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vOz 02.02.24
Trust not what you know, know what you trust!
Oh, ugly death, have you no remorse / Arrow’s straight, into its heartless course.
All want to drink from the victory cup / Defeat the feast, prey on the meat.
War is the province of guile and shame / Land of the lost, place of the slain.
Oh, beautiful truth, mystery mistress / Thy visage tempts, mortal souls.
Approving smile, comforting repose / Opens gates all fear too go.
In part or in-whole, what of, of / Tis not love the key, which unlocks the door.
Oh, timeless eternity, is there a course? / Moment, to moment, silent stillness moored.
Boundless infinity, tied in tides / Particles and waves, still-motion reside.
Here and there, there, and here / Infinite vastness, found in the mirror.
When is the when, when is the how? / Tight thy grip, which loosens thy brow.
Fixed in the moment, time no more / Tranquil perpetuity, forever now.
Light and Darkness, one in the same / Both thy master, beginning to end.
Oh, joyful death, whose victory has won / Rejoice in thy coming, anew reclaimed.
Circle complete, cycle restored / Puzzled bewildered, cheered, and mourned.
Victory in life, Victory in death / All to be claimed, all the same…
vOz / All Rights Reserved 2017
SCENE 1 / The Statue
A priest and young girl silently watch as workers prepare to place a statue honoring the Blessed Mother.
The priest looks at the girl, the girl at him. Turning toward the statute the priest bows his head and prays.
PRIEST: O Holy Father; thy forgiveness is our salvation, by grace of the Blessed Mother; grant us mercy for our sins; feed those who need be fed, fill those who whose emptiness makes them bitter, and bless our humble Master for his generosity with this wonderful gift honoring the Blessed Mother. Amen
SCENE 2 / Venzenita Home
Nearby “Bonita” pleads with her husband “Enrico” to stay home.
BONITA: Must you go, I plead with you Enrico; you’re ill; no one will miss you.
ENRICO: Bonita; It’s my duty, my life, my honor.
Besides, (emphatically pointing his finger upwards) no one can cook the meal like I!
BONITA: (Gently) Enrico; will people miss the meal if you don’t prepare it?
ENRICO: No… just the best!
BONITA: Deus; forgive him… (Looking to the ceiling she crossing herself)
(Exasperated Looking back to Enrico)
You’re too proud; people survive without your cooking, and will continue when you no longer cook…
(Pleading) What is a day?
ENRICO: (Extremely bothered) What is a day!
The day Enrico does not his duty, his passion; his love, is a day Enrico will not tolerate!
BONITA: (Firm) You are stubborn as a mule…
ENRICO: (Softly) And you’ve been a kind master to this faithful mule.
But like a mule; (Firm) I must work!
SCENE 3 / Enrico’s Childhood
Enrico Venzenita, (Ven-Zen-Nita) was a master chef. As a young boy, at his mother’s side he learned to cook. With great skill and pride, mother prepared the family meals. It was there Enrico’s most cherished memories were made.
His Mother would say;
MOTHER: “Enrico, the best meal is the meal that feeds the soul”.
She would remind him;
MOTHER: “Respect the blessings of the table, for Deus shows mercy, nourishing all who partake”.
During Enrico’s childhood, the custom was, before a boy earned the right to wear long pants, he must first learn the duties of the house. There was no difference between girls and boys, all must learn to cook, sew and clean.
Throughout his life, Enrico used these lessons with exceptional skill and devotion. Those fortunate to taste the savory meals recognized his talent. He was chosen for a position at the great house, where for many years he prepared feasts of distinction for the master and his guests.
SCENE 4 / Walk to Work
While walking to work, Enrico comes upon the Priest and young girl.
ENRICO: Padre, Deus be with you
PRIEST: And with you Enrico… how is your Bonita?
ENRICO: An Angel when I do as told; (sly) A Devil when I do not!
PRIEST: Be kind Enrico; only Bonita’s enduring patience tolerates your disobedience.
ENRICO: (Head bowed) Forgive me Padre; (looks at the Padre and smiles) you are so right… (They both laugh)
PRIEST: Enrico; I’m taking this poor child to the Master’s house, she has earned the honor to serve the Master and his distinguished guests on this special occasion.
ENRICO: (Enrico looks at the young girl) Dear child, what is your name?
(The girl turns to look at the Priest)
PRIEST: (The Priest speaks for her) Her name is Suzette, she is an orphan and is deaf…
Do not worry; look at her when you speak, she can read your lips.
The Sisters of the Abbey tell me Suzette is very bright and a good worker.
They want to thank the kind master for his generosity and reward Suzette.
(Enrico turns to Suzette, smiles and nods)
SCENE 5 / A Meal Surpassing Any
This day was to be a day of great consequence.
Enrico knowing it’s importance is determined to prepare a meal surpassing any he’d cooked before.
Leaders from all over had been invited. Even the Master’s great rival “Don Cicci” was asked.
All past insults were to be set aside in honor of the Master’s generosity.
SCENE 6 / Don Cicci
Don Cicci was the boyhood rival of the Master, always jealous of his success.
Though possessing much, Don Cicci was never satisfied, demanding absolute recognition for his status as a man of importance.
It was rumored when they were boys, Don Cicci was selected to led the children in singing the Ava Maria.
But a nun overheard Don Cicci bragging to others of his high rank.
She admonished him and instructed the Master to lead the children in the singing.
Don Cicci never forgave the Master for that perceived insult.
SCENE 7 / Alfio
They all arrive at the Master’s house, upon entering the kitchen Enrico is welcomed by his worried sous chef Alfio.
ALFIO: Enrico, Enrico I was worried you would not come… I have been lost without your guidance.
ENRICO: Alfio, it’s ok, I would not let my master or his guests go without, but ah you. You have been a capable pupil and soon, it will come to you to be the maestro of the kitchen. But for now, as always (roll the r’s) “learrrn”!
Enrico instructs as they walk through the kitchen.
ENRICO: Alfio, (pause) Alfio, every detail must be exact.
None less than perfect is required; and expected by our guests.
But most importantly; by us.
ALFIO: Yes Maestro, I understand, I understand.
Stopping at the stove, Enrico watches over a boiling pot. Alfio moves to get a spoon.
ENRICO: Be still; the food will cook on its own; though you must be alert.
Wait and watch; the food likes to cook. (pronounced Kook)
But, if not looked after, will consume all for its own pleasure; leaving none for the guests.
(Loudly) Don’t let it Burnnnn.
SCENE 8 / The Great Hall
The priest and Suzette enter the Great Hall. Activity everywhere, workers scurrying left and right. Signore Bandino “captain of service” is contemplating the seating arrangements. Fretting over where to strategically sit each guest befitting their rank and importance.
The priest takes Suzette to Signore Bandino.
PRIEST: Ciao, I see you are very busy Signore Bandino.
BANDINO: Si Padre; much to do. How may I assist you?
PRIEST: It is I who has come to assist you Signore Bandino. I bring you this child Suzette.
She cannot hear, but is very bright and learns quickly. She wishes to help in anyway.
BANDINO: Yes indeed, there always is a place for those who help.
PRIEST: Then I will leave her to your care.
Just look at her and speak what you need, she will read your lips and do as you say.
The Priest looking at Suzette
PRIEST: My dear child, do as Signore Bandino asks. I will return later to bring you back to the Abbey.
BANDINO: Grazie Padre, I will take great care of your Suzette.
After thanking the priest Signore Bandino spots Alfio coming from the kitchen.
BANDINO: Alfio, Alfio, come here.
BANDINO: This is Suzette. She lives at the abbey and is here to help.
Take her to the kitchen and show her were the table settings are stored.
Turning to Suzette Don Bandino points to the tables. He then tells her to follow Alfio and retrieve the table settings and place them on the tables before the guests arrive.
SCENE 9 / Attendees Arrival
Excitement and joviality abound, as one by one, the guests begin to arrive.
Signore Bandino watches the workers, directing all as they rush to complete tasks.
Aromas fill the hall, escaping the kitchen each time the door opens bringing this or that savory dish to the tables. Enrico, overseeing all, knows this will be his final and “Best Meal” he’s had the privilege to prepare for his Master.
SCENE 10 / Seating of Guests
As guests arrive, a commotion is heard outside the hall. A man nudges his way through the crowd.
DON CICCI: Scusa, scusa.
Don Cicci, impatiently moves through the gathering. He spot’s the Mayor near the front, pushing harder to get to him.
DON CICCI: Out of my way, move; I must get to the front…
He’s about to reach the mayor when suddenly the doors of the Great Hall open.
The mayor and his party enter the Hall leaving Don Cicci in the wake.
SCENE 11 / The Mix-up
While Signore Bandino is busy with the guests, Suzette, notices a table setting is missing.
In the kitchen, Enrico sends Alfio to the hall to see after the food.
Suzette, hurrying to get a table setting enters the kitchen.
Alfio, turning to go to the hall, slams into Suzette, sending her to the floor.
ALFIO: Signorina, Signorina…
Suzette, dazed, catching her breath looks up at Alfio.
Alfio stunned at what just happened, looks directly into her eyes and immediately is smitten.
ALFIO: Are you okay?
Suzette nods yes, Alfio extends his hand to Suzette, she smiles taking his hand.
Once up Suzette continues into the kitchen. Alfio, follows her as she gets the table setting.
Suzette turning to return to the great hall, looks at Alfio, who sheepishly asks.
ALFIO: Ah, may I help you?
Suzette pleased, smiles. Alfio; stung by Cupids arrow, returns her smile.
When looking for Love, Love’s difficult to find.
But when the eye sees, love seizes, love finds, love binds …
As they enter the Great Hall people begin to come in. Don Bandino motions for Suzette to come to him.
Suzette looks at Alfio, hands him the setting and points to the area where it’s to be placed.
Suzette smiles and goes to Don Bandino, Alfio goes to place the setting.
SCENE 12 / The Insult
Once inside the great hall, Don Cicci moves to the tables reserved for prominent guests.
As Don Cicci is about to sit down he is greeted by Signore Bandino.
BANDINO: Good day, may I assist you?
DON CICCI: No!
BANDINO: Are you with the Masters family?
DON CICCI: No!
BANDINO: Are you one of the Master’s friends?
DON CICCI: “Annoyed” No!
BANDINO: I’m sorry sir, these tables are reserved for family and friends. May I show you another?
Indignant, Don Cicci turns to walk away, when he spots the Mayor speaking to several dignitaries.
As he starts toward the Mayor, Signore Bandino politely says;
BANDINO: Sir, I have just the right table for you; if you please, follow me.
The Mayor then steps up to the podium, Don Cicci thwarted once again, reluctantly follows Signore Bandino.
SCENE 13 / The Blessing
All the guests now seated, the Mayor asks the priest to bless the meal.
MAYOR: Padre would you kindly give the blessing. “The priest Rises”
PRIEST: O Holy Father, may this meal be a blessing for all who hunger. Whose thirst be quenched by grace of the holy spirit. We receive this gift from the Master, whose mercy is great, who teaches; love of thy neighbor, is love of thyself, and so doing is eternal peace; for “the best meal, is the meal that feeds the soul” … Amen
SCENE 14 / The Kitchen
In the kitchen, Enrico oversees every detail. Tasting foods, watching the preparations. All he’s learned as “maestro of the kitchen” he uses to create his grand finale, this glorious masterpiece of a meal.
ENRICO: Exact, exact; we must be exact, measure twice before you cut; watch, be careful.
Enrico knowing this to be his final and “Best Meal” is pleased at what he sees.
Proud of his staff and their efforts, Enrico with great pride says to all.
ENRICO: MAGNIFICO …
SCENE 15 / Deus & Diablo
Enrico’s father was a laborer on the master’s land. He came from a poor village where it was claimed, Deus and Diablo never visited. The rumor was, as hard working and virtuous people, their faith and deeds satisfied so much, that Deus was not needed. And due to their poverty and suffering Diablo was pleased, seeing this as a sign of his worldly victory. So, the villagers toiled in humble obscurity praying for the best, knowing the worst.
SCENE 16 / The Walkout
Now seated, Don Cicci, looks around at the gathering and is not pleased, feeling slighted, not to be set at the main table.
While the servers bring food to the tables, Don Cicci notices his placements are not in the correct order. The proper setting should be, fork to the left of the plate, knife to the right and spoon next to the dull side of the knife. In Alfio’s rushed attempt assisting Suzette, he misplaced the fork with the spoon.
Seeing other guest’s table settings correctly placed, Don Cicci is further agitated by his perceived ill-treatment.
The mayor rises to give a toast.
THE MAYOR: My Dear Friends, the Master reminds us; To get; we must give…
As the mayor ends his toast, Suzette sets a plate in front of Don Cicci. He calls out to her, but Suzette has turned to attend to the next guest. Enraged, Don Cicci, throws down his napkin, abruptly rises from his chair, bumping into Suzette, spilling a plate of food on another guest as he loudly yells:
DON CICCI: Enough, enough, I’ve had enough…
What a joke; this occasion, this Master, this meal; it is not fit for a dog.
Turning to leave Don Cicci glares menacingly at Suzette frightening her to tears.
Scowling as he rushes out, all in the hall all are stunned.
Hearing the commotion, Alfio runs into the great hall. Seeing Suzette in tears, he rushes to her.
Not understanding what she’d done, Suzette points to the plate set before Don Cicci.
Alfio picks up the plate, puts his arm around her and takes her to the kitchen.
SCENE 17/ Trash Bin
Once in the kitchen the priest takes Suzette from Alfio and exits.
Alfio with the rejected plate of food in hand asks Enrico.
ALFIO: Maestro what should I do with this meal.
Enrico looks at the plate and says;
ENRICO: You heard, Don Cicci; “The tongue has no bones, but breaks many” …
(dispirited in a low voice) Feed it to the dogs.
Alfio, doing as Enrico instructs, puts the food in a bag and takes it to the trash.
While Alfio returns to the kitchen a dog searching for food grabs the bag with his teeth and scampers off.
SCENE 18 / Walk Home
The Priest, Suzette and Enrico dejectedly walk home, stopping at the Statue of the Blessed Mother. The Priest comments how the guests enjoyed the meal.
Priest: The meal was excellent. The guests enjoyed themselves. I overheard several say, the spices were superb.
Enrico: Oh yes, the spices were superb. Padre, do you know what the best spice is?
Priest: Well, I guess it would be to individual taste.
Enrico: No padre; there is one spice that makes any and all food taste good.
Priest: Hum, okay; Tell me Enrico.
Enrico: Hunger.
My mother would say “the best meal is the meal that feeds the soul”.
But one need hunger for more than just the taste of food.
They must give as Deus gave to us; “Respect the blessings of the table, for love, nourishes all”.
The priest understanding what Enrico has said, looks to the statue.
PRIEST: Blessed Maria, comforter of the sick, refuge for the weary. Pray for us sinners in our great time of need and at the hour of our days’ end. Amen
They each make the sign of the cross, and go their ways.
SCENE 19 / Blessed Mother
The night’s moon glows radiantly upon the Blessed Mother.
Behind the statue at her base, an old man sick and weary, lay at rest.
Out of the shadows, through rustling brush, a sack is gently placed beside the old man.
Seeing his faithful friend has brought him a gift, the old man smiles and rubs the pups head.
He opens the sack, to find he has been blessed with a magnificent meal.
Overcome, he looks up to the Blessed Mother; a tear in his eye, the old man reverently bows his head;
OLD MAN: Our Father whom art in Heaven, blessed be thy name…
SCENE 20 / The Lesson
How we live is the measure of our lives.
All People Die; Some at War, Some in Peace…
FIN / THE END
Where does Truth lie?
vOz / 07.20.21
Where does Truth lie?
In the mouths of People
In the mouths of Lawyers
In the mouths of Preachers
In the mouths of Teachers
Where does Truth lie?
In the lives of Fathers
In the lives of Mothers
In the lives of Lovers
In the lives of Others
Where does Truth lie?
In the ways of People
In bells and Steeples
In the halls of Power
In today and Tomorrow
Where do you believe TRUTH LIES?
vOz / 8.16.18
Waters flow from opposite streams
One from the sky the other the sea
One like rain upon the earth,
The other a river upon the dirt
Together they nourish, flourish and heal
Deserts bloom, gardens revealed
Two flowers, once so far apart
Come together, make one heart
vOz 10/19/01 (revised 12/28/01)
STANZA 1
The Innocent
What is it holds our countenance true
A voice within firm standing renewed
Speaks like a child whose purity imbues
Rock solid Sage wisdom Profound me and you
What is it holds this with that
Eternal in substance yet somehow we lack
The distance though short timeless retracts
Moves forward do we or only come back
What is it holds all bind to this rope
Celestial, ceaseless universal in scope
Bound firm secure tethered by hope
Faith clings tightly this heavenly note
What is it holds these truths to endure
Trust is its mother belief its procure
Steadfast and loyal no friend could be truer
Only the wait patience the doer
STANZA 2
Skeptic – Cynic – Pious – Zealot
Cry foul says the skeptic I’m not convinced
Change is the elixir that stirs up this mix
I’m not convinced you know all the tricks
Fools are in all who fall for this
Aye says the cynic this does not show
What’s in a future one cannot hold
To see is the all all is to see
This is the proof the proof for me
Blasphemous outrage the pious reply
On bended knee pray to the skies
Seek ye forgiveness this is the all
Thy mercy ask‘eth or face the fall
Zealots convinced truths revealed
Fervently passionate filled with zeal
Justice is dealt know they the when
Light shines brightly only on them
STANZA 3
The Bold
Onward move forward those of all faiths
Times a wasting risks too great
Make up your mind beat the fall
Delay will you or answer the call
Blinded by prejudice those who should know
Difference is all if all are to grow
Hands held in unison clinched in a fist
Submission is mercy pride must resist
All little children innocent from birth
Know not they the meaning of earth
Awaits them tomorrow finds the old
Fair-haired youth lost as they go
Constancy’s a virtue the patient possess
The outcome’s whatever whatever’s correct
All’s required be true to one’s self
Hold firm to thy course or chance the else
STANZA 4
The Wait
What hold is it you to me
Cling to each other confluent are we
Locked tightly firmly grasp
Every breath beginning to last
What compels continuance
Prolongation persistence
What’s left what’s more
What’s behind the hidden door
Weary this life long though short
The wait is what why, the for
If you to me then me to you
Sooner the better what’s one to do
Bring forth the reason knowledge withheld
Eagerly await your answer to tell
Not timid nor anxious just curious to know
Hostages all till stiff and cold
vOz 01.06.02 – 01.08.02
Monet left quite an impression
Van Gogh lent us an ear
A Creation Myth
Vasilios W Kapenekas 1/29/02
vOz 07.08.2023
“All Rights Reserved”
Birth, beginning, the creator, innate feminine nature, alone in the universe, finding nothingness her only companion, creates a masculine essence. This incarnate child, nourished by the Goddess, grows in time.
Arriving at the age of wandering, the child strays; his journeys carry him further and further, hidden from her view. Concerned for the child, she empowers him with strength.
As time moves forward, the child grows, his masculinity matures. Content within himself, he freely roams the firmament, choosing solitude for a companion. Once again, returning femininity to her loneliness.
This being the case, Femininity decides to take the form of a girl child. But masculinity not interested ignores her. Seeing this, she gives the child the gift of beauty to attract masculinity. This does arouse a sensation in him. But, in time, he tires and returns to his wandering.
At this, femininity creates pleasure to lure him to her side. This excites masculinity and pleases femininity filling her with joy. But soon after, once again, masculinity escapes to wandering, leaving femininity alone.
Femininity, annoyed with masculinity’s indifference, creates desire. But desire has many masters, and he continues his roaming. This arouses anger in femininity, causing her to call upon pleasure’s twin, “pain,” forcing masculinity to return to her. This, in turn, angers masculinity driving him further away.
Femininity, overwhelmed with grief, at masculinities reaction, discovers tears. Seeing this, masculinity feels pity and returns. But pity being the spawn of misfortune is no comfort to her. Annoyed, he receives femininities scorn. She banishes masculinity from her sight, choosing seclusion as her companion.
As time passes, the girl feels something growing inside her. Not understanding what is occurring, fear appears. Fear is a wily essence, the master of deception. Being alone, confused, and left to fend for herself, she encounters necessity. Continually full of want, necessity compels courage to arise within her.
Courage, a cousin of strength and the offspring of hope, comes to her aid. Confidence is found, and fear is subdued. As seasons change, so does she. Being nature’s beautiful blossom, the girl blooms, transforming herself into a woman.
Meanwhile, while roaming, masculinity comes upon longing and yearns for feminine companionship. Driven by desire, he searches for femininity. He lusts for pleasure and craves for more.
But while searching for femininity, she cannot be found. Masculinity is fraught with anxiety. His thoughts visit loneliness upon him. Loneliness speaks in the language of isolation. He knows of isolation from solitude, and through solitude; he begins to understand what loneliness meant to femininity.
During this time, femininity gives birth to life. She nurtures and imbues her offspring with every essence. However, life’s foil, “death,” is close by, set to pounce upon life given its first opportunity. As death draws near, femininity shouts out for strength. Masculinity hearing her cry comes to her side, startling death, and for the moment dispels this sad fate from her presence.
At this, masculinity, seeing her together with life’s child, feels shame, and shames companion selfishness. Overcome with emotion, he tastes the tears that once washed femininity’s face, and again turns to leave. Femininity thoroughly adored as a woman, growing in wisdom speaks to masculinity saying, “Go,” and when you are ready to give, what you have been given, return. We will await your arrival, knowing you have come of your own accord.
Humbled at her insight, touching every essence of his nature. He willingly returns to her. This is when masculinity was transformed, becoming man.
By femininity’s desire for companionship and masculinity’s want of freedom. It was life that brought woman and man together. United in flesh and spirit an everlasting bond was created. Joined together sealed forever by an ancient truth buried deep within the recesses of human need.
That Truth? Love, the Goddess of Creation
vOz / 12.26.21
Such a lofty lad
Clad in hue of blue
Brogue and sound
Cast ere frown
Shine on wee clown
Neer say we
How thus be
Kindly watch
Yee yonder sees
Woe is thee
Written down
Beyond thy gown
Gloom does bloom
Knocks too soon
Come hither dragoon
Play and bay
Tombs of clay
Shadows in gray
Gone the day
Oh, mighty wave
Once the proud
Beyond clouds
Weep for thou
Whimpering crowd
Silence the now
Young child be heave
Too soon to believe
Matched to deceive
Left to bleed
Oaths and creeds
Distant apparition
Eternity bound
Hopes abandoned
New to found
In plowed ground
Haunted forest
Soul’s surround
Forsaken minion
Howling hound
Crows abound
Aimlessly wander
Mired in Sloth
Fog and bog
Clawed and gnawed
Crawl behemoth crawl
Plunge to thy depths
Despair unawares
Questions unanswered
Come hither thy lair
Fools all forever declare
vOz / 06.13.01
A Mother’s love is like no other
Not a Father, Sister or Brother
Part Teacher Part Preacher
The kind of love that only can reach ya
A Mother’s love can span the oceans
Touch inside to your deepest emotions
Watched you grow up thru the years
Knows your like’s Feels your fears
Picked you up when you had fell
Taught you the first word you learned to spell
Tucked you in every night
Made you say your prayers left on the light
God bless Mothers love
Read you stories wiped your nose
Did without to buy you clothes
Stood beside you Picked up your toys
You were your Mothers pride and joy
When you were sick she kept you warm
Stood beside when you were all alone
There for you right or wrong
Protected you kept you from harm
God bless Mothers love
A Mothers love will not desert you
The kind of love you can always turn to
Never asked for anything
Wanted the best for you that life could bring
One day you’ll find when she has gone
The love you shared was oh so strong
God bless Mothers love
Mother’s love is always with you
Even though she can’t be with you
Cherish Mother’s Love
God bless Mothers love
vOz / 11.25.22
Oh, sacred heart, I do beseech, from depths within do thee speak
Conflicted far from members reach, thy mine eye in memory keeps
Distance thy constant foe, no seraphim wings have we to go
Yet in my heart do embers glow, open windows to thy soul.
Why, oh why, is such our fate, true faithful hearts be separate
Whose clutches hold so firm, so cold, keep warmth so far from our home
Life so barren, so incomplete, this island desolate and bleak
Forlorn is I so far from thee, oh joyful day yet to be
Yea, yonder, when shall I see the bright light of you so radiantly
Hand in hand, I walk with thee, time no bar, no hold on we
So soon to heaven’s gate Yee go, ravaged hearts left alone
Prayers, unanswered questions concealed, bowed heads, pain, flowing tears, silent reveal
Yet, the bright light of you still I see, within my sight so splendidly
Hand in hand, I walk with thee, time no bar, no hold on we
So, in this time that shall remain, forever I will keep thy name
Tis, love we chose, cherubs embrace, with gentle prayers, devotion, gathered grace
vOz / 07.19.04
The trouble we bring, we bring to ourselves
The pain we feel, we feel by ourselves
The lies we tell, we tell to ourselves
The hate we sense, we sense in ourselves
Of my blood, not of my mind
Those we love, share not in kind
Alone in our thoughts, thoughts all alone
Stranded, forsaken, far from home
They who embrace, the abyss,the void
Only hear, a silent noise
Stare into emptiness, ruptured light
A rude reminder, a pale shattered life
Bridge the gap, resolve the breach
Courage, forgiveness, a humble retreat
Hope’s a blessing, a curse yet known
A future, a past, reconciled, alone
vOz 12.30.18
Busy, busy, is the bee
Busy, busy, as can be
Buzzing, buzzing speedily
To and fro between the leaves
Busy, busy, is the bee
Busy, busy, as can be
Buzzing, buzzing in the air
Honey made with great care
Busy, busy, is the bee
Busy, busy, as can be
To the hive, high in the tree
Home is where the honey be
Busy, busy, is the bee
Busy, busy, as can be
Buzzing, buzzing here and there
Sweetest honey for Momma Bear
Ode to Billy
vOz / 05.14.11
Things go wrong, must be strong, must keep on, things go wrong…
Long the night, fearful fright, dreadful blight, long the night…
Questions linger, point the finger, doubts and stingers, questions linger…
Those remain, game and shame, cast the blame, those remain…
Must move on, nimble fawn, find the dawn, must move on…
Things made right, grit and bite, faithful light, things made right…
Peace / Kyrie Eleison
vOz / 12.11.99
we are either:
taker or giver
leader or follower
believer or skeptic
speaker or listener
innocent or corrupt
investor or borrower
producer or consumer
owner or worker
pro or con
this or that
true or false
lover or hater
me or you
We can be either at anytime
vOz / 05.23.0
Awake, the death bed
Rise the dust
Finis vita
Life a throne
Death alone
Together sit
Opposites repose
Conjured imagination
Fantasy and flight
Here and now
Day and night
Come see
Seen revealed
Opened and shut
Fate sealed
Song for Ukraine
vOz / 3.17.22
Oh, dear city under siege, bombs, and death surround
Children cry, Children call, Children crawl, Children cling
Mothers scream, Mothers plead, Mothers bleed, Mothers pray
No tears to wash away the blood, the stains of war remain
Fathers fight with all their might, no match for artillery and tanks
Death from land, sea, and air nowhere safe this man-made hell
Oh, dear city under siege, shattered homes, lives, and peace
Left in ruin, rubbles waste, starvation, disease, the victims’ fate
All Hero’s found this hallowed ground, cathedral of the dead
Stillness comes, thy will be done, buried deep within the shame
Good and Evil side by side, the mirror cracked in two
For what good does evil do, for evil does no good
Oh, dear city under siege, the past is present now
Smoke and fire, hate-filled pyre, soldiers rage, death’s desire
What’s to come, who’s to come, is any left to be
No rhyme, no reason, no answer found, no nothing left to see
Where’s the people, where’s the life, where will children play
What of hope, what of new, what’s to be of me and you
Oh, dear city under siege, fate cast to the wind
Rains will come, to cleanse the air, wash away blood-soaked streets
Time moves on, time renews, days turn into years
As birds do fly, with seasons change, this too will fade away
The ground will heal, the harvests will yield, the future will renew
Why, oh why do we do, as we do?
vOz / 07.01.08
Cognitive Insight is the way
Steer clear impediments that cloud and sway
Inquisitive minds seek and find
Reality as is in space and time
Be wary of facts that puzzle the mind
If not cautious light may blind
Trust is a comfort not a truth
Ask to be shown the meaning of earth
To seek beyond is integrities quest
Fear is an obstacle but wisdom too
Courage is faith something revealed
Must be discovered often concealed
Orthodox is traditional, established, approved
But is it the what, why and sure
I do not deny nor accept
I only ask for enlightenment
You and I are similar in thought
Humble, inquisitive, self-assured, distraught
Certainty is human not ours to divine
Belief, devotion, commitment, sublime
Strength to withstand falsity and truth
Is essential to make way through the loop
Have no assurances I can declare
Ask for the light with minimal glare
Whimsical, serious, hopeful, secure
Whatever will be, will be I’m assured
Our part in the play, is to play our part
We leave the rest to circumstance and smarts
Fate, destiny, fortune and luck
Providences’ domain bestowed upon us
All have their moments, react accordingly
Ask for forgiveness when we do not succeed
Last but first, beginning to end
Answers are questions that return again
Some questions are answers, no resolution found
Truth is a way, reality abounds
Dare to think, not presume
Seek to find, accept and review
Resolve to admit the truths in you
Brave are they who carry on through
My thoughts on eternity are hindered by scope
I have no compass no knowledge no hope
This I will leave to the essence from whence
We arrived and return our only evidence
Amen
vOz / 08.25.10
Piliero’s Dilemma:
How one became two, two became three, three became two, two became one, one became none?
The tale of a point…
ZERO
In the beginning there was nothing.
Nothing being nothing is itself pointless, a zero.
But a zero being nothing becomes a dot of nothingness
A POINT
A dot is a kind of point.
The point having no direction
Compels itself to moved forward in search of another.
DISCOVERY
As the point moved forward it discovers time, but no point.
Having tired the point pauses.
As the point surveys the surface, turning to its surprise it finds a line.
A LINE
Well, a line is fine but where’s the point?
The perplexed point not knowing a line is confused.
MOVING FORWARD
Looking forward not seeing another point, the point shifts direction.
As the point realigns its position, it finds the line is following.
The point again shifts direction only to find in its way the original line.
SEPARATION
The point jumps over the line and looking back sees separation, but still no point.
The point is distraught and begins jumping up and down away from the line.
GROWTH
Exhausted the point stops jumping and looks finding several other points.
This pleases the point; not only has it found one point but many other points.
CURIOSITY
Well, the point moves forward to visit one of the points.
But as they meet the other point disappears.
CONNECTION
The point looking around goes to another only for it to disappear as well.
And as the point continues to the remaining points it finds they too disappear as well.
TRANSFORMATION
But while all this is occurring something has changed about the point.
Once it arrived at its point of origination, now merged with other points the line is transformed.
A PATHWAY
Once discovering there is more than one point.
The point now a line becomes a pathway connecting itself to others.
Thus, completing the connection to become a kind of circle.
THE CIRCLE
The point discovered that there is no point only the circle.
And once all points merge with the another’s the line transforms into a circle
THE CYCLE
One continuous space where point, line and time are joined to become a whole.
Or is it a hole, a space you fall into? Maybe a zero something whose nothing?
Who knows what we become; but we truly are transformed!
CONCLUSION / BEGINNING
Thus, this is how;
One became two, two became three, three became two, two became one, one became none.
The tale of a point…
Peace
vOz
vOz 02/02/02 revised 02/06/02
?
Unconscious Primordial Void, whence doth thou came, Absent Birth, Creator less, bound cognizance, lacking singularity, though singular in nature, nature not yet sprung, lacking form having nothingness, from absence; innate singularity springs forth as form, is beginning returned, thus creation reborn?
oblivion,
unconscious void,
formless, empty, absent birth,
creator-less, lacking singularity, singular innate nature,
nature yet sprung, bound cognizance, whence came?
singularity springs forth, form, beginning,
creation
?
creation
beginning, form, forth springs singularity,
came whence? cognizance bound, sprung yet nature,
nature innate singular, singularity lacking, less-creator,
birth absent, empty, formless,
void unconscious,
oblivion
vOz / 7.15.99
I dreamed I lived forever
In a place I did not know
A land that was foreign to me
In a place I could not go
To live forever is a dream
Not for mortal souls
Only for a dreamer
Whose faith thee clings and holds
Innocence – Arrogance – Betrayal
vOz 01.06.02 – 01.08.02
I passed a dog as I drove
Her gait proud and free
She spied me in an instant flash
Her gaze fixed on me
A look she gave warm and true
To her I was a god
A master worthy of her faith
Her head to me she bowed
As I passed her on this road
I gave but little thought
Her piercing stare stayed with me
The fleeting glance I caught
As I drove, I looked to see
Observed through my rearview mirror
The dog had stopped, raised head in the street
A look she gave, rather queer
For only a moment, I understood
Faithful courage this canine possessed
A fierce loyalty inside her dwelt
Worthy of a God’s respect
Within her world, no question was there
At my sound she would respond
Trust, intuitive in her
She felt I would do her no harm
As to beckon me to her side
This dog began to bark
Looking for her newfound friend
As if I would stop and park
For just this moment, I felt as a god
What a splendid feeling of awe
As another car drew nearer
Dead, was this dog
vOz 10/06/01
Oh, Insignificant One who hears your cry
Who feels your loneliness who hears your sigh?
Burdon’s eternal one waits all ones’ lives
Where is the meaning what’s the reply
Oh great and powerful tis there a plan
What is it elevates the simple to grand
Enriches the soil this a barren land
Tilled through the centuries all common in man
Whose visage is it who’s told cast this mold
The path leads from birth destination the old
Unseen horizons no grasp can one hold
Fate casts long shadows what’s to unfold
Questions have answers Answers obscure
What is the point must we demure
One truths eternal one truths for sure
To live this life one must endure
I have no relief for the burdens one bears
I only have thoughts that don’t always square
To have grand illusions about what’s up there
Oh Insignificance One why should I care
