The Ides of March

As we move into March Madness and St. Patrick's Day and The Ides, I felt I should post a little something (not to mention I have been remiss about posting so far this year). I have to say that the last few weeks have been tough for me and I will admit that I had a mini-breakdown. Thoughts of driving the car into the garage and lowering the door were certainly on my mind. I'm not sure what tipped the balance...maybe it was the 10th anniversary of my mother's death on March 4th, or feeling overwhelmed at work and tired of the long-ass commute. Maybe it was that I have been longing, for the first time in a long time, to go back to performing. Maybe it was just a tougher bought of depression. Whatever it was, it knocked me for a loop. But I'm climbing back up to the light and as I do, I am exicted that The Niagara Purple Eagles are in the NCAA tournament - I predict here that they will upset Kansas - how's that for hope?

Since I was named after St. Patrick, I am pleased to celebrate his day and look forward to some corned-beef and cabbage and a few beers.

Finally, I want to thank the residents at the Edgewater Sunrise Senior Living Center who came down to hear me read from my book last Sunday. It kicked off my little tour and it was really great to have such a supportive audience. I've decided I want to go back there on a regular basis, just to volunteer to read poems...any poems...and then share some conversation.

Keep your spirits up! Here is another poem from my book...

It Is You

Often, there are clouds
Sun shadowed - lacking light
Yet amidst gray of darkness
I find soldace - it is you.

Often, there is rain
Tormented tears - phantom frowning
Yet entrenched by dampest chills
I find warmth - it is you.

Often, there is death
Empty earth - breathless breath
Yet drained by faulted fate
I find life - it is you.