Archive for category Society
Close Enough
Posted by Jo Ann J. A. Jordan in Creativity, Love, Music, Original Poetry, Poem, Poetry, Society, Words, Writing on September 16, 2020
The rain falls down
Your hand in my pocket, warm,
Somehow we have to
Get ourselves out of the storm,
The umbrella comes between
The closeness that should
Forever be you and me.
It is not our grandparent’s
Wonderful life, we must be careful
Round here, to succeed, to survive.
Fires, they rage, so wild,
Out of control, gotta set up –
Some smoke control,
Breathing gets harder, exerts,
Until it almost sets up hurt,
Clouds on the horizon, but no,
It is the fire’s dark exhaust.
It is not our grandparent’s
Wonderful life, we must be careful
Round here, to succeed, to survive.
Screaming fills in the streets
One says this; another speaks that,
Someone with matches, pyromaniac fun,
The other has a gun in a pocket, heat,
That one has a knife in a boot, treat,
Control fled, no one knows how to live
Everyone is subject to being dead.
It is not our grandparent’s
Wonderful life, we must be careful
Round here, to succeed, to survive.
Your hand in my pocket,
Please do not let me go,
This world is a desolation,
Join me in the isolation
Check the windows, the doors,
No ingress for strangers
Can we now possibly afford.
It is not our grandparent’s
Wonderful life, we must be careful
Round here, to succeed, to survive.
Who have we finally become
Who cannot communicate,
Cannot show respect enough
To avoid a world that deteriorates?
Where did the love go, tell me,
We are all in this together,
If not, we will likely all fall.
It is not our grandparent’s
Wonderful life, we must be careful
Round here, to succeed, to survive.
© Jo Ann J. A. Jordan
This is brought over from http://haphazardcreative.com. I work there these days. If you are interested I have done at least one post daily all year. I would love to see you there.
If We Were Aware
Posted by Jo Ann J. A. Jordan in Artwork, Blessings, Creativity, Encouragement, Gifts, Gratitude, Journal Writings, My Mom, Original Poetry, Personal Enrichment, Photographs, Poem, Poetry, Prompt, Society, Words, Writing on October 3, 2016
10/2/2016
Often we do not see what is happening around and within us until after the time has passed. Our awareness is not tuned into the present. Much of the time we are ruminating over the past or fantasizing about the future. This is not an ideal way to live. Throughout time many of our most respected leaders have recommended we become more in touch with the now.
If we wish to contribute to our times in ways that are important, we must engage in every moment. Creativity is not something for which we can delve into our past to enact, nor project into the far future. The reality is now is where creation occurs. We work with the materials and details of today. We take a scene we see, a conversation overheard, an article or book read, and we turn them into something that influences others. Our ability as creators is attached to the present. We may reach people in the future, but our work does not originate there.
We must commit ourselves to paying attention, being mindful, becoming involved in each moment of every day we live. Time is a precious commodity, and we should never waste it in a daze of careless inattention. We invent our lives and thereby touch others. This is a task we should take up with determination. We cannot change the world in the past because there is no way to return there. We cannot make a difference by stepping into the future because it is not here yet. Only now, only today, in this present can we impact events. We are instruments uniquely equipped to use our creativity to contribute positively to our lives and those of others with whom we interact.
When we face life with a positive attitude, sharing our smiles and encouragement, we can do lasting good. No matter what may have happened in our past, today we can give the world something that will help make it a better place. Every human being has talents, gifts, creative energy to share.
I urge you to become more intimately involved in your life. Notice what is around you, pay attention to your thoughts, ideas, emotions, begin to employ your gifts, talents, abilities more effectively. You are unique, an individual with the power to assist others in becoming the best version of themselves, as you also achieve this yourself.
I suggest you take a few moments to examine and detail the things for which you are grateful. Gratitude has a way of improving mood and bringing happiness. Here is a short list of mine.
I am grateful:
-
I learned how to use a new app that will improve my work.
-
Magazines are available electronically from the library.
-
Conversation with my Mom is a gift I still enjoy.
-
Reading on my tablet is fun.
-
My current computer arrangement is excellent.
In this house of peace
I will have no argument,
No disagreement;
It is quiet, no one crying,
Tenderness is spoken here.
Engage your creativity with the following prompt: Express some ways or reasons why you and others can or should engage yourself in the present.
Thank you so much for visiting my blog. I hope you found it edifying. If you enjoyed the time you spent here, please come again. You may also subscribe to receive updates by email.
There are many unhappy things in our world. My wish for you is happiness, prosperity, and a multitude of blessings. Be at peace and do well.
Always,
Jo Ann
Prayer For Love
Posted by Jo Ann J. A. Jordan in Anger, Bible, Blessings, Current Events, Disappointment, Dreams, Encouragement, Family, Fear, Gifts, God, Gratitude, Love, News, News and politics, Original Poetry, Photographs, Poem, Poetry, Problems, Protest, Society, Tragedy, United States, Words, Writing on July 8, 2016
This poem, I dedicate to every person who has ever died because of jealousy, hate, unreasoning rage, or war; from Abel to the latest homicide or terror victim to the defenders of our lives. This poem, I also dedicate to every person who attempts to love in spite of all the unfairness of our world; from the lover cuddling the beloved to the missionary ministering in a hostile land to the parent kissing a child.
Prayer For Love
Hearts open,
Minds aware,
Spirits real,
Souls afire,
We cry for love.
Love reaches
Out to us,
Whoever we are,
Love makes
No distinctions.
We are offspring
Of love’s existence,
From the dawn
Of humanity
Until this day.
Love is our
Birthright,
Our destiny,
In love we are
And shall remain.
We crave freedom,
Respect, trust,
Honesty, family,
Friends, each life matters,
All products of love.
Love is thankful,
Kind, understanding,
Generous, helpful,
Forgiving, treasures life,
Love is a gift.
We create futures
Built around the gift
Of love which makes
Every one of us special,
Lives devoted to love.
Above all is love
The only solution
To our souls’ desolation,
Dare I say it, yes,
I believe, God is LOVE!
Hearts open,
Minds aware,
Spirits real,
Souls afire,
We cry for love.
© Jo Ann J. A. Jordan
Friday, July 8, 2016
Tears Flow By
Posted by Jo Ann J. A. Jordan in Anger, Artwork, Blessings, Current Events, Disappointment, Entertainment, Fear, Gifts, God, Gratitude, Love, Memorial, News, Original Poetry, Pain, Photographs, Poem, Poetry, Problems, Protest, Society, Tragedy, Words, Writing on July 6, 2016
Why? Why kill? Why?
People, all people,
Every individual,
Each person,
Here and everywhere,
Is precious, priceless.
Human beings are
Repositories of
Creativity, goodness,
Kindness, generosity,
Faith, and hope.
When one of us
Is destroyed,
Cut down,
A bit of light,
Of happiness,
Of glory departs
The world forever;
An emptiness
Overwhelms me.
My heart aches,
Salty tears flow from
My burning eyes,
Over pale cheeks!
Is there no love
Left among us?
Why? I cry! Why?
© Jo Ann J. A. Jordan
Wednesday, July 6, 2016
The Present Danger & The Victory
Posted by Jo Ann J. A. Jordan in Bible, Blessings, Church, Current Events, Encouragement, Fear, Gifts, God, Gratitude, Journal Writings, Love, News, News and politics, Odd Ramblings, Original Prose, Photographs, Problems, Protest, Religion, Society, Tragedy, United States, Words, Writing on July 6, 2016
A terrorist is a person who has willingly been misled into a belief system that is inimical to life and liberty. He or she has embraced a diabolical ideology that foments terrible violence, destruction, and elimination of human life.
We, as a nation, Americans, as a people, have always held the beliefs that life and liberty are sacred. Our ideology is one of compassion, construction, and respect for all life.
Unfortunately, there is a war going on. It is a war for the hearts and minds of human beings. It is being waged worldwide, and all the actors are not flesh and blood. There are, of course, people involved, but there are also principalities and powers who are stronger than we. There are ideals not easily banished from susceptible humanity.
To win this war it will take the sacrifice of precious lives in combat, of lives that are taken without just cause, lives we can ill afford to lose. If we win, if we overcome this present evil, we will also have to submit ourselves to the love and power of Almighty God. Christ is the One, who will ultimately win this war. It has always been waged throughout all history. We will triumph in the Lord! Heed the call! Jesus is Coming! Everybody Get Ready, The King Is Coming!
Children of Interesting Times
Posted by Jo Ann J. A. Jordan in Creativity, Encouragement, Entertainment, Gifts, God, Gratitude, Love, Music, News and politics, Original Poetry, Photographs, Poem, Poetry, Protest, Relationships, Society, Words, Writing on July 6, 2016
Come over here,
Pour the 151,
And we will party
Like we have the time.
Maybe if the world is to end,
We will still be smiling,
And will not have to cry.
The truth is,
Though my destination is
Fixed and I am ready;
I do not want to die.
Death is a gentleman
And shall pass us on by.
Turn up the music,
Listen to the band;
The drink tastes great,
We will make a stand.
Love is in the air,
And our company is fine.
Continue the conversation,
Just remember the lines.
If you have a story;
Make it sing
Of beauty, freedom,
And passion in kind.
Our joy will carry us
Through eternity,
Forever is our destiny,
We are blessed, children
Of interesting times.
© Jo Ann J. A. Jordan
Wednesday, July 6, 2016
Please do not be offended, I think this might be a song, transmitted to me, which wanted to be written down. Once I wrote like this, all the time.
Some Textual Photos I Created Today
Posted by Jo Ann J. A. Jordan in Artwork, Blessings, Books, Creativity, Dog, Dreams, Education, Encouragement, Flowers, Friendship, Gratitude, Journal Writings and Original Poetry, Love, Men and Relationships, Mother, Original Poems and Prose, Personal Enrichment, Photographs, Poem, Poetry, Prompt, Reading, Romance, Society, Technology, Writing on May 7, 2016
I hope you enjoyed these creations from my photos. I hope you have an awesome day. I encourage you to create something today. You are capable of making whatever you desire and it will enrich your life. The world needs more of us to share our originality.
I am grateful today:
1. I was accepted for a Creative Writing Specialization with Wesleyan University on financial aid.
2. I have the technological devices I need to do creative work.
3. I have access to multitudes of books through my local library.
4. I had my eyes examined and have new contacts and glasses that make the world clear for me.
5. We have plenty of food to sustain us.
6. I have some beautiful clothing.
7. Our home is temperate and comfortable.
8. Some of my creative work was published in the Chapel Hill News & Views.
9. We have had our Explorer a year, and it is one of the best vehicles I have ever driven.
10. I have some wonderful, supportive friends around the world.
Now it is your turn. Make a list of at least five things for which you are grateful today. This will have a positive effect on you even, and especially, if you are going through a difficult time. Life looks better when you count your blessings. It makes you appreciate what you have, in spite of what you may lack.
Here is a picture I took a while back that I call, “Meet Me Here.” Your creative challenge is to write a story that might happen here, or one about this photo. Have fun, and do not allow your inner critic to stymie your work. You have the ability to create something wonderful.
Finally, if you enjoyed what you have seen here, please subscribe to my blog. I would love for you to share this blog with your friends if you feel it would add quality to their lives.
All the work found here is originally created by Jo Ann J. A. Jordan and is covered by copyright. Should you wish to share please credit the work.
All the best to each of you,
God Bless,
Always,
Jo Ann
PAD Challenge, Day 2, My Poem
Posted by Jo Ann J. A. Jordan in Creativity, Current Events, Health and wellness, Institutions, Medicine, News and politics, Odd Ramblings, Original Poetry, Poem, Poetry, Problems, Prompt, Protest, Society, Tragedy, United States, Writing on November 2, 2013
Today’s prompt for the Poem-A-Day Challenge is to write a “news of the day” poem. I had not caught the news on television, so I went to Google News. I found little I wanted to read, but one article seemed timely…
They Did Not Tell US
Sometimes government
Gives citizens incomplete
Information or
Tells what appear outright lies;
Politician propaganda.
Everyone wanted
Improvement to the system,
But it was working
For many of the people;
Now it’s totally broken.
Some who were happy
With the coverage they had,
Now suddenly find
Their health plans being cancelled;
Replacements cost a fortune.
The outrageous fines,
The unneeded coverage,
Increased premiums,
Bank breaking deductibles;
Were never even mentioned.
Insurance reform
Was the promise as given,
But the cure seems worse
Than the symptoms of disease;
Affordable it is not.
© Jo Ann J. A. Jordan
Saturday, November 2, 2013
I hope I am overreacting. I hope it is not the disaster it seems, but I am concerned that we may all be in for worse than we have ever dreamed.
I Am Late, But PAD Challenge Poem 1
Posted by Jo Ann J. A. Jordan in Blessings, Creativity, God, Gratitude, Original Poetry, Poem, Poetry, Problems, Protest, Society, Words, Writing on November 2, 2013
The prompt for the Poem A Day Challenge Day 1 was to write an appearing poem. I am late as I did not get it done on November 1st, but I hope to stay current from now on… A tip of the hat to someone who made me think with a rather caustic remark…
How Things Appear
I am a writer…
I usually call all words
My beloved friends,
But when my motives become
Objects of question, I doubt.
Are some words really
So bad that using them in
Description causes
Others to feel besmirched when
The intention was no harm?
Maybe I need to
More carefully filter
The words I employ,
For I do not wish to cause
Anyone pain or offend.
People do come in
Varieties, differences
Are quite obvious,
I count it a great blessing
We are not exactly alike.
Red, Yellow, Brown, Black, White,
Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, Buddhist, Atheist, Agnostic,
Democrat, Republican, Constitutionalist, Independent, Confederate,
Heterosexual, Homosexual, Bisexual, Transsexual,
Male, Female, Young, Old, Overweight, Skinny,
Morning people, Night owls, Mentally ill, Able bodied, Differently enabled,
I could go on forever…
Is using a description evil?
I love people of all types, I write,
I celebrate what makes each of us individual,
We are each one an original,
God loves us all alike…
But maybe I should be more careful with my words,
Keeping up appearances and being politically correct…
© Jo Ann J. A. Jordan
Saturday, November 2, 2013
I may never hear the end of this one, but my creativity took the reins and I spoke from the heart.