The time has come, my conscience said, to give up driving !
My good old friend, the VOLVO, for his service will not see me arriving.
With my conscience I wrestled but it prevailed over wishful thinking-
when I come to visit with him-my eyes with tears will be blinking.
For about 20 years this faithful servant took me where I wanted to go,
no doubt about his comfort and reliability- I now shall miss it ever so.
We treated each other with care, I always knew on him I could rely,
the very thought of being no longer being behind the wheel, it made me cry.
Very seldom now his trusty wheels will hug the streets of my city-
that he will now be used very sparsely, really it is such a great pity.
It is in my mind to keep him around close and have him near,
hopefully I can visit him ,remove any spots, he is so ever so dear.
Never have I found a truer companion, always ready for good aid,
the thought that he will still be there, when needed, makes me feel great.
With many thanks I shall keep thinking highly of this true friend-
we both shall persevere in keeping up hope that this is not yet the end !
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
T H I N K I N GNearing a hundred years- it is so very easy to pretend that a lifetime on This Earth may soon come to an end. It is such a great blessi
Nearing a hundred years- it is so very easy to pretend
that a lifetime on This Earth may soon come to an end.
It is such a great blessing to be able to presently find
that one did reach this goal in health and sound of mind.
This is when one remembers people of the long ago past
and the many occasions when the proverbial die was cast.
There were times when the outcome was in balance either way-
but some one watched over me and I am still here this day.
Much have I seen on two continents, both in war and peace:
made many friends, now mourn their going, so few left of these.
So very long to be without my dear wife has been a dreary existence,
yet, I made the best of it and there was not much resistance.
Thus I have to be grateful to have come this far with grace,
and have no dread what may come in the coming days.
To look back with no regrets is what now keeps me going:
however this shall end,hopefully, courage I will be showing.
that a lifetime on This Earth may soon come to an end.
It is such a great blessing to be able to presently find
that one did reach this goal in health and sound of mind.
This is when one remembers people of the long ago past
and the many occasions when the proverbial die was cast.
There were times when the outcome was in balance either way-
but some one watched over me and I am still here this day.
Much have I seen on two continents, both in war and peace:
made many friends, now mourn their going, so few left of these.
So very long to be without my dear wife has been a dreary existence,
yet, I made the best of it and there was not much resistance.
Thus I have to be grateful to have come this far with grace,
and have no dread what may come in the coming days.
To look back with no regrets is what now keeps me going:
however this shall end,hopefully, courage I will be showing.
HOW TO GET IN TOUCH
Used to be, in times gone by, it was word of mouth, one to the other.
Well, Adam and Eve had conversations, there was no Mother !
When there was written language, notes went back and forth-
and the trusted mailman came to your door as a matter of course.
Now this changed again because the computer is much in use,
in seconds you can get in touch, for delay there is no excuse.
You can even see your caller if this new gadget you possess,
it feels like with this screen you can touch each other,more or less.
Seems like the old phone will soon be gone and be obsolete,
to dial long numbers surely will be no more of urgent need.
Just find a button to push and your subject will be on the screen
even the place of the conversation shall clearly be seen.
Of course the privacy of the person will be a thing of the past,
he or she will be definitely present, secrecy will not long last.
But, surely they will overcome such an obvious flaw :
The will even convey thoughts that may stick in your craw !
Well, Adam and Eve had conversations, there was no Mother !
When there was written language, notes went back and forth-
and the trusted mailman came to your door as a matter of course.
Now this changed again because the computer is much in use,
in seconds you can get in touch, for delay there is no excuse.
You can even see your caller if this new gadget you possess,
it feels like with this screen you can touch each other,more or less.
Seems like the old phone will soon be gone and be obsolete,
to dial long numbers surely will be no more of urgent need.
Just find a button to push and your subject will be on the screen
even the place of the conversation shall clearly be seen.
Of course the privacy of the person will be a thing of the past,
he or she will be definitely present, secrecy will not long last.
But, surely they will overcome such an obvious flaw :
The will even convey thoughts that may stick in your craw !
T H E O L D G R A Y M A R E
He sure ain't what he used to be! He found that out today !
When he went shopping for food- what can I truthfully say ?
The weather was great, I felt fine and had had a good night-
to-morrow my helper will do this chore-for me today, alright.
I climbed in my good old Volvo,it started right off as before,
so I was ready to go,sat down and carefully closed the door.
It felt like it knew where to go,had been there so many times:
the parking was easy,the buyer to Target most easily climbs.
After a holiday not many shoppers-on leftovers they will feast:
I produced my prepared list,no problem, I am easily pleased.
Everything in it's place it was a pleasure to walk and shop,
got what I wanted,next to good old Ralph's I wanted to hop.
An hour an a half pleasantly spent and then homeward bound,
had a good lunch- but that I was really" pooped" I found.
It was time for someone else to do this necessary chore:
glad that my neighbor is willing: I don't want to do that no more !
When he went shopping for food- what can I truthfully say ?
The weather was great, I felt fine and had had a good night-
to-morrow my helper will do this chore-for me today, alright.
I climbed in my good old Volvo,it started right off as before,
so I was ready to go,sat down and carefully closed the door.
It felt like it knew where to go,had been there so many times:
the parking was easy,the buyer to Target most easily climbs.
After a holiday not many shoppers-on leftovers they will feast:
I produced my prepared list,no problem, I am easily pleased.
Everything in it's place it was a pleasure to walk and shop,
got what I wanted,next to good old Ralph's I wanted to hop.
An hour an a half pleasantly spent and then homeward bound,
had a good lunch- but that I was really" pooped" I found.
It was time for someone else to do this necessary chore:
glad that my neighbor is willing: I don't want to do that no more !
WEATHER OR NOT
if the truth be told
yes, I hate the cold.
With too much heat -
I stay off the street.
You soon will gather:
I challenge the weather.
It causes me stress
how to rightly dress.
A fan to be desired?
An overcoat required?
Your feet are too cold?
Perspiration: you scold.
Caught sans umbrella
an unhappy, wet fella.
Wind blowing grumble.
Dense fog - big mumble.
Temperature displeases:
Weather much used thesis!
yes, I hate the cold.
With too much heat -
I stay off the street.
You soon will gather:
I challenge the weather.
It causes me stress
how to rightly dress.
A fan to be desired?
An overcoat required?
Your feet are too cold?
Perspiration: you scold.
Caught sans umbrella
an unhappy, wet fella.
Wind blowing grumble.
Dense fog - big mumble.
Temperature displeases:
Weather much used thesis!
Thursday, April 21, 2011
SPRING INTO SPRING
Aren't we lucky to live in a place where spring comes early ?
When the rest of the nation still looks at winter very surly.
For years I dreamed of warm sunshine while shoveling snow-
until the U.S. Army in California my bugle did loudly blow.
In downtown Burbank spring came early, warmed the heart-
where, as a lowly Private,I scrubbed barracks and got a start.
We learned to march and our superiors we had to salute,
thinking of the Hollywood Canteen puts me in a good mood.
But, at the end,there was no work when they finally let me go,
back to winter in New York where the cold winds did blow.
My dear departed wife and her parents found us there a home-
yet, in our fondest dreams in warm California we wanted to roam.
When her parents, on a visit, with a shoe store there fell in love,
they asked us to join them to enjoy the good sun from above.
Much time has since passed with my heart in this great State-
where spring comes in good time, only sometimes a little late.
OTTO ROSS
February 2011
When the rest of the nation still looks at winter very surly.
For years I dreamed of warm sunshine while shoveling snow-
until the U.S. Army in California my bugle did loudly blow.
In downtown Burbank spring came early, warmed the heart-
where, as a lowly Private,I scrubbed barracks and got a start.
We learned to march and our superiors we had to salute,
thinking of the Hollywood Canteen puts me in a good mood.
But, at the end,there was no work when they finally let me go,
back to winter in New York where the cold winds did blow.
My dear departed wife and her parents found us there a home-
yet, in our fondest dreams in warm California we wanted to roam.
When her parents, on a visit, with a shoe store there fell in love,
they asked us to join them to enjoy the good sun from above.
Much time has since passed with my heart in this great State-
where spring comes in good time, only sometimes a little late.
OTTO ROSS
February 2011
C H A P T E R 11
Many chapters are in a book, but rarely a chapter Eleven !
That is one number one hates, either on Earth or in heaven .
It means that your carefully invested hoard has lost it's worth,
just overnight and there is nothing you can do but loudly curse.
All these years you have slaved to put this away for your old age-
then comes an official notice of its demise and leaves you in a rage.
Overnight this saving is not worth the paper on which it is written-
how can that be ? In a very sour apple you must have bitten.
They send you reams of forms to read and then fill out,
you just wish you could meet them and have some clout !
But they tell you this just might be a labor of love -
it feels like a stroke of lightning has hit you from above.
How can they take away something you earned with much sweat ?
Overnight they kill your savings, never blink an eyelid, I bet.
What has this world come to where your saving are so insecure-
when overnight your safety blanket suddenly is gone for sure !
Otto Ross
March 2011
That is one number one hates, either on Earth or in heaven .
It means that your carefully invested hoard has lost it's worth,
just overnight and there is nothing you can do but loudly curse.
All these years you have slaved to put this away for your old age-
then comes an official notice of its demise and leaves you in a rage.
Overnight this saving is not worth the paper on which it is written-
how can that be ? In a very sour apple you must have bitten.
They send you reams of forms to read and then fill out,
you just wish you could meet them and have some clout !
But they tell you this just might be a labor of love -
it feels like a stroke of lightning has hit you from above.
How can they take away something you earned with much sweat ?
Overnight they kill your savings, never blink an eyelid, I bet.
What has this world come to where your saving are so insecure-
when overnight your safety blanket suddenly is gone for sure !
Otto Ross
March 2011
L A Z Y D A Y S
It is raining ! A good excuse for lazying around with nothing to do !
Really - I should do the laundry- but that is between me and you .
What better way to spend a wet day than to simply let everything go.,
too bad that I have to make my own meals- but that, unfortunately, is so.
The house is quiet once again, the so welcome visitors have left,
but, fortunately I am still able to manage and not be bereft.
Let it be known that so far with good spirits I can persevere,
there is no crying or feeling sorry for myself : I am still here !
At ninety-eight and four months that is a good thing to state,
as long as I can still play poker-however no staying up too late.
Although the days are now longer with no school to attend,
however-in four weeks this vacation should be at a timely end.
As you all know -writing poems keeps this old brain going.
That there are people who like them-that certainly I am knowing.
While, hopefully, I am entitled to many more of such a lazy day :
aren't I blessed to make this statement-that's all I have to say !
OttoRoss
March 21,2011
Really - I should do the laundry- but that is between me and you .
What better way to spend a wet day than to simply let everything go.,
too bad that I have to make my own meals- but that, unfortunately, is so.
The house is quiet once again, the so welcome visitors have left,
but, fortunately I am still able to manage and not be bereft.
Let it be known that so far with good spirits I can persevere,
there is no crying or feeling sorry for myself : I am still here !
At ninety-eight and four months that is a good thing to state,
as long as I can still play poker-however no staying up too late.
Although the days are now longer with no school to attend,
however-in four weeks this vacation should be at a timely end.
As you all know -writing poems keeps this old brain going.
That there are people who like them-that certainly I am knowing.
While, hopefully, I am entitled to many more of such a lazy day :
aren't I blessed to make this statement-that's all I have to say !
OttoRoss
March 21,2011
TURN ABOUT IS FAIR PLAY
Used to be a time when I was at the selling end of the game.
But there came old age and with it the buying is what came.
To be friendly and polite is needed with either procedure
the spending of money-instead of making it, is now a feature.
The government , after most of your life, they took from you,
now they are obliged to pay back some, that is very true.
They now have to send you a monthly retirement check,
the time has come when they must stop to be a pain in the neck.
Retiring at 80 years of age, I finally could stop sending them "loot"-
instead of them having a hand out-now I can give them the boot.
Right on time to my bank account they send what they owe:
my fervent prayer is just that their coffers do not get too low.
Turn about is fair play- they have been taking all those years.
there were times when their greed did drive me to tears.
Now, it is only fair that they give back some of this unearned treasure,
to see them do it now gives me such great monthly pleasure.
OTTO ROSS
March 2011
But there came old age and with it the buying is what came.
To be friendly and polite is needed with either procedure
the spending of money-instead of making it, is now a feature.
The government , after most of your life, they took from you,
now they are obliged to pay back some, that is very true.
They now have to send you a monthly retirement check,
the time has come when they must stop to be a pain in the neck.
Retiring at 80 years of age, I finally could stop sending them "loot"-
instead of them having a hand out-now I can give them the boot.
Right on time to my bank account they send what they owe:
my fervent prayer is just that their coffers do not get too low.
Turn about is fair play- they have been taking all those years.
there were times when their greed did drive me to tears.
Now, it is only fair that they give back some of this unearned treasure,
to see them do it now gives me such great monthly pleasure.
OTTO ROSS
March 2011
WEATHER REPORT March 28,2011
It is a secret no longer-yes, now it has to be told :
good old California this winter has gotten ever so cold.
Living in the East one expected year's end with snow:
but ,out in the West to need heat is rare, I want you to know.
When the US Army once sent me out here to enjoy many a warm day,
all year around the the good old sun an important role it did play.
My memory does not chronicle many days of it being wet,
our summer Khaki uniforms a good work-out they daily did get !
Finally the good Lord sent me here for a permanent stay-
he found the best place weather wise, rarely the skies were gray.
Open sandals were what we sold in our store the year around
the need to carry overshoes so very seldom was truly found.
Yet, this year I must truly file a complaint when paying my heating bill,
of sweaters and overcoats lately I had more than my fill.
The nose keeps running-it hates this weather-but, if you please:
now, this very weekend the weather report predicts 90 degrees !
OTTO ROSS
good old California this winter has gotten ever so cold.
Living in the East one expected year's end with snow:
but ,out in the West to need heat is rare, I want you to know.
When the US Army once sent me out here to enjoy many a warm day,
all year around the the good old sun an important role it did play.
My memory does not chronicle many days of it being wet,
our summer Khaki uniforms a good work-out they daily did get !
Finally the good Lord sent me here for a permanent stay-
he found the best place weather wise, rarely the skies were gray.
Open sandals were what we sold in our store the year around
the need to carry overshoes so very seldom was truly found.
Yet, this year I must truly file a complaint when paying my heating bill,
of sweaters and overcoats lately I had more than my fill.
The nose keeps running-it hates this weather-but, if you please:
now, this very weekend the weather report predicts 90 degrees !
OTTO ROSS
A - SHOPPING AT 98
The most important event of my old age routine- it is shopping !
A task that will include much well-known names -a- dropping.
Since most local stores are no longer in pleasant, close proximity-
trips by car are required and feature a drive to a less close vicinity.
While not a daily occurrence, it is necessary if I want to have a meal,
preparation of shopping lists, once ignored, are now a big deal.
Bread and milk are often featured, yet most nourishment comes in a tin-
it is just so amazing what varieties of food are contained therein.
No chef is required to come in person-but some have made a name
by putting their faces on these concoctions, they did achieve some fame.
There now is a variety of prepared food, it covers the whole world-
specialties of far away countries, ready to eat, are now unfurled.
These trips also include a quest for needs that are just a must-
such as toilet paper, napkins or vacuum bags to collect much dust.
We have come a long way from the old time variety store or market,-
one place is now able to fill all your needs: just go to Target !
OTTO ROSS
MARCH 2011
A task that will include much well-known names -a- dropping.
Since most local stores are no longer in pleasant, close proximity-
trips by car are required and feature a drive to a less close vicinity.
While not a daily occurrence, it is necessary if I want to have a meal,
preparation of shopping lists, once ignored, are now a big deal.
Bread and milk are often featured, yet most nourishment comes in a tin-
it is just so amazing what varieties of food are contained therein.
No chef is required to come in person-but some have made a name
by putting their faces on these concoctions, they did achieve some fame.
There now is a variety of prepared food, it covers the whole world-
specialties of far away countries, ready to eat, are now unfurled.
These trips also include a quest for needs that are just a must-
such as toilet paper, napkins or vacuum bags to collect much dust.
We have come a long way from the old time variety store or market,-
one place is now able to fill all your needs: just go to Target !
OTTO ROSS
MARCH 2011
T A L K I N G T O M Y S E L F !
Let me be honest : a poet of note surely I am not !
But to keep alive in my dotage-that's all I've got.
The old noddle needs nourishment to keep it up to par,
without these brain teasers I would not now get very far.
It is amazing what haphazard procedure I do follow,
with pen and paper at hand, the thoughts are never hollow.
Knowing that I touch subjects featured by no one else,
surely I can be proud of ringing many quiet bells.
Let it be known that my efforts do take very little time,
somehow or another any one line is followed by a rhyme.
Many times my admirers tell me to publish those verses-
but, I am not out for glory, just a chuckle satisfaction disperses.
Thus the books containing my work are growing in girth,
proudly I deem it a labor of love, time spent of some worth.
My feeling is that I can leave behind a token of my existence,
Yes, the literary juices still flow and do not meet with resistance.
OTTO ROSS
MARCH 28,2011
But to keep alive in my dotage-that's all I've got.
The old noddle needs nourishment to keep it up to par,
without these brain teasers I would not now get very far.
It is amazing what haphazard procedure I do follow,
with pen and paper at hand, the thoughts are never hollow.
Knowing that I touch subjects featured by no one else,
surely I can be proud of ringing many quiet bells.
Let it be known that my efforts do take very little time,
somehow or another any one line is followed by a rhyme.
Many times my admirers tell me to publish those verses-
but, I am not out for glory, just a chuckle satisfaction disperses.
Thus the books containing my work are growing in girth,
proudly I deem it a labor of love, time spent of some worth.
My feeling is that I can leave behind a token of my existence,
Yes, the literary juices still flow and do not meet with resistance.
OTTO ROSS
MARCH 28,2011
S L E E P W E L L
How much is that doggie as a pillow ? Priceless, I would say !
Not often does one find such comfort- be it night or day.
As a companion for a good slumber-it is not often to be found,
such soft support for your head should make you rest so very sound.
Not many pets are allowed to share one's slumber most any night,
but this companion Chihuahua evidently earned that very right.
When this soft fur touches your silky skin it must be a welcome treat,
to be able to have your head so cushioned, surely it is very neat.
Of course when you let your pet share your dreams much is expected-
it is just hoped that the other two do not feel very neglected !
In my long life, Sophie La Douce was not allowed to share my bed,
I cannot remember using her as a cushion- enough said.
Thus I envy you this very joy which enhanced your good slumber,
surely it led to happy dreams for you to gladly encumber.
Just don't squeeze that little head, it is just so very tender:
it is truly amazing what such soft support may engender
Otto Ross
April 2, 2011
Not often does one find such comfort- be it night or day.
As a companion for a good slumber-it is not often to be found,
such soft support for your head should make you rest so very sound.
Not many pets are allowed to share one's slumber most any night,
but this companion Chihuahua evidently earned that very right.
When this soft fur touches your silky skin it must be a welcome treat,
to be able to have your head so cushioned, surely it is very neat.
Of course when you let your pet share your dreams much is expected-
it is just hoped that the other two do not feel very neglected !
In my long life, Sophie La Douce was not allowed to share my bed,
I cannot remember using her as a cushion- enough said.
Thus I envy you this very joy which enhanced your good slumber,
surely it led to happy dreams for you to gladly encumber.
Just don't squeeze that little head, it is just so very tender:
it is truly amazing what such soft support may engender
Otto Ross
April 2, 2011
FIRST OCEAN VOYAGE
Yes, we had a river in the town of my birth and a small lake.
What we had was a big puddle and rowboats a trip to take.
Mother was afraid, but Father liked to take me for a row,
and I could not wait for him to ask me if I wanted to go.
Growing up I had to learn to go to the bath, learn how to swim-
with a belt around the middle, the teacher held me on a heavy string.
Never afraid of the water, I soon got to enjoy this healthy exercise,
and, with my school friends, to swim, I thought, was ever so nice.
Then came the time when the big ocean beckoned and I wanted to go,
took a long train trip to a harbor city where strong winds did blow.
A huge steamer was tied to the wharf, big stairs I had to ascend-
I was ever so lucky a young group of travelers to befriend.
This first voyage was calm, meeting these people was much fun
in no time at all we heard interesting stories from most everyone.
With my knowledge of English I got along with much ease,
with some of them I was able to keep in touch, it did so please !
Otto Ross
April 2011
What we had was a big puddle and rowboats a trip to take.
Mother was afraid, but Father liked to take me for a row,
and I could not wait for him to ask me if I wanted to go.
Growing up I had to learn to go to the bath, learn how to swim-
with a belt around the middle, the teacher held me on a heavy string.
Never afraid of the water, I soon got to enjoy this healthy exercise,
and, with my school friends, to swim, I thought, was ever so nice.
Then came the time when the big ocean beckoned and I wanted to go,
took a long train trip to a harbor city where strong winds did blow.
A huge steamer was tied to the wharf, big stairs I had to ascend-
I was ever so lucky a young group of travelers to befriend.
This first voyage was calm, meeting these people was much fun
in no time at all we heard interesting stories from most everyone.
With my knowledge of English I got along with much ease,
with some of them I was able to keep in touch, it did so please !
Otto Ross
April 2011
C I G A R E T T E S
Believe it-or not-I smoked my first one on board of a ship !
My age was twenty, and I left home for my first ocean trip.
Away from parental supervision, it proved that I was now a man:
no better way to express this fact than one of these cylinders can.
It made me proud that now I belonged to this intrepid band,
who so clearly stated that it could light up on demand .
Yes, it was all for show, let me clearly state that I did not inhale-
if questioned about the habit I could point to nicotine on my fingernail.
Held between two fingers, nonchalantly blowing out steam,
these fire-tipped sticks made any sinister darkness gleam.
Nonchalantly pull one from the box or an initialed silver case
and held expressively in your hand,proved that anything you could face.
The came the time when their use to your health was called detrimental,
nicotine-free ones popped up- they were only experimental.
So, proud I am that overnight I had the guts this nasty habit to quit :
Yes, I am able to state that any tobacco to this day stays unlit !
Otto Ross
April 2011
My age was twenty, and I left home for my first ocean trip.
Away from parental supervision, it proved that I was now a man:
no better way to express this fact than one of these cylinders can.
It made me proud that now I belonged to this intrepid band,
who so clearly stated that it could light up on demand .
Yes, it was all for show, let me clearly state that I did not inhale-
if questioned about the habit I could point to nicotine on my fingernail.
Held between two fingers, nonchalantly blowing out steam,
these fire-tipped sticks made any sinister darkness gleam.
Nonchalantly pull one from the box or an initialed silver case
and held expressively in your hand,proved that anything you could face.
The came the time when their use to your health was called detrimental,
nicotine-free ones popped up- they were only experimental.
So, proud I am that overnight I had the guts this nasty habit to quit :
Yes, I am able to state that any tobacco to this day stays unlit !
Otto Ross
April 2011
T S U N A M I
A strange word, coined by the Japanese-now on everyone's mind !
It is an occurrence where wind and water for destruction are combined.
Huge tidal waves resulting from volcanic eruptions, out at a hostile sea,
they are now on every one's mind, it is so scary-believe you me.
People swept away, homes inundated, to the elements exposed-
this is nature at the worst where there is an ocean where once was a coast.
Although far away, every one on this Earth is affected by this disaster-
it just goes to prove that we are so helpless and who is our Master.
Therefore it behooves us to do what we can to ease this pain,
money does help,but we should be allowed to send food to sustain.
The world is getting smaller, we are all affected day by every day,
it behoove us to be of aid, to show support, come whatever may.
Only if we help each each other will there be a future to sustain
because it is unwise to ignore disaster and aloof to remain.
We are all subject to a power, sending punishment from above
now, more than ever, what we most need is brotherly love !
Otto Ross
April 2011
It is an occurrence where wind and water for destruction are combined.
Huge tidal waves resulting from volcanic eruptions, out at a hostile sea,
they are now on every one's mind, it is so scary-believe you me.
People swept away, homes inundated, to the elements exposed-
this is nature at the worst where there is an ocean where once was a coast.
Although far away, every one on this Earth is affected by this disaster-
it just goes to prove that we are so helpless and who is our Master.
Therefore it behooves us to do what we can to ease this pain,
money does help,but we should be allowed to send food to sustain.
The world is getting smaller, we are all affected day by every day,
it behoove us to be of aid, to show support, come whatever may.
Only if we help each each other will there be a future to sustain
because it is unwise to ignore disaster and aloof to remain.
We are all subject to a power, sending punishment from above
now, more than ever, what we most need is brotherly love !
Otto Ross
April 2011
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
THE BRAIN BUSY
A poem a day is what a good doctor should prescribe.
It keeps your brain busy and gives your life a new vibe.
When, in old age, you are without a problem to solve-
mostly unimportant thoughts in your head do revolve.
Rather than worry what unforeseen events might befall,
or trying unimportant past happenings now to recall,
forget about politics and just rejoice that you can relax,
now is the time to recall good things-perhaps having sex!
What better occupation than to write whatever does rhyme-
so pleasant to know that people will think your are "sublime".
It is a fact that poems have endured for so many years,
why not try to leave proof of your existence as the end nears.
This is such a pleasant way of proving that you can still think,
even if you do realize that your existence is at the very brink.
Somebody,somewhere,just might enjoy what you wrote,
surely it is not really necessary to be a genius of note !
It keeps your brain busy and gives your life a new vibe.
When, in old age, you are without a problem to solve-
mostly unimportant thoughts in your head do revolve.
Rather than worry what unforeseen events might befall,
or trying unimportant past happenings now to recall,
forget about politics and just rejoice that you can relax,
now is the time to recall good things-perhaps having sex!
What better occupation than to write whatever does rhyme-
so pleasant to know that people will think your are "sublime".
It is a fact that poems have endured for so many years,
why not try to leave proof of your existence as the end nears.
This is such a pleasant way of proving that you can still think,
even if you do realize that your existence is at the very brink.
Somebody,somewhere,just might enjoy what you wrote,
surely it is not really necessary to be a genius of note !
S O F T N E S S S
Much softness in our lives-is that not what we much desire ?
That comes to the fore especially when we are ready to retire.
We are looking forward to spend our days,be it on couch or in easy chair,
after a life of much competition, taking it easy now is ever so very fair.
We had to spend many of our previous years on a tiresome go,
wishing that this race for success now finally would slow.
Often hard chairs and much stranding were our destined lot-
no time to spend on blessed relaxation, a run- around is all we got.
But in the end our efforts should be rewarded with a place to relax,
surely we are entitled to find a soft spot to slow our tracks.
A blessed couch, a Grandfather's chair should now be our lot.
so we can stop racing around, slow down to an easy trot.
Downy pillows should now support our aching back or head-
fond memories on soft cushioning we are now entitled to get.
So, let us enjoy this well earned downy luxury and get our rest,
yes, a place to stretch out and reminisce will now be BEST.
That comes to the fore especially when we are ready to retire.
We are looking forward to spend our days,be it on couch or in easy chair,
after a life of much competition, taking it easy now is ever so very fair.
We had to spend many of our previous years on a tiresome go,
wishing that this race for success now finally would slow.
Often hard chairs and much stranding were our destined lot-
no time to spend on blessed relaxation, a run- around is all we got.
But in the end our efforts should be rewarded with a place to relax,
surely we are entitled to find a soft spot to slow our tracks.
A blessed couch, a Grandfather's chair should now be our lot.
so we can stop racing around, slow down to an easy trot.
Downy pillows should now support our aching back or head-
fond memories on soft cushioning we are now entitled to get.
So, let us enjoy this well earned downy luxury and get our rest,
yes, a place to stretch out and reminisce will now be BEST.
L E T T E R S, #2
What greater joy than finding letters at your very door.
It is something to look for with anticipation, yes, forever more.
In this day of electronic greetings they are a personal get together,
even though I pity the carriers, they have to be out in any weather.
In old age when friendships dwindle they are such a welcome sight,
although now they are mostly asking for money, that ain't right !
Yet, there are some that are keeping old friendships alive,
to exchange experiences from the past one should much strive.
Handwritten , these missives have a certain warmth and so please,
yet, unfortunately,there now is a definite dwindling of these.
Astoundingly I saw an ad for fountain pens on my television:
does anyone use them now ? As a signature, prints fulfill this mission.
Thus it is regrettable that this correspondence is a thing of the past,
everything now has to be mechanized and done ever so very fast.
To find a handwritten message in your box is a joy to behold :
there is nothing better than to find someone's character thus unfold.
It is something to look for with anticipation, yes, forever more.
In this day of electronic greetings they are a personal get together,
even though I pity the carriers, they have to be out in any weather.
In old age when friendships dwindle they are such a welcome sight,
although now they are mostly asking for money, that ain't right !
Yet, there are some that are keeping old friendships alive,
to exchange experiences from the past one should much strive.
Handwritten , these missives have a certain warmth and so please,
yet, unfortunately,there now is a definite dwindling of these.
Astoundingly I saw an ad for fountain pens on my television:
does anyone use them now ? As a signature, prints fulfill this mission.
Thus it is regrettable that this correspondence is a thing of the past,
everything now has to be mechanized and done ever so very fast.
To find a handwritten message in your box is a joy to behold :
there is nothing better than to find someone's character thus unfold.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
TEMPTATION
There they go again, tempting me to win a poetry prize !
Yes, I have gotten many 2ds and 3ds, but a 1st would be so nice.
Nearing one hundred I am so very lucky to still think straight
but to tempt fate with such ambition is rather foolish, I am afraid.
My bookcase overflows with verses I wrote over so many years-
to expose myself to learned judges and lose is one of my fears.
To even try at this advanced age could be called tempting fate,
but, then again, human instinct prevails-it is never too late !
As long as the ending rhymes, certainly I am entitled to a chance,
I would even be willing to celebrate with a shaky victory dance.
Having been Secretary of the Writer's Club should give me an "in",
certainly to dream and hope for the impossible is no great sin.
So, there you are: after sleepless nights and much cogitating,
here is my contribution for 2011, a loss would be ever so devastating !
Dear Judges, please, close one eye and consider my fervent plea:
to consider this work with a touch of human kindness, I beg of thee !
Yes, I have gotten many 2ds and 3ds, but a 1st would be so nice.
Nearing one hundred I am so very lucky to still think straight
but to tempt fate with such ambition is rather foolish, I am afraid.
My bookcase overflows with verses I wrote over so many years-
to expose myself to learned judges and lose is one of my fears.
To even try at this advanced age could be called tempting fate,
but, then again, human instinct prevails-it is never too late !
As long as the ending rhymes, certainly I am entitled to a chance,
I would even be willing to celebrate with a shaky victory dance.
Having been Secretary of the Writer's Club should give me an "in",
certainly to dream and hope for the impossible is no great sin.
So, there you are: after sleepless nights and much cogitating,
here is my contribution for 2011, a loss would be ever so devastating !
Dear Judges, please, close one eye and consider my fervent plea:
to consider this work with a touch of human kindness, I beg of thee !
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
L E T T E R S
What else used to keep families in close touch ?
Outside the phone it used to be cards, letters and such.
The mail person was awaited with anticipation and mostly joy-
but then again, there were those nasty bills to much annoy.
Letter writing used to be an art-good handwriting was admired,
whereas now after typewriters, the computer is so desired.
Both these gadgets took personality out of communication,
there is nothing like some nice writing to lead to much elation.
Printed congratulations now take personality out of the message,
where once personal communication celebrated any rite of passage.
Goose feathers, pen and ink were what got us in touch,
they showed that the time spent on this meant ever so much.
Handwriting will soon suffer or it might just all disappear -
to express one's feelings will be handled by machine only, I fear.
Thus another piece of yourself will bite the proverbial dust :
to sit down and write something by hand will be no longer a must !
OTTO ROSS
January 2011
Outside the phone it used to be cards, letters and such.
The mail person was awaited with anticipation and mostly joy-
but then again, there were those nasty bills to much annoy.
Letter writing used to be an art-good handwriting was admired,
whereas now after typewriters, the computer is so desired.
Both these gadgets took personality out of communication,
there is nothing like some nice writing to lead to much elation.
Printed congratulations now take personality out of the message,
where once personal communication celebrated any rite of passage.
Goose feathers, pen and ink were what got us in touch,
they showed that the time spent on this meant ever so much.
Handwriting will soon suffer or it might just all disappear -
to express one's feelings will be handled by machine only, I fear.
Thus another piece of yourself will bite the proverbial dust :
to sit down and write something by hand will be no longer a must !
OTTO ROSS
January 2011
WHAT'S IN A NAME ?
It surely seems funny when a 98 year old man goes to school.
Would not most people think of him as a doddering old fool ?
Well, as it happens, I now put myself in just such a position-
and, believe it or not, I am proud to put myself on exhibition.
Blessed with a still able brain to absorb knowledge at this stage,
it is such a miracle that I can still crack a schoolbook's page.
But, should you ask me to learn a poem and recite it by heart-
it is impossible - I forget your name minutes after we do part.
The mind is a wonderful thing, it does grasp any situation,
if you can cite past experiences, you can age with determination.
Wisdom is acquired by training, you can react to many things-
yet, then again, there is the desperation a loss of a name often brings.
Many a time I have to admit that I am really so very ashamed
when I know the person I talk with and the loss of a name is blamed.
Yes, I know, I am not alone in this regrettable failure of recognition :
when only my years can excuse this lapse and it fills me with contrition.
Would not most people think of him as a doddering old fool ?
Well, as it happens, I now put myself in just such a position-
and, believe it or not, I am proud to put myself on exhibition.
Blessed with a still able brain to absorb knowledge at this stage,
it is such a miracle that I can still crack a schoolbook's page.
But, should you ask me to learn a poem and recite it by heart-
it is impossible - I forget your name minutes after we do part.
The mind is a wonderful thing, it does grasp any situation,
if you can cite past experiences, you can age with determination.
Wisdom is acquired by training, you can react to many things-
yet, then again, there is the desperation a loss of a name often brings.
Many a time I have to admit that I am really so very ashamed
when I know the person I talk with and the loss of a name is blamed.
Yes, I know, I am not alone in this regrettable failure of recognition :
when only my years can excuse this lapse and it fills me with contrition.
E I N S T E I N
Would you believe that I once shook the hands of this great man ?
This is a statement which to make, surely not anyone can !
It was a highpoint of my quiet life, certainly I am still ever so proud-
to boast of this occasion and ever so anxious to tell all about.
As Secretary of a German Club of refugees in New York I was living,
whereas this learned man lectures in Princeton, N.J. was giving.
The president of our club was not afraid to issue an invitation
to the great scientist, indicating that we all came from the same nation.
Lo and behold, he indeed accepted our bidding and set a date-
leaving it to us to find a suitable place which would highly rate.
You can imagine the excitement and joy this provoked in our small group-
because now, all of a sudden, we could consider ourselves"in the loop".
The place I have now forgotten, but the hand shake-should I stop washing my hand?
He spoke in German with a dialect and the impact was ever so grand.
An outstanding event in the life of an ordinary guy and I must boast :
to one of the smartest thinkers of the world I was allowed to play host !
OTTO ROSS
January 2011
This is a statement which to make, surely not anyone can !
It was a highpoint of my quiet life, certainly I am still ever so proud-
to boast of this occasion and ever so anxious to tell all about.
As Secretary of a German Club of refugees in New York I was living,
whereas this learned man lectures in Princeton, N.J. was giving.
The president of our club was not afraid to issue an invitation
to the great scientist, indicating that we all came from the same nation.
Lo and behold, he indeed accepted our bidding and set a date-
leaving it to us to find a suitable place which would highly rate.
You can imagine the excitement and joy this provoked in our small group-
because now, all of a sudden, we could consider ourselves"in the loop".
The place I have now forgotten, but the hand shake-should I stop washing my hand?
He spoke in German with a dialect and the impact was ever so grand.
An outstanding event in the life of an ordinary guy and I must boast :
to one of the smartest thinkers of the world I was allowed to play host !
OTTO ROSS
January 2011
T H E D E S K C A L E N D A R
Each day it stares at me - a gift from my fine nephew, you see.
It dares me to pull another page, it irks me, to some degree.
With the jokes and pictures on it, I hate to get rid of the present day,
because getting older is not much pleasure, I wish the date would stay !
But, to keep up with the world, I have to remove what is now past-
no matter how you wish for it to remain, there is no way that it will last.
Unfortunately, what happened is now history and down the drain -
you are ever so lucky if good memories of the past will remain.
Inexorably you are forced to remove another page that now has gone stale,
should you want to discuss past events-they sound like an old wives' tale.
Just like old newspapers are only good for wrapping today's fish-
to bring back any past event turns into an unfulfilled, too late wish.
To let missed opportunities be bygone is the very best thing to do,
the calendar with the proper date reminds you what today is new.
It tells you that things have come up that for now are the proper date :
so, do what the new page demands because for yesterday's it is too late !
It dares me to pull another page, it irks me, to some degree.
With the jokes and pictures on it, I hate to get rid of the present day,
because getting older is not much pleasure, I wish the date would stay !
But, to keep up with the world, I have to remove what is now past-
no matter how you wish for it to remain, there is no way that it will last.
Unfortunately, what happened is now history and down the drain -
you are ever so lucky if good memories of the past will remain.
Inexorably you are forced to remove another page that now has gone stale,
should you want to discuss past events-they sound like an old wives' tale.
Just like old newspapers are only good for wrapping today's fish-
to bring back any past event turns into an unfulfilled, too late wish.
To let missed opportunities be bygone is the very best thing to do,
the calendar with the proper date reminds you what today is new.
It tells you that things have come up that for now are the proper date :
so, do what the new page demands because for yesterday's it is too late !
Friday, January 21, 2011
T H E C A L E N D A R
Inexorably time moves forward, it never does stand still !
Our keeping up with it surely depends on God's will.
From the time we enter this world our days are measured-
that is why each second of our existence should be treasured.
It is well known that we are prone to waste a precious hour
unaware of worthwhile moments our existence we devour.
Steadily each calendar page makes way for the one to come
sometimes too fast and then again the pace may be numb.
This gadget was invented long ago, did improve with age,
until the time comes when it is no longer used page by page.
The computer now shows the date and changes it daily:
no need to tear off, waiting for the day of rest ever so gaily.
We know that the sands of time run down with steady grind,
if nothing upsets the routine our fate is considered very kind.
Should something change the succession of the daily numbers
a feeling of dread will surely interfere with our sound slumbers.
January 17,2011
Our keeping up with it surely depends on God's will.
From the time we enter this world our days are measured-
that is why each second of our existence should be treasured.
It is well known that we are prone to waste a precious hour
unaware of worthwhile moments our existence we devour.
Steadily each calendar page makes way for the one to come
sometimes too fast and then again the pace may be numb.
This gadget was invented long ago, did improve with age,
until the time comes when it is no longer used page by page.
The computer now shows the date and changes it daily:
no need to tear off, waiting for the day of rest ever so gaily.
We know that the sands of time run down with steady grind,
if nothing upsets the routine our fate is considered very kind.
Should something change the succession of the daily numbers
a feeling of dread will surely interfere with our sound slumbers.
January 17,2011
T H E B O O K W O R M
That's what I justifiably could be called when I was a kid.
Starting to read at night with a flashlight-that was it !
Children's book in my native German were eagerly devoured,
it brings back memories when my imagination was thus empowered.
Stories of ancient knights performing many a heroic deed
gave way to the famous poets, whose names to mention is no need.
When I reached thirteen my birthday brought gifts of many a famous book,
to gather a small library very little effort in coming years it took.
Came time when I had to leave my treasures to go to foreign lands,
knowing that, with my parents, they would be left in good hands.
Then came the Nazis, they got all those fine books on the shelf-
no way to save them, I was lucky to be able to do this for myself.
With good fortune my family was safe, but the tomes were left behind
and, ever so often their whereabouts has crossed my mourning mind.
They were replaced some, but when I had to move to a smaller place,
once again, the abandonment of these literary joys I had to face.
Now, there is no room to gather another such collection
and, while working in a Library, only their nearness brings satisfaction.
The old eyes get easily tired and the brain is not what it used to be :
no longer a book worm, now it is just "crimis" and magazines for me !
Starting to read at night with a flashlight-that was it !
Children's book in my native German were eagerly devoured,
it brings back memories when my imagination was thus empowered.
Stories of ancient knights performing many a heroic deed
gave way to the famous poets, whose names to mention is no need.
When I reached thirteen my birthday brought gifts of many a famous book,
to gather a small library very little effort in coming years it took.
Came time when I had to leave my treasures to go to foreign lands,
knowing that, with my parents, they would be left in good hands.
Then came the Nazis, they got all those fine books on the shelf-
no way to save them, I was lucky to be able to do this for myself.
With good fortune my family was safe, but the tomes were left behind
and, ever so often their whereabouts has crossed my mourning mind.
They were replaced some, but when I had to move to a smaller place,
once again, the abandonment of these literary joys I had to face.
Now, there is no room to gather another such collection
and, while working in a Library, only their nearness brings satisfaction.
The old eyes get easily tired and the brain is not what it used to be :
no longer a book worm, now it is just "crimis" and magazines for me !
Monday, January 3, 2011
What does it mean to us old folks when the clock strikes 12 at midnight ?
We already can count our blessings to be still around -- is that not right ?
Of course, we are long tucked away in our warm, cozy and soft bed,
let the Young Ones enjoy the bubbly-not for us now and enough said.
It is a good time to think back on this last day of another year,
to count our blessings, to reminisce of those who were so dear.
When we were able together to share festivities and much fun,
and, if we had a good life, we know we had a very good run.
On the other hand this time of change makes us fully aware
that those we loved and shared hours with, are no longer there.
But we should readily admit this is not to shed empty tears,
we were blessed to spend much joy with our, now gone, dears,
To our offspring our thoughts should be directed-may they be well:
we had our time and must move on and at some time we shall.
Yet, a new year is always good reason to hope and pray
that in peace and quiet good times may still come our way .
OTTO ROSS
December 31,2010
We already can count our blessings to be still around -- is that not right ?
Of course, we are long tucked away in our warm, cozy and soft bed,
let the Young Ones enjoy the bubbly-not for us now and enough said.
It is a good time to think back on this last day of another year,
to count our blessings, to reminisce of those who were so dear.
When we were able together to share festivities and much fun,
and, if we had a good life, we know we had a very good run.
On the other hand this time of change makes us fully aware
that those we loved and shared hours with, are no longer there.
But we should readily admit this is not to shed empty tears,
we were blessed to spend much joy with our, now gone, dears,
To our offspring our thoughts should be directed-may they be well:
we had our time and must move on and at some time we shall.
Yet, a new year is always good reason to hope and pray
that in peace and quiet good times may still come our way .
OTTO ROSS
December 31,2010
THERE THEY GO
It is up to me to wish them a cheerful good -bye . > > May the Lord be with them when so far they fly. > > In spirit I shall be following them every blessed day. > > My thoughts are with them and about them, come what may. > > > > They both have earned a month of rest and days so grand, > > may all their new experiences be great in a foreign land. > > Trusting that their E-mails will be full of joy and steady- > > to get good news and to answer I shall be ever so ready. > > > > To be in the Far East, may the sun on them pleasantly shine, > > on these two people-they are the ones who are all mine. > > To see the world is a great change from everyday living, > > hopefully these days will be full of getting and giving. > > > > Looking forward to their return I shall utter a fervent prayer- > > when that day comes life will be fuller and again gayer. > > A pleasant journey is what I wish for them, let all go well, > > they are the highpoint of my long life-what more can I tell ! > > > > |
H O P E
What would mankind do without hope or expectation ?
There is always something to look forward to, be it self or nation.
Things change like the weather: they turn bad, get better, stay the same,
if we can't master any of this, we only have ourselves to blame.
Hope is what keeps us going from day to day, or we would be lost-
we have to make the best of our lives, muster each problem at any cost.
Nothing stays steady there is always something to upset our thinking,
yet, surely, we must find a view that keeps our eyes from blinking.
To look for a better world is one is one of the quests on our mind,
our wishes should be fulfilled and that nature will be very kind.
Of course, there will be upsets we are expected to master,
while we hope all will go well and there is no threat of disaster.
To be an Optimist will greatly help to face the daily grind,
it will aid to overcome the vicissitudes and clear the mind.
Hope springs eternal, ever since there was another rising sun :
to keep thinking good thoughts will be beneficial to everyone !
There is always something to look forward to, be it self or nation.
Things change like the weather: they turn bad, get better, stay the same,
if we can't master any of this, we only have ourselves to blame.
Hope is what keeps us going from day to day, or we would be lost-
we have to make the best of our lives, muster each problem at any cost.
Nothing stays steady there is always something to upset our thinking,
yet, surely, we must find a view that keeps our eyes from blinking.
To look for a better world is one is one of the quests on our mind,
our wishes should be fulfilled and that nature will be very kind.
Of course, there will be upsets we are expected to master,
while we hope all will go well and there is no threat of disaster.
To be an Optimist will greatly help to face the daily grind,
it will aid to overcome the vicissitudes and clear the mind.
Hope springs eternal, ever since there was another rising sun :
to keep thinking good thoughts will be beneficial to everyone !
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