Our Brightest Star⁓🌟

UNMETERED QUATRAINS in an a-a/b/c-c/b rhyme scheme. Composed for someone special who's been ill and away too long a time.

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In morningtime, sings gentle rhyme,

peace flows across waking lands.

Warm sunrise, life’s greatest prize …

gifts of kindness from your hands.

Eyes wide open, soft words spoken …

shhh! The world’s now all aglow.

All life matters; squirrels’ chatters

wake flowers’ colorful show.

This Springtime day, rest where you lay …

with grateful prayer you'll be fine.

You’re sore now, sure, but all will cure,

every breath you take’s divine.

All the while, inside’s a smile

like you’ve ne’er quite known before …

inspired from, care’s total sum

of those you have blessed, and more.

Hurry ’n heal … a big deal

awaits your sweet, giving heart.

Get up, Dear, you’re needed here,

just as you’ve been from the start.

Our world’s grey when you’re away,

your compassion rids harsh strife.

You are pure love ~ from above,

the star that brightens our life.

Richard W. Jenkins

© 2024

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Author's Note

"Artwork Courtesy of Google Images"

Honest, well-meant criticism is always welcome.
✍

Reviews

[Marie]

A very beautiful tribute to someone so special who has now left the earth plane and returned home to Spirit. Expressed with appreciation and love for that special person being part of your life, Richard. The poem speaks volumes and I have no doubt that she will be the brightest star in your night sky until you both meet again. An excellent choice of graphic complements the poem which is so warm and gentle and wrapped in love. Thank you for sharing...

[Richard🖌]

Thank you, Dear Marie 🙏

Your reviews of my humble poetic efforts always honor, compliment, and inspire me, not to mention how surprising it is to be so thoroughly understand in such deep and empathetic ways … not referring to You, of course, but to most anyone else.
This particular piece is in homage to one of my longtime poetry students, whose good health has taken an unfortunate, disabling hit. She's a well-respected, giving, and contributing humanitarian to to those less blessed in her hometown, and to children abroad, as well.

She is, indeed, a beautiful bright light … a lot like You (I think) in spirit and attentive heart.

Warmest smiles 'n hugs to thee, Lady-Poet! ⁓ Richard 🤗

[Marie]

Most welcome always, Richard. I feel your sadness through your words, but know that your dear poetry student and friend is still linked with you through your great kindness and mutual respect and one day, you will be reunited in Spirit. In my thoughts and prayers. Wishing you a very lovely day and an equally nice, relaxed and pleasant weekend too - enjoy, Richard...

[Richard🖌]

Such a blessing you truly are⁓*

[Marie]

I too, am blessed, dear Richard and bless you in return...

[Richard🖌]

You might enjoy her work, Marie,
Her pen name is Susan 🦋

[Marie]

Thank you for kindly telling me, Richard. Bless you both always...

[Richard🖌]

Always, Marie, you are truly welcome ♫

[Marie]

Gratitude, Richard...

[Robert Trakofler]

I bookmarked this poem eons ago and just came across it again tonight. I remember the first time I read it I said to myself I have to come back to it to absorb it better but i wasn't planning on that being 6 months LOL
I often refer to you as the master of poetic forms and it is pleasant to see you letting loose your structure a bit for this piece, sometimes a feeling does not always allow for the rigidity of a framework to truly express the motions... I find often times I spend less time telling a poem what to do and more time letting a poem tell me what to do LOL :) As we are getting older many of our poetry friends seem to be leaving us and adding their voices to the many whispers of eternity it is sad thing to lose them my friend the sincerity comes through in the imagery and the use of nature in metaphor is fantastic in this write and the closing lines of hope resonate so very well to this reader. Long live the poets dear Richard and long live your dear friend!!!!!!!

[Richard🖌]

My Dear Friend, Robert 🌾

What a distinct pleasure and honor it is to have served and shared with you on Writer'sCafé these bygone years, and with blessed gratitude we're both still above ground.🙏🏼
Thank you ever-so gratefully, too, for such a magnanimous compliment of my poetic mastery, and for your praise of this poem's poetic voice and devices … wonderfully unexpected and humbling, but I'm keeping every word.
Ya know, Robert? The one most single thing I love about poetry that's kept me immersed in and dedicated to it is its endless flexibility to fit precisely any occasion imaginable, with the perfect form to express it, if the poetess or poet is broadly and adequately skilled and educated in our art. But, I, too, enjoyed the freewheeling feel of this poem's particular format.

FYI (Below, is list of those known [by me, perhaps, some by you] who've retired to the Great Beyond. If you know of others, please, let me know.)

POETRY & SHORT STORY INK
Richard W. Jenkins, Admin
"UPDATED OBITUARIES"
Friday, April 17, 2025 at 9:53 AM
A. Here is a roster of our known dearly departed Poets and Poetesses … feel free to copy and use it.
B. Anyone adding names to this roster or wanting to (please) notify me, so I can update the master document and keep it current.

Raven Art Works, Poetess on The Poets' Workshop (Ol' Blue)
Rochelle E. (Stardust2284) Fischer, Master Poetess
Lela L. (SongbirdLLC) Cain, Poet, Published Songwriter/Touring Musician
Allen Gail (Greybears) Brady, Master Poet
Joree Williams, Accomplished Poetess
Maggie Huscroft, Master Poetess
Pamela (Gungalo) Jackson, Published Master Poetess
Michael L. (Mike44) Shuh, Published Prolific Poet
Mike (Auntie Myrtle) Walsh, Master Australian Poet
Maya Angelou, Poet Laureate, Presidential Medal of Freedom Recipient
Rod McKuen, Published National Poet Laureate
David J. Shrewsbury, Master Poet
Phillip Levine, National Poet Laureate
Mark Strand, National Poet Laureate
Galway Kinnell, Pulitzer Prize Winner for Poetry
Suellen Lamb, Poetess Extraordinaire
Virginia Johe, Whispers Poet (Mother)
Jani Johe Webster, Whispers Poet (Daughter)
Keith Allen Scalf, Master Poet, Founder of The Poets' Tree
Sarah (Failte) True, Widely Popular Published Master Poetess
Steve Kowit, A True Poet's Poet
Elaine Young (Tikat) Vachon, Poetess of Beautiful Verse
Robert Allen (Bob) Burd, Published Master Poet
Timothy (Sweetbear1958) Schraff, Poet Extraordinaire
Susan (Sablelady) Rich, Amazing Poetess who loved horses
Dallas (UncaD) Wilson, Master Writer
Jane Kenyon, U.S. National Poet Laureatte
Beth (Owlie) Winchcombe, Whispers Poetess
Marinela (Lonely Wolf) Christel, Published Master Poetess & Writer
Erich J. (Vienna) Goller, Published Poet, Co-Founder of Writers & Poets Alliance
Robert Barnes, Poet from The Poets' Workshop (Ol' Blue) and The Poets' Tree
Lil MacDermott, Master Irish Poetess
Emil J. (Ravenswood) Donatello, Published Master Poet
Ronald Grognet, Honored Member of New Orleans Haiku Society & Whispers
Catherine (Cat) Lane-Arnold, Well Known, Accomplished & Respected Poetess
Belinda (Sultrysoul) Anderson, Accomplished Master Poetess of Romance 'n Sensuality
Keith (Bick) Bickerstaffe, Well Known, Accomplished, Respected & Published Master Poet
Mark Anthony Cotterman, Multi-Published, Long Tenured, Master Poet
송지석 Ji-Suk, Young Korean Artist of Beautiful and Original Spiritual Poetry
Inge (Daginne Aignend) Wesdijk, Talented Writer and Editor fr/The Netherlands
Michael Cahill, Poet Extraordinaire & Respected Poetry Teacher
C "Cleve" Deeds, Longtime, well known, beloved poet on The Writer's Forums
Dean Kuch, FanStory Poet Extraordinaire & American Master of the Macabre
Carolyn Weeks May, Beloved, Highly Respected & Published International Poetess
Carole "Cookie" Arnold, Master Poetess, Published Author & Beloved Friend to Many
David Lewis Paget, Revered Australian Master Poet, Author of 19 Poetry Books
Lael "Alas" Morss, (Alwaysasking) Longtime Popular, Noted Oregon Poetess from way back on Ol' Blue
Lesa "Aspiring Angel" Gay, Loved for her graphic poetry & accompanying music series, telling beautiful stories
Geir Bernhoft-Klaeboe, Published, Highly-Respected, Poet Laureate on the Poet’s Workshop (Ol' Blue) in 2005
(I think there are 47 listed)

I am so very thankful you came back to us, My Dear Friend.
Yes, You too, are "Our Brightest Star🌟!" ⁓ Richard🖌

[Robert Trakofler]

this is such a credit to your heart keeping track of all the poets that have touched you over the years here on the Cafe it makes me feel humbled and honored to be among those voices:)

[Einstein Noodle]

wow .. so well done and said Sir Richard .. i am here just before dawn and your poem so inspires me .. not only to greet the day with a grateful heart but with prayers for your friend .. and so many sick .. just for today a little prayer .. love the "unmetered rhyme" .. it sure flowed natural for me .. so glad i stopped and found this one ... as always
E.

[Richard🖌]

Good morning, Dear Gene 🌤️

As Early Autumn's breath brings dreams of endless colors bright, your poetically sonorous voice resounds from deep within Ozark forest's mystically winding trails, into the melody of our friendship's brotherly song.
Thank you, My Friend, for blessing this little poetic composition with the insightful beauty, empathy, and wisdom of your own mind, heart, and soul.

I, too, am so very glad you stopped by this morning! ⁓ Richard🍂

[Einstein Noodle]

luv you man! you move me always .. much respect Sir Richard :)

[Sunflower/Sara Kendrick]

Ahh!! How nice. Thanks for sharing this romantic one with us. Sara K

[Richard🖌]

Thank you, Sara 🥀

You are most welcome, and I am so very grateful for your expressed appreciation and gentle praise.

With warmest blessings! ⁓ Richard🖌

[prema]

Only today I could read it.

[Richard🖌]

I am so very happy you finally could.
Thank you for reading me, Prema 🌾

[prema]

Sir, your reply to Liisa's review is very informative. Especially about the colour blue. incidentally my birth star color is blue. As all your poems this one is also great. Thank you,,..........prema

[Richard🖌]

You are ever-so welcome, Dear Prema🌿
I thank you, too....

It's true, Lisa's comment "(blue most often the color of sadness)" inspired my rather lengthy reaction. That you found my reply informative and discovering blue is your birth star colour, makes me very happy, indeed … and, that today you finally got to read this piece, is like sweet icing on my happy cake.
As-well, your lovely praise is inspiring to a hopeful bard's eager ear.

Warmest hugs 'n blessings, Prema ⁓ Richard🖌

[Sami Khalil]

Amazing how you connect to friends, students and readers in ways gloriously inspiring to say the least.
Your word is a testament and a testimony.

[Richard🖌]

Thank you, Sami 🙏🏼

The valued nature of your thoughts, feelings, and praise expressed, make writing and sharing feel all the more worthwhile.

Gratefully yours! ⁓ Richard🖌

[Sami Khalil]

It sure does; it creates positive outcomes. You are welcome sir Richard.

[Sami Khalil]

Plus credit is given for the worthy.

[Richard🖌]

Indeed, Dear Sami....

[Lisasview]

Hi Richard,
Here I am going over your poems and feeling lucky to have found another one I have not read... Although I often reread your work as it is always inspiring. It is so wonderful that you have special people in your life...I believe connections are so important.
This lovely heart warming poem is perfect in so many ways...so much said hidden behind your lines.
The love and care you have for this person is wonderful....
I love the image you chose and the perfect title...(blue most often the color of sadness)
Lisa

[Richard🖌]

Gosh, Lisa!

I wonder what happened that I missed your beautiful review for this one?
Every blue moon, the site decides to leave notices out … LOL!
True, M'Dear, the word "blue" can mean sadness, but not the color; for, the color blue has many positive meanings, including:
Calmness
Blue is often associated with tranquility, serenity, and peace. In fact, primary blue is used in therapeutic settings to help people relax and express their feelings.
Trust
Blue can symbolize loyalty and trust, similar to the tide.
Authority
Blue can represent confidence and authority that is noninvasive and objective. For example, the UN's peacekeeping troops wear blue uniforms, and blue is often used in corporate logos.
Creativity
Blue can be the color of creativity, as it produces a slow physiological response. Light blue shades can improve concentration, while dark blue hues can improve thought processes.
Divinity
Blue has been associated with divinity, as the Virgin Mary is often depicted wearing blue in the Catholic Church.
Nature
Blue is the color of the ocean and sky, and it can help us appreciate the beauty of nature.
Justice
Blue can symbolize justice and liberty, as in the United States flag.

The person for whom this poem was composed is one of my longtime students … I love all my students of both genre, as I do You. : )

Blessed be to thee, Dear Lisa, with warmest thank you ever-so sincerely for such a wonderful review.
Hugs 'n smiles! ⁓ Richard🖌

[Patricia Wedel]

Thou art the Lark of our Heart ... from whence all passion flows...
the warmth of the Rose lavender Sun smiles as Stars have appeared half way around the World. The Day will be spent in Fields of Bird Song among the Thistles and Huckleberries entwined in your Arms of unconditional Love...

[Richard🖌]

Goodness ME, Pat!

How I ever missed your enthralling review to this lovely little number I'll never know, but let it suffice to say, "You've touched so perfectly tender to've lit-up my heart and my day."

Hugs 'n smiles to thee, Dear Lady-Poet! ⁓ Richard🖌

[Patricia Wedel]

Bless you Richard… the morning Sun has a touch of Lavender,.. as we gather for morning Tea… the Kettle whistles … another Day as Love ❤️ becomes my Pillow under the Weeping Willow… my friend. Softly. Pat

[Richard🖌]

Ahhh, Pat 🌤
Such a beautiful beginning to your day, and now to mine.

[Tumi]

lovely dance of words and rhythm
loved it

[Richard🖌]

Thank you, Tumi,
For reading this little homage, for your encouraging compliment, and for loving it.

Gratefully yours! ⁓ Richard🖌

[Susan 🦋]

Richard, I have been away too long. Your lovely write reminds me of how much I miss reading your words. Words expressed turned into the warmest of hugs. So beautifully felt ~ So uniquely you.

[Richard🖌]

Yes, Dear Susan🌞

You surely have … good morning 'n a sweet welcome back.
How blissful, too, knowing you've felt the warm, beautiful hugs, emanating from the gentle essence of my poetic words.

Uniquely me, I'm so gratefully happy you see! ⁓ Richard🖌