melanie sue

2026-05-15
This is definitely a poem for contemplation. But, as I read, it merges 2 concepts, a changing outer skin that blens in and a mask that covers the true face. And voila! It is the invention of the Camouflage mask that operates like a chameleons skin.
The smiles--- are they real?
That is a personal perception that might be wrong or might be right.

The premise is expressed very well. I like it.

2026-05-15
Tell it!
You are so very right....and I love the way you expressed this.
Thank you, Melinda

2026-05-14
من؟ الأمر منوط بنا جميعاً لنفعله. إنه أمر سيء، ومعركة تستحق الخوض. لا أعتقد أنه يمكن القضاء عليه تماماً، لكن لا بأس بالتمني. أحزنني سماع خبر اقتراب أجلك. آمل أن تحظى بالحب والدعم. أنا أهتم، ولطالما اهتممت.

2026-05-14
If I could rename this work, I would call it "Temptation's Lure".

I like the way you've expressed it. What you wrote evokes this impression, although it might not be accurate, it is what I interpret to be about.

I enjoy reading your stuff---
A creative word artist that you are, I can relate to it very well. It provokes thought and internal memories.
I like it.

2026-05-14
Your talent at writing provides a healing therapy, as it does for many of us. I have experienced my own chaos [like many others have], so this poem hit hard, even though my situation had a different outcome....I have been in a similar place and your words expressed it so well how it feels. Very strong writing, tears welled up and I wish I could just give you a big dose of a loving hug. Healing is a process.....writing, the best medicine

2026-05-13
I was there. She absolutely was on a date with him that night. They found her body at the bottom of a cliff area on the side of the highway with half her face crushed. We were crying our heads off that night and he got away with it, thanks to a corrupted judicial system.

2026-05-13
Isn't it ironic-- I begin college at a religious based college where the environment, despite the beauty, is haunted with evil presence....and I felt it so strong.

2026-05-13
Well, I can recall.
Your poetry has a way of provoking my own experiences. Can we contrast them with each other's? Not if you don't clue me....
Certainly. Some will be similar, some will be unique--
But I very much enjoy reading your words as much as it stirs up my own forgotten times. Hope you reach my age without too much trauma.
I think you are someone very wise for your years and you will keep adding. You are strong in your spirit.

2026-05-13
Alan, your words are absorbed so deep into my own heart. I read the words of a stranger, but I feel you-- like I've always known you. It's strange...but you are the reason these tears are rolling and dripping off my cheeks right now after reading. My heart is breaking. Yet, we are all going to be facing our own demise and I truly believe our real life is waiting on the other side of our passing. Not only that, the joy of it will be so great...we'll be included in the biggest, uncountable family of love. There will be time to know and love each other because time will no longer exist. Still, in this carnal time, I pray you have the pain and suffering under control and managed well.
Love you.

2026-05-12
Thank you, Ken. It is true and all those peeps are heros

2026-05-12
Forgot to mention:

"treacly"- great word choice- love it

2026-05-12
Some will sell their souls. You are not that man. And this poem-
I get it.
More than you can know.
And this writing is magnificent.

2026-05-12
But if I ever meet up with such a fate---
Those clamping jaws are going to feel some pain in the process-- with a louder scream than my own. I will go down fighting for the cause of faith and freedom.

2026-05-12
I commend your writing to heighten this awareness that so many are clueless to or lack an understanding of or have a faulty understanding -- but it is real, all the same. You, good man, are not the first nor will you be the last to voice this disease. Identifying it enables us to conquer this battle...
Humans need a carnal life that provides us and enables us to live together to live with peace, love and freedom.
We are on the same page.
It's the spirit of the devil that divides us.

2026-05-11
I like it.

2026-05-10
It's one of the reason why I they can take their covid-19 vaccines and shove it.

2026-05-09
Excellent.This flows so smoothly. The descriptive "wringing it out" was appealing-- but every word-- all good. And the closure with a little rhyming- perfect.

It just happens to be raining here in Goldsboro today, but it's temperate and not cold.

2026-05-07
Alan, hope you don't mind my saying you are a damn good poet!
The writing, IMHO, is very good therapy and "exercise" for your brain.
DO NOT STOP EXPRESSING YOUR THOUGHTS in any form.
God Bless you

You have an amazing gift and sense of humor. ...
That last line brought me a giggle, dear man.
Genius

2026-05-07
Thank you, Ann. I love learning this history, I am appreciative of your sharing of it and from your perspective. ❣️ May God Bless you

2026-05-07
I can envision you thinking that about those statues from a little boy's vantage. I had a different reaction to the idols from stone, bronze, clay or other. I wondered what happened to their heads and why so many were headless. I wondered why they were naked. LATER, I wondered who they represented. LATER, I learned of the great skills required to create such works.....and later, I learned that they allegedly were clothed, painted and anything else that could be done to enhance realism....the main thing- it provoked questions... and We seem to live in a world where questions are not asked where we can get answers that are not corrupted.

2026-04-27
Awesome as much as it is preciously adorable! And you are!

2026-04-27
Always a soothing moment when reading.
Thank you, Nils.

2026-04-27
EXCELLENT.
I have entertained these same thoughts- and you put it in fine writing-

It seems we're kind of like a modern day Rome. The old sayings ring true- there's nothing new under the sun.
Enjoyed this piece very much.

2026-04-27
Powerful words....I feel the anguish so intensely expressed . . ..
The sadness is beautifully written.

2026-04-27
It's pure, unadulterated joy!
J'aime beaucoup!

2026-04-27
You have encapsulated the truth in this very well. I find music to be like poetry, too, in that our moods often dictate what we might want to listen to or read. I like all your poems very much, even though I might not comment on all I've read so far. Lately, I haven't had as much time to devote to reading, writing and commenting. None of your poems offend me. You write very well. I may not care for all the topics or agree with other poets' work- which is just human nature. I don’t know about others' opinions but I speak for myself when I say I never thought you were an attention seeker and you have every right to be here, a place to give voice to your soul and to connect. I value those connections. I value your poems, Melinda. Keep on writing.....many value this gift and I am one of them.

2026-04-25
2 things-

*The poem is very well written and easy to absorb.

*Due to #1, it provokes the reader that is clueless about your content to seek out and research it, which several of us did. I am a better person, imho, for having read your work. Thank you. I think sharing perspectives can be unifying for us humans. Very well done.

2026-04-13
Clever of you to not use too many specific names, just a few to clue. This is my response to what you have expressed:
Kee, there is actually a very long list with many individuals on it. It is nothing new.

Perhaps this article may shed some light for understanding. Truly, there's nothing new under the sun.

https://sojo.net/articles/opinion/religion-and-power-were-intertwined-then-jesus-challenged-it-all


Imho, it began here:

Emperor Constantine the Great legalized Christianity in the Roman Empire by issuing the Edict of Milan in 313 A.D.... Along with co-emperor Licinius, he granted legal rights and religious tolerance to Christians, ending state-sponsored persecution. This pivotal action allowed Christianity to grow and flourish.

Key Details Regarding the Legalization:

The Edict of Milan (313 AD): This decree established full religious tolerance for Christianity and all other faiths, ensuring the protection of Christians within the empire.

Constantine's Personal Beliefs: While often considered the first Christian emperor, Constantine continued to allow pagan worship and did not make Christianity the sole official state religion.

Advancing the Church: He protected Christians, funded the building of churches, and influenced civil law to reflect Christian principles (such as making Sunday a holiday).

Beyond Legalization: While Constantine legalized it, Emperor Theodosius I later declared Christianity the official state religion in 380 A.D....
■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■
Christ is real, while religion is man's tool for controlling man.

Many claim Christ yet do not have much foundational knowledge of the truth, instead receive a translated, twisted interpreted version. Most are clueless to the contents and the cultures and the history of that 1st century setting. It has resulted in many varying Christian Doctrines [of which I am not the judge of the seekers' conclusions being shared, not yours, not Trump's-- no one's. It is between you and God, not you and me, not you and Trump. Everyone has opinions and frankly speaking, most are wrong but wallow in it as fact. SMH]

2026-04-13
I thought I had commented on this but maybe I hit the wrong button.
So again, this is excellent, excellent writing.I especially like the last few lines, the coexistence of the paradoxical.
Thank you for sharing this talent.

2026-04-13
Love to you, Anne.
Happy Resurrection Day! Even more-- HE is coming back!
A beautiful commentary concerning the traditions of some cultures-- in celebrating and honoring Our Christ who indeed rose and is coming back again. Beautiful.

2026-04-13
You're not the only one.

[That's why I keep my notebook handy now days.....
Oh these poor aging brains of ours!]

2026-04-11
She sounds like the amazing, polished social butterfly who was quite weary of those superficial men of money, power and prestige. The ending is superb- it shows the power of pure attraction despite position on the most naked level in the purity of a genuine smile. You gifted her in ways that they could not.She could feel your magic.

2026-04-11
Well written without a doubt, Allen. I love the nostalgic memories revealed. It evokes warm feelings and memories of my own. But I love reading about yours!
Thank you--- This was a sweet treat to read

2026-03-30
She's a sweet beauty. I no longer have any kitties of my own, but I love them bunches, and all critters. Our daughter, also loves them cats! Never ever did I think she'd become another cat lady in the mountains...But that's a story coming soon.
Love all the descriptive lines. Very nice.

2026-03-30
Nice write! It would be great put to music. Are you playing any these days.
There is no maybe about it-- it's the truth.
I especially like these last 4 lines:

Maybe it’s a meal in a shared dream
Maybe it’s a partner pleasantly gleaned
Maybe from a casual event
Maybe it delivers a life saving ascent


Enjoyed reading, smooth and flowing and with a message that is more uplifting than sad-
I like that.

2026-03-29
This is a gem, exquisitely written.
I enjoyed reading while not relishing its meaning. I can easily relate to this.

2026-03-28
Well written, this definitely evokes that feeling.....
Succinctly framed.

Enjoyed reading

2026-03-28
Love this. Love the form. Love the message.
Most of all, Love the emphasis...the 'is" "is" "is"!
Thank you !

2026-03-27
I love the way you write about nature. I am definitely a nature lover. But it's also easier to relate to it, since we live in the same state. I want to encourage you to write- you have the gift. Don't stop,my new friend.
The other thing, at least for me, is how your writing evokes my own tangible memories locked within your descriptions. I've been sneezing alot and that's the worst that I am effected by it. My mom would get the worst symptoms of hayfever. And then, there's real time that I can relate to--I had to take my 5 year old grandson, Legend to Urgent Care 2 days ago. There is, no doubt, allergies, RSV and other viral nasties going around. Legend started making that whooping cough kind of cough and complain his throat felt sore. Legend's mom eventually came to take over and I left. The doctor said he was writing a precautionary prescription and I think they were going to do some blood work. The doctor was very clear in stating that it could be the excessive pollen. It is harder on little people's lungs. Still, be thankful for it.....without it, there'd be no life. I like poetry that also inspires me to write, not just connect. This piece has it all. Thank you.

2026-03-26
This is a gem. Your writing does not disappoint.
These days, I often get this looming feeling.....
as if I'm watching and waiting for something that's coming but I do not have a clue what it is.
Thank you for this.
You make poetry very pleasant.

2026-03-26
These are the friends you want to have. A divine accident?
In my humble opinion, I think not. Your neighbor exemplifies soul beauty....And it outshines carnal beauty everytime.
Hope you have a beautiful and a blessed day

2026-03-26
I love this clever and satirical wit of yours...
I'd write more but my poor fingers are getting worn.
Suffice it to say- I love this!

2026-03-26
On a lighter note.....

This makes me recall the time I got grossly overweight in the 80's and early 90's and I didn't think I could ever lose the weight that I had gained. I was miserable in that condition and made some serious lifestyle changes
I proved myself wrong. We are all guilty of being "wrong"---

Love you, Kee, my earthly brother ❤️

2026-03-26
The best part of a good love story.....
--It tends to bite ya when you are not looking for it....



or even expect that one may truly find it again....
....especially at our age!


I am very happy for you two! And of course your writing skills exceeds itself. You are a master of the pen.....I found you when you were a stranger who I thought had a female identity [I thought Kee was a variant of Kay and I knew a girl that did indeed use that spelling.] Remember...we corresponded a long time before I finally asked you that question, to be confirmed because I started to realize that you were a guy and not a gal.
Why do I like this very much? It's real.
And well written. I had never known a guy who could write about a prom night impression the way you did....but I knew plenty of women that could. Your writing is amazing and so are you
I will always value our friendship.
Actually, I always did. And I don't want to discuss what chilled everything....
Just glad we are talking again after such a very long time. I did not think you would ever speak to me again.
.

2026-03-25
The Biblical Text also reveals these truths of human nature. It clearly states: "Faith without works is dead" (James 2:26) means that genuine faith in God naturally produces tangible actions, good works, and a transformed life. Belief alone, without loving actions (fruit), is lifeless, ineffective, and not true saving faith.


God shows no partiality, favoritism, or bias based on outward appearances, nationality, social status, or wealth. God is impartial in judgment and offers salvation equally to all, looking at the heart rather than external factors.

The poem expresses very well the angst and frustration of those witnessing the victimized by what I tend to think of as "Satan's Soldiers"

Its been a long time, my friend. I hope you are doing well, Chuma.

2026-03-25
Forget Baby Jane?
Never.


Nostalgic and classic write.

I like it.

2026-03-24
Thank you, for the introduction. I like Spike.
And I like your poetry introducing him.
Your are my wellspring-
Thank you, my friend.

2026-03-24
No, I can't relate....but oh charming how this was played


your writing is quite amusing and tickles my sides-
It makes me laugh.🙂🤔😆😘

It's great- even as a Fable,
Or even as the truth.

2026-03-24
I think I have a poetry twin nearby, lol, because....
Alan, I came here, I read....and it moved my spirit and provoked a desire to hug you.....too....and my spiritual sister beat me to it.
There is still much love in this world

2026-03-24
Oh goodness me. I love this one, Melinda. It's very well written, a smooth and very relatable read. It made me think of other things too. This poem is packed with sub levels of meaning. It made me reflect on my own self- on how I hate to squash a bug, even ones I especially don't like.
It made me think of 1948 and those good and bad figs-
The Generation of The Fig Tree.