enjoy what he had done
even though he seemed to quickly run.
I think he was sad but I can’t be sure.
That look on his face seemed to be pure.

“I wrote this poem in case he can read
to tell him I forgive him for his deed.
Perhaps next time he’ll keep his route clear
as he remembers that I am still here.”

Natural Sugar

Natural Sugar
By Larry Linville

Coming from the grocery store
with the Starbucks lady by the door.
She offered a drink for me to taste
and I said, “I can’t” and rushed with haste.
“I am a diabetic”, I said.
She looked at me with the greatest dread.
“It’s natural sugar,” said sweet Sue.
“I’m a natural diabetic, too!”

Talking To A Computer

Talking To A Computer
By Larry Linville

I called to report a power loss.
A nice computer answered me.
It told me which buttons to push
so I pushed button number three.

It helped me listen in English
by just pushing the number one
and it gave me many numbers
til I had my report fully done.

Would you believe a had a call
from their computer very quick?
And it said they had my report
and then shortly I heard a click.

I wondered out loud how it would be
if my computer could only reply.
I don’t know how I would do it
but I’d really like to try.

If we could get computers
to talk to each other alone
we could do so many things
while computers talked on the phone.

I realize I’m an old man
and not up to date with what’s new.
So if we already have it,
don’t tell me – just keep it to you.

Warm Birth -- Cold Death

Warm Birth – Cold Death
By Larry Linville

Her birth was such a happy day
with her family gathered around.
Her helpless form warmly welcomed
as her parents hearts would pound.

Over four score years later
she laid lonely in a bed
in a cold sterile hospital
with only nurses at her head.

She had no friend or family
at her bedside as she died.
No one to wipe away her tears
of her loneliness as she cried.

She stood at bedsides through her life
as a dedicated nurse.
she watched veterans as they died
in loneliness and even worse.

It may appear she was alone
in her final transition.
But she was in the special care
of the Great Physician.

Old Coffee Taste

Old Coffee Taste
By Larry Linville

I first drank my coffee
as a kid on the farm
in the long cold winter
it made me feel so warm.

With fresh cream from our cows
and one sugar or two
such nice liquid dessert
by the time I was through.

When I left the old farm
and that cream in my cup
I went on a diet
my sugar I gave up.

The taste of my coffee
never tasted the same
and I’m just not so sure
what else I ought to blame.

I tried to recapture
that old special taste
but all of my efforts
only went to waste.

So I guess I’ll settle
for my coffee plain
and drink when I have to
and I’ll never complain.

They

They
By Larry Linville

“They are all just a bunch of drunks,” he said,
about the folks in the poor side of town.
“I pick up their garbage and I should know”
As he put every resident down.

A young man served a church for those fine folks.
He preached to them and sat with them to pray.
He often ate at their kitchen tables
and he was angered to hear them called “they.”

He said to the man, “there’s a difference, sir,
Between what I have seen and what you say.
I see them as Adolph and George and Frank,
and you, my friend, simply see them as they.”

It was silent in the mayor’s office
and the garbage man turned and bowed his head.
The mayor rejected his proposal
and accepted the young pastor’s instead.

Unidentified Lying Object

Unidentified Lying Object
By Larry Linville

It was early morning and dew was all around
something unusual was lying on the ground
I tried to focus in on just what it could be
From every vantage point it seemed to puzzle me

It had a strange color and funny little blobs
Nothing I remembered in any other jobs
One more inspection let me know I need not fear
It was a dew soaked leaf that I saw lying here

Life sends us people whose lives we can’t recognize
They might even cause fear to my unfocused eyes
It’s when I keep looking and seeing all their sides
That I get to visit them where their soul resides

Remember most people are not like they first look
We need to treat them like the way we read a book
Then such a person who once was very frightful
Will soon become a friend that is so delightful

The Burning Bush And Me

This Sunday I will preach on Exod. 3:1-15 about Moses being called at the burning bush. In this poem I try to relate it to my "call" to ministry. Although most of my poems rhyme, this is an attempt at free verse. Hope you find it inspiring.

The Burning Bush and Me
Larry Linville

I didn’t see a burning bush.
The voice that called my name
was a silver-haired pastor
who simply asked,
“Larry, have you ever thought
about being a minister?”
I was only twelve
and didn’t have Moses’ years
of collected excuses.
But like Moses,
I wondered,
“who am I that I should go?”

I didn’t take off my shoes
but I was on holy ground just the same
at the back row in that country church
which doesn’t exist today.
That ground is holy in my mind
and it fills my heart with awe.

God, I AM,
said he’d be with Moses
and I AM has been with me.
I didn’t deliver the Israelites
from captivity
and neither did Moses.
I AM did it!
I have watched through the years
as I AM has delivered Church members
to whom I have been appointed.
Freedom from those things
which have enslaved them
just as miraculously
as crossing a vast
sea of obstacles
in their lives.

Getting Ready For Church

It's Sunday morning and I will need to leave for Church in about half an hour.
I'm sleep deprived because the Redeem Team didn't play until 1:30 a.m....but that's OK I slept through most of it.
I'm taking Ken and Geri (my puppets) to introduce to the children (of all ages) and I dreamed several times last night that I arrived without them. In one dream I even forgot my sermon notes. That would be OK because I don't need them.
Thelma has been recovering from her knee surgery so our routine is complete disrupted.

I'm going to preach about the birth of Moses.
Paradise UMC was down to 5 women and 1 man a few weeks ago and now averages around 50.
Moses' birth story talks about 5 women who helped him survive.
Who are the Pharaohs who try to destroy the Church and our individual spiritual lives?

I hope some poems will find their way into my mind but this week it has not happened.
When I get one, you will be the first to see it.
I apologize for the days you check in and there is nothing new.
I apologize more for several days in a row.
I don't want you to give up and quit checking in.

Well, Sunday School starts at 10 a.m. and Worship at 11 a.m.
Our church is by the lake.
DROP IN some time! :)

Bird Nest or Bed Pan?

Bird Nest Or Bed Pan?
By Larry Linville

I’ve watch the Olympics for many an hour
And I’m amazed at the grace and power
Of many athletes from all around the world
As they jumped, did handstands, and ran, and they whirled

There’s something I thought I heard that they said
As I watched beside my wife’s hospital bed
They called the arena a giant bird nest
Where they held many an exciting contest

It may have been the hospital setting
That constantly caused me to keep forgetting
That I’m really not a giant bird nest fan
It looked to me more like a giant bed pan.

Preach WITH the Preachers

There seems to be many today who condemn all clergy because of the sins of a few well known pastors who seem to be in ministry for power and wealth. It hurts me so much to see this. After reading a poem title "Preach to the Preachers" I felt the need to pen the following words.


Preach WITH the Preachers
By Larry Linville

There’s a profession of which I’m a part,
where good men and women serve from the heart.
They look after churches both large and small
caring of the people because of God’s call.
They are never done helping God’s creatures.
You are needed to preach WITH the preachers.

Some accuse them of the sins of a few.
All are belittled before they get through.
They talk of a few with lives full of greed,
but not of the ones who serve folks in need
as they cheer and inspire from God’s great bleachers.
But they need you to preach WITH the preachers.

Sixty or eighty or more hours they work.
Some do two jobs while their families they shirk.
They visit the sick and pray with depressed
and are there when someone needs to be blessed.
They take the time to be Bible teachers.
Please would you join to preach WITH the preachers?

Please don’t send the who group to hell
because of the few with something to sell.
Get involved in a church that’s near to you
and ask the pastor for a task you can do.
Join hands together and be people reachers.
Go into the world and preach WITH the preacher.

He Talks To Himself

He Talked to Himself
By Larry Linville

When he was born something was wrong.
He always sang another song.
Never heard what other folks said.
Spoke only to voices in his head.
And he talked to himself.

Parents tried hard to help him mature
but everything to him was a blur.
Doctors saw him and he went to school
but people laughed and called him a fool
because he talked to himself.

His folks are gone now, he’s all alone.
He watches TV but has no phone.
People bring food and leave at the door
which he eats while he sits on the floor
and just talks to himself.

They say they’re doing what is the best.
He’s in a home so he can have rest.
He works on crafts and plays many games.
He looks at the folks but can’t say their names
as he talks to himself.

He got to heaven and God took his hand
and led him to see that all things were grand.
The touch of Jesus restored his mind
and he was with those who had been so kind.
And he talked to them.
© Copyright 2008 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 Bossy Fan

The Bossy Fan
By Larry Linville

The count is three and two.
The home team needs an out.
With anticipation
the fans begin to shout.

Some fan on the seventh row
stands up and waves his hands
to get people rising
throughout all the stands.

Why’s he think the he’s in charge?
He doesn’t look that smart.
Does he think he’s an actor
that has to play this part?

Or does he think the other fans
aren’t very smart at all
and need his expertise
to understand baseball.

© Copyright 2008 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.

Self-Serving Prayer
By Larry Linville

O God will you heal my little pain?
It’s causing inconvenient strain.
Please send some money for my bills
so I can have life’s many thrills.
Would it help if others pray with me,
including friends across the sea?
Of course, we’ll speak with holy words
and talk of things like sheep and birds.
And if we travel really far
would you please throw in a car?
And if a friend anoints my head
while making sure good words are said,
with just the right tone in his voice,
can I have the cruise of my choice?
Would you convince my loving spouse
to borrow money for a house?

What is that you say, dear God?
You think my prayer is kinda odd?
You noticed that I ask for more
while caring nothing for the poor?
Dear God do you mean to say
my prayers really aren’t OK?
That if I’d give someone a lift
I’d give and also get a gift?
And my needs would soon be met
with goals that would lower my debt?
You say that my pain would leave
when I helped another grieve?
You say that I could change my town
if my prayers weren’t upside down?
Please God, let me follow you
and show me what I ought to do.
Please help my egotism bend
So I can go and make a friend.
Please let me know that you are sendin’
me to someone who needs tendin’.
© Copyright 2008 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.

Not What She Meant

The "Suppertime" poem which was my last post received an interesting review. If you haven't read it you can scroll down and see it. I send my poems two different places to have them reviewed by other authors. One wrote the following message: "Heart touching poem and good style and word flow. Hope the brothers reunite soon for supper."

What? In order for me to join my brother in that supper I would have to die. I don't think she thought that one through. It's like the woman who told the pastor he should have his sermons published in a book. He said, "Posthumously I presume?" She said, "Yes, and the sooner the better." I don't think that's what she meant.

Another woman (why is it always a woman?) told the pastor that the sermons were like water to a drowning man. I don't think that's what she meant. Another (let's say it's a man this time) said to the pastor that each sermon is a little better than the next. I don't think that's what he meant.

It's so easy to say something that we don't mean to say. The young man can say to his sweetheart, "When I look in your eyes, time stands still." That's OK. But what if he said, "One look at your face would stop a clock." I don't think that what he meant.

I hope you say things the right way today and that it brings joy to others.

I will be working at a Camino from Thursday through Sunday. I hope I say the right things. Please pray for me.

A Song That Grabs My Heart

A Song That Grabs My Heart
By Larry Linville

There’s an old gospel song that I can hardly hear.
Each time I hear it I go back many a year.
When the song begins it brings memories sublime.
It’s title is “Come Home, Come Home, It’s Suppertime

Polio hit my brother when he was only five.
And for a while we didn’t know if he’d survive.
The hospital where he went was many miles away.
And he went there often for a long lonely stay..

When my father returned from one of those long trips
he shared a little story with his trembling lips.
The car radio began to belt out this sad song
and tears appeared on that child who tried to be so strong.

He wouldn’t be coming home for suppertime that day
and neither would he go out in the yard to play.
Several weeks would pass before he’d hear that call,
but even with those tears he attempted to stand tall.

When I hear that song today it grabs at my heart.
My eyes swell up with salty tears which begin to smart.
But someday that call with come and I’ll be able
to join my sweet brother at the supper table.

Animal Skins

This is my third poem from camp. This one is a little more serious and reflects on a presentation about the wonders of nature around us.

Animal Skins
By Larry Linville

They left their skins for us to see.
The fox and rabbit and squirrel gray.
Although they could not talk to us
their hides had much to say.

They were all different and much the same
as they show us how to live.
Each one in its special way
had so much to give.

Their fur was there to keep them warm
and at death they left them behind
so they could continue the task
of giving warmth to humankind.

Ticks

Ticks
By Larry Linville

“Why did God create the tick”,
is a question I often ask.
Why was it so important
in his first creation task?

The spider, wasp, ant and the snake
aren’t on the list of things I would make.
I do think caterpillars are nifty
when, as butterflies, they go at fifty.

Next time God decides to make more
I’ll gladly tell Him which to ignore.
If I get a chance His mind to pick
I’ll ask if he’ll get rid of the tick.

Church Camp

Church Camp
By Larry Linville

It was hot, so terribly hot,
I asked God to relieve the pain.
It cooled off, cooled off real nice
but then we had some rain.

There were people all around.
I always had to stand in line.
But as I got to know them
everything turned out fine.

I was missing Mom and Dad,
heck, I even missed my cat.
But I replaced them with my new friends.
Can you imagine that?

They fed me food I didn’t like,
I couldn’t clean my plate.
But my second meal had what I liked,
Next time I’ll not be late.

I wasn’t sure about the camp
and you might think it’s queer
that I am going to beg my folks
to let me go next year.

No Poem Today

My blog gets about 10 to 15 hits a day on the average. I like to add something regularly because you aren't going to check in if it never changes. The last couple of weeks I was flooded with good ideas for poems. The last several days I have been so snowed under that my creativity has been hampered by my schedule. It's Wednesday already.
The last poem I posted was written for my sermon at Trenton last Sunday. I will be preaching at Avondale this Sunday and I'm going to share a poem that I wrote many months ago. That means I will not be working with a sermon for a poem idea to hit me that way.
There are poems in my mind. I have one about the woman at the well. She was there alone because the other women didn't include her. That one hasn't began to bloom yet. I want to do one about muscle memory but it's far from being ready.
While I wait, let me say that I'm having fun! My beginning with the Paradise Church has me very excited. I've only preached there once but I will be attend VBS tonight. I communicate with leaders from the church on a regular basis through the good old email. I will be helping lead a grandparent/grandchild camp at Wilderness from Monday through Wednesday night week. I have a Camino coming up in August. I keep very, very busy these days.
I hope you will be checking in on a regular basis. I'm sure there will be some good poems (he said humbly) on the way. On those times when the poetry is sparse I will share some thoughts with you.
Today is the only day you have to serve God. Yesterday is gone and tomorrow hasn't arrived yet. I pray that God will inspire you and use you to help spread the love which Jesus demonstrated while he walked the face of the earth. GetRdone!

Plant, Water and Harvest

I will be preaching at Trenton, MO on Sunday. I left there about 19 years ago. This sermon will be based on 1 Corinthians 3:6-9 and this poem came to me as I worked on the sermon.


Plant, Water and Harvest
By Larry Linville

For the spreading of God’s work to take place
People are employed as God’s points of grace
There are three tasks that must always be done
And we may be called to do more than one.

The first task is always to plant each seed
To meet each person at their greatest need.
We cultivate the soil for the sowing
And after that’s done we may be going.

Watering the seed must always come next
Moisture and seed in the ground soon connects
The maturing small seed begins to sprout
And then several roots begin reaching out.

The harvest comes when the time is just right
When the plant grows to its ultimate height
The crop is finally placed in the bin
There to be eaten or planted again.

Sometimes we plant God’s seed in tender love
But its growth always comes from God above.
Sometimes we pour water so it can grow
while we wait for growth which God can bestow.

Sometimes we get to harvest the new grains
Which from the beginning God will sustain
And sometimes we are asked to do all three
With the help of others we never see.

Seeds we have planted while we are here
someone else harvests in another year.
This cycle would seem to be very odd
If the growing wasn’t done by God.

So plant, water, and harvest where you are
so humbly because you are not the star.
And in God’s kingdom your heart will know
You had a big part to help it grow.

Not Like The Old Days

“Not Like The Old Days.”
By Larry Linville

“Not like the old days,” she said
with a discontented sneer
as she rode on her mobile
which was in the slowest gear.

She’s had all that she could eat
while sitting with a big crowd.
Though the music was from her day
it was just to blasted loud.

The residents’ families
had all come to celebrate.
But just as you might have guessed
her family was always late.

She’s been outside for an hour
and would like a place to hide.
As she rode past me in haste
to go to her room inside.

Next time there’s a special thing
she’ll be the first to arrive.
But something will upset her
and her joy it will deprive.

It isn’t like the old days.
There is truth in what she said.
She wouldn’t be in that wheel chair
perhaps she’d still be in bed.

Bumblebee Dance

Bumblebee Dance
By Larry Linville

It was way back in the days of old
when cars without air cooling were sold.
I drove with the windows open wide
and a big bumblebee flew inside

He hit my chest and fell to the seat
somewhere between my belt and my feet.
I did not know just where he went
but my quick searching would not relent.

I’m sure he must have been stunned a bit
and I saw that devil right where I sit
while driving sixty down the road
I tried to move before he’d explode.

With foot on the pedal I tried to stand
so I could reach him with my right hand.
The car was swerving and so was I
trying to keep him from stinging my thigh.

We must have driven for several miles
with other drivers giving me smiles.
At last I got that pest to the floor
and gave him a kick right out the door.

When put to music this awkward prance
is my invention of a new dance.
Not like the twist but it could go far
if I could just do it outside the car.

My Willer Won't Will

I preached a sermon at Paradise this morning based on Romans 7. Paul is talking about doing the things he should and not doing things that he should. I used this poem to look at his situation in our lives today. I hope you like it.


My Willer Don’t Will
By Larry Linville

My willer don’t will
and my don’ter won’t don’t.
My doer won’t do
and won’ter don’t won’t.

I don’t know what
has come over me.
When I try to do right
it’s the wrong thing I see.

My willpower is
always doing fine,
but my won’tpower
is on the decline.

I’m a wretched man
this I must admit.
When I want to go
I just have to quit.

Who can save me from
this dreadful state.
Only Jesus Christ
on whom I must wait.

Jesus' First Sermon

Jesus’ First Sermon
Larry Linville

He wasn’t sent there by a Bishop.
No pulpit committee gave a call.
But he stood up to preach just the same
and with God’s help he spoke to all.

He read the scroll with Isaiah’s words
about bringing good news to the poor.
He said it was fulfilled when he spoke
and he quietly walked out the door.

People were shocked at this home town boy.
In anger they drove him from their town
to push him off of the highest bluff
but through the mad crowd he walked back down.

They were mad because the things he said
were not the things they wanted to hear,
but he knew he had to speak for God
and make God’s message clear.

When your preacher gets under your skin
and says thing you think are absurd
be thankful he’s not trying to please
but is only preaching God’s Word.

My Twenty-Second First Sermon

My Twenty-Second First Sermon
By Larry Linville

I’ve preached a first sermon twenty-one times
in churches both large and small.
Some were located in small country towns
and some in no town at all.

Some were in buildings in county seat towns
with a very tall steeple.
Others found their place in a big city
with the pews full of people.

There’s one thing common in every sermon.
I became nervous each time.
But I stood up and never let it show
and tried to speak so sublime.

As I prepare for my sermon this week
good old number twenty-two.
I know I’ll be nervous, but I’m doing
what God’s asking me to do.

She Turns Forty Today

She Turns Forty Today
By Larry Linville

Forty years ago today
my wife woke me up to say
it was time to deliver
our baby, which made me shiver

I drove to the emergency
where the doctor said he would be.
I parked the car and went upstairs
to those with tender loving cares.

I sat calmly to wait my turn
And then the things began to churn.
Nurses rushed all over the place
as I sat with my puzzled face.

Soon there appeared a friendly nurse
with a line she had to rehearse.
“I know things have been a big whirl,
but now you have a baby girl.”

So now she turned forty today
it seems like only yesterday
that this girl came to live with us
after causing such a big fuss.

The Church Looking Back

The Church Looking Back
By Larry Linville

“The church is different,” you hear them say.
“It’s not like it was in my younger day.
“We have strayed so far from the Lord,” they said,
“spirituality is really dead.”

They said the church had played serious games
with that new translation from old King James.
Martin Luther tried to straighten things out
but he couldn’t rid the church of it’s doubt.

Science gave a challenge to get us on track
but the church was fighting to turn the clock back.
Old time religion we ask God to give
just like they sang when we wish we could live.

God must be hoping we’d just look ahead
and sorry we keep looking back instead.
God must believe that the church will grow
but knows that our looking back makes it slow.

Just imagine if we followed God’s lead
how much more the church would truly succeed.
If we could just see God’s vision today
the things Jesus showed would come into play.

Balloons And Life

Balloons And Life
By Larry Linville

A little child has a yellow balloon
so happy because it looks like the moon.
He bats it like it’s a small volley ball
back and forth on the big bedroom wall.
It hits an object that’s so very small
and it pops so the child begins to squall.
Tears from his eyes like a big river flowed
from the time he saw and hear it explode.

A little girl’s party being held outside
with gas filled balloons so carefully tied.
She picks her favorite color to hold.
It is part red with some blue and some gold.
She runs and she jumps and she smiles with glee.
It slips from her hand and now it is free.
She cries so hard like she’s lost her last friend
as she watches it so slowly ascend.

Life seems so much like a balloon to me.
It brings so much joy you’ll have to agree.
But joys sometime explode in our faces
and they put us in unwanted places.
Sometimes they escape and cause us much grief
and steal from our lives like a common thief.
But when this sorrow causes us to crack
there’s always another one in that sack.

My Musical Beginning

My Musical Beginning
By Larry Linville

I started in music, don’t you know,
during a very wet spring.
I never played any instrument
although I could always sing.

The rains came heavy day after day.
The rivers started to rise.
The water rose up to our ankles
and then on up to our thighs.

When it finally flooded the house
and nothing else could be said.
I accompanied on the piano
my brother who was on a bed..

Because he floated on that big bed
sheet music we had to play.
I play the piano when it starts to rain
up to this very day.

Nostalgic Trip

Nostalgic Trip
By Larry Linville

Suddenly I returned to
forty years ago.
The old family farm
on the gravel road with
grass growing between the ruts
and a rusty mailbox leaning
in the old rusty milk can.
Freshly mowed hay
sending its scent to my nose.
Newly born calf
cries hungrily for his mom
who sadly joins in the duet.
Chickens scratching the front yard
in a ritual of welcome
as we climb the steps
to the old porch with the swing
moving back and forth
from an aunt rising
to great us –
her apron string caught between the slats.
Inside the house
the smell of freshly separated milk
gave way to the fried chicken and apple pie.
The unique odor from the pig pen
entered when the wind was in the right direction
and it always was!
Relatives laughed
and cried
and something glared
as they whispered
while looking at another relative.
We ate so much the hogs were jealous
and went back for more.
We kids rode imaginary horses
across the pasture.
I was on Trigger
my cousin on Buttermilk.
The sun sank in the west
as cars departed
and we followed the gravel road

transitions

Poems have been in hiding for a few days. They can flow like the waters of the flooding Mississippi at times and then be as scares as water in the Sahara at other times. I've learned to avoid trying to force them. In my files are a group of poems I've started. One of these days I will look at them and they will jump off the pages to me.
Tonight I will join a friend who has an extra ticket to see the T-Bones. We will be the guests of an investment company and will sit in their suite.
Sunday is the day I preach a sermon to help North Star move our next step in the transition between our pastors. I feel like I am ready. I will preach from Exodus 17:9-13. In that passage the Israelite army was successful as long as Moses help the staff he had used to part the sea in the exodus. When his arms became tired, Moses and Hur (yep, that's spelled correctly) held his arms so the Israelites could win. I want to use my 48 years as a pastor to help our people understand how they can help hold up the arms of our new pastor. Here is the list:
1. Pray for him and for the church daily.
2. Remember -- he is NOT Brian. Be receptive to his different style.
3. Share only positive comments with him and about him.
4. Wear your name tag. I can't understand why people don't want to do this. It is especially importan since he has all these people's names to learn.
5. Volunteer to do things in the church.
6. Send cards and notes to the pastor and family from time to time just to encourage them.
7. Gifts. Once in a while give him a little something: gift certificate to restaurant, movie, etc.
8. Respect his day off and see that he takes it. Don't call him at home unless it is a REAL emergency.
9. Encourage him to take vacation and study time.
10. Be involved in things that will help us grow in our faith.
11. Invite people to church to "come hear our new preacher."

Changes

No poem today!
My life has been full of changes and big events recently.
Thelma and I were married 46 years ago yesterday (June 16).
We celebrated big. We shared a Triple Chocolate Meltdown at Applebee's.
Sunday was the farewell service for my pastor, Brian Roots. He was the founding pastor at North Star and has been a great pastor. This was unusual for me because this was the first time my pastor has left me since 1960.
I'm gearing up to serve a church after having a year off. I will be sharing the pastoral duties with another retired pastor at Paradise United Methodist Church. This will give me the opportunity to preach but still not be completely tied down. I'm looking foward to this experience. God keeps sending me new experiences.
This Sunday, June 22, I will preach at North Star. It will be between the sermon of our outgoing pastor and our incoming pastor. Pray that I will be able to help the congregation move forward in our transition.
I am now in my 49th year as a pastor. Wow!

I guess the lesson in this is that change happens. We can either fight it and complain about it or we can embrace it and look at where God is leading. I think I'll do the later.

One final comment. I was greatly grieved at the sudden death of Tim Russert of "Meet The Press." What a witness he has made. He has been given well-deserved tribute by so many. Only Fox (we might expect) said negative things about him. As I watched the tape of his son standing at his empty chair on the set and hearing him say he would keep the chair, it reminded me of the "Old Metal Desk." I know that chair will bless him as much as that desk has blessed me.

Larry

Happy Father's Day To My Late Dad

Happy Father’s Day To My Late Dad
By Larry Linville

Father’s Day has been different
for far too long it seems.
Forty-three years ago he left
as did his many dreams.

My faith has helped me to adjust.
My spirit now is fine.
But father’s day is not the same
my eyes will shed some brine.

My wife’s dad did what he could
which meant so very much.
But I still miss his still small voice
and miss his tender touch.

My kids all call to share their love.
That always feels so good
and I remember him each year
because he understood.

It may seem silly that each year
I am a little sad.
I see his image in my mind
and thank God for my dad.

© Copyright 2008 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.

Shriners' Convention

Shriner’s Convention
By Larry Linville

At a church conference the other day
we sang many hymns and had time to pray.
We saw old friends we’d not seen for a while
with some we shared tears, with others a smile.
Then to the motel to be recliners
but our rest was cancelled by some Shriners.
At midnight they were going in full swing
and at three and four was still the same thing.
I looked for one of the Shriners to blame.
His fez was familiar but not his name.
I sat at our meeting on the next day
but I can’t tell you what they had to say.
I kept dozing off and having a dream
in which I planned a sinister scheme
which was not Christian I must admit
but my praying didn’t help me to quit
seeing myself driving my little car
while a couple of bikes went flying far.
But I’ve prayed to God to please forgive me.
The prayer was answered and now I am free.
Next year when making my reservation
I will ask if there’s anticipation
of hosting next year’s Shriners’ convention
at which I’ll change my housing intention.

© Copyright 2008 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.

Seein' As How

Seein’ As How
By Larry Linville

Seein’ as how! what does that mean?
I hear it said and it must be keen.
Does it go well with Bein’ as how?
Is it OK to say that now?

Is “How” the name of a certain guy?
Or is it twins? Oh me, oh my.
Why would their folks give them this name?
Were they trying to gather great fame?

Is it a guy we should emulate
with vision as a special trait?
Are we to try to look like him
from our head to every limb?

Or are we to see things from his view
so we’ll know the right thing to do?
Does he help us see wrong from right
from early morning ‘til late at night?

We must “see as how”, I’m sure it’s true
if we “be as how” in all we do.
We can be until we’ve seen
does anyone know what I mean?

© Copyright 2008 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
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It's Off To Annual Conference

To: all my friends who don't know much about the United Methodist Church and those who do.

Subject: Annual Conference is the yearly meeting of our churches of the state of Missouri.
We hear reports, conduct business, set the budget and end with the appointment of our pastors to their churches for the next year.

I attended my first Annual Conference in 1960. A lot of changes have been made down through the years. The thing I anticipate the most is to see persons I haven't seen for a while. I will not be in much of the business sessions. I will attend the retirees luncheon on Saturday. I will spend a lot of time at the booth for the Credit Union (I'm on the board). I'll probably have a number of my poetry books with me!!!! I anticipate attending the ordination of the pastor who is coming to the church I attend.

After a year not serving a church, I will be appointed to serve a small church along with another retired minister. I'm surprised I said "Yes" but having met the leaders of that church and talking to the minister with whom I will be working, I'm excited about the opportunity. I won't be tied down every Sunday and I really, really enjoy the entire process of preaching.

I don't have a laptop so I will not be updating the blog until the first of the week. This would be a good time for you to log in and read some of the old poems again. Do you suppose I might write several poems while I'm at Conference? Probably. Right now I'm working on a poem about "seein' as how."

Down Two Cents And Up A Dime

Down Two Cents and Up A Dime
By Larry Linville

There's a rock in my hand I want to throw
I am so angry most all of the time.
When I pull in to fill up my gas tank
it is down two cents then up a dime.

The local dealer is not the real cause.
His profit's not what makes it climb.
He's not to blame as he changes the sign
it is down two cents then up a dime.

The fat cats and execs are prospering
and living their lives so sublime.
While I get more angry every day
it is down two cents then up a dime.

Congress tells us there is nothing to do.
They don't really think there's a crime.
All I know is my billfold's getting thin
it is down two cents then up a dime.

So here I walk with that rock in my hand
watching the prices as they climb.
My car is sitting with an empty tank
since it's down two cents and up a dime.

© Copyright 2008 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.

Why?

Why?
By Larry Linville

Why's my seat always behind someone tall
so I cannot see the performance at all?

And why do I always sit on the aisle
where people step on me and never smile?

Why does the person I'm sitting beside
have a behind that's so very wide?

And when I can see everything clear
why does someone talk so I can't hear?

© Copyright 2008 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.

New Visitor To Church

I was just recognized in the Spiritual Newsletter at Writing. com. It was for the following poem that I wrote last August. I have forgotten about it and it was good to read it again. I print it again for you.

I am also celebrating the 40th anniversary of my Elder Ordination. I was ordained at Fayette 49 years ago today.


New Visitor To Church

She walked alone into a church one day.
Those who saw her looked the other way.
They tried to catch a sneaky peek
but nobody went to her to speak
and extend warm hospitality
so she could feel their vitality.

“Do you know that woman? one lady said.
The other shrugged her shoulders and her head.
“Her clothing is simple and out of style,”
said one to another with a smug smile.
“Did you notice her finger has no ring?”
“Perhaps she is always having a fling.”
She might be divorced – or doesn’t like men.
We sure don’t need someone like that again!
“The last one was evil -- don’t you recall?”
“If we have her with us, we may all fall.”
“She could be a widow -- it won’t be long then
‘til she starts making a play for our men.”

She sat alone as the service went on.
There was no doubt that the lines had been drawn.
The glib sermon made each one feel bolder.
The mass she was served was just cold shoulder.
The bread and the wine were not withheld
but they gave her much space as if she smelled.
As she left the service and reached the door
they had to confront – they couldn’t ignore.
They said nothing to her just as they planned
but they were startled when they shook her hand
a big nail print which could not be ignored.
Could they have been visited by the LORD?

“As you have done it to the least of these, you have done it unto me.”

© 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.

Making Friends

Making Friends
By Larry Linville

See that fellow over there
sitting in that yellow chair?
I don’t think I like that guy
but I don't think I know why.
Is it 'cause he talks a lot
or thinks he is really hot?
Perhaps it's that crazy smirk
or maybe some other quirk.
I just wish he'd go away
but instead he seems to stay.

Just a minute! I'll be back.

Gosh that fellow over there
isn't really all that square!
We talked and he's really cool
I guess I was just a fool.
I think there's a lesson here
our talk seemed to make it clear.
It's with people we don't know
that our friendship doesn't grow.
When we get to know them well
our friendship begins to swell.

© Copyright 2008 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.

Memorial Day Years Ago

Memorial Day Years Ago
Larry Linville

Up early when I'd rather sleep in
decorating graves about to begin.
Cut the glads and the peonies blue
put them in water when we are through.

The visit of graves where loved one are laid
placing the flowers and short prayers prayed.
We see family and long time friends
then get the Kodak and focus the lens.

We pause at the graves marked with a cross
and learn our freedom was paid by their loss.
American flags of red, white and blue
remind us they were loyal and true.

The picnic basket was opened and shared
with a group of folks for whom we cared.
The graves were pretty on this special day
even though we did not have time to play.

© Copyright 2008 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.

Pentecost

Pentecost
Larry Linville

The winds blew loudly all around.
Tongues of flame danced without a sound.
The gibberish speaking in many a tongue
was like new songs first being sung.

Was it an eagle, no it was a dove
that slowly entered from above.
Nothing like this had happened before,
a church service that wouldn't bore.

Peter stood up and saw the crowd
and gave a message clear and loud.
"We aren't drunk like it might seem.
We have power from the Spirit's stream."

People there from all around
began to smile where they all had frowned.
The church that on that day had its birth
started spreading 'round the earth.

Pentecost is not just one day a year.
It lives in all who have ears to hear
the Spirit which had seemed to hide
will always in our hearts abide.

© Copyright 2008 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 Good Shepherd

The Shepherd's Voice
By Larry Linville

The sheep knows the shepherd's voice.
It makes their trembling hearts rejoice.
They follow him every day
and know he won't lead them astray.
No matter how the time will pass
they know he'll lead them to fresh grass.
When everything in dryness seems
he always finds the coolest streams.
When danger lurks on every side
they know in safety they will abide.

A stranger's voice is not the same.
He doesn't even know their name.
When dangers come with all the strife
he runs away to save his life.
When in hunger they start to cry
he doesn't care if they live or die.
If they get lost or stray away
he's just there to collect his pay.
The stranger always fails the test
but the Good Shepherd gives his best.

© Copyright 2008 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.

Old Country Preacher

Old Country Preacher
By Larry Linville

He was just an old country preacher.
Many never even hear his name
while others sought tall steeple churches
he had no desire for such great fame.

He went about his regular work
in his very own humble way
serving the needs his little flock
twenty-four hours every day.

His sermons aren't printed in a book
but he worked hard on them just the same.
It was the way he served his people
that helped him achieve his great name.

When he finished his life on this earth
and collected his eternal reward.
His body was fittingly buried
in a small country church graveyard.

© Copyright 2008 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.

My Long Time Friend

My Long Time Friend
By Larry Linville

I see her often - my long time friend.
I know how she looks, each and every bend.
Sometimes she is bubbly and moving with haste
at other times she's dried up and only a waste.

She never speaks a single word,
at least nothing I've ever heard.
Her mouth is so very far away,
that I can't hear what she has to say.

She seldom gets out of her comfy bed
and when she does some people are dead.
She gives no money for me to thank
even though she's often in her bank.

When it comes to life she's a giver.
She's known as the Missouri River.
Whether she's flowing rapid or slow
she's a great lady - the might Mo.

© Copyright 2008 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.

My Mother-in-law

My Mother-in-law
By Larry Linville

She had three daughters but not a son
until I married her number one.
She welcomed me and treated me good
and always cooked my favorite food.

Green beans that tasted the best I've had
and all that went with them that made me glad.
She sat with a smile as big as her heart
when I agreed to sing "How Great Thou Art."

Her husband was a preacher, that is true,
and soon her daughter wed a preacher too.
I'm sure she bragged about me with no end
to family and each and every friend.

Alzheimers clouded her final days
and made her sit with a distant gaze.
Death came to her as a welcome friend
allowing her spirit to ascend.

© Copyright 2008 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.

My Mother

My Mother
By Larry Linville

Born in a family that moved around.
Her dad searched for the job he never found.
She married a farmer of meager means
and their diet was not much more than beans.
My mother.

She raised seven children with love and care
and there were times all she had was prayer.
She spread her love evenly to each child
when things were hectic she always smiled.
My mother.

She was a young widow at forty-four
but she trusted her faith all the more.
She tried to be both mother and dad
and cheered her children when she was so sad.
My mother.

At death she was poor like when she was born
and she found her private way to mourn.
Because she never had much on this earth
her life in heaven must be filled with mirth.
My mother.

When I think of her with fondness each May
I never miss the chance I have to pray
and thank my God for such a humble soul
and search for the words her love to extol.
My mother.

© Copyright 2008 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.

How Smart Is He?

How Smart Is He?
By Larry Linville

He talks like he know all
He thinks he's a whiz
If he was half as smart as he thinks
He'd be twice as smart as he is.

He likes you to ask him questions
Give him a very big quiz
If he was half as smart as he thinks
He'd be twice as smart as he is.

He speaks at length about the arts
And talks about show biz
If he was half as smart as he thinks
He'd be twice as smart as he is.

© Copyright 2008 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.

Chewing Gum Communion

Chewing Gum Communion
By Larry Linville

The Lord's Supper is not new to me
I've taken and served it many times.
The other day I did something dumb
and there were no good reasons or rhymes.

I was handed a piece of the bread
and dipped it in the chalice with prayer.
But soon I noticed a strange substance
in my mouth as I returned to my chair.

I had some chewing gum in my mouth
which soon was mixed with the piece of bread.
I couldn't tell it to anyone
because my face was a glowing red.

Sourdough bread tastes funny with wine.
Spearmint gum doesn't match either one.
And this crazy new taste in my mouth
gave my mind and body a big stun.

With the body of Christ and that gum
blended in the strangest tasting wad
I knew I needed to do something
‘cause I couldn't spit out the son of God.

I was persistent as I chewed and chewed.
The bread was finally ingested.
But I had some new theology
and some thoughts that must be digested.

It taught me that God will always be there
in all my sticky situations.
And if I keep doing what I should do
He will straighten out my relations.

© Copyright 2008 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.

Thoughts During A Concert

Thoughts During A Concert
By Larry Linville

Why's my seat always
behind someone tall
so I can't see
the performer at all?

And why do I always
sit on the aisle
where people step on me
and never smile?

Why does the person
I'm sitting beside
always have a body
that's extra wide?

And when I can see
everything so clear
why does someone talk
so I can't hear?

© Copyright 2008 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.

Spring

Spring
By Larry Linville

drab dead fall colors
suppressing our joy
only briefly
covered with pure white snow
which soon becomes ugly
with perpetual dirtiness
lasting forever
finally
after an eternity
birds begin singing
rains begin falling
dandelions punctuate
the greening grass

Resurrection!

© Copyright 2008 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.

Our Two Dogs

Our Two Dogs
By Larry Linville

Our dogs are very different
that you can plainly see.
One has to take a little squat
the other lifts a leg to pee.

When you will meet them on a track
one barges on boldly ahead.
While the other with great caution
will humbly step pack instead.

The first dog got in my wife's way
for her it was a big mistake.
His legs and hers got all mixed up
and made a bone in her foot brake.

Now she limps around on crutches
watching him with the greatest care.
Of course he walks all around
ignoring the fact she is there.

If he was a person we'd sit down
and try to have a long talk.
But he's a dog and that's a fact
so we have to watch where we walk.

Copyright 2008 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 New Week

Wow! So much happening.
There aren't enough hours in each day
but if there were more, I couldn't endure.
So busy poems don't happen
I try to force them
but that never works.
Trying to share the good news
of how much Prepaid Legal can benefit
the average person
and that is taking my time.
Volunteering time at my local church
and that takes time.
Now the grass is starting to grow
and that will take time.
The upcoming weekend at a Cursillo
and that takes time.
Oh, yes, I have to watch the candidates
and that take much time.
I will soon be leaving for church
to teach a class and then attend second service.

I have several poems I have begun
a few lines
but I keep trying to add to them
but nothing happens.
You can't dig up a seed to see if it is growning
so I'll leave them buried
until they start to grow in my mind.

Meanwhile, I want to go to a restaurant
and order "eggs Pope."
(Eggs Benedict)

Cross In My Pocket

Poem In My Pocket
By Larry Linville

April seventeenth every year
is a special time to share.
Put a poem in your pocket
one for which you really care.

Take it out and read it
to persons whom you meet
and you may be giving them
a very special treat.

It started in New York City
in the year two thousand two
and has spread across the nation
now you can spread it too.

I have made my selection
and my pocket awaits the day
when I can let a poem
say what I want to say.

© Copyright 2008 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 Perfect Name

The Perfect Name
By Larry Linville

She was just shy of twenty when she wed.
So softly her marriage "I do's" were said.
Just shy of twenty-one she had a child
and the baby was also very mild.
The baby was just shy of seven pounds
and always smiled and she never had frowns.
Anne was the name of both mother and child
Neither of them ever lived very wild.
When mother saw her daughter was so tame
She new that Cheyenne was such a good name

© Copyright 2008 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 All Knowing Waitress

The All Knowing Waitress
By Larry Linville

“The usual?” she smiled and asked of me
proud of her perfect waitress memory.

Predictable, I never wished to be
so I shook my head and said, “ number three.”

“But you always have a number four
and sit way up front right next to the door!”

“Surely, you must be playing with my mind!
you are always very thoughtful and kind.”

“Well, I would never want to bother you
so why not just give me a number two?”

The next time I entered into the place
she looked at me with a smile on her face.

She didn’t try to guess what I would choose
because if she did, she knew she would

© Copyright 2008 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.

Singing Parts

Singing Parts
By Larry Linville

It always sounded cool to me
When someone sang the harmony
At church my mother sat with me
And gave singing lessons for free
I sang that alto line with her
With her voice that sounded pure
I couldn’t read those funny notes
That were coming from our throats
Soon somehow I began to know
Whether to sing high or low
Today I can sing every part
Because of what she put in my heart
She is gone from me it is true
But when I miss her and get blue
I lift my voice and sing a song
And pretend she’s singing along

© Copyright 2008 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.

April Fools

April Fools
By Larry Linville

They pull out the same bad jokes
and use on unsuspecting folks
then they laugh at this thing so cruel
and blurt out loudly, “April Fool.”

The fun is with the one who fools.
The other doesn’t know the rules
and stands and looks just like goof
whose gullility is proof.

The biggest fool around today
never takes any time to pray
and doesn’t share the love of God.
He is the one who’s really odd.

© Copyright 2008 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.

Church Meeting Lying

Church Meeting Lying
By Larry Linville

I was asked to speak at a church
and I said I’d surely do it.
Then recalled I would miss a game
and began to really rue it.

Let me come up with an excuse
I could employ to call it off.
Just like a big fat selfish hog
forcing my way up to the trough.

Excuses all seemed very lame
there has to be a good one
to get free of the commitment
to witness for God’s only Son.

Before making that vital call
and telling the church a big lie
I began to feel like Judas
Saying “Dear Lord, Is it I?”

Lying seems so commonplace
and it’s nothing very odd
but I just couldn’t let myself
lie about church things to God.

I kept my word and I am glad.
What more do I need to say!
The game was not that day at all.
It was played the very next day.

© Copyright 2008 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.

Busy, busy, busy.....

I really get upset with myself when I let this blog sit many days without an entry -- preferably a poem. Poets go into the desert when no inspiration comes. The more you try the harder it is to get an inspiration.

Thelma and I have both been to the doctor. Her broken foot is healing very slowly. I had my lab work for my annual physical. That has taken time.

We are also working to get a business off the ground to supplement our pension. I have a pension that is tremendous unless we want to eat out or go somewhere. We have been working with Prepaid Legal Services, Inc. I'm very excited about helping the average person obtain affordable legal help. (You can link up to it and find out about at my link at the upper right hand corner of the page. You might find the best news of the day.

I know that a poem is just an idea away. I really want to do something about April Fool's day and I'm running out of time.

Meanwhile, my book is selling GREAT.

Easter In The Pew

Easter In The Pew.
By Larry Linville

Just the second time since 1960
the second Easter
I have not preached.

Twice in forty-eight years
I’ve given no sermon
and nobody was reached.

The first I was in the hospital
with a Biblical kidney stone
that moved that day.

It hit on Good Friday
and on Easter
the stone rolled away.

Today I was healthy
and ready to receive
as I sat in a pew

as a retired pastor
I sat back and watched
what other people do.

© Copyright 2008 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.

Full Moon

Let me depart from my poetry for a moment.
As I left the Maundy Thursday service last night I saw a big, bright, full moon.
It was a reminder of the setting of the date of Easter.
Thursday morning, just after midnight, was the vernal equinox. The beginning of spring.
Easter is the first Sunday
after the first full moon
after the vernal equinox.
You can see why this is one of he earliest Easters possible.
I hope you'll join the multitude who will be at worship this Easter.

Old Man Winter

Old Man Winter
By Larry Linville

He was unwelcomed as he walked right in.
I wore a smile that was very chagrin.
He said he could not stay very long
but I soon discovered that he was wrong.

The longer he stayed the worse my life went
but his presence I soon grew to resent.
My schedule was upset and all a mess.
I wanted him to leave I must confess.

Many times he went right up to the door
then he would remember just one thing more.
Each time he came back close to talk to me
I knew there was no place for me to flee.

A robin appeared just the other day
and the old man got up and went away.
Now I’m standing and starting to sing.
How happy I am that it is now spring.

© Copyright 2008 Larry Linville (UN: larrylinville at Writing.Com). All rights reserved.
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