Tuesday, April 7, 2026

Cruel manipulation

 Sometimes in life we may face many unwarranted accusations. 

And we’re initially confused because of the seemingly bold yet very false “projections”:

But it’s a cruel form of tyranny, to force compliance through manipulation. 

And for the tyrant, projecting onto others is just their form of confession. 

Monday, March 16, 2026

No Judgement

 I was once arrested. Yes, I actually committed and confessed to a crime. 

There were two felony charges against me and I was set on doing my time.

Facing 25 years in prison, I knew that was the end for me.

But as I lay there in the holding cell, God came and comforted me. 


“They never read you your rights, watch what I do for you!”

So with every arraignment, I was polite and well dressed too. 

I showed up in suits, and I listened to it all. 

(How confidently the prosecutors spoke, because they knew they’d see my fall.)


Yet, just before my trial, the judge sat angrily, mad at what was done!

He couldn’t believe that they were apologizing, as if my whole case was dumb. 

The state spoke, admitting things were not as though they made them seem to be. 

I wasn’t the man, just haphazardly shooting dogs in the street.


For in the depositions, they learned that the witnesses were also victims so they advocated for my release.

They were attacked by the dogs, and since the dogs were gone, the neighborhood had known peace. 

Though they were witnesses, none of their stories seemed to agree.

So the only thing the cops could say was that when they arrived, “The one holding the gun was me.”


The judge called me to the stand and looked me up and down.

I approached nervously because I could see his scolding frown.

Son, I’m not mad at you, but you have to promise me one thing?

The words he spoke next made my heart sing! 


I’ve sat and watched you this whole time, you’ve truly been well poised. 

You shown up every time well dressed and remained calm through all of the noise.

You’ve signed the papers so you’ll have to go through the probation… 

But I’m withholding your adjudication, so don’t let me catch you in my courtroom again. 


So I’ve learned, no matter what life may bring your way

Stand tall and be respectful, in spite of what others may say. 

Because we serve a Righteous Judge, and He judges us with Grace. 

He will be more than fair with us when we meet Him face to face. 

Sunday, March 1, 2026

Another Flower 🌹 🌺🌸

 “Sometimes I reflect on days gone by, And I wonder why:”

It was a line written by a friend of mine. 

I initially thought “okay you little poet, that’s nice. ☺️ 

But, the helper in me began to question “Why?”

Why were they contemplating this and what brought this about?

And could I help them stand tall, releasing their every doubt?


For sometimes in life, we’re heavily misunderstood by others. 

We’re misused by friends, & abused by our fathers and mothers. 

The ones we confide in may sometimes be a little judgmental, 

And cause us great distress because their answers aren’t so gentle.


But, to my friend, and to those who ponder the same question.

Please rest assured, and remember to be patient with yourself. 

For when you are in need, there is always someone who can help.

I will share a little tidbit that may give you food for thought.

Flowers grow in dirt, (things that seem negative to us) mud, and in clay pots.

They bloom even in the dry seasons, (for us, when uplifting words are in drought).

Yes, those with beautiful souls, sadly don’t always see…

They’re also a beautiful flower, but they may be trying to grow in the wrong spot. 

Sunday, February 22, 2026

The Death Of Segree πŸ’”

 I sometimes cry when I see the pictures, but I’m glad to have them so.

For they are a bitter reminder of what happens when it’s hard for anyone to just say “No.” 

Although I am proud to be courteous, empathetic, and sincere. 

It was just last January, that death tried to reveal itself, and take me away from here. 


I suffered a “diffuse axonal injury” (my brain had been twisted a bit in my skull).

I honestly can’t remember the last time my mind was that tranquil. 

The doctors tried to force me to stop and take it easy to allow myself a chance to heal.

But I was a bit stubborn, because I didn’t yet know how to give structure to my zeal. 


Yes, I was raised in ministry. I was taught how to be selfless and live Godly. 

I gained the knowledge needed to help others, but what I lacked were protecting boundaries. 

So those I held close always came to me with their requests;

I was altruistic yet naive, never really giving myself a chance to rest.


While looking back over my life this past year, I look at these pictures with sadness. 

Because I know others walked over me, and I see that some did it with gladness. 

Because in their request for help, they expressed the matter’s urgency.

I was too empathic to realize that to them, utilizing me was just a matter of expediency. 


My life is different now; I left rehab with a mindset anew. 

With Discretion as my compass, I am only close to a few.

And though the others still bring me their problems, I can definitely understand their plight, 

But it may be a while before they realize, that “Segree” was laid to rest that night. 

 


Friday, February 20, 2026

Being gracious with myself

I love how everything in life I must go through, leads me back to Him,

Even in the midst of my trials, His grace and mercy causes me to break out in melodious hymns. 

Now that I have “awakened”, I see that He alone is truly righteous, loving, and fair.

And in His desire to help me, He works out my every care. 

I’m aware now more than ever, how forgiving He is to me. 

But I see how, in contrast, others use fear to try to enslave me. 

And yet, with a heart free of malice, envy, and strife

I will show everyone the mindset that will carry me through the rest of my life…

It matters not the form of manipulation, 

Nor the lies against me, that harms my reputation. 

It matters not who may secretly envy me, 

And seem to support me while they spread false speculations. 

It matters not who thinks they’re better than me, 

Nor those who try to control me through intimidation. 

For I see now, how much time it cost me

Trying to prove that I wasn’t the man in their projections. 

What matters is my heart! And how pure God has willed it to be.

It matters how I handle every trial,

(Waiting patiently for God to step in and make everything worthwhile). 

I have decided to live rightfully, being peaceable with all men.

For it has been 19 years since God called my name, and chose me to be His friend. 

I will walk humbly before Him, in submission to His will.

But boundaries must be made to protect myself against those that overtax me because of my skills. 

Yes I’ve been walked over, by some of the ones I’ve loved most. 

Because I was “green” & “naive”! I was altruistic to the utmost. 

I have learned how to be respectful, without taking on another’s responsibilities 

I understand that it’s okay to say “No” at times though I am known for my docility. 

Some may not like to hear that word from me, for I’ve simply said “Yes.” For so many years..

But I must protect myself from those, who disregard my limits and my tears. 

This feels so new to me, to actually think in this way…

To allow myself grace, self love ❤️, and peace of mind each day!

Friday, January 30, 2026

God’s Unending Mercy

 “For He knoweth our frame, He remembereth that we are dust.”

I have fallen in love with God’s Grace; all of His other benefits are a beautiful plus!

I stand on every promise, knowing He’s true to His Word. 

He will NEVER fail me! I patiently wait on Him, knowing my hope is never deferred!


He comforts me when I’m worried, letting me know everything will be okay.

He forgives me when I fail Him, though I may fail Him each and every day. 

He is not slack concerning His promise! He desires that my soul not be lost.

He paid the price for us all, when He hung His head on the cross. 

He allows me to come boldly and cast my every care upon Him.

He lifts every heavy load with ease, causing my heart to sing forth beautiful hymns.


He is more gracious to me than my fellow man!

He picks me up when I fall, He rescues me from the sinking sands.

He asks me speak to myself, and say that "I am strong." when I feel weak.

He renews His mercies for me every morning! He protects me throughout the week.


He is my God, my King, my Comforter, and my dearest Friend. 

He forever reminds me that He's here, and He'll continue guiding me even until the end! 


Wednesday, January 28, 2026

Integrity (Haiku)

 It matters not who

Lies to you, nor against you,

Just live uprightly! ✝️πŸ™πŸΎ


Wednesday, January 21, 2026

The Awakening

Damaged on 01/‘25, yet so many questions were unanswered until 01/‘26.

My body, though traumatically broken, still harbors a will that doesn’t know how to quit.


I spoke to the one who rescued me. He was excited and happy to hear me doing so well again!

God’s grace (shown by the adrenaline rushing through him that night) allowed me to be pulled from my car before the flames began again.


I lay there on the cold ground, still, and wrapped like a baby boy.

He checked my pulse and breathing; though weak, his heart leaped for joy! 


“Man, we are connected by Spirit!… I’ll never forget your name!”

After an hour of listening to him recall the events of that fateful night, Mr. Mark, for me the sentiment is the same! 


Educated, well-versed, always optimistic, and seldom blue. 

Yet, as I was unbearably naive, I was overtaxed and overworked, yes, more than I knew! 


But now my eyes are beginning to open, and wisdom guides me in every decision. 

Discernment and discretion preserve me, they help me see through the manipulation!


So, as a son of God I walk tall, my life secured in His hands!

Just as that collision didn’t stop me! Doubt and worry doesn’t stand a chance! 


My future is still bright; and the healing process still continues!

For now, I know to rest in God’s love, embraced by His virtues!


                    



Friday, June 27, 2025

My Promise

On this day I stand before God, our friends, and family. Proclaiming that this love will echo, and be remembered throughout eternity. 

I vow to not only love you, but to support you in all that you do. I vow to be the husband, who always comes through for you. 

I vow to be a friend, who patiently assists you in all of life’s trials. I'll give my best, so that life, for you, will always feel worthwhile. 

I vow to be there to understand you, so that no one may tear us apart. I vow to lead you with grace and patience, so that you’ll never regret giving me your heart. 

I vow to guide us with discretion, and all of the wisdom that my father imparted unto me. I vow to have a faithful heart, yes all of your secrets will be safe with me. 

I will be there through life’s storms, until the skies are peaceful once again! We'll walk together with our lives secured, safe in the Master’s hands. 

My love I love you, know that I always will. Today I take pride in life knowing, that this love was always a part of God’s will. 

Read and proclaimed: August 9th, 2025πŸ’™πŸ’œπŸ’™πŸ€πŸ’™πŸ’œπŸ’™


(06-17-26, 6:08p This poem was for my wedding day, but sadly I am no longer with her. I actually came to delete this poem but I decided not to and just wanted to share this small caption. I am separated from her and I no longer desire to be married. I no longer desire to have kids, and I’m taking it easy with myself. Marriage was a bitter time for me battling lies and disrespect… so I just want to live as a single poet and celebrate the little things in life. 


Friday, June 13, 2025

Meeting You Was Serendipitous!

God didn’t place me here to chase fantasies.
But while allowing me to reach my fullest potential and find my destiny, He gave me you to help bring out the best in me.
He gave me you, because on my own I could not see, that He never intended for me to remain in the valleys.
May, for the rest of our lives, I never have to give you an apology.
For I saw everything beautiful within you before I even asked you to marry me.
Holding you in my arms only brings me serenity.
Thank you, my love, for all you do to keep our home filled with tranquility.

Saturday, November 2, 2024

From Segree, With Love!

We met in December, a cold winter's night.
She was beautiful, poised, all dressed in white.
Our introduction was simple, yet cute, few words were said,
Though others asked questions, she focused on me instead.

We had "mini conversations", and yet time always flew
Sharing our many similarities- of what life put us through.

It was later that week, that we made a vow to "break free"

We decided to begin a new chapter, focused on pursuing peace.


She witnessed my struggle

Balancing studies, my career, and duties in ministry

She was my cheerleader, and my life coach

Giving gentle reminders not to push the limits of my humanity.

It wasn't just the late calls, to make sure that I was okay.

It was the genuine concern for my well-being

That I could see, she would be "mine" one day!


But it was a life changing decision,

one that I knew could not be hastened.

So I took the matter to God

And twice by dream, came my father to give confirmation.


"Hypotheticals" became reality, as my fathers words were brought to life.

For in every conversation, even our disagreements never led to strife.

God designed it to be so, for our love story was in his plan

My father always gave me life advice, as if I was already a married man.


"Be the priest of your home, and always protect your family"

"Love her the same way that Christ has loved thee"

"Praise your woman; but listen to her when she's upset or angry"

"Not every thing will be smooth, but working through it all will be easy"


Looking back now, our story began with all of those talks with my dad,

for I know that without a doubt, our love story would have made him glad!

He saw that he couldn't be here, so advice and wisdom he would always impart....

Now I understand his saying, He is still leading me from afar!


To my wife, to my bride I am so happy to be doing this life with you

Part two of this poem will be read before I say "I do"

(06-17-26, 6:14p I really did want to live a peaceful life with my wife, sadly, it was not so. Just after our wedding, she told me of all the things she didn’t understand about me and how her and a few members of her family talked about me. She told me of the “icks” she had with me and how she wanted me to change things about me. With hearing everything, I wondered why did she even say “Yes” to me. But through it all, I’m still here, I’m still asking God for strength and healing of my body after the car accident, and I’m still looking to Him for grace, guidance, and His forgiveness.)

Sunday, March 31, 2024

Haiku (The Sun)

Faithfully it shines.

And though dark clouds screen it’s light

You know it’s “day”.

Sunday, January 14, 2024

Happy Birthday


"Maybe she'd enjoy a poem"
I thought to myself the other day
“Yeah I could do that,
And take the time to tell her all the things I wish to say.”


I would to start by saying happy birthday!
May you gleefully enjoy your day! πŸ™πŸΎ

I pray that life only gets better for you….
As the “camels loaded with blessings” still march toward your way!


It wasn’t just your beautiful smile,
(Though that mental picture is a memory still treasured inside)
It wasn’t just your sweet personality
That filled my heart with pride


It may have been your love for God
(Yes, they informed me of all the kingdom work you do..
For my pastors had only good things to tell me,
when I inquired of them concerning you)


I admired you for your boldness,
taking initiative even though you were really nervous,
The will to get to know me,
led to mini conversations after service…


It wasn’t long before I saw the real “you”
(the child you were from the beginning)
I understood all of your fears and dreams
And yet I saw us, together in life… winning!!!


I saw the vision before me,
the ring, proposal, and wedding
With God as the 3rd cord (in our marriage)
We took that step, no longer fretting


I saw our home filled with love and laughter,
"SJ" running around with Evelyn
And you with your hand on your hip praying
“God, why did those kids only take after their father?!”


I want all of this with you…
better yet I will share it with no one else!
My decision will still be the same,
even when life tries to get complex.


I thought of what I would get you for your birthday,
a poem seemed like a good start
So forgive me if this was a little too deep,
I just wanted it to be from the heart


The next time I see my little love,
I will have a gift for you in hand,
But for now will you please accept this note
As my little way to say happy birthday


To my friend, my queen, my little sunflower,
(May you never forget who you are)
May this day bring you joy and peace,
May God keep you wrapped in His arms


I love you and I’m praying for you,
(may you never forget that!)
Remember, my family already loves you,
I know because I can hear it in our little chats


So with every gift on today and every blessing that's in store
May you know when you remember me
That you are appreciated, honored, and adored!!!


(06-17-26, 6:21p I actually forgot about this one, but I’ll let it stay… as a reminder of the man I used to be and the heart full of love that I used to have… my heart is still full of kindness, I’m just more careful now with showing love because I’ve been walked over too many times in my life.) 

Thursday, September 28, 2023

Food

 Oftentimes we are reminded;

“Breakfast! It’s the most important meal of the day”

And yet so many of us still neglect it, thinking it’ll help keep the pounds away.


It doesn’t always have something hefty 

Like the plate full of “bacon, eggs, and grits”

No, it may just be a bowl of cereal, 

Or a bar of granola, just something to help you maintain your wits


You can easily refuel at lunch,

by keeping it simple with a BLT.

Or you can go all out, 

I’m talking fried chicken with the Mac and cheese.


“I think I’ll have hibachi, fried rice with that yum-yum sauce!

Or maybe the six ounce steak from Roadhouse…” 

Yeah dinner brings it all home, and you know it doesn’t matter the cost! 

Because today was a bit hectic and Tina got on your nerves,

But all that went away, with the indulgence of your favorite dessert!


“You’re not you when you’re hungry!”

Man, that quote is so true

If you don’t think so, wait until you’re frustrated and go grab a quick bite 

You’ll think and feel better 

You’ll again feel like you!


So if you’re unmotivated, angry, or even  just downright blue

Go grab that snickers, or the cooled strawberry dipped in fondue 


I’m telling you, it can be watermelon, chocolate, something simple like that 

Or it can be a full fledged meal, followed by  a bunch of snacks…

Whatever the mood, 

I guarantee it gets better with food.


Requested by and created for my friend. Love ya buddy!

Tuesday, March 7, 2023

Keep Pressing

 Life is not always perfect, nor is it always fair.

So many times in our pursuit of hope, do we find ourselves lost in despair.

In a quest to find true love, we are soon derailed by heartache.

Too many times we question ourselves, 

"Where did I go wrong, what was my mistake?"


We forget that those times are needed to build us and make us grow!

They are there to help make us perfect, though the process may be slow.

The trials test our faith, frustrations test our character.

In the periods that test our patience, let us continue daring ourselves to be better.


We never know who's watching, inspired by our determination

We may be the only "Bibles" some read, in their search for salvation.

So I never want you to give up, yes keep pushing through

Because the answer to someone's prayers, may be found in you! 

Sunday, December 25, 2022

Saturday, November 19, 2022

Haiku (The Queen)

 She’s virtuous, pure.

Strong, but oh so delicate;

Never cause her harm. 

Picture is an art piece by “ArtofMervin” 


Thursday, August 25, 2022

The Shift

 "It is better to have loved and have lost, then to have not loved at all"
These words are painfully true
I sit and ponder upon them well
As I reflect upon all that love has put me through.

I think of my first love, how much I wanted to be with her so.
I had life all figured out, I would have never let her go.
I remember my friend and little buddy; all the hope I saw in her.
For years I loved her secretly, only to see hope disappointingly deferred.

I briefly remember another, and how she left when I needed her the most
Yet somehow I made it through that dark struggle, Oh, because God held me close.
I could never rewrite the stars, though I tried my all with my "internet bae";
Star-crossed, we lovingly warred, only to remain rooted in our home countries to this day.

I was never a playboy, no, they each had their own season,
My love was to be developed, matured, perfected.
Oh how in hindsight, I now understand love's reason.
"Good guys win in the end", but only after they've been effected.

Love is so very beautiful, with all of its ups and downs.
It is why I painfully searched for it so.
But, as with every mark of maturity, you realize that, at some point,
You must learn to let some things go.

With this dramatic realization, my quest for love will now cease.
(Though, should it find me in the future, I know my heart will sing).
In my desire to see good days; I will focus on pursuing peace.
I shall make my soul rejoice in solitude, and the serenity that it brings.

Monday, January 17, 2022

Winter Nights

 I forgot of all the pains, and the violent shaking of my legs,

I no longer felt the sting that accompanied my nose turning red 

I could not tell you how cold the stony steps were against my shin

Nor how I managed to keep us warm from the blistering cold and slurry filled winds.


I returned home, turning my locks as removed my scarf and hat.

I dropped my keys into their pot, and in front of the warm fireplace I sat.

Winter was never my season of choice, yet tonight I sat in bliss

Remembering the touch of your cold, moist-lipped kiss.


It didn't matter that it was cold, for it was my dream to just spend the evening with you.

A gentle conversation about our future, the perfect date night for two!

We sat at the coffee shop, though neither of us sipped much.

We joked, and giggled, our hands warmed by the hot Starbucks cups.


You held on to me tightly as we walked down the street to your condo.

Please trust me when I tell you that I didn't want you to let go!

I hesitated briefly before walking you up to your door,

For, of your answer to that question I was not quite so sure.


The simple gaze you gave me before the long hug allowed me to see a hopeful future in your eyes

Your beautiful smile after the embrace, it's like you saw the true love reflected in mine.

Neither of us asked, our bodies briefly took over in that moment

Gently pressed, your lips were to mine as a lovely silk garment!


The diamond upon your finger, reflected back the colors of the rainbow.

The cheeks of your face were more vibrant than any bush of the Don Juan rose!

Your eyes fighting back the tears gave off yet another lovely hue.

As you quietly screamed out the words, "Yes! Yes! Thank You!"


I've never cared for winter or it's hellish. blistering winds

But tonight, that may have all come to an unexpected end.

For it was in the darkness of a winter's cold and frightful night 

That love afforded me peace, warmth, and its colors gave way to the most beautiful sight!


(Requested by and written for my friend, "Toof")



Sunday, May 31, 2020

Will I Be Next?

There's so much hurt in the world today!
So many in pain,
seeking to run away.

There is war within in our streets
and unrest within our homes
Because my people are brutally beat,
Yes this is captured on our phones.

We were forced from our homeland,
Brought here to be slaves!
We built a nation for them
We lived in turmoil,
until they laid us to rest in our graves!

We were set free,
only if we chose to fight in their war
Only to face new struggles
Because by them we are still abhored!

In their eyes we are still the problem,
In their eyes, we will never be enough!
Even though we pay our dues,
Restoration of our rights is a road that is still too tough!

"Comply... Stop Resisting!"
These are they cries they scream at us.
My white brother can't you see
I did exactly what you asked, I did it without a fuss!

My hands are held high
Because I mean you no harm!
I just want to go home to my family
To be safe and secure from all alarm.

But you won't let that happen
because to you I am still a threat!
So my life is soon taken
Because the respect for all of God's creation
Hasn't entered into your heart yet!

The system is on your side
This is a sad truth I was forced to accept!
For while my people serve time for cannibus possession
You will soon walk with only being "fired" as your form of correction!

Yes this is the world that I live in.
But I pray for my people!
That one day the the system will change
And we will, in the land of the living, have rest for our weary souls!