Up Close and Vivid
There was a time,
I loved agitating.
Just to see different expressions,
Shown on people's faces.
Coming close,
To aggravation.
I knew my limitations.
I had gone to school to learn body language.
Interpersonal Communication.
And studying 'where' folks' feelings were.
You know...
Probing from afar.
Seeking to discover...
With just observation.
Who was disturbed...?
Who was emotionally disconnected,
And unnnerved.
And just 'who' was crazed?
Living on the edge...
Seeking to escape the maze of life.
Only to discover my own paranoia!
Today,
Few people are trying to hide their disgust!
Some are outright enraged.
With attempts to masquerade an outrage...
Many caring less,
If that it is shown on display!
And I am not quick to agitate...
For experimental purposes.
Not today!
Too many folks have venom in their eyes.
And I've learned to do what I've been trained to do,
From my early days of schooling.
I either wear my sunshades.
Or talk to myself!
Choosing to fit right in!
But I don't have to take notes today...
Too much of this 'stuff' is up close and vivid!
And I rehearse ducking...
Just in case a wild punch is thrown,
On its way to pay a personal visit!
These are not the times,
For one to blindly unwind...
To share false pretensions.
Too many folks are easily provoked.
poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar
Submitted by Poetry Lover
Vote! | Copy!
Related quotes
Put a Sock In It
Put a sock in it,
Maybe this will rush a hush.
Put a sock in it,
Maybe this will rush a hush.
Put a sock in it,
Maybe this will rush a hush.
Today there is just too much stuff.
And people are getting fed up!
Put a sock in it,
Maybe this will rush a hush.
Put a sock in it,
Maybe this will rush a hush.
Put a sock in it,
Maybe this will rush a hush.
Today there is just too much stuff.
And people are getting fed up!
Many getting sick of the pickiness started.
And when it gets sticky they can not stop.
Instigating agitation with annoyance.
Dropping all they've got to tie a mind in knots.
Put a sock in it,
Maybe this will rush a hush.
Put a sock in it,
Maybe this will rush a hush.
Put a sock in it,
Maybe this will rush a hush.
Today there is just too much stuff.
And people are getting fed up!
Can't you see them strike poses and begin to 'cheese'.
Then plop on their knees,
To make their pleas.
These same folks cry about bad luck.
With claims their butts are stuck in ruts.
Put a sock in it,
Maybe this will rush a hush.
Put a sock in it,
Maybe this will rush a hush.
Put a sock in it,
Maybe this will rush a hush.
Today there is just too much stuff.
And people are getting fed up!
Put a sock in it,
Maybe this will rush a hush.
Folks have had enough,
And fed up!
Put a sock in it,
Maybe this will rush a hush.
Folks have had enough,
And fed up!
Folks have had enough.
Folks have had enough.
Folks have had enough.
And fed up!
poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar
Submitted by Poetry Lover
Vote! | Copy!
Pictures Still Say What Words Can Not
I have no wish like others,
To feel and relive miseries.
There is nothing about sorrow,
That has an interest for me.
Some folks share their grief,
And can not leave these moments alone.
Folks like these I choose not to be around.
Nor are they invited near or inside my home.
I've had my days of weeping tears.
And for years they would not stop.
My heart has pounded in my chest...
Feeling I would pass out or dead I would drop!
But faith so strong I kept inside of me.
Even when those I thought were close...
Chose to leave me alone.
There was a message from God I learned from that.
When people think one is down and out...
They will make their true identities known!
And just how much time,
If any...
They have,
To make their feelings shown.
When one is flat on their back...
Folks can show where they are coming from.
With no need to express where they are at!
Or vocalize what they wish others to believe.
Pictures still say what words can not!
And some words unheard,
Can be the best one unseen can leave!
poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar
Submitted by Poetry Lover
Vote! | Copy!
Opening Joke
If I wanted to please everyone...
I'd tell them how fantastic and beautiful they are.
You know...
That stuff folks expect to hear.
Especially out in public.
But geeeesssshhh...
Glancing at this crowd...
I know I have to be honest.
Since I expect most of them,
Would be hearing it for the first time.
And I can see there are lots of folks been lied to...
Sittin' up in here!
You got another pair of sunshades?
And even more would think my honesty,
To be controversial, direct and humorless.
Delivered from the embittered lips,
Of a black man fighting back his anger.
How did truth and honesty,
Become associated with bitterness in the first place?
They get enough amusement anyway.
Some of that stuff that goes on today is so hysterical...
It goes on unacknowledged.
Don't worry!
I've come prepared with an opening joke about economics.
That should rivet them to their seats!
Especially the ones sitting in the front taking notes...
Accustomed to being in seminars.
'Folks...
The topic this evening will be,
'How to Barter and Ghettomize My Pretensions'
Some of you taking notes,
Will find the subject matter rewarding.
IF you already know how to boogey and 'git' down! '
poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar
Submitted by Poetry Lover
Vote! | Copy!
Where to Bathe and What to Eat!
Some choose to mask their insecurities,
By use of excuses and insults...
To reduce feelings of insignificance.
As if this shallowness exposed,
Replaces the obvious imposed.
Those of strength are labelled arrogant.
Those of identity are often tagged nonconformists.
And on the other hand those living their lives,
On a daily basis...
Doing what they can to survive.
Could care less whose ego thrives,
Seeking to be massaged...
By another round of bravura.
Pampered in the approval of lies!
There are folks living on our streets,
Trying to figure out how to shelter themselves.
Where to bathe and what to eat!
Those of strength are labelled arrogant.
Those of identity are often tagged nonconformists.
There are folks living on our streets,
Trying to figure out how to shelter themselves.
Where to bathe and what to eat!
And on the other hand those living their lives,
On a daily basis...
Doing what they can to survive.
Could care less whose ego thrives,
Seeking to be massaged by another round of bravura.
Pampered in the approval of lies!
Just to nibble on sweetened pretentions.
To share from a vacuous hollowness!
And at someone else's expense.
There are folks living on our streets,
Trying to figure out how to shelter themselves.
Where to bathe and what to eat!
While those who scurry about with their lifted up noses...
Seek a place to close a door anywhere.
With anyone who agrees...
They are still able to indentify their sanity!
It may not be the accepted 'sanity'!
But at least they are supportive of one another!
There are folks living on our streets,
Trying to figure out how to shelter themselves.
Where to bathe and what to eat!
And people who are marketing decadence,
Stuff their diseased guts...
With delusions of grandeur.
OR something they hold,
To make them feel better than someone lese.
There are folks living on our streets,
Trying to figure out how to shelter themselves.
Where to bathe and what to eat!
Caring less about their bad credit.
Or who refused them a loan,
Based upon nothing in collateral shown.
Since once valued pretentions have lost their asset.
poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar
Submitted by Poetry Lover
Vote! | Copy!
Can You Show Me Where That Is?
If intelligence is not respected,
And fools on the rise are praised.
Why is anyone bewildered,
By the display of lazy people...
And a mediocrity,
That is more acceptable today?
With a discipline dismissed,
And a preference of it...
Clearly shown to the exit,
To be ushered away.
And education is a joke,
When remedial courses are taught...
To 'college' folks!
With the rudiments of a language spoken,
Invokes a discouragement provoked!
'Excuse me.
Can you help me read this? '
Sure.
That is your name tag.
With 'your' name on it.
'Thank you.
I've signed up for advance physics.
Can you show me where that is?
I am so excited to be going to college.'
poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar
Submitted by Poetry Lover
Vote! | Copy!
In The Closet
There is more in the closet,
Coming out of them these days.
More besides clothes, coats...
And those sneaking to get quick booty,
To hide to 'get off'
Like teenagers in a rage.
Not too many today,
Care who does what to whom.
Except those living in smaller towns...
Where there is nothing else to do,
Other than to test the beds
In their neighbors' bedrooms!
And having sex with pets!
And other kinds of sexual digressions.
'But you didn't hear that from me.
Just in case you're in the mood for steamy gossip! '
There is more in the closet,
Coming out of them these days.
People catching all kinds of sexual diseases.
HIV that can develop into AIDS.
And some folks wish to keep their sneaking discreet!
As they sweat up wetness on strange sheets...
During nighttime sleepovers.
And these same booty buddies,
Who get it on...
During the day,
Do not speak!
'Wassup with that?
But you didn't hear that from me.
Just in case you're in the mood,
For some steamy gossip! '
But folks 'down low' who are in the closet...
Don't have to be that way.
Since it seems everyone wants to be lesbian.
Even those who say they 'aren't' gay!
They just want it strickly on the bottom!
Caring less who tops as a preference.
'And...
You didn't hear that from me.
In case you're in the mood...
For some steamy gossip!
Just keep my name out of it,
And you and I will stay alright!
Aiight?
Later! '
poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar
Submitted by Poetry Lover
Vote! | Copy!
Required Prerequisite
A call to duty,
Few use refuse.
It once had been an honor to do it.
In those days passed,
When patriotism was a thing to choose.
And everyone felt this,
Without making an excuse.
Today,
Quick escapes...
Is as natural as responsibility betrayed.
And having no accountability comes to surprise...
As many display themselves to be disrespectful.
Without a sign of regret to disgustfully criticize.
As if the act of expressing respect,
Has become a required prerequisite...
Most folks have come to think as weak.
And this, if shown, is today despised.
poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar
Submitted by Poetry Lover
Vote! | Copy!
Such As a Bad Habit
I've been on my own and alone for too long,
To know a few things about patience and life!
And those who have not had that experience...
Know very little about sacrificing their likes,
To endure putting up with unwelcomed dislikes.
There has been many things done I did,
That I disliked but tolerated.
In fact I hated going through the process.
And when I had the opportunity,
To do those things enjoyed and liked...
Not a moment did I waste in indecision.
I might have been confused...
But not crazed.
People who spend time whining,
Get on my nerves.
And I am quick to split away from them.
In mid-sentence,
If I have to do it!
I am not attracted to 'whoa-is-me' people.
My father use to tell me,
How as a child...
He had his teeth pulled,
Without novocain.
He told me this frequently...
Whenever I thought he was just around,
To make my life easier.
'Come on, Daddy!
It's just ten dollars! '
I am one of the fortunate ones,
I will admit that!
And with obstacles and setbacks...
I crawled back to get myself on track!
I wasn't about to spend my life,
Traumaticized by emotional ties!
Or gossip and lies...
Folks entertain themselves to tell!
My relationship with God...
Is close.
And we communicate very well!
God is there...
And delivers!
I don't give advice,
Or recommend what others do!
I use to...
Do that,
Often!
And ended up being screwed.
Figuratively speaking!
Even though it is still just as painful.
I've learned many lessons in my life.
And the hardest one was to forgive and forget.
At times I am visited,
With an embitterness that sits.
it takes a while to get over it.
But I am not going to soon let go of my peace of mind,
Or happiness.
Because someone wants to show and display,
Every bit of their ignorance.
With attitude seeking acceptance.
And those folks,
In some places...
Travel around in cliques.
As if what they do is fashionable.
And after one obtains a degree of consciousness...
Folks like that become easier to identify.
Such as a bad habit,
One has to end to quit...
And quick!
Like a fad that has been outdated.
poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar
Submitted by Poetry Lover
Vote! | Copy!
Limitations of Tranquility
You have to give some folks much love.
If you have it and it's known...
Share it with those in need.
Especially those who feed on myths.
Trying their best to fit in...
A history they affix to a reality
That has been tricked and rewritten!
You have to give some folks much love.
If you have it and it's known...
Some people can not accept,
Their ancestors were thieves and heathens.
Who worshipped their sins in dens of evil.
And now they pay for these medieval deeds!
You have to give some folks much love.
If you have it and it's known.
It is shown they have an absence of this.
Their entire existence has them betwixt...
Having an intelligence that sits
Within borders of treason!
They can not reason.
They accept others outside of their barricades,
As odd and below façades they've made.
They have no idea,
They bring fear amongst themselves!
To endear conflict they instill to thrive to prosper.
And deluded with limitations of tranquility.
That has weakened a peace...
From those they spend in frustrations to conquer.
You have to give some folks much love.
If you have it and it's known.
They do not know it.
This has never to them been shown!
They are descendents of war!
poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar
Submitted by Poetry Lover
Vote! | Copy!
The Belief System
Some folks do things,
Because they want others to 'believe'...
They 'are' somebody.
Who knows what's up,
The sleeves of people like these.
And those folks with 'beliefs'
Who know they have 'always' been 'somebody'
Don't need to look for acknowledgement.
They are going to get it anyway.
Because of who they are!
And wherever they are...
Good deeds done,
Seem to be always something done they do.
There is no belief system used to convince.
There is an obviousness without the need to mention.
It is in the existence,
That transcends what may or may not be...
What comes forward off of people's lips,
For others to physically with their eyes see.
And...
It is not because of what they want others to believe!
That this is so,
From embellished exaggerations.
Entertaining and released from an implementation.
And fantasies from them born...
To come to life and grow!
It is in the observation,
That proves a deserving worthiness...
Upon which others bestow,
Those of merit that receive attention.
Leaving to be distanced,
Those folks who wish others to believe
They are 'somebody'.
And they are...
Provoked into some self serving action.
poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar
Submitted by Poetry Lover
Vote! | Copy!
Sincerely Insincere
People today...
Are so sincerely insincere.
Full with trite expressions
Delivered from a smile,
Slowly lifting from a sneer...
Seconds before an encounter appeared.
People today...
Are quick to say
What they don't mean,
To make it seem
As if what is felt can not be seen...
Or show!
But it does.
And they don't know.
That's why at home alone,
Folks throw dirt.
Where it can hurt the one,
Who has no clue who threw out and 'dished'
What's to come.
To be a part of destruction is fun to some.
Except for those who do not suspect...
The one who grins,
Is the real culprit to regret.
Yet...
People today,
Are so sincerely insincere.
It is hard to address
Through disguises worn...
Just 'who' to tell what time it is,
And 'when' they can go to hell!
poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar
Submitted by Poetry Lover
Vote! | Copy!
Set Into Motion
Methods of discrediting,
For the purpose to diminish one's influence...
Aren't methods easily detected,
But nonetheless applied as reminders.
I remember the first time I was told I was a 'minority'.
And I guess I reacted as if unaffected.
Because it seemed as if it became someone's duty,
To imply my life was restricted to limitations.
And when I scoffed at this...
That's when insults and blatant disrespect began.
Everyone I knew got into the act!
People taught their children to be disgusting.
Even thinking them cute when they began to cuss.
And...
I prepared myself for little Johnnie to say something to me.
Something derogatory.
'please don't let that little boy be that crazy.
Please Father God,
Remove images I should not have out of my mind.'
Visions of sitting in prison...
Locked behind bars for the rest of my life,
Kept me from smacking the hell out of Johnnie.
When it becamed noticeable I was being provoked...
I took deep breaths.
Or choked from smoking too many cigarettes.
Something to maintain a self control.
Or disguised as one.
Gender benders became the rage.
And if someone was not weird or strange...
Lesbian or homosexual,
By Sunset?
It was a bet to be won they were going to be pegged,
As 'something' or someone freaky.
And the following day,
Confirmations were all over the place.
Of course. I exaggerate.
But that's the way it seemed.
And folks wonder why today is so crazed.
I don't!
This was set into motion!
Now people today who thought
Having 'things' would give them reason for living...
Look like zombies that should be leashed.
Or at least caged.
Life from them has been sucked by mortgage payments.
Credit cards and bad credit scores.
And they are nothing but whores...
Of a disposable culture!
To allow oneself to become like this,
Without charging a fee?
To me is despicable.
And you can call me anything you want.
Not a dread on my head will be cut.
Methods of discrediting,
For the purpose to diminish one's influence...
Aren't methods easily detected,
But nonetheless applied as reminders.
And you know what?
I am glad I have been reminded,
Of my 'insignificance'.
Since I am 'thrilled' I had nothing to do with this mess!
And my mind has been protected from trying to help.
I used to be one of those 'unity' for all people.
With a sacrificial understanding.
Until I awakened and found my peace of mind.
And I would not hesitate to kill,
If that was threatened to be taken away.
And I thank God that is 'almost' impossible!
I say 'almost' because these days I love to tease.
And some folks at the edge of jumping off the ledge...
Would not understand I am only having fun,
When I suggest to them to jump!
People have a tendency not to keep their focus.
God is good.
AND...
All the time!
But...
One has to 'live' to know that!
Ahhhmen?
Ahhhmen.
poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar
Submitted by Poetry Lover
Vote! | Copy!
Comparing Notes and Sharing Agonies
Not into the emotionally needy types.
You know...
The kind that want others to understand,
Where they are coming from.
And not listen at all to recommendations.
But would call to shower their emotions...
Without hesitation!
Luckily I was able to pull myself out of quicksand,
While those folks stood around...
Comparing notes and sharing agonies!
Self preservation I had to grasp early.
And this was done,
When I was extremely young!
If I had not...
I would have long been forgotten.
But those into gossip and good meals,
Would 'still' be in discussion years later...
About the food served at my repast.
Those are the folks,
I have learned to bypass!
Very early when I knew,
I had to pass my own tasks!
poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar
Submitted by Poetry Lover
Vote! | Copy!
Visitor
Honestly?
You asked for my opinion,
And here it is for free!
Anyone can say what they want.
And process what they want to share.
I've learned over the years,
To keep my business to myself...
And not let my business become 'theirs'.
Folks who have a different reality,
That's fine...
It may not be mine.
Wherever their minds are,
That's on them...
I keep my mind away!
I'm not going to stay around anyone,
Making attempts to be accepted...
By choosing right words to say!
I enjoy my life and where it is right now.
And that was a long time coming.
I take my time listening to the birds...
And sometimes with them I'm humming!
I appreciate the little things,
And observe again what was passed by!
When I talk to someone in conversation...
I look them in the eyes.
I don't disrespect anyone with neglect,
By looking away or up to the sky!
That kind of treatment is worse than telling a lie!
And from those kinds of people...
I do my best to hide!
I've learned to have fun,
And sometimes by myself.
I don't have to be in a crowd of folks...
To feel important or laugh at bad jokes.
And honesty comes first with me.
Someone who doesn't give it is instantly dismissed!
I don't waste my time with pretense or self indulgence.
Or kiss up to anyone to be part of someone's clique!
And if I show myself in disguise,
Wearing a mask that does not fit!
I want it known,
I am either not feeling well...
Or around those that are making me sick!
And...
That's not a habit I would normally condone.
That is why affairs like these I'd rather leave alone!
'Oh?
So I take it you are a visitor,
And not from around this area?
I must get back to mingling with my friends.
Thank you for your observations!
You never know...
We might meet again! '
poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar
Submitted by Poetry Lover
Vote! | Copy!
When and Where Did They Leave Behind Their Minds
I have been blessed to be in the presence...
Of those obsessed with the purchasing of things.
Themselves and what they possess.
And have them profess to me,
What 'I' could be and 'things' I could have...
IF I just put my mind to it!
So glad I endured such ignorance.
Little did they know,
I thought people like that were ridiculous.
And in time they would come to think of themselves,
That very same way.
It happens.
It pays to be observant.
What I have today and have had most of my life,
Is a sense of my own self worth.
What I have today and have had most of my life,
Is identity and self respect.
What I have today and have had most of my life,
Is my faith and gratefulness...
To know from where my blessings flow!
And the source of my insight.
And those folks...
Wouldn't leave from their doorsteps,
Without making sure their pretensions were intact.
But then again...
Times have changed!
And maybe some of them are scurrying around,
Trying to discover...
When and where did they leave behind their minds.
And what had been their purpose?
What purpose do they serve?
And how is that purpose felt?
Where is that purpose at?
Especially those clinging onto materialistic notions!
Believing themselves to be...
'Blessed and highly favored',
To have acquired positions of status.
With bling and other things to flaunt,
An eroding way of life that has them entrapped.
And I wonder...
Is 'this' a purpose?
Or is this,
A sad act!
God...
I thank You,
For showing me how to lead.
And not follow.
poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar
Submitted by Poetry Lover
Vote! | Copy!
Flashbacks
Even sinking they maintained their pretensions.
'What are you saying?
What are you talking about? '
Oh...
Nothing.
Just having flashbacks.
Thinking about those times gone...
When folks refused to listen.
'When was that?
Where did that happen? '
At a time people were lost,
In their own personal issues!
'Yes...
I did hear about that.
Was it traumatic?
To witness it? '
Not at all!
I was happily labelled crazed!
I went about my own business,
To experience the joys of living.
poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar
Submitted by Poetry Lover
Vote! | Copy!
Will Anyone Understand the History of This?
If something has been intentionally diminished,
From its original significance...
Can it be reintroduced,
To be given its proper respect?
Will it be accepted?
Will a discovery of this then be protected?
If this is done...
Will those affected forgive and forget?
And if this has been done to someone sincere...
Should they carry a bitterness to be shown?
Should they be accused of having 'attitude'
And keep that as a defense...
To project to anyone approaching close.
Or wishes again to appear and come near?
Will anyone understand the history of this?
Or will something they did not start...
Be clearly understood and dismissed?
Like calling someone the 'N' word...
To later discover,
They have influence with Kings and Queens.
Barons who control resources....they know!
And other folks like this,
They don't brag about or show.
Should someone who has been reduced...
Excuse the ignorance that appears?
Or should they realize the environment that is?
To keep a peace of mind with them...
Knowing foolish nonsense like this is praised.
And where they are for the moment...
Is a place where the folks,
Have been raised to be crazed!
poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar
Submitted by Poetry Lover
Vote! | Copy!
Just Not There
Some folks don't and wont get it.
What has been said to them or done.
A thorough and complete programming instilled...
Has been fed and eaten,
By nearly everyone.
What some may see as bleak...
As their false foundations have been shakened,
From beneath their feet.
Others view this as opportunities to dismiss conflicts.
To begin to fix those divisions that have kept folks hiding,
Behind nonsense and their foolishness.
But some folks don't and wont get it.
What has been said to them or done.
A thorough and complete programming instilled...
Has been fed and eaten.
By nearly everyone.
And the ones who have awakened,
With a consciousness prepared.
Are very reluctant to share what is known!
Since a clarity in the eyes of most...
Is just not there!
With a promise it is coming to be shown,
To make an appearance anywhere!
Anytime,
Soon!
poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar
Submitted by Poetry Lover
Vote! | Copy!
Quick to Boost Children With Wit
I once sought acceptance.
As a child growing in an environment.
Living amongst those I was told to respect.
With words untold...
I also grew to respect.
On their terms.
Since the same turf we shared.
Back then and during those times I yearned,
To learn!
But as I grew to understand from hard knocks.
Like throwing rocks at children.
And finding them and their parents...
Coming to my folks,
With not a smile on their faces!
Not a one looking...
As if they came to tell a series of jokes.
My yearnings to learn,
Took me, at times, away from my neighborhood.
Sometimes alone!
And for me this was good.
I soon came to understand...
Some folks didn't have a high degree of curiosity.
In fact...
Many couldn't read.
And those kids who could...
Were kinda ostracized from the 'hood'.
And growing up in a huge family...
I kept my thirst for learning,
As a secret kept within me!
But today as an aging man...
I know how important it is,
To be who I am.
And I am quick to boost children with wit.
Encouraging them to be inquisitive.
And observe how minds empty of thought...
Will have their hands out,
With nothing in them to share or give!
poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar
Submitted by Poetry Lover
Vote! | Copy!
Yesterday's Feelings
Close my eyes and move to the back of my mind
Where worries are washed out to sea
See the changes, people's faces blurred out
Like the sun spots or raindrops
Now all those feelings, those yesterdays feelings will all be lost in time
but today I've wasted away for today is on my mind
Left the only worries I had in my hands
Away from the light in my eyes
Holding tight and try not to hide how I feel
'Cause feelings mean nothing now
All those feelings, those yesterdays feelings will all be lost in time
but today I've wasted away for today is on my mind
(yeah today is on my mind)
Now I can't care to worry
I'm feeling so lonely
Breaking apart all this love in my heart
Close my eyes and move to the back of my mind
Where feelings mean nothing now
All those feelings, those yesterdays feelings will all be lost in time (all be lost in time)
But today I've wasted away for today is on my mind
for today is on my mind
yeah today is on my mind
Now I can't care to worry
I'm feeling so lonely
Breaking apart all this love in my heart
song performed by by Used
Submitted by Lucian Velea
Vote! | Copy!