tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36816122171869751932024-03-07T21:11:43.766-08:00Musings of a Madman by Donovan CliftDonovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.comBlogger40125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-41077457095567692012018-04-25T19:50:00.002-07:002018-04-25T19:50:50.449-07:00Together as one<div style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">Just when I thought I could never be happy again</span></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">Everything was grey, lifeless, and I was alone</span></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">No one to hold in the darkness </span></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">No one to call my own</span></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">I met her then</span></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;">
<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">Fearful, yet strong and stubborn</span></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">Eyes that light up the heavens</span></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">Running from her own past, and pain</span></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">Always so busy she didn’t have time to think on her wants and needs</span></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">No one to hold in the darkness</span></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">No one to call her own</span></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">And then she met me</span></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;">
<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">Something sparked then and grew into a fire </span></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">Mountains moved, the earth rumbled</span></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">Until then we were both so alone</span></div>
<br />
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 17pt;">Separate, but now together as one </span></div>
Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-52095773317580110932018-04-10T18:37:00.000-07:002018-04-10T18:37:53.298-07:00My mind racesMy mind races.<br />
Thoughts of you consume me.<br />
The taste of your lips.<br />
That secret smell behind your ear.<br />
The feel of your body under my hands.<br />
The smile that caresses your face.<br />
The shine of your cheeks when you blush.<br />
Your nervous laughter.<br />
Watching the wheels of your mind turning behind your eyes.<br />
The timid way you stopped my roaming hands.<br />
The obediance way you crawled into my lap.<br />
The feel of my hard cock twitching under you that I'm not even sure you could feel, but I could.<br />
Playing the good girl when you really want to be oh so naughty.<br />
I'm laying here now and can't stop thinking of you.<br />
I want to sleep but every time I close my eyes, you are there.<br />
<br />Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-74421915014055886712017-12-26T13:13:00.000-08:002017-12-26T13:13:04.139-08:00Dominance<div class="MsoNormal">
The second half of the D’s in BDSM is Dominance. This is a subject near and dear to my
heart. That’s why it has taken so long
to write this. Being a Dominant is
extremely personal, and everyone is going to view it slightly different. Therefore, keeping that in mind, this is my
personal view of it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dominance is about control.
Taking the control of not only your submissive, but yourself as
well. I cannot reasonably expect anyone
to give me control of them if I cannot first control myself. Dominance simply means power or influence
over others. This is a very basic
definition that doesn’t take the lifestyle into it. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Control over oneself may seem like an easy thing, but it’s
actually quite difficult at times. There
are many different facets of life that one can exercise control. I need to be financially responsible. Not having control over my spending habits is
a sign I need to work on my self-control.
Emotionally I need to be in control as well. I have to reign in anger, sadness, jealousy,
despair. It would be inappropriate to
have an emotional breakdown in front of my submissive. If I’m not emotionally stable, how can I
expect her to rely on me as her rock when she needs one. Mentally I need to be in control as
well. I need to know that I have learned
enough, taken enough precautions, to be able to run a scene for the maximum
benefit of all parties. You cannot
Dominate another until you have control of yourself.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Being Dominant means, to me, that I have been given a sacred
trust. My submissive is giving
themselves into my care, and I need to treat that with the respect it
deserves. I need to understand my
submissive so well that I really know her better than she knows herself. I need to study her. I need to know when a sound she makes is good
pain or bad, or pleasure. I need to be
able to get into her mind and see the things that she’s afraid to show me. I need to be able to read her body language
so that even what she can’t, or won’t say, I will hear. I need to understand
her limits and boundaries. I need to
respect her, nurture her, treasure her for the gift that she has given me. Only in that way am I worthy of the title of
Dominant. <o:p></o:p></div>
Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-10395550867814052012016-11-12T11:36:00.000-08:002016-11-12T11:40:04.412-08:00The Discretion Dilemma<div class="MsoNormal">
Choosing
to live a life outside the boundaries of societal “normal” is often a
challenging, but fulfilling endeavor.
BDSM, swinging, polyamory, LGBQT are all examples of that. But those choices we make are often from the
vantage point that something is missing from so called Vanilla life. We find that these alternative lifestyle
choices help us to find those missing elements of life, and be a more complete
person because of them. We also know
that our choices could have consequences should people become aware of it. Therefore, we are discreet about them,
keeping that part of ourselves private except for those that are also in them.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Discretion:
the quality of behaving or speaking in such a way as to avoid causing offense
or revealing private information</u>.
This is a twofold problem. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Part One: Avoiding causing offense.
There are going to be people in our lives, that if we speak openly about our
lifestyle choices, could be offended.
Part of the problem is we may not even know who is going to be offended
beforehand, so we tend to just keep it to ourselves. Friends, family, employers are all equally susceptible
to becoming offended by our actions and beliefs. So, it’s just easier to keep it to ourselves
than take that risk. And it’s a serious
risk in some instances. You could lose a
lifelong friendship. Be ostracized by
family. Be fired from your job. There are people that could be so offended
that they might wish you bodily harm. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Which brings us to Part Two. Not revealing private information. Many people try to protect themselves by
hiding their true identities. Creating
discreet profiles to keep their information and identity a secret. Only participating in areas they are not
known. All of this helps to keep our
identities private and confidential. And
I fully support those that do these things.
They have the right to keep their information private in such ways.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
I come from a unique situation in
that I do not have to keep my lifestyle choices a secret. My family knows, most of my friends are in
the lifestyle, and my employer just wouldn’t care if it doesn’t interfere with
my job performance. I know that I am the
exception to a lot of the bad scenarios out there. So maybe I’m a little freer to live the way I
choose, but that does not mean that I don’t know the value of being discreet. I have the utmost appreciation for the
concerns those not in my situation have with being discreet and do whatever I
can to make sure that they are kept safe.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
But. You knew there had to be a but coming. The problem I see developing is that everyone
is being so discreet, and fearful about their secrets coming out, that the
lifestyle they lead could become endangered.
Because the lifestyle is still “kept in the closet” I think it’s
important for all of us to try and find new people and bring them into the
lifestyle. How else are they supposed to
find us if we aren’t out there looking for them? Yes, every new person that comes in could
blab and say something about us to the wrong person. It’s always been a risk. It will always be a risk. But those new people that come in are the
next generation of lifestylers. The fresh meat that keeps the lifestyle
interesting and fun. You knew it was a
risk when you started, but you started anyway.
I just don’t want it to ever become such an issue that new people are
turned away out of fear. If you are
going to live in the fear of being called out for what you believe in, then
maybe you shouldn’t be in the lifestyle at all.
In all of these alternative lifestyle communication is the key to
success. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Leadership in the groups is
important for this reason. There needs
to be a plan in place to introduce those new people. But the plan needs to not be so overly
complicated that it can take weeks, or even months, for the new people to be
introduced. I, for one, appreciate the
efforts of leadership and will support them in any way possible.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">In closing I just want to say, we all
need to pull together to support the lifestyle, its leadership, and its
growth.</span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">We all do this because we choose
to.</span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">Because we enjoy it.</span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">Because it’s fun.</span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">We all need to be able to trust each other to
make good choices.</span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">To be discreet when
necessary.</span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">To not bring anyone that doesn’t
understand the needs of the many to functions.</span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">
</span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">We all need to work together to make it work for everyone, new and veterans
alike.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-88002618231994983882016-04-16T10:07:00.002-07:002017-12-26T12:55:08.423-08:00Discipline<div class="MsoNormal">
Last time we talked about the B of BDSM. Today we are going to discuss the first of
the D's: Discipline.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What is discipline? For our purposes we will use the
following definition: “<span style="background: white; color: #222222;">the practice of training people to obey rules or a code of
behavior, using punishment to correct disobedience</span>.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the lifestyle, as I've said before, there is a Dominant
person and a submissive. The Dominant
usually establishes a code of conduct, rules for behavior, and a system of
service. They then must train the
submissive to follow those rules. When
training needs a little extra help, various forms of punishment, of discipline,
are used to correct errant behavior. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Discipline can come in many forms. But the most important part of any regime of
discipline is that it must not cause damage.
This is especially true if one uses emotional discipline.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Physical discipline is the most common so let us start
there. Corporal punishment is often used
to correct behavior. Spanking, flogging,
prolonged uncomfortable bondage can all be used. Often the punishment is engineered to fit the
discrepancy. It could be that the
submissive is not allowed to be clothed when greeting their Dominant. So for punishment the Dominant takes all of
their clothing away for a period of time.
The submissive may have forgotten to kneel, or assume any specific
position at the correct time, therefore the Dominant will require them to
assume that position, or bind them in that position, for a period of time. And often just a really good spanking is all
that is necessary to restore order and correct the discrepancy. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mental discipline can also be used. This requires placing the submissive in a
mentally uncomfortable situation. Prolonged
nakedness could be an option for a submissive that has issues being comfortable
with their own nudity. Making dinner or
doing chores without clothing could also be effective in this scenario. Placing them in a situation that accentuates their
fears could also be productive. Maybe
tying them up and then placing a covering over their eyes would be good if they
are uncomfortable in the dark.
Humiliation and degradation tactics can also be used as mental
discipline. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Both physical and mental discipline are going to have an
emotion impact on the submissive. Care
needs to be taken that not only are you not violating established limits, but
that you don’t cause emotional scarring to your partner. The idea of discipline is not to do harm, but
to affect a correction in behavior. Any and all discipline needs to come with
the care and attention that any form of scene requires. Be prepared.
Use your safe words. Follow
established limits. And don’t forget the
after care.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-90964701512846682832016-03-07T19:54:00.000-08:002017-12-26T12:52:12.022-08:00Bondage<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
BDSM. The <b>B</b> stands for Bondage. But what is erotic bondage? Here’s what Wikipedia says. “Bondage is consensual tying, binding, or
restraining a partner for erotic, aesthetic, and/or somatosensory stimulation.” That is a great starter definition. Now let’s dig a little deeper.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bondage can take many forms.
It can involve rope, cuffs, scarves, shackles, literally anything that
will immobilize someone. The form of
bondage being done is dependent on not only the one doing the bondage, but on
the person receiving it. Negotiating
this is important so that everyone involved enjoys what is being done. The person being placed in bondage has a
responsibility to inform the one doing the bondage of any issues that would be
important. Have you had any injuries
that will prevent you from being in certain positions for a length of
time? Do you have any psychological
issues that need to be accounted for before, during, and after? These things can stop a scene in its tracks
and ruin the entire experience for everyone involved.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is also mental bondage. Having the agreement with your partner that
once placed in a specific position you will not move unless guided to a new
position, or told to assume a new position.
This is a great way to start for newcomers, someone with a physical
limitation, or suffers from panic attacks due to bondage scenarios. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are advantages and drawbacks to both forms of
bondage. Mental bondage takes into
consideration those mental or physical limitations. But it does not have the same <i>feel</i> that physical bondage does. The actual sensation of the restraints. The knowledge that you are completely at the
mercy of the one binding you. The
literal, and very real, loss of movement.
Many submissives take a great deal of pleasure, and even comfort, from
the actual restraining of their bodies.
The emotional release of letting go and giving themselves fully into the
hands of another. Mental bondage just
doesn’t fulfill that feeling for them the same way.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bondage has its dangers as well. That is why the Dominant needs to know what
he is doing. Knowledge of how the
restraints are going to affect their submissive both mentally, and
physically. Some basic understanding of
anatomy comes in pretty handy. Don’t tie
her like that, it will restrict blood flow to her hands. Or maybe just not quite as tight. Keep feeling for danger signs. Cold or clammy extremities, numbness,
abrasions, cuts, or welts. If you see
these things then make sure to take the appropriate action. Remember that the submissive has put her
body, her safety, and potentially even her life, into your hands. Don’t betray that trust.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Submissives also have an important role to play. They need to be able to take inventory of
their own bodies. How to I feel physically? How do I feel emotionally? Is this scene going the way that I want it to
go? Do I need to use my safe word? Being a submissive doesn’t mean you get to be
complacent.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Along with these basic safety practices, make sure you keep
learning as the Dominant. Know your
craft. Take pride in what you are able
to accomplish with what you have on hand.
Keep your kit tidy, your tools of the trade in good repair. And above all else, keep your brain
sharp. It’s easy to get lost in the
moment and lose sight of what you are doing.
Be ever vigilant to not only yourself, but the person you have under
your control. Keep yourself in control
at all times, able to act appropriately if the need arises. You are the Dominant. You need to be the one in control.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-49988852984156131602016-02-17T16:06:00.000-08:002016-02-20T13:42:04.454-08:00BDSM : the hard truths<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is mostly just an introductory piece to be followed by
more in depth notes later. Six to be precise. I just wanted to give everyone that doesn’t want
to read them a fair warning. They will
likely be more descriptive, and frankly graphic. I know that there are many people that have
no interest in the subject matter being expounded upon, just as there are many
that will find what I have to say informative and rewarding.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
First let’s break down what BDSM is, and isn’t. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
B&D stands for Bondage and Discipline.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
D&S stands for Dominance and Submission.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
S&M stands for Sadism and Masochism.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BDSM is NOT abuse.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
These six things, concepts, ideas, make up the core of the
BDSM lifestyle. Now BDSM has been around
for a long time, but it has been kept a dark secret. Many of the practices involved are considered
by mainstream society to be deviant or wrong.
Sadly, they usually just misunderstand the ideas behind the behaviors
and practices. Maybe you are one of them
and will gain a better understanding by reading what I have to say about
them. It’s important to say that these
are my thought, my ideas, about the lifestyle, and there are those that would
disagree with them. And that’s perfectly
ok. One of the benefits of this
lifestyle is that it is excepting of all different levels and ideas of how it
should be done properly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In an earlier writing I discussed consent. Consent is one of the few things that is not
open for discussion in the BDSM lifestyle.
Both of the current mottos of the lifestyle contain it. SSC stands for Safe, Sane, and
Consensual. This motto has had a bit of
falling out lately because no one can agree on what Sane is. What is sane for one person seems completely
outlandish to another. So a newer motto
has come into popularity lately. RACK stands
for Risk Aware Consensual Kink. Being
aware of exactly what will happen and agreeing to it. Consent was written rather well in the book
Ethical Slut and I will copy that here for you to examine and review for
yourself. They define consent as follows:
An active collaboration for the pleasure, benefit, and well-being of all
persons concerned. Consent means that
everybody involved must agree to whatever activity is proposed and must also
feel safe enough that they could decline if they wished.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Many people believe that BDSM is abuse, because it involves
pain. While it is true that there is
often pain involved, it is not abusive.
That is where consent because so important. If everyone involved has established their boundaries
and consented to the activity, then it is NOT abusive unless those boundaries
have not been respected. Stepping
outside the agreed upon, consented to boundaries, is abusive and not tolerated
at all inside the BDSM communities. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of the hard things about discussing BDSM is
terminology. I’m going to attempt to
keep it as simple as possible here, and go into more detail in the subsequent writings. But here’s a short dictionary of terms to
keep in mind.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Scene: A time period
that the BDSM activity takes place. This
commonly starts with negotiation and ends with after care.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dominant: The
Doer. The one that directs the
scene. What happens and where, by the
terms of the negotiation. The pain giver
in most instances. Can be referred to as
the Dominant, Master, Sir, among many others depending on the nature and
preferences of the relationship.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Submissive: The one
that receives the “attentions” of the Dominant.
Can be referred to as the sub, slave, baby girl, or pet, among many
others depending on the nature and preferences of the relationship.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is also important to note that those that cause the pain,
for the pleasure of the receiver, are also the ones that provide what is known
as aftercare. Aftercare can take many
forms. Anything from treating any
injuries, providing comfort and warmth to the receiver of the pain, keeping
them hydrated and protected while in a vulnerable mental state. So while pain may be the end result, or even
the goal, of a particular session, it is the provider of the pain that the receiver
turns to after the session is over. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Another topic that is important to discuss is Safe
Words. “What is a safe word,” you
ask? It is an agreed upon way to help
control what is happening. There are
typically three variants involved. For
examples I will use the most common ones, the stop light. Green means everything is great, keep doing
that. Yellow means that I like what you
are doing, but you are getting close to the limit of what I can handle. Don’t take it any further. Red means
stop. Everything must stop right now. Safe words allow the receiver some control on
how far the provider can go, even in the middle of a scene, and to even bring
the whole thing to an end just by saying a single word. This consented to, agreed upon word keeps
abuse from happening, from things going to a place that wasn’t planned for.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
That is all for now.
Stay tuned for the first of the six topics to go into further detail
coming soon. Bondage<o:p></o:p></div>
Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-33835438424924053702016-02-17T15:08:00.000-08:002016-02-20T13:42:19.235-08:00I choose to live<div class="MsoNormal">
I choose to live.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Many of us in life get stuck in a rut. Doing the same thing, day in and day
out. This to me isn’t living. It is merely existing. Existing in a static state lacks the
important characteristics of growth, and change. If you aren’t growing and changing, evolving,
becoming more than you were before, are you really alive? It doesn’t feel that way to me.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So how do we get out of the rut? Don’t like your job? Get a new one. Don’t have the necessary skills for a new
one? Learn them. Can’t afford college? Go to the library or buy a book and teach
yourself. Do what it takes to make a
difference in your own life. The same
concepts apply to every facet of your life.
Your friendships, career, relationships, children. Become more than what you are today. Become a new person tomorrow.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s not going to be easy.
Change is scary, and hard. But
nothing worth having is easy. If it were
then it would have no value. Every
minute of every day you are making a decision.
Turn left, turn right, stay put.
Get out of bed or not. What to
wear. What to do with the day. Most of these things we don’t even think
about, we just do it. The same thing
every day. Stuck in the rut. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Start small. Make a
daring wardrobe choice and see how people react to you. Go someplace you’ve never been before and
explore. Go for a walk around the
neighborhood and say hi to a stranger.
You never know where the conversation might go. I’m a firm believer that everyone we meet has
something they could teach us, and us them.
Change doesn’t have to be drastic.
Start small.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Me, I choose to live, rather than exist. Who’s with me?<o:p></o:p></div>
Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-61927937054709538252016-02-17T15:07:00.000-08:002016-02-17T15:07:03.021-08:00<div class="MsoNormal">
Consensual Non-Monogamy Primer (Part 1?)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Consensual Non-Monogamy (CNM) has
gotten a lot of news lately all across the internet. And from conversations I’ve been having there
are some misconceptions and terminology issues due to the reporting being done,
predominately by people that are not really all that familiar with, or living,
the lifestyle. So in the interest of
sharing my experience and knowledge, as a longtime member of this lifestyle,
here is a little terminology primer for those that are interested.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Consensual Non-Monogamy:
CNM has multiple different facets and definitions. I’m just going to focus on the main three
branches here. But first we need to
understand the basic idea of CNM before we get into the specifics.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
Monogamy:
the dictionary defines monogamy as follows: “<span style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">the practice or
state of being in a relationship with one person at a time. The practice or
state of having a sexual relationship with only one partner.” Therefore, it stands to reason that
Non-Monogamy would be the opposite for that: “the practice of being in a
relationship, romantic and/or sexual, with more than one partner.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Consensual: Consent it defined
thusly: “permission for something to happen or agreement to do something.” That’s a pretty generic definition and really
doesn’t cover all the bases when CNM is concerned. In this lifestyle communication is absolutely
essential. Consent is a huge part of
that. Here’s an example. Couple A&B
decide that they want to open their relationship. Not only do both A and B need to give consent
for that to happen, the extra persons C, D, and E all need to know all the
details relevant to be able to give their consent to become involved with
either A or B, separately or together.
It is this concept of consent given by all parties involved that
separates CNM from just cheating. </span><span style="color: #222222;">So with all that in mind lets
continue with Polyamory.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Polyamory: Broken down polyamory means “many
loves.” The act of having more than one
romantic relationship. This relationship
will predominately have a sexual aspect to it as well, but it is not the
central tenet of the relationship.
Polyamory, i.e. “Poly”, has become the blanket term for all forms of
CNM, but that’s just not right. It is
one facet of it, and not all inclusive the way mainstream media portrays
it. Poly can have both couples, and
single people, in a multitude of various configurations that I’m not going to
get into because it can get really complicated.
In a nut shell poly is mainly focused on the romantic aspects of CNM
rather than the sexual side of it. I personally
have never had a poly relationship, but because it is of interest to me I have
done extensive research into it on the chance that I may someday have that
possibility and not horrendously botch it up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Swinging: Swinging has been around for a long
time. It was especially prevalent during
the 60’s and 70’s, and garnered a lot of publicity at that time. But it’s actually been around a lot longer
than that. The basics of swinging are
that couples that are in a committed romantic/sexual relationship have sex with
other people. This can take place in a variety of venues: house parties, hotel
takeovers, resort destinations dedicated to that purpose, or just in your own
home. Swinging is different from Poly in
that the romantic element is absent. The
focus of swinging is the sex, rather than the love. That is not to say that many people that are
involved in swinging don’t develop deep lifelong friendships with others in the
lifestyle. But that’s where it usually
ends. Friends that may have sex with
each other, but are not allowed, or even inclined, to progress to a romantic
attachment. While there are a number of
single people that can be found in the swinging culture, it is predominantly
for couples that are in a committed relationship with each other and no one
else. While swinging is a couples’
activity for the most part, it does not mean that it is only couples playing
with other couples. It’s very common for
either partner of the couple to go off with someone, by themselves, to have a
little fun. But at the end of the night,
that couple came together, and they went home together, more than ever
committed to each other. I have been an
active swinger for about 6 years.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Open Relationship
(OR): OR is that last of the “Big 3” of
CNM. OR is where one, or both, of the
persons in a committed relationship to each other are allowed to have another
person, or persons, to have sex with outside the relationship. One of the
benefits of an OR is that you can get certain needs fulfilled that your partner
may not be interested in fulfilling for whatever reason with someone else. These needs can be taken care of without an
emotional investment being made. They
don’t replace your partner; they just supplement them. This is not poly as the
“extra person” is not a romantic relationship.
May, or may not, even being a real friendship. It’s not swinging because it’s not usually
something that a couple does together.
Rather each person is on their own to find the extra activity that they
are looking for. I personally have had
several OR’s in the past and learned a lot from them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Now why would
anyone even consider having a CNM relationship?
The reasons are just as varied as the types of relationships you can
find in CNM. You have to decide for
yourself if all of your needs are being met by your partner, or not. And would getting those need met by someone
else, in a safe and consensual manner, be something that you are going to be
able to do. CNM is a not a lifestyle
that everyone can do, either mentally or emotionally. Our society has decided that
Marriage/Monogamy is the “Right” and only way that couples can interact with
each other. I personally disagree but
then no one listens to me anyway. Time
will tell if the old traditional values that we were all raised with will
survive, or if new ideas with become the new normal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-789057302423071772015-06-01T19:54:00.000-07:002015-06-01T19:54:07.686-07:00The PrincessAt the center of the courtyard<br />
Lies the Crystal tower.<br />
Home to the Princess,<br />
And the greatest treasure ever known. <br />
<br />
Originally built as a safe house,<br />
Now it is her prison.<br />
Surrounded by mighty walls,<br />
Guarded by a jealous dragon.<br />
<br />
All alone she waits,<br />
Wondering if ever her Prince will come.<br />
But who can possible slay the dragon,<br />
And climb the barren walls?<br />
<br />
The walls are thick and strong,<br />
Fortified with fear,<br />
Worn smooth by worry,<br />
Reinforced with rage.<br />
<br />
The dragon is mighty as well.<br />
It feeds off her soul,<br />
It drinks her tears,<br />
And eats at her heart.<br />
<br />
Who is worthy?<br />
Who is possibly strong enough?<br />
None so far,<br />
But He comes, now.<br />
<br />
The Prince rides forth,<br />
Armor shining as the dawn,<br />
Fueled by love,<br />
His heart is pure and strong.<br />
<br />
He looks at the walls,<br />
Not a crack to be found.<br />
Too smooth and high to climb,<br />
So breaking them down is his only chance.<br />
<br />
The dragon roars,<br />
It's prize threatened.<br />
The very earth trembles.<br />
As it takes to the air.<br />
<br />
The Prince is ready though.<br />
He draws his lance and rides forth.<br />
Fiery breath splashes against his shield.<br />
Foul lies burn from the dragons mouth.<br />
<br />
But lies are no match for the Lance of Truth.<br />
The Prince strikes again and again,<br />
Piercing through the heart of the dragon,<br />
Extinguishing it's lies forever. <br />
<br />
Back at the wall<br />
The Prince has no choice. <br />
He's going to have to break them down,<br />
Risking his very life in the act.<br />
<br />
His only weapon is his heart.<br />
Strong and steady it beats,<br />
Proclaiming his love for the Princess.<br />
But vulnerable as well.<br />
<br />
Gathering his love tight<br />
He throws it again and again at the walls.<br />
At first nothing happens,<br />
But then tiny cracks start to appear.<br />
<br />
He grows tired and weary,<br />
Not sure his love can breach these walls.<br />
He looks to the tower for a glimpse of the Princess,<br />
And he sees that smile she shares with him alone.<br />
<br />
His heart swells anew.<br />
He realizes his love is everlasting and eternal.<br />
No walls can stand against him,<br />
As long as they block him from her. <br />
<br />
The walls shake and tremble<br />
Under the onslaught of his passion.<br />
Cracks lead to more cracks,<br />
Great chunks fall free.<br />
<br />
Breaking through the walls he goes to her,<br />
Takes her in his arms,<br />
Kisses her softly on the forehead,<br />
Takes her by the hand.<br />
<br />
She's been a prisoner so long.<br />
The greatness of the world is scary,<br />
But she knows that her Prince will always protect her,<br />
And keep her safe.<br />
<br />
Come with me O' Princess,<br />
Let us find our way home.<br />
For my love has conquered your fear<br />
And broken you free of your prison.<br />
<br />
Our love is the stuff of legends.<br />
It's glory will be sung of,<br />
Its fortitude will be the foundation of the future,<br />
For you are mine, and I am yours,<br />
Forever.Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-11909767879108844252015-04-17T23:44:00.001-07:002015-04-17T23:44:44.007-07:00Why can't you see <span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">Why can't you see</span><br />
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">The slave I see in you?</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Bound up in his chains,</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Forced to follow his rules. </span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">You were free with me.</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">But you rejected me. </span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">He checks your phone,</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Your Facebook,</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Your emails,</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Your texts. </span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">This viper doesn't know trust.</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">This is unrepentant jealousy,</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">The blackest evil. </span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">The bottomless pit that will consume you.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Leave you a bitter, burned out shell.</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Destroy you. </span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Kill you. </span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I gave you my heart</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">And set you free.</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">To fly.</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">To submit to me.</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">And know that I would always be there to catch you when you fell.</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">You were free with me.</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">But you rejected me.</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">With him you are always in trouble,</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Always in the wrong.</span><br />
Always to blame for him not being good enough.</div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Unsatisfied.</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Unfulfilled. </span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">He can never be me. </span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">He's but a poor imitation.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">A shoddy substitute.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">A failing fraud.</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">He can never love you like I still do</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Even today, and forever. </span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Ask yourself truly, </span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">If he makes you happy.</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Does he meet your needs like I did?</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Can he take you to the highest peaks of pleasure and pain like I did?</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Does he stir your heart the way I once did?</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Do you love him like you loved me?</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">You risk his anger reaching out to me,</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Telling me the troubles that plague you.</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">But still you choose him.</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Still you are a slave to his unrealistic demands you can never meet. </span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Was freedom so hard?</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Was being yourself with me such a trial?</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I helped you grow.</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Become a better you.</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I nourished you and protected you.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I gave you all that I am.</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">You were free with me.</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">But you rejected me.</span></div>
<div style="text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Come back to me. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-66286918156034378012015-02-16T17:11:00.000-08:002015-02-16T17:11:33.530-08:00Little one<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
A little girl is born,</div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Shedding the burden of adulthood.</div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Her Daddy has freed her,</div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Letting her finally be herself.</div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Eyes looking to the future,</div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Yearning to learn and explore. </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
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Most of her life she's been in bondage.</div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Always having to be the dependable one.</div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Responsible. </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
In charge. </div>
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Everyone's mother hen. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Well now it's her turn.</div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Innocence unleashed.</div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Letting go of the past.</div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Letting go of the fear.</div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
It's time to give it all away, to another,</div>
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And be that little girl,</div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Made possible by her Daddy,</div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Soar little one, fly to me. </div>
Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-45827471036401806642014-09-01T13:15:00.000-07:002014-09-01T13:15:36.033-07:00AddictionYou are my addiction<br />
Your taste fulfills all my desires<br />
Your smell clouds my thoughts<br />
Your touch drives me wild<br />
Your beauty makes me shiver<br />
You are my addiction<br />
<br />
You are my ambition<br />
You make me a better man<br />
You inspire my dominance<br />
You force me to excellence<br />
You drive me to succeed<br />
You are my ambition<br />
<br />
You are my ignition<br />
You light the fires of my soul<br />
You flame my desires<br />
You boil me down to my purest essence<br />
You scorch me with your passion<br />
You are my ignition<br />
<br />
You are my nutrition<br />
You feed me with your love<br />
You allow me to drink in your submission<br />
Your body satisfies my cravings<br />
Your soul revitalizes mine<br />
You are my nutrition<br />
<br />
You are my definition<br />
You make me the man that I am<br />
You are the meaning behind me<br />
You are a statement of all that is important to me<br />
You bring clarity to my life<br />
You are my definition<br />
<br />
You are my expedition<br />
You give yourself to me to mold and shape<br />
You are mine to control<br />
You allow me to dominate<br />
You bend yourself to my will<br />
You are my expeditionDonovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-37159504185955298252014-07-30T18:10:00.001-07:002014-07-30T18:10:54.158-07:00Submissive<div><br></div><div>He sits in the high back chair</div><div>As she enters the room.</div><div>His flogger dangling from his wrist,</div><div>Eyes filled with doom. </div><div><br></div><div>The sight of him makes her shiver,</div><div>Her stomach clenching tight. </div><div>She drops to her knees at his feet,</div><div>Her heart caged, but in flight. </div><div><br></div><div>She belongs to him completely</div><div>Mind, body, and soul.</div><div>Her service to him and him alone,</div><div>Makes her whole. </div><div><br></div><div>She's given her life to him,</div><div>Her gift of submission. </div><div>Wholly owned and obedient,</div><div>Elated in her condition. </div><div><br></div><div>He stands before her</div><div>And extends to her his hand.</div><div>Pressing her lips to his knuckles,</div><div>She stands. </div><div><br></div><div>Guiding her firmly by the collar,</div><div>Leading her down the hall.</div><div>She stumbles off balance,</div><div>And tries not to fall.</div><div><br></div><div>To the bedroom he walks her,</div><div>And then to the bed.</div><div>She obeys blindly,</div><div>Only wanting to be led.</div><div><br></div><div>Face down he binds her,</div><div>Wrists followed by her legs.</div><div>Tight and secure,</div><div>"Whip me" she begs. </div><div><br></div><div>Swish and smack,</div><div>The flogger rises and falls.</div><div>Her ass becomes crimson,</div><div>"Harder!" she calls. </div><div><br></div><div>Passion rises along with the heat,</div><div>Ass, back, and thighs glow red.</div><div>She pants and she cries</div><div>Writhing on the bed. </div><div><br></div><div>"Who is your master?" </div><div>"You are!" She screams.</div><div>His lip turns up, with a hint of a smile</div><div>As he pulls down his jeans. </div><div><br></div><div>The time has come</div><div>To claim what is his.</div><div>Her mind, her body, her very soul</div><div>All of her, that is. </div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-45703394295955176742014-07-28T18:59:00.000-07:002014-07-28T18:59:20.800-07:00Now and ForeverI see you standing there,<br /> The sunlight making your hair glow.<br /> Smiling that special smile<br /> That's only for me, I know.<br /><br /> With the grace of a lioness<br /> You float closer, and I find<br /> The smell of jasmine<br /> Clouds my mind.<br /><br /> I feel your teeth<br /> Lock onto my ear,<br /> As your arms enfold me<br /> And draw me near.<br /><br /> Hot breath on my neck,<br /> And a kiss to my lips.<br /> I whisper I love you<br /> As my hands grab your hips.<br /><br /> Together we dance<br /> And float across the floor.<br /> This woman I love,<br /> Cherish, and adore.<br /><br /> Passion ignites my soul<br /> And my heart almost burst.<br /> This thing called love,<br /> Both a blessing a curse.<br /><br /> I dip her down low<br /> And press her lips with mine.<br /> Two lives as one,<br /> Body, spirit, and mind.<br /><br /> She lets out a giggle<br /> What a glorious sound.<br /> As I lift her up<br /> And swing her around.<br /><br /> We fall to the couch<br /> With her on my lap.<br /> Without her in my life<br /> My heart would just snap.<br /><br /> Don't ever go away my love.<br /> Stay with me always.<br /> Be my darling dearest<br /> Until the end of my days.<br /><br /> She looks into my eyes<br /> And whispers "Leave you? Never!"<br /> I belong to you,<br /> Now and forever.Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-7327378640946221362011-11-07T18:00:00.000-08:002011-11-07T18:00:01.695-08:00LassitudeLounging into lassitude<br />
Shrouded in apathy<br />
Life just seems so dull now<br />
There are no challenges to face<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Settled into a forsaken rut</div>Every day the same<br />
Where is the drive I once knew?<br />
Where is the life I used to have?<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">My soul lacks the fire that once was</div>Only a dim spark lights my heart<br />
Buried under obligation<br />
Drowned by duty<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Starving for a breath of fresh air</div>Wanting to experience something new<br />
My mundane existence<br />
Muddied by stagnant decay<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I need to break free the chains that bind me</div>I need to risk in order to gain<br />
I long to explore different possibilities<br />
Out with the old, and in with the new<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">That’s a path hard to follow</div>For to indulge in my wants and whims<br />
Brings pain to those most undeserving<br />
And heartache to those I try to protect<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Settled into this quagmire</div>I see no way to fight my way free<br />
The light of life eludes me<br />
The walls surrounding me stand firm<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">There is no escape but into pain</div>And not my own but to those closest<br />
No freedom from monotony<br />
No release of my inner self<br />
<o:p> </o:p><br />
How I wish I could break the cuffs that constrain<br />
Slip loose the tattered fetters of restraint<br />
Unshackle me so that I may live<br />
I want my life backDonovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-44550332113095897252011-08-14T20:00:00.000-07:002011-08-14T20:00:45.573-07:00Full Moon <br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">An eerie howl pierces the night.<o:p></o:p></div>The full moon lays bloated against the sky.<o:p></o:p><br />
The siren song of the wolf,<o:p></o:p><br />
Tugs at me, draws me.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Memories of blood<o:p></o:p></div>Coat my tongue.<o:p></o:p><br />
Of running with the night,<o:p></o:p><br />
Of killing in the dark.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Once each month<o:p></o:p></div>My body is unleashed.<o:p></o:p><br />
My inner beast comes forth.<o:p></o:p><br />
My secret shape revealed.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Pain racks my mouth<o:p></o:p></div>As fangs burst thru gums.<o:p></o:p><br />
Muscles scream in agony,<o:p></o:p><br />
Pulled into unnatural form.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Bones break and reform,<o:p></o:p></div>Molding me into wolf form.<o:p></o:p><br />
Hair bursts thru my skin,<o:p></o:p><br />
Covering my nakedness.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I feel the call of the hunt.<o:p></o:p></div>My beast is ready to run.<o:p></o:p><br />
I am merely a passenger<o:p></o:p><br />
Carried inside my exalted form.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The wind blows my fur<o:p></o:p></div>As I race thru the hills.<o:p></o:p><br />
Heightened senses find a scent.<o:p></o:p><br />
Eyes glowing amber against the night.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Stalking up on the campsite<o:p></o:p></div>I find the couple relaxed and alone.<o:p></o:p><br />
Secure in their camp and their fire,<o:p></o:p><br />
Ignorant to the danger approaching.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Like quicksilver I flow closer,<o:p></o:p></div>Slinking thru the moonlight.<o:p></o:p><br />
I can hear their heartbeats.<o:p></o:p><br />
Soon I will taste their blood.<o:p></o:p><br />
<o:p> </o:p><br />
Launching myself over the flames<o:p></o:p><br />
I take down the man,<o:p></o:p><br />
Ripping his throat like paper.<o:p></o:p><br />
He never had a chance to scream.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The woman freezes in fear.<o:p></o:p></div>Too scared to move,<o:p></o:p><br />
Too frightened to scream,<o:p></o:p><br />
Hands come up to cover her mute mouth.<o:p></o:p><br />
<o:p> </o:p><br />
I snarl at her<o:p></o:p><br />
Willing her to run.<o:p></o:p><br />
Bloody muzzle gapes<o:p></o:p><br />
Showing her dripping jaws.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">She bolts like a rabbit,<o:p></o:p></div>Blindly dashing thru the trees.<o:p></o:p><br />
Now the hunt is on,<o:p></o:p><br />
Chasing her thru the darkness.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">She doesn’t get far<o:p></o:p></div>Before stumbling to the ground.<o:p></o:p><br />
I stand over her chest<o:p></o:p><br />
As she finally finds her voice.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Her screams shiver down my spine,<o:p></o:p></div>Igniting my soul with fire.<o:p></o:p><br />
I clamp her throat in my jaws<o:p></o:p><br />
As the sound vibrates against my lips.<o:p></o:p><br />
<o:p> </o:p><br />
Squeezing off her air<o:p></o:p><br />
She starts to thrash in silence.<o:p></o:p><br />
I relish the struggle<o:p></o:p><br />
Knowing her death is at hand.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Her shirt has risen over her stomach.<o:p></o:p></div>I rake my claws and spill her guts.<o:p></o:p><br />
Blood soaks my fur anew<o:p></o:p><br />
As I watch her life pours out of her.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">She lies there stinking now,<o:p></o:p></div>Her bowels loosed by death.<o:p></o:p><br />
I dig thru her stomach and chest,<o:p></o:p><br />
Then devour her heart.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Coursing with the life of the kill,<o:p></o:p></div>I run exalted thru the forest.<o:p></o:p><br />
The eastern sky begins to lighten<o:p></o:p><br />
And I reluctantly turn towards home.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Into my basement I go,<o:p></o:p></div>Hidden and alone.<o:p></o:p><br />
Soon dawn will find me<o:p></o:p><br />
And undo the full moon’s work.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I cry out in agony<o:p></o:p></div>As the change strikes me again.<o:p></o:p><br />
Backwards I flow,<o:p></o:p><br />
Returning to my human form.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The stresses on my body are too much.<o:p></o:p></div>My energy reserves depleted,<o:p></o:p><br />
I sink into unconsciousness,<o:p></o:p><br />
Back into boring normalcy.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">As I drift off to sleep<o:p></o:p></div>The taste of blood follows me.<o:p></o:p><br />
The fear, the pain, the death,<o:p></o:p><br />
And I dream of last nights hunt.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I will awaken soon<o:p></o:p></div>And return to my mundane life.<o:p></o:p><br />
Counting the days<o:p></o:p><br />
Until the next full moon.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">For only as the wolf am I truly alive.<o:p></o:p></div>Only at hunt am I truly content.<o:p></o:p><br />
Only flesh satisfies my hunger.<o:p></o:p><br />
Only blood slakes my thirst.<o:p></o:p><br />
Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-60575916534068863552011-05-04T15:06:00.000-07:002011-11-22T20:28:44.842-08:00Three Little WordsThree little words.<o:p></o:p><br />
Three short syllables.<o:p></o:p><br />
Eight letters long.<o:p></o:p><br />
So simple?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hardly.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
The first words we hear<o:p></o:p><br />
As a new born baby.<o:p></o:p><br />
The last that we hear<o:p></o:p><br />
On our death bed, maybe.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">So much emotion<o:p></o:p></div>Conveyed so simply.<o:p></o:p><br />
The power to create life,<o:p></o:p><br />
Or destroy it.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">These three little words<o:p></o:p></div>Come hard to my lips.<o:p></o:p><br />
Such pain they have brought me.<o:p></o:p><br />
Such devastation they have wrought.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
I wish I could run and hide,<o:p></o:p><br />
But they won’t allow me to flee.<o:p></o:p><br />
Like hounds after a fox,<o:p></o:p><br />
They chase me, savage me.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Epics and sonnets,<o:p></o:p></div>Ballads and poems,<o:p></o:p><br />
Movies and music, <o:p></o:p><br />
Yet none can really describe it.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">For it is a thing unseen,<o:p></o:p></div>Unknowable by the senses.<o:p></o:p><br />
How can one really understand<o:p></o:p><br />
Something so ephemeral.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
I cannot run from it anymore.<o:p></o:p><br />
It will not let me escape.<o:p></o:p><br />
Once again it swells my heart<o:p></o:p><br />
Threatening to burst me apart.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">She came into my life<o:p></o:p></div>And turned it upside down.<o:p></o:p><br />
An emotional wrecking ball<o:p></o:p><br />
Smashing thru my defenses.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">But gladness is my reward<o:p></o:p></div>I wouldn’t change a thing.<o:p></o:p><br />
Be gentle with my heart dear.<o:p></o:p><br />
I love you.Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-9052054002555406492011-03-21T14:54:00.001-07:002011-03-21T15:08:45.556-07:00March winds blow<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">March winds blow</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Sweeping the land new.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Detritus of winter’s past</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Is brushed clean away.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Bitter wind from the mountains</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Scouring the hills and vales.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I stand alone in it's wake</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Cold, alone, and untouched.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The leaves of last autumn</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Are swept from the streets.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">But the remnants of my past</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Continue to clog my soul.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Blow thru me March winds.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Cleanse the cobwebs from my heart.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Purge the doubts from my mind.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Make me clean again.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Purify me March winds.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Rage into the darkest corners.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Blast thru my barriers and walls.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Wipe my slate clean.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">April rain drenches the land</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Washing away the old.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Making the ground fresh and new</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Ready for the plow and planting.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Flowers start to bloom.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Trees spout fresh leaves.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">April rain brings renewal and growth</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">To repair winter’s blight.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Cleanse me too April rain.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Flood my soul with life anew.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Purge me from the drought</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">That plagues my cold heart.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Make me fresh fertile ground.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Let the seeds of life bloom.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Purify me, wash me clean.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Renew me with fresh hope.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">March winds and April rains</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Find me this year.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Let the torrents of Spring</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Heal my winter’s pain.</div>Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-10688434691643092472011-02-27T12:27:00.000-08:002011-02-27T12:27:18.624-08:00Darkness<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Lying alone in my bed,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">In the depths of the moonless night,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">I feel the darkness come awake.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">I feel it stir in my soul.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Slithering up from my bowels,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Sending out its icy tendrils,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Feeling for my weakness,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Feeding on my pain.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Gripping my heart in a cold embrace</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Fingers of despair claw my spine.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">My mind is filled with darkness,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">And death.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Shadows steal the light from my eyes.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Gloomy specters cloud my vision.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">The shade of my failure</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Haunts me from the blackness.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Nightfall is hours past</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">And daylight is a distant future.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Sunlight is a forgotten memory.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">The darkness consumes me.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Drowning in my desolation.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Mired in my melancholy.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Hampered in my helplessness.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Apathetic in my agony.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">My dour face is fallen</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">As I reminisce of being happy, once.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">But that was long ago</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Simply a half remembered recollection.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Now nothing but pain and hate are in me.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Revulsion rules my thoughts.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Disgust is all I can digest.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">I loathe all about me, and me.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">The darkness threatens to suffocate me.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">My lungs are filled with a black haze.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Thick and rancid is the air around me.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">A fetid, rotten atmosphere.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">But there in the distance I see a flash.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">A simple lessening of shadow.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">A brief spark illuminating the dark.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">A glowing ember of hope.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Coming closer now I see her</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">With a lantern swinging at her hip.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">The darkness shrinks away from her</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">As she brings her radiance to bear.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Raising the light above her head</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">The luminosity lights the land.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">Her fiery red hair glows</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black;">In the bright backwash.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Hope surges in my heart now</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Burning away the icy grip.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Fire races up my spine</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Smoldering the cold found there.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">My eyes are ablaze.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Twin suns light up my face.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Faith fuels the fire of my future.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The darkness of my soul is banished.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">My mind is now full of dreams</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Of a future bright with aspiration.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">My spirit yearning for freedom</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Coveting all that was forgotten.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Caught up now on the wings of hope</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I surge up out of my bed.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I rush down the path to meet her</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">And scoop her into my arms.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">She has saved me from the darkness,</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Moved me from night into the sun.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Given me flight to escape my failure</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">And the strength to live another day.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">At the fringes of the light</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Barely kept at bay.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The darkness waits patiently</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Tolerant, it can wait.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Someday the light will fade,</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Another time of darkness will come,</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">To consume me again.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">I must be vigilant.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div>Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-91614310649064536352011-02-19T16:18:00.000-08:002011-02-19T16:18:56.420-08:00Winter<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">This concludes my series about the seasons. Hope you have enjoyed them.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Winter’s chill is in the air tonight.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Chill and brisk as the snow it heralds.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Longer nights and shorter days </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Make life seem dull and lifeless.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">But see the beauty of the season.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The purity of the fallen snow,</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The way it clings to the branches of the trees.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The smooth look of it lying undisturbed and unbroken.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Even in this coldest of seasons there is beauty to be found.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The cold sky and long nights are a star gazers delight.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The purity of the night allows for the brilliance</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Of millions of stars to shine forth in glory.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Winter sports abound as well.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Both indoor and outdoor hockey teams hit the ice.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Slicing along on the razor’s edge they fly</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Fighting for honor and glory.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Children engage in sledding and snowball fights</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Careening down the hills they go.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Feeling the cold wind on their faces.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">See how rosy red their cheeks get.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Some see winter as the end of life</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">But life goes on even in the coldest of times.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Think of the bears that hibernate away the short days.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Think of the evergreens that keep their lush hue.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The New Year comes for us then</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Bringing festivities and celebration.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Happiness and good cheer</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">At the rebirth of the year.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Christmas is a favorite time for children.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The blinking multicolored lights,</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The arrangements of ornaments on the trees,</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">The promise of gifts to come that special morning.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Be whole and complete in your family this winter.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Keep each other close for warmth and merriment.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">For winter’s chill will pass in its time.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Soon spring will warm the air.</div>Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-83338487749946421852011-02-18T16:00:00.000-08:002011-02-18T16:00:02.950-08:00AutumnAutumn leaves fall outside my window.<br />
The vibrant colors fill my eyes,<br />
Mounding up under the trees,<br />
Flitting along in the crisp breeze.<br />
<br />
Orange as the pumpkins adorning neighborhood porches.<br />
Yellow as the blaze of the afternoon sun.<br />
Copper as bright as a freshly minted penny.<br />
Red as crimson as the fire that will consume these very leaves soon.<br />
<br />
Fields of ocher stretch to the horizon,<br />
Blazing with pumpkins ripe for harvest.<br />
Their futures destined as pies and decorations,<br />
Jack-o-lanterns for Halloween.<br />
<br />
Verdant fields of broccoli lay waiting for the pickers.<br />
Brilliant white heads of cauliflower too.<br />
The smell of onions by the truckload fills the air.<br />
The harvest of the fall is in full swing.<br />
<br />
The season of Samhain has begun.<br />
Many greet it with a sense of sadness,<br />
The loss of the joys of summer,<br />
Winter’s chill soon to sweep down upon us.<br />
<br />
But the beauty of the season is endless.<br />
From the changing foliage of the trees,<br />
To the colorful harvest of the fields,<br />
To the costumed children running door to door.<br />
<br />
Don’t let this season bring you down.<br />
Open your eyes to its delights.<br />
Feel the crispness of the air.<br />
See the diamond dew frozen on the grass.<br />
<br />
Smell the cooling of the air,<br />
The hint of snow that flows down from the mountain.<br />
See majesty in the dark massing clouds<br />
And in the mists that cover the ground.<br />
<br />
Brilliant and magnificent are these days of fall.<br />
Spend them with one that you love.<br />
Curl up with them before a fire,<br />
And be at peace with them.Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-78508112952009166092011-02-17T17:31:00.001-08:002011-02-17T17:31:55.197-08:00SummerPart 2 of 4 poems about the seasons. Enjoy.<br />
<br />
<br />
Summer shines forth from the dregs of spring<br />
Bringing rain and thunderstorms.<br />
Lightning lights up the land<br />
As summer breaks over the fields.<br />
<br />
Across the horizon a hailstorm brews.<br />
Hurricanes grow beyond the oceans’ shores.<br />
Tornados tear up the midlands<br />
And tropical cyclones beat the islands clean.<br />
<br />
Fields are full of flowering plants<br />
Growing hale and hearty for the grocer.<br />
Keeping up with the heat and sun<br />
The farmers strive to keep everything watered.<br />
<br />
Elsewhere the rivers are teeming with people.<br />
Boats dot the banks and cruise up its shores.<br />
Swimmers enjoy the shallow shoals.<br />
Sand castles share the busy beaches.<br />
<br />
Jet boats jettison a rooster tail of mist<br />
And water skiers skate along the surface.<br />
Fishermen in boats and on the shoreline<br />
Seek quieter places for peace and solitude.<br />
<br />
School has released for the summer.<br />
Kids are busy with bikes and balls.<br />
Heat from the sun makes the sidewalks shimmer<br />
And the shade trees offer a ready resting spot.<br />
<br />
The days are getting longer now<br />
And nights continue to grow shorter.<br />
The sun scalds the open roads<br />
As families fly far from home for holiday.<br />
<br />
The joys of summer are simple and sweet.<br />
Days of vacation to mountains and beach,<br />
Taking advantage of children at home,<br />
And the longest days of the year.<br />
<br />
Take the time to enjoy the summer.<br />
Take the opportunity to join with family and friends.<br />
Take the sweetness of the simple times.<br />
Take them and make a memory, forever.Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-21768474565822331092011-02-16T16:33:00.000-08:002011-02-16T16:33:57.175-08:00Spring<div style="font-size:x-small; color:#000000; direction:ltr; font-family:Tahoma"><div></div><div dir="ltr"><font face="Tahoma" color="#000000" size="2">This is the first installment of a four part series based on the seasons. Hope you enjoy reading them as much as I did writing them.</font></div><div dir="ltr"><font face="tahoma"></font> </div><div dir="ltr"><font face="tahoma"></font> </div><div dir="ltr"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Spring brings an end to winter's biting cold.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">The days grow longer, the temperature increases.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Snow melts on the mountaintops</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Swelling the rivers and lakes.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3"> </font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">See the men in their garages</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Tuning up the lawn mowers and fixing broken sprinklers.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">The grass will be growing, green and lush again.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Leaves reappear on the trees, verdant and new.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3"> </font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Flowers start to bud, then burst into bloom.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Whole fields take on new vibrant hues and tones.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Farmers plow their fertile fields, and sow seeds,</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Ready to grow a new sumptuous crop.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3"> </font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">In the parks and on the trails</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">The enthusiastic runners appear.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Enjoying the warming air</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">As they travel the long miles.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3"> </font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Spring break and the children are out of school.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Playing in the new grass, they climb trees to forts.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">The rebirth of the weather and the land,</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Drives them to a new exuberance of life.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3"> </font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Spring is also a time for lovers.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Park benches hold them as they kiss.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">The sights and scents of new flowers bathe them,</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">But they only see and smell each other.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3"> </font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Walking hand in hand down the beach,</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Feeling the sand between their toes,</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Gazing out at the ocean waves,</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">They keep each other close and safe.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3"> </font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Families think of play and picnic</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Spreading the checkered blankets wide.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Fried chicken and potato salad</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Cold drinks on a warm afternoon.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3"> </font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Enjoy the lengthening of the days.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Enjoy the cold weather turning warm again.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Enjoy the smells and tastes of spring.</font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 0pt"><font face="Times New Roman" size="3">Enjoy the times with your lover.</font></p></div></div><hr>Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681612217186975193.post-20489081011170589922011-02-15T15:14:00.000-08:002011-02-16T18:40:31.937-08:00ContemplationSitting alone on my back patio<br />
I gaze up at the night sky.<br />
Looking out into the boundless depths<br />
Of the universe.<br />
<br />
Resting back in my chaise <br />
A Corona stands open beside me.<br />
The bubbles drift up from the lime wedge.<br />
Condensation makes a ring on the table.<br />
<br />
I take a drink as I ponder my life<br />
Feeling the cold crisp brew slake my thirst.<br />
I gaze at the stars and consider my choices<br />
And the path my destiny has led me.<br />
<br />
There have been good times and bad<br />
Scattered at random along the way.<br />
Love and hate, joy and sadness<br />
Loss, gain, happiness, pain.<br />
<br />
Some give their faith to God.<br />
Others rely on the blindness of fate.<br />
I believe in making my own destiny.<br />
Charting my own path thru life.<br />
<br />
When the winds of change and chance blow<br />
Knocking me off my course<br />
Then God is my co pilot <br />
And helps me maintain control of my fortune.<br />
<br />
What of the young charges under my authority?<br />
Do they get any say in the course I plot?<br />
My job is to protect and shelter them<br />
Allow childhood to run its course.<br />
<br />
For children they are still<br />
Even though I treat them like little men.<br />
Maturity is not bestowed on them<br />
But something they must learn in good time.<br />
<br />
Until then I will guide their step<br />
I will channel them along the path they must go.<br />
When the time comes they will be ready to lead a life<br />
Fulfilling, daring, strong, and pure.<br />
<br />
Many times in my life I have been alone<br />
Struggling to make it the best I know how.<br />
Sometimes I have had help.<br />
Some of it was good, others were bad.<br />
<br />
My blessing has been my mother.<br />
Steadfast and strong for us<br />
She helps us thru the bad times<br />
Celebrates with us the good times.<br />
<br />
Feminine wiles have often been my despair<br />
Leading me away from the true path.<br />
But I am more wary now of the pitfalls<br />
And danger of being led by my lust.<br />
<br />
Now I maintain control always.<br />
Though some see me as cold and distant<br />
The fire in my heart still burns just as bright.<br />
But I keep it hidden by necessity.<br />
<br />
Too many want what I work so hard to achieve.<br />
Too many want to take away what is mine.<br />
Too many seek to undermine my dominance.<br />
Too many seek to manipulate me from my path.<br />
<br />
Someday the inferno of my heart will be seen again<br />
When it’s safe to let it be known.<br />
But caution is my diligence.<br />
Patience is the game that I play.<br />
<br />
I change for no one now.<br />
My path is straight and true.<br />
I have to think about what is best<br />
For myself and my children.<br />
<br />
Nothing can be allowed to divert me.<br />
My attentions must be set<br />
On achievement and satisfaction<br />
Of the goals that will make life best.<br />
<br />
So fear me all you naysayers.<br />
Run and cower from my strength.<br />
Shudder any that get in my way.<br />
For I will not hesitate to devastate.<br />
<br />
Back again on my old chaise lounge<br />
Looking up at the starry sky above<br />
Corona warming in the night air<br />
I sit at peace, firm in my resolutions.Donovan Clifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17078252470309748836noreply@blogger.com2