A Poetry Bouquet

1.  How's Your Map?

There’s a simple way to find your way through life, and to be on the side of right,
Developing character as you go, and sparing yourself from what will blight.
Life’s so short, thus one better to get the most from it, and make the best of it,
’Cause obstacles are found on the way, which are better used to our benefit.

So what’s this simple way then? Well, it’s taking those streets and highways marked LOVE, where
The way’s paved with kindness and goodness — in other words, those who love and care,
Those who have chosen to live rightly too (their hearts and minds noble to the core),
And where is found what is closest to Heaven on Earth; life’s responsive door.

And such where you’ll rest easier, sleep more fitfully, feel healthier too,
Your mind and body blessed by right thoughts and deeds, yielding less to some cold or flu.
Self-inflicted worry and a troubled conscience causing stress and injury,
Marring happiness, making things harder, and why ones life is less trouble free.

Hence why there’s wisdom in taking those streets and highways marked LOVE, and where as well,
Those with a positive attitude and law-abiding heart peacefully dwell.
No ill found in their territory or home, both clean and green, a welcome sight,
Where streetlamps are hardly needed, ’cause these people come with their own inbuilt light.

A joyous light that you could carry within, your compass accurate too, and
You making sure that all those necessary refuelling stops are soundly manned,
’Cause what you tank up on will either get you there or not, and get there you should,
Because that’s the place, and they’re the people, where things more likely work for your good.

By Lance Landall

2.  Sleepy Little Flower Bud

Oh, sleepy little flower bud, how you take so long to unwrap yourself for me,
I watching, waiting and watering, have placed you in the sun strategically.
So please, a little more effort would be nice, despite patience being a virtue,
Because I’m longing to see your smiling face — and yes, all those pretty petals too.

I have noticed you getting taller, and those creative leaves on your stem, but hey,
It’s still that bud I see, just boring green, though watching out for you day after day.
Oh yes, how I long for your appearance, that grand opening that shouts, “Hello there!”
And all’s forgiven, you photographed and fussed over — oh, forgive my little tear.

By Lance Landall

3.  It's Time To Refocus

With the day being a lovely summer’s day, I strolled into town, but was terribly saddened to see
Someone's friendly but neglected cat lazing in the gutter near shops and traffic so perilously.
I stopped to stroke its wee head with my fingers, not wanting to run my hand over its mangy body,
And feeling disturbed by its plight, mindful of those cats at home treated very differently.

As I continued further on, I saw a woman with only one eye, a young girl in a wheelchair,
Some young mentally handicapped men in a van, and there were others I saw, each with burdens to bear.
And I thought of how sad it was, and is, given the current fixation with the body beautiful,
Which has little to do with the person, ’cause our body is just a shell, and age inevitable.

Yes, those with lesser shells, or some very unfortunate condition, aren’t given the same time of day,
The focus foolishly being elsewhere, the trite, sexy or sophisticated having too much say.
And we all the worse for such, ’cause it’s only what’s within that counts, and given beauty soon fades away,
Which means that where too much weight’s been given to such, it’s loss will be noticed more, and cause greater dismay.

The streets are full of injuries, broken and disfigured bodies, those less attractive shells, sadly,
’Cause life can be cruel, and Nature random — and far too often, thought and care lacking in humanity.
All why we need to stop and show we care wherever we can, and focus less on bodies, if at all,
Aware that the body’s nothing but a shell, and also mindful that upon us, misfortune could befall.

By Lance Landall


This poem was upgraded 26 January 2020.

4.  Have You?

Who’s seen those stripes on zebras, who’s seen a peacock’s proud tail,
Who’s seen a cat’s long whiskers, and an awesome spouting whale?
Who’s seen an emperor penguin, an elephant’s huge ears,
Who’s seen a burrowing mole, adorable polar bears?

Who’s seen an armadillo's armour, a chameleon's tongue,
Who’s heard the bird’s dawn chorus that each morn is loudly sung?
Who’s seen those humps on camels, who’s seen a turtle’s hard shell,
Who’s seen a reindeer’s antlers? And as for skunks, oh, that smell!

Who’s seen those spots on leopards, a platypuses flat bill,
Who’s seen those tusks on walruses, a spider’s weaving skill?
Who’s seen a praying mantis, a tiny ladybird bug,
Who’s seen a giant panda (that many would love to hug)?

Who’s seen a tree hanging sloth, that teeny and pesky gnat,
Who’s seen a rhino’s horn, those intriguing wings on a bat?
Who’s seen a swinging gibbon, a baboon and gorilla,
Who’s seen prickly hedgehogs, an elassssstic caterpillar?

Who’s seen an electric eel, cockroaches, worms, slugs and snails,
Who’s seen a giraffe’s long neck, animal’s various tails?
Who’s seen a flashing firefly, glow-worms that glow in the dark,
Who’s seen the clever beaver and that odd hammerhead shark?

Who’s seen a cheetah speeding, who’s seen a rabbit and hare,
Who’s seen a komodo dragon-cum-lizard extraordinaire?
Who’s seen a lion that’s roaring, and those coyotes that howl,
Who’s seen a rooster crowing and those kittens that...meooooow?

Well, I know that I have, though to be quite honest with you,
I’m talking more about TV, that comfy armchair view.
Oh, how spoilt we are, courtesy of one’s remote control,
And to top it all off, popcorn in a sizable bowl.

By Lance Landall

5.  Winter Joys

You know, even on a winter’s day when the temperature is cool and the sky a sulky, surly grey,
There’s still joy to be found in that bracing wind that livens and refreshes, and with one’s hair is sure to play.
And oh, how cosy it is to be inside near the fire, a delight that only the winter time can bring,
Until that gorgeous burst of blossoming colour that adorns many a beautifully made tree come spring.

Oh yes, how summer is appreciated more having braved the moody winter weather and cooler air,
Having enjoyed those soups that warm and strengthen, and having downed those hot drinks as we lazed in that fireside chair.
Yes, even the curtains pulled, that soft glowing lamp, that book that keeps one engrossed, we relaxed and warm as toast,
And those of us lucky enough, hearing the pounding of waves in the distance bearing down on beach-cum-coast.

And lest I forget, that hail tapping each window, that wailing and whining coming from harassed power lines,
They flailing about as much as branches, and then there’re those moans down the chimney (and one for the summertime pines).
Yes, those chilly, rainy nights where one’s buried under thick blankets (toilet visits a reluctant affair),
Such all being part and parcel of that sombre season that never fails to come every quicker passing year.

But as I said, not without those joys that can only come from wintry weather, one tucked up inside or bed,
Or taking in the crisper scenery, one’s body clothed in woollens, gloves warming hands and hat warming head.
Yes, that cooler cleansing breeze that oft becomes more frisky, and that weaker sun that’s sought in sheltered places,
Such all being part and parcel of those long three months and shorter days that create all those rosy red faces.

By Lance Landall

6.  Lose Yourself In Others

Life’s too short to waste on petty upsets, and this very day could be our last, or a loved one cease to be,
For life is so random and unpredictable, and why these sentiments should be taken seriously.
And such we do take seriously when we make the most of each moment we have, using it more wisely,
And that being, in the best interests of others, for via doing so, we’ll be the happiest one can be.

Yes, for happiness is something that kind of sneaks up on us when we’re lost in others-cum-those selfless deeds,
And not something that’s found when we go looking for it self interestedly, thus turning plants into weeds,
For that’s how we corrupt our thoughts and actions, and actually deprive ourselves of what truly brings joy,
And why when we selfishly put ourselves before other folk, we can only but true happiness destroy.

Yes, there’s no greater joy but that which is found in serving others, and which often sees some kindness returned,
For those who’re in need are so very grateful when they receive the loving attention for which they have yearned.
And oh, many are in need, and many of them unattended to, those who could help oft looking elsewhere,
But only to end up disillusioned, happiness and joy only being found in projected loving care.

And yes, life is so short, and thus each day precious, too precious to waste, and loved ones too precious to neglect,
For fate can catch us off guard, taking either them or us, hence that common regret, as such we don’t expect.
And yet we know such can happen, and why our focus should be on our loved ones and others, and constantly,
For that’s where true happiness and joy are found, where regrets are few — and how we, remain in their memory.

By Lance Landall

7.  But

While acceptance and contentment are our best friends, the proverbial “but” has its place,
And that meaning, we going easy on others who find some things very hard to face.
Hence they struggling with acceptance and contentment, for some things aren’t easy to accept,
And some things hard to do without, and hence why over their plight, many have groaned and wept.

Yes, it’s easy to say, “Cheer up,”  “Look on the bright side,” or whatever else in that vain,
But many have had a bad and unfair run, have suffered some terrible loss-cum-pain.
And oh, how some things have a way of compounding, and often it doesn't rain but pour,
Thus one thing after another entering through an already violated door.

Words are all well and good, but applying them another matter, and such made harder
When help and support isn’t there like it should be, and why under the strain many err.
Enter us and sympathy, empathy, compassion-cum-kindness — well, hopefully so,
For though one can pray for others, that same God intended that they get help from below.

Yes, it’s so easy to lose patience with someone, but things can take time, which tests us too,
For any impatience on our side could show we’ve a weakness too, or short-sighted view.
And why here that “but” has more to do with us, we understanding how hard it can be
For some to apply what is written or spoken, and yes, however true it may be.

By Lance Landall

8.  A Great Idea

I’d like you to thoughtfully consider what I'm about to say,
'Cause I think that I’ve a great idea, one that could go a long way.
Yes, it’s really very simple, and it's easy to carry out,
So let me cut to the chase then, and tell you what it’s all about.

For every wrong thing that you do, do something right, something that's good,
And do this because you want to, not because you think that you should.
Such will help somewhat balance or counter that wrong thing that you’ve done,
Not fixings things, nor letting you off, 'cause what’s done is done, can’t be undone.

Such will simply even things up, so to speak, and even outweigh,
And hopefully — with time — far less wrong and far more right you’ll display.
But meantime, just adding a right to a wrong is very worthwhile,
So smile sweetly, go the extra mile, and where you can, reconcile.

The truth is, that we all make mistakes, do wrong things, and cause upsets,
Which most of us wish we hadn’t, and feel so bad, full of regrets.
But despite that, there's something we can do, add a right to a wrong,
By doing something that's good shortly after — yes, not take too long.

And if we all carried this out, so much brighter this world would be,
'Cause such would sow joy where there's sadness, leave others feeling happy.
Yes, there would be a lot more sunshine than is currently shining,
Which thereby would have clouds of darkness gradually declining.

Sure it’s a simple formula, but it's a good one that can't fail;
That being, where the right attitude and a willingness prevail.
It’s one that simply won’t let a wrong have its own way, but instead,
Right over the top of that wrong thing, a dollop of good will spread.

In other words, form a habit that will help dilute any wrong,
One that'll surround a mournful ballad with a brighter, sweeter song,
One that'll turn the tables on wrong, and get even by doing good,
Not letting wrong things win the day, 'cause that’s not something that we should.

By Lance Landall

9.  Yardsticks

We can look at a person’s face or body and it may not appeal, but hey,
It’s what’s inside that counts, and those not so blessed oft lovely people, by the way.
Someone who'd make their partner very happy, their beauty in their words and ways,
And why those who’ve foolishly gone for looks and size have found that it seldom pays.

So please mind when you’re scanning, and maybe with a partner in mind, lest you err,
For that one who doesn't appeal might be one who you’d actually prefer.
Too many judge a book by its cover, rejecting what’s really a treasure,
And all because they use the wrong yardstick when it comes to them taking measure.

By Lance Landall

10.  I Have A Dream Too

His sad brown eyes studied me, “Son,” he said, “The problem lies with humanity,
Always has, always will, ‘till, everyone’s had enough of the insanity.
However, nothing will work if hearts haven’t changed, it a case of déjà vu,
We simply revisiting the same old problems that we’ve already been through.”

I couldn’t help but nod. “Besides,” he said, “There’re those who’d just want the world their way,
Insisting that all go along with such, enter another form of foul play,
For no one should violate another’s conscience, and force just breeds discontent,
All being why those people who act so treacherously are never Heaven sent.”

He brushed a fly away. “You’ve heard of the Statue of Liberty, haven’t you?”

“Yes,” I replied. “Well,” he continued, “It’s no good in New York, nor God’s Law too,”
He whispered, “Be it in some courtroom, but both within us, we loving and true,
And a Martin Luther King, Mandela, Gandhi, Lincoln, not that they were saints,
But if you get my point, none of them having time for introverted complaints.”

Yes, I have a dream too,” he laughed, "Smiles replacing frowns, and tender words harsh words,
All having their say and choosing their way, go individuals and not herds.
Everyone compassionate, gentle, generous and kind, and why we’ll not find
A heaven on Earth until Heaven’s on Earth-cum-that change in one’s heart and mind."

By Lance Landall

11.  Come On, Folk

A tragedy is, that even those whose heart is good can succumb to some ill,
They having an issue or weakness that surfaces in time and doesn’t gel;
After all, it seemingly so out of character, even pretty bad too,
And they indeed remorseful, but sent to Coventry, Shame On You Avenue.

Hey, come on folk, haven't you some personal sin of your own-cum-skeleton?
For when it comes to mistakes made, or perhaps some ill done, no one can say none.
Oh, how terribly true such is, and yet, who comes down on other sinners hard,
While meantime polishing that “I’m holier than you” tarnished crown-cum-charade?

I mean to say, you may be short on mistakes and not have done anything bad,
But tell me this: How many “If looks could kill” and terrible thoughts have you had?
Yes, not all that squeaky clean, huh, or clean on the outside and grubby within,
And yet, when it comes to those whose heart is good but off guard, it’s, “Look at their sin!”

Oh yes, what a tragedy that those whose heart is good succumb to ill one day,
Or make a mistake unworthy of an excuse, which shows we’re all made of clay.
Yes, such being reality, and compassion far too oft rare, and why it’s seen
That many who so err, despite they being remorseful, are kept in quarantine.

By Lance Landall

12.  Hit The Road Jack

Though this world is in turmoil, there’s a song in my heart, for I have made up my mind to make the best of things —
From which hope springs — for despite any ill around me, I can be at peace within, and hence why my heart sings.
Yes, troubles always come and go, even linger awhile, but why should I let them have it all their own way?
For troubles are trouble enough without me giving them a shovel, and for good measure, a heap of clay.

So, better to make the best of things, for we’re only allotted three score years and ten — sometimes less or more —
And much of that is spent sleeping, which means we’ve even less time to celebrate life, and this or that explore.
And to gain the most from life, we need that cheery inner melody, a calm and positive energy,
For wallowing in sorrow, bemoaning our misfortunes, or nursing our wounds, thwarts hope and possibility.

Yes, it’s better to show negativity the end of our boot, thus telling those troubles a thing or two,
For though we can’t always stop troubles coming our way, we don’t have to feed and clothe them, nor tuck them in too.
No, for they’ve no right in our life, unless we foolishly invite them, and that would be a terrible shame,
For troubles often steal enough as it is, and oh, how sad it is when we only have ourselves to blame.

But such needn’t be, and why when troubles gatecrash our life, we should meet them with courage and authority,
They thus receiving a reception that thwarts their worst, we showing them who’s boss, despite some cruel injury.
And midst any ensuing scuffle, we smiling and singing, even whistling a tune like “Hit The Road Jack,”
And then prudently guarding the door, lest via not doing so, more troubles enter, or those old ones come back.

Yes, hit the road troubles, "and don't you come back no more, no more, no more, no more..."

By Lance Landall

13.  Never Expect

A lesson I’ve been taught, though one perhaps not fully learnt, is to never expect, 'cause that's folly,
Given that we often don’t get what we should, be that emotionally or materially.
And the reason why is, 'cause we live in a cold, harsh and selfish world, one where folk don’t always think,
And nor are they always able to see, and why many who can’t swim are sadly left to sink.

Hence why so many are going it alone, and sometimes that’s all that one can do, as best one can,
Given that what we have a right to expect (though such isn't wise) is withheld by our fellowman,
Who makes excuses for not attending to what's needed, or simply acts indifferently,
Many fattening their lot while others go without or not enough, or struggle emotionally.

Perhaps you’re someone who doesn’t expect, but knows what should be happening, and in that sense, feel
angry,
Which though understandable, doesn’t get us anywhere, and oft worsens things considerably.
'Cause folk sometimes harden their hearts, and in their ignorance or selfishness, look upon us badly,
We creating some rift or row, and more troubles for our self, and why it’s best to act prudently.

People either give or they don’t, it’s either in their heart to or it’s not, and when we force folk to,
We may get what we want, but have we really improved things, and how does that make us feel, though such
be due?
The truth is, that humans will always let us down, and seldom live up to our expectations, for
Though those expectations might be quite fair, people oft aren’t fair, and our plight can thoughtlessly ignore.

But such aside, it’s always far better to give than to expect, 'cause what goes 'round often comes 'round,
And how we can end up getting what we needed, a pleasant experience that many have found.
Hence why when we share the little we do have, we can end up better off, and we far more at peace,
Unlike many who though knee-deep in wealth, sadly keep such to themselves, and such even seek to
increase.

Now back to where I came in.

Many are struggling or suffering in some way, they so in need, and expecting what should be so,
But they’re bound to be disappointed, if not already, as many who’ve gone before too well know.
All why it pays to not expect, but rather, to speak on behalf of others in need, and strongly,
Remembering that what goes 'round often comes 'round, and we hoping, not expecting, much more
wisely.

There’s naught wrong with living in hope, for hope can keep us going, so long as it’s reality based,
And by that I mean (and in the meantime), that the issues that we have in our life need to be faced.
'Cause whether we expect or hope, we may not receive those things that we desire; such more oft the case,
And why expecting leads to disappointment, hampers contentment, the latter oft spoilt by what we chase.

Yes, never expect, and if you do receive what you should, rejoice!

By Lance Landall


This poem was upgraded on 9 March 2023.

14.  Mind Those Dreams

I guess we all dream about something, something we’d love to achieve, do or have, for me a home,
Yes, a home of my own, I oft looking at homes I wouldn’t mind when on sunny days I roam.
But such seems beyond me now, and thus only a dream, though there’s something that I thought I would share,
And that is, things don’t bring happiness, only pleasure, and if your health has gone, such pointless here.

You see, so many people are into things, wanting this and that, but meantime not taking care,
They neglecting their health, marriage, or family, hence those unfortunate regrets many share.
Yes, they may have what they desired, a home to be admired, but here they are, their dream having cost,
They crippled, divorced, lonely, or saddled with debt, and what really meant the most to them, now lost.

And this discovered too late, their mansion for all to see, and so too, the tragic irony,
For here they are hobbling to their letterbox, pain their lot now, and even emotionally.
Yes, there’re so many homes I see that appeal to me, but how many cost far more than money?
The occupants no longer happy-cum-little communication and no intimacy.

Seems we oft don’t appreciate how blessed we are, nor truly relish what we have — such folly —
And hence those dreams that can sometimes cost us, and thereby confront with some sad reality.
And how many lose a wonderful spouse, or the likes of their health, better than a home by far,
But that, and even more, is what can happen when people go chasing some not so shiny star.

By Lance Landall

15.  Time And Room

Though we may desire those needed changes in our character, and though such may be our goal,
We oft let ourselves down and display the old self again, perhaps afflicting some poor soul.
Yes, despite those attempts we make to act differently — our heart seeking such sincerely —
We somehow mess up again, our words and actions contrary-cum-hello hypocrisy.

Oh, how discouraging such is, for often it’s goodbye friendships and opportunities,
Others thinking the worst of us, oft backing away from us, despite our “Sorry” or “Please.”
And sometimes when we are forgiven, or folk not write us off, we somehow mess up again,
We not meaning to, of course, but oh dear, how the old self resurfaces beyond our ken.

And hence that head scratching, old habits dying hard and painfully, but so long as they are,
They meantime more likely raising their head when we’re besieged-cum-stressed — or health wise, under par.
And so it goes — a sad reality, unfortunately — and thus why it is that we
Should always give others time and room to grow, such being what we all need, kindness and mercy.

So let's bear long, such oft resulting in someone’s turnaround which otherwise mightn’t have been,
Albeit very slow in coming, even annoyingly so, but better late than not seen.
And society all the better off — and yes, even we, for what goes around comes around,
Including that hardness and impatience we oft show, which someone’s old self is sure to compound. 

By Lance Landall

16.  Life Can Be Hard

Oh, how we wish for things, and they sometimes within our grasp, and then suddenly —
Whoosh! — they’re gone again, and we are left feeling that loss, enter despondency.
And often those things we wish for are good things — in other words, very worthy,
But no (for some reason or other), and thus life treating us most unfairly.

Sometimes we make it harder for ourselves, things taking more time to come our way,
Or never, seemingly, and for many, that’s the sad reality of today.
Oh, how we wish we could undo some things, push rewind, but once they’re done they’re done,
Hence why past ills oft predict future disappointments, though who of us has none?

Yes, even when we haven’t erred, we can still be denied things, or they taken,
The latter leaving us deeply wounded, grieving, or simply badly shaken.
And we thus wondering about it all, even contemplating foolishly,
For who knows what tomorrow may bring, and we having exited too early.

Well, some folk do take that path, don’t they — and to be fair, some weights are hard to bear,
But what a waste and double tragedy, all why another’s load we should share.
And who knows when we may want a hand, or have we already had such a hand?
And thus another’s struggling are far better able to see and understand.

By Lance Landall

17.  Miracles

Do I believe in miracles? Yes, that unseen hand that spares,
Resulting in the opposite, thanksgiving rather than tears.
And where such stories are told, they giving reason to believe,
That hope and heart might continue midst those things that have us greive.

Yes, I do believe in miracles, which I'm happy to share,
Because I've experienced such during my life, here and there.
In fact, it's quite a miracle to survive another day,
Given danger's ever present, and life often snatched away.

By Lance Landall

18.  Where Are Such People?

Give me the person that one can disagree with and still be friends — yes siree! —
Such put aside for harmony’s sake, the best interests of humanity.
A spirit of forgiveness and reconciliation, a moving on, and
Evil not gaining some victory, and all doing their best to understand.

Oh, those fools who sulk and murmur, criticism perhaps too prickly for them,
And yet, some minor fault or flaw in some fellow human are quick to condemn.
Move on! Move on! Take it on the chin, your character’s being tested, you know,
And disagreements there’ll always be, and the bigger man always the hero.

By Lance Landall

19.  Let’s Not Kid Ourselves

Though we should have love in our hearts for all, such doesn't mean dumping commonsense,
Because the results of foolishly accepting everything are immense.
And so, we love the person but never condone those things that aren’t good or right,
Otherwise, we’ll just head back into darkness rather than forward into light.

And back into darkness we’ve gone, for things once rightly condemned, folk now laud, and,
Confusion is plaguing the land, solid rock having been discarded for sand.
And this all making our world brighter, fairer and happier, supposedly,
And supposedly is right, because the truth is, we’re perching perilously.

By Lance Landall

20.  Figuratively Verbalizing

I’ve a few things I hope you won’t mind me verbalizing,
And you might consider some of them hardly surprising.
Perhaps in your own mind they’ve also been crystallizing,
And with my thoughts will actually be harmonizing.

It’s very clear that there has been too much compromising,
And that there are some things we’ve been wrongly legalizing.
I must say too, I’m not impressed with some advertising
That certain things is irresponsibly glamorizing.

Yes, I’m concerned over many things we’ve been televising,
I’m concerned over many things we’ve been sanitizing,
I’m concerned over many things we’ve been authorizing,
And I’ve concerns over things we’ve been popularizing.

I’ve also concerns over things we’ve been satirizing,
I’m concerned about people we’ve been marginalizing,
I’m concerned about those people we’ve been stigmatizing,
Categorizing, ostracizing, dehumanizing.

We’ve been maximizing wrong rather than minimizing,
And things one shouldn’t dream of, we’ve been rationalizing.
We’ve been polarizing, pressurizing, tyrannizing,
And penalizing, paralyzing, demoralizing.

It’s clear that wisdom’s something we’ve been anesthetizing,
And sadly, folly and error have been customizing.
Yes, we’ve been systemizing, institutionalizing,
Monopolizing jeopardizing, destabilizing.

And it’s clear that we have been foolishly idolizing
What society (that’s us) is simply scandalizing.
You see, we’ve all been far too busy acclimatizing,
Unaware that this boat we’re in is slowly capsizing.

Have I been dramatizing? No, more like summarizing.

By Lance Landall