Copyright 2011 Kimberly LaRocca All rights reserved.

. ISBN: 1456595490 ISBN-13: 978-1456595494 E-Book ISBN: 978-1-4392-8316-5 First Edition

For my boys, Devante, Blake, Brandon, and Jaden. The world is yours. Make your mark. I love you. Mom

CONTENTS
Title Page Copyright Page

LOVE
Loving You Thanks to You Without Words Why Dont You See Me Seasons of Love Broken My Last Day I Will Show Up What I Need Love All Over Me Hypnotized Setting You Free Hell and Back Searching Loves Surprise We Lift Each Other The Warning Missing You You Wear it Well Not Alone

The Best of Me Trust Shades of Me Loves Escape The Choice Dont Forget Yesterday What We Deserve The Truth A Perfect World Your Everything Falling for You We Belong Lying in Wait Moving On Not Your Forte Cant See Beyond What I Wanted A Love like Mine Terminal Love The Little Things Loving Me A Fan of Love A Different Cloth Promises Not Taking it Anymore Winning the Race Power Sing for You

LOVE Remembering Love Lost Lives My Wife Killing Me with Your Words The Man I Make for Me

LIFE
I Put You First FAITH Lies and Truth Realization Ending the Pain Changing Me Breaking Free My Son Shines Knowing Me Dance with Me Tonight Too Soon The Brown Widow The Time Is Now Inner Superstar Life Takes the Wheel Too Late Aha Moment Colors of Me A Poets Song

Bright Lights Underneath Poetry Lives Here Knowing My Worth Of All Beings The Long Road Home The Sound of Signs A Call to Arms Home The Better Prize Relaxing My Mind Troubles Got a Hold on Me The Greatest Escape The Fall Making Moves Winning the Race True Friends Keeping Secrets Without Doubts Anger My Moves Follow Me as I Change the World When You Come for Me A Mere Smudge A Prisoners Life At a Crossroads Driving the Blues Away How

It, too, Shall Pass Holding onto My Pride Our Downfall Being Free My World My Perfect Ray of Sunshine Nearly Broken My Friend The Smile and the Frown Remaining Lonely Fear Inside Emma Lee Freedom Today Waiting Singing Today for You Not Listening Window to My Soul Pretty for a Black Girl For My Sisters The Time Is Now

LOVE

LOVING YOU
As you awake, I smile for you, Bake your bread. What lovers do; Handle with care. I make your food, For you, I do it all. Wash your clothes. Clean the floors. Be your lover and more. All you have to do is ask, Giving you more than my last. I live for you At your command. As you breathe, My world expands. You are my light Through the dark. By loving you, I leave my mark.

THANKS TO YOU
Cold, heartless, Bitter through and through, Rotten to the very core; All thanks to you. My evil eyes are full of spite, Blacker than the darkest night. Only anger in this place. Guess its time for you to face The ugliness and its truth, The monster made, All thanks to you.

WITHOUT WORDS
I know you like what you see. I see the way you look at me, Licking your lips. I quench your thirst. You didnt have to say a word. I see your eyes start at my feet. My hips move to your beat. I feel your hands all over me, And still not a word. Your gaze has only reached my thighs, Felling the heat between you and me. My chest, it heaves to my surprise, And you havent said a word. Now face-to-face, you lift your hand, Caress my cheek from where you stand. I kiss your lips, woman and man. Dont have to say a word.

WHY DONT YOU SEE ME

Here I stand out in front, Bare for all to see. I shed my skin, Emptied my soul, But you dont see me. The foolishness I left behind, The years I lost, just wasted time. Youve taken all I have to give, Requesting more so you can live. And now my shell is all I have, The rest gone down the drain. My one and only life I had Has disappeared in vain. Its over now. My end is here, Still shaded by your tree. I gave my all for you to live, And you never saw me.

SEASONS OF LOVE
A light is shining bright. A smile that warms the coldest night, The heat I crave to feel at night, Please stay a while. You are my summer. Our love is blossoming for all to see. All is still; its just you and me. We bring forth our new ecstasy. You are my spring. A constant cold stuns my heart, Protecting me with strength thats harsh. No you and I; We from the start. You are my winter. In the end it was always us. We have grown together, built-in trust, A love so grand, living long it must, Existing even after the end. You are my fall.

BROKEN
Please, oh please, Just let me be. I need to feel the pain inside of me. I need the anger; I want to cry. Dont want you to dry my eyes. Ive got to let the burn roam free, Not bottle it up inside of me. Just let this pain pierce my skin. Dont want happiness here again. You must understand my need to be here. I killed your love for me, my worst fear. The damage done wont disappear, So, please, just let me be.

MY LAST DAY
I would wake up a little late, Open my eyes, gazing upon your face. Make love to you without saying a word, No worry about what could be heard. I would call in sick. Enjoy the day. Take a walk on the beach Or by the bay. Hold your hand, Our fingers intertwined, Me in your heart, You on my mind. I would make a meal For you and me. Feed you by hand, Sitting by your side. Wash your feet Late that night, Silently gazing In your eyes. I would promise you, My love always, That Id never leave, Forever stay. It would always be this way, Id say.

Thats how I would spend My last day.

I WILL SHOW UP
If I yell, if you yell, I will show up. You curse and scream, Face so mean, Ill show up. You hang up the phone Or dont answer at all, Ill show up. You spit my name With twisted face, Ill show up. You see I gave my word in front of God, Through thick and thin when times are hard. I vowed to be the one Hed trust for you, The very last one to show up. So when youre mad as hell, just know I wont be walking out the door. Till this life ends, it will be us, And I will always show up.

WHAT I NEED
No, I dont want to be your girl. Its not my place to be her for you. You can find someone else to fill those shoes. Dont want to chill or hang with you. Holding hands is Not what Im here to do. Just take me on into the room, And give me what I need. No, we dont have to talk or say a word. Im telling you. Yeah, its what you heard. Not here to be your girl tonight; Just here for me to feel alright. So close your lips and take my hand. Lie down with me in this moment. Cover me with ecstasy, And give me what I need.

LOVE ALL OVER ME

Smiling all twenty four, My glow shines through the darkness, Brighter than the nights sky. I am the Milky Way. Sunshine fades in comparison To whats all over me. I color the winters night, Cannot be dimmed; Brightness everlasting. After the end, I will remain, And I will forge ahead. I am love.

HYPNOTIZED
Fine As the darkest wine. Intoxicating, I am happy to be Drunken within your eyes Cant you see what youve done to me? I am hypnotized.

SETTING YOU FREE

Here I wait Today for you, Just like the day before. Why do I compete With the streets, Like it was your whore? What does it hold that I dont have? Is it drugs or alcohol, A dozen women for a dime. God, why dont you call? I need the day-time man, as well, Not just the night-time one you sell. A part-time love is not enough. Love shouldnt have to be this rough. I know my needs fall on deaf ears. Cant compete with street life, I fear. Dont sell away your half from me. Ill hold it down and set you free.

HELL AND BACK

I go through hell to be with you, Swinging and swaying to your moods. Nice at 8, nasty at 10. At 10:30, hell begins. I hold on tight for the ride And pray to God that I dont cry. At 11:30, Im coming back; Time to put me back on track. You say youre sorry all the time, Say forgive me this time, and I love you more than anything. But its 1; time for hell again. I hold on tight for the ride And pray to God I dont cry. Maybe this time is the last time. Although the truth lies elsewhere, I hold on tight for the ride. Pray to God that I dont cry, And try to make it back from hell again.

SEARCHING
Where are you? Are you searching for me, too? Ive been waiting oh so long. Kissed so many frogs, Even met some dogs, But my conviction still remains strong. I wonder if youre like me, Out there trying to see, If the perfect one waits somewhere for you. I pray that youre still looking, Not giving up, still searching, And also trying to find me, too.

LOVES SURPRISE
Sometimes love throws you a curve. It flows outside the lines. Sometimes love takes broader shape, Refuses to be confined. It takes you up, then drops you down. It smiles at you and then frowns. Love pulls you in, Pretends to stay, and Evaporates to your dismay. But love can also be so sweet, Can pick you up and be complete. It grows with you and holds you tight And comforts you late at night It finds you when you least expect, And surprises you with no regrets. It can start as just a fling And then turn into everything. So hold on tight, Enjoy the ride, And just await your loves surprise.

WE LIFT EACH OTHER

You lift me up For the world to see, Standing tall, The queen Im meant to be. And I rule the roost, Just what Im meant to do. You tell me Im beautiful all the time. Give me the world. Tell me its all mine, Saying youre doing what youre meant to do. I lift you up Because I need you to see All that you do; It means the world to me: Loving the way Our lives are intertwined. I tell you youre The best at what you do. You show me how Real love should be with you. So glad to have you In my life, by my side.

THE WARNING
Its funny now to know the truth That all you care about is you. Your squinty eyes and sneaky smile, You had a plan all the while. Pretend to care, Say some words, And then not care Who you hurt. Because your plan is number one. All others be damned. Youre having fun. You pile it on Because I can take it. Curse my name, And try to break me. But evil does as evil sees Wait for my plan Its a doozy.

MISSING YOU
What will you miss after Im gone? You look to me and say, Will you reminisce and close your eyes And think about our days? Will you remember all the nights and days you were away? Will you wish youd been here with me And not some other place? I say that I will surely miss the times that we had shared, The days and nights spent by your side While showing me you cared. The happiness I felt inside; The joy and laughter every night. Id say to you, My darling, About you, Id miss everything.

YOU WEAR IT WELL

I wear you on my sleeve. Take you when I leave. Whether night or day, Youre with me On my way. I inhale you on my shirt. You line the pleats of my skirt. Whether at work or at play, You follow me Through the day. Its not cologne or soap, you know; That fragrence I know so well. Not Ivory or Irish Spring, That essence that I smell. An aroma only you possess, Separating you from the rest. So distinct, your scent, And you wear it well.

NOT ALONE
The games we play, The shit we say, Like children Not yet grown. We laugh. We hurt, And then we pray. Cant make it on our own. Yet we try Each day and night Just to make it through. Realizing It wont work apart; Alone is not what we do.

THE BEST OF ME
I make up the best of you; This much I truly know. You dont need to say it. Your life tells me so. Order lives where chaos dwelled. The light replaced the dark. With me, I brought a new place for you, A freshness for our start. Im proud to see what youve become, A prize for all to see. And I know I make up the best of you, Because you are the best of me.

TRUST
Its like a broken fence: When mended, you still see that link. Although repaired, Looking okay, The chain contains a kink. Thinking that youre done, You try to move along, Hoping things are as good as new. But that kink, you see, Will forever change the way I now look at you.

SHADES OF ME
How can you not love me, With eyes of auburn, Skin of chocolate, Lips of warm caramel? Every part of me was made for you to love. I fear you love yourself More than you love me, For the chocolate and the caramel, You dont even see.

LOVES ESCAPE
I know where your happiness lies. Its embedded between my thighs. I take you to another place, A world where only you escape: A world of beaches, Powder-white sand, A world that rivals Disneyland. Im ready now, And I wait With your loves escape.

THE CHOICE
The choice I have To stay or to go Simple as it seems, Is not simple In my eyes, Though simple it may be. To live in hell Or go be free; A place Finally to be me. A simple choice It may seem; Not so simple to me.

DONT FORGET YESTERDAY

Every time its going good, That voice appears and says,

I truly thought you understood. Did you forget yesterday?

The screaming and the yelling, Face twisted mean, Although youre okay today.

Did you forget yesterday?

A friend today, So it may seem, Yesterday, an enemy. No matter what a friend may say,

Dont forget yesterday.

WHAT WE DESERVE
Do you deserve All that I do, Everything I have to give? Do you deserve To be with me, Share the life I live? Do you deserve The love I possess, Have saved up just for you? Do you deserve to be with me And I, to be with you? I cant say no; You cant say yes. Which do you prefer? Neither of us Can really say What we both deserve.

THE TRUTH
Im sad today. Fully awake, Because I see the truth. Truth is youre not the one for me, And Im not the one for you. We tried to make it work, But, I fear, its not meant to be. You need to find your perfect match And finally set me free. I know its not what you want to hear. Life alone brings doubts and fears. But happiness lies Within the eyes Of the one thats meant for you. So, dry your eyes. No time to cry. Your true love awaits. It may just be Around the corner, Another smiling face.

A PERFECT WORLD
In a perfect world, Itd be you and I. Youd hold me tight, And sit by my side. In a perfect world, Wed never fight. Youd agree with me. Id always be right. In a perfect world, Id be all you see. There would be no other for you. Youd only have eyes for me. In a perfect world, Youd forever stay, Your love to give For me always. Sadly, today its not that way. And I can only dream. Unfortunately things will never be As perfect as they seem.

YOUR EVERYTHING
Im here for you to use. Consume all of me. I am your tool. No need to pay. I give for free. Ask for it when you please. Just show up. Knock at my door. I have much to give and more. A puppet on Your endless string, To be your everything.

FALLING FOR YOU

The funny games you play, Trying to make me stay, All because you cant be alone. You brighten up the room, To make it look like you, And not the shack you call home. You try to make me not think, To believe its all in sync, But orderly has no place with you. I was the fool, The exception to the rule, Because I was the one Who fell for you.

WE BELONG
Walk with me In the sun, Feel the breeze. Come be free. Leave it all Behind today. Ill help you push It all away. Come sing with me. Take my hand. We belong, Woman and man.

LYING IN WAIT
I see you thought I didnt know All about your lies. Believed that when you closed the door, It was fine to say goodbye. You should have never estimated The power of my mind. It is so easy for me to smile, Pretend Im okay inside. Women are cunning creatures you know. We plot our moves From the go. We lie in wait, For the right time. The perfect moment to strike.

MOVING ON
I wait for you in the lot, Where I said Id be. It hurts to be in this spot, Because you set me free. I cant forget what we had, Because its all I know. Thought the day would never come, When you would let me go. Now I sit and wait for you, Hoping its not too late, Hoping to put off what you said Youd do until another day. But I fear your minds made up. Youre moving on because its too tough To fight for what we once had. Thats too damn bad.

NOT YOUR FORTE

I tell you I need more. Its not enough for me. You look into my eyes. Give me no reply, And sleep. I ask you all the time To treat me like I need. But I dont think It will ever be. Why do I continue To hold onto a love That runs only one way? I think it may be time For me to realize Changing for me Is not your forte.

CANT SEE BEYOND WHAT I WANTED

One-track mind My eyes see only What I want you to be. Although I know the truth, What I see Is not really you, For the real you can never love me. But I wanted you, so I couldnt see beyond What I wanted you to show. And now I sit, Alone with the truth after the fall. How could I have loved you? I didnt know you at all.

A LOVE LIKE MINE

Youre gonna miss me when Im gone. Miss what we had, The way I kissed you late at night. Youre gonna miss me so damn bad. You say you dont care, That there are many more like me. I really hope you find her soon, So you can finally see. Yeah, you think you know it all, Think its all a big game. But time will tell, And your heart will know She and I arent the same. Go ahead. Make your move. And please, hold your breath Until she loves you like I do.

TERMINAL LOVE
Your love will be The end of me, If I let it be. Your love will kill My spirit, too, If thats what I let it do. Your love will make Me lose my mind, If I let it inside. Terminal: The definition of The love between You and me.

THE LITTLE THINGS

Its the little things I appreciate. They dont have to cost a thing. Holding my hand, Showing me the man That youre proud to be. You tell me that Im beautiful, And that I deserve the best. Youre blind to all that temptation outside, Ignoring all the rest. Its great to be by your side, To live this life with you. I just wanted you to know I appreciate the little things you do.

LOVING ME
My anger grows, And its my fault. I let you do what you want to. My anger knows Its my fault. Im the one who made you into you. You dont encourage me. Dont want to hear my words. You discourage me, Because you need to be first. My spirit grows, And its your fault, Because all you thought about was you. My spirit knows Its your fault. I finally love me more that you do.

A FAN OF LOVE
I am a fan of love. Id sit in the stands and cheer. Im a fan of love, Although it doesnt live here. I lay out the welcome mat for love. But it wont knock at my door. I lay out the welcome mat for love, Though it doesnt live here no more. I still believe in love, Because I see it all the time. I still believe in love, Although its not yet mine. I will wait for love, Because it waits somewhere for me. I will wait for love, Because someday love will set me free.

A DIFFERENT CLOTH
Cut from a different cloth; You and I are not the same. Tell me why youre in my space, When I dont even know your name. A visitor from another place, But you wont show your face. You try to live in my realty, But were not meant to be. Your world is nothing like The one Im from. I wish youd thought more of this Before deciding to come. Yet you came, and you try To become you and I. Maybe that cloth Really is the same, If only in our eyes.

PROMISES
Promises you fail to keep Are all I have. Honesty is within your reach, Though the shitty lies you grab. I dont know why I ask for truth. Its nowhere inside of you. So glad to have this new breakthrough, To do what I have to do.

NOT TAKING IT ANYMORE

You cant see me Past your superiority. Im like a moth to your flame. I try and try to be What you want from me. But Im tired of playing Your sick, twisted game. Theres no you and me in us for you. Its your way or the door. Im sick to hell of being under your spell; Not taking your shit any more.

WINNING THE RACE

I understand a time wont come When you and I wont fight. Two peas of a different pod. Aint it odd That we both think were right? I run ahead to catch my breath, Trying to keep up. You sprint along, now by my side, Because you have to be first. Cant let me be in front. First place is a space we both want. Well never be face-to-face, Because we both want to win the race.

POWER
Looking through rose-colored glasses, I see you are the one Allowing me to see Beyond your imperfections. Im blinded by my vicious need Not to be lonely. Co-existence is the only power You hold over me.

SING FOR YOU

Why dont I sing for you? A good question, indeed. Why dont I feel comfortable, Showing you the real me? Shouldnt I want you to see Who I truly am? Why cant I share all my gifts, Every talent I have? Why dont I sing for you? Maybe because I know Youre not the one I should sing for, but the one I should let go.

LOVE
Love, Why do you laugh at me? Why do you hold me hostage? Why not set me free? Love, What a sense of humor you have! I hear your sadistic laugh. The jokes are all at my expense. I laugh along in my defense. Love, Why do you pretend to be a friend of mine? Oh, how you love to tell your lovely lies. Love, Let loose your hold of me. Just break your chains, And set me free.

REMEMBERING LOVE
Remember when Love was enough, Even when times were tough? It got you through, With nothing else, Surviving by itself. When unity was a goal, Family meant we were whole, A time of unrivaled bliss, A time I surely miss.

LOST LIVES
Here we go again, Just like the day before. I smile; you grin. I hold my breath. You stare at the floor. So much to say, But nothings said. You try to read my face; I look elsewhere instead. We drift together, Still alone. Because we never speak, The seconds, minutes, hours, days, Turning into weeks. And here we are In elder years, Our whole lives lost. So much to say, Yet nothing was said. And weve both paid the cost.

MY WIFE
You bought me flowers today: Roses, pink and red, Included a heart-shaped card This is what it said:

I cant live my life without Having you by my side. Although I seldom tell you so, You are the reason why I work so hard. I try my best. I think of you before I rest. With you is where my heart lies. How I cherish you, My wife.

KILLING ME WITH YOUR WORDS

I lose a piece of me every day. I disappear with every word you say. And you think theyre just words. How much can they hurt? I dont hit her, Or use my fists, Curse her name, Call her a bitch. But twisted faces and angry eyes Still kill me Inside.

THE MAN I MAKE FOR ME

Oh, how I wish I could make The perfect man for me! Wed love and kiss each other often, Live together happily. Hed cherish the ground I walked on. Put me before himself. No one else would matter. He wouldnt see anyone else. Hed love every part of me, And even love my kids. Hed cherish them because they were mine. It wouldnt matter if they were his. Hed always take care of me. I wouldnt want for anything. A perfect world For him and me, That man I made for me.

LIFE

I PUT YOU FIRST

Youve been there Since day one. What a miracle to come! Been there through the night and day, Guiding me along the way. And so, I put you first. Whether I am right or wrong, Youre by my side, as I carry on. In you, I have a faithful friend, Supporting me until the end. And so, I put you first. You let me fall, so I may rise. Let me laugh after Ive cried. Bring me light after the dark. Get me through to a new start. And so, I put your first. Lord, this is why I will believe With Your Word, You guide, I lead My life in Your hands; thats the way it will be. And Ill always put you first.

FAITH
He came today and shook my soul. And I thought I knew it all. I dont know nothing anymore. My whole world, hes taken hold. He knows my mind, predicts my moves, Says what I think before I do. I think hes psychic see. He knows the goings on inside of me. Hes got my map, the path I walk. Mouths the words before I talk. Hes counted every breath I take And knows how far Ill bend before I break. With me is where he always stays All through the night until the day, He has my unwavering faith. He is the Lord above.

LIES AND TRUTH

The truth is the light. It shines so bright. Rains down on me. Sets me free. A lie wont hide. Wont stay inside. You cant contain What will remain. A cover will not work, you know. If asked, I would have told you so. No matter how hard you try, Its impossible to hide a lie.

REALIZATION
The beauty of it all, Realizing who I am. Took years to find, Who I am inside. I got it now. Yes, maam! My lifes where its supposed to be. The square peg now fits the hole. Was in a fog, but now I see The truth I bought now sold. Cant keep me down no more. I cant lie low, So that confidence, powering my soul, Has built a wall that cant be broken. Now Im free; The chains are gone, Screaming to me in my own song, Flipping a script You no longer own, For the entire world to see.

ENDING THE PAIN

This world of pain, So much to bear. Its all around, Staining the air. All consuming, Everywhere, And I cannot escape. Killing my mind And spirit, too, Like the way That evil does. Wont let me see a day Beyond today. Now is the end for me, Stealing my light, breathlessly. I try to fight, But, through the fog I cant see. So I say my last goodbye. Ill be with you forever now. A better place awaits me. The pain will end, finally.

CHANGING ME
I couldnt watch the news today, For fear of what it might say. Someones missing, Or found dead. Guess Ill listen to radio instead. But radios no better, same old thing. Everyones fighting or arguing. I have to block the energy That tries to draw me in. Enough to drive the sane insane, It calls to me and screams my name. Cant let this dark swallow my light, So I block it and stay inside. I vow to do the best I can. Start my task with one woman. Live by his word and let him see, Ill start my fight by changing me.

BREAKING FREE
I try to cut the pain away, But blood is not enough. I pierce the layer that I see. The one underneaths too tough. I hoped the damage that I did Would make me feel okay. After all the blood had dried, The pain still wouldnt go away. Although it hurt, I couldnt cry. Cutting deeper still, The pain inside just wouldnt die. Im the one it killed. Now Im gone, Finally free. I took the pain away with me. I had to go because it stayed. Now my pain has gone away.

MY SON SHINES
Long ago I dreamt of you, Before you were inside. I held you tight and kissed your cheek, Although you were not yet mine. The love I thought I had to have, I feared it was not true, Only the mixture that I needed, For the other half of you. You gave me hell From early on And made me pay my dues. But through it all, I stood tall, A battle I couldnt lose. Here I stand forever. By your side Ill stay To guide you through the days ahead And never go away.

KNOWING ME
Do you really know who I am, Or do you only know what you see? Do you know what makes me tick Or what really makes me, me? Do you know why I am here Or what Im here to do? Do you know how I see me, Or how that me sees you? Do you know where I came from Or where I want to go? Do you know where my happiness lies Or how to touch my soul? Do you know what makes me sing Or inspires me to grow? What makes up all of Kimberly? Please tell me what you know.

DANCE WITH ME TONIGHT

I feel the music From deep within. It moves my hips, Made for sin. Dance with me tonight. I feel the beat. It moves my feet. My arms they sway That away. Dance with me tonight. The rhythm stirs Inside my head. Please play for me, Your song instead. Dance with me tonight.

TOO SOON
Gone too soon. We didnt have you long, Though your beauty will last always. Your will was not as strong. Its sad to know your time is done. But many will always care. Theyll wish we stopped you just in time, To make sure you were still here. Pain can be an awful thing, Sometimes too much to bare. We older folks can tolerate, What younger ones cant fare. So hold them tight, And let them know An early ends no way to go. Help them push the pain aside, So here is where theyll stay.

THE BROWN WIDOW

You wait for me In the dark; Too many eyes Cover me. I wait till day To go your way, Hoping youre asleep. You lay still, Await my move. I approach, Hoping you snoozed. I hold my breath, But youre too quick. You strike so fast; Youre poisonous. Why did I go? I should have paused. I knew you were there After all.

THE TIME IS NOW

Slow down. Take your time. It will be just right. Live your best life now. DONT WAIT! Make it count tonight.

INNER SUPERSTAR
We possess it early on. Dormant, it lies inside. We get a glimpse, take a peak, But often forget where it lies. Specific to each owner, It differs from the rest, Residing where its meant to be, Where it shines the best. Years later we get another glimpse, After we have forgotten, Remembering where it first shined, And then peaked out often. Our inner superstar Was always there inside, Waiting patiently For a time to no longer hide.

LIFE TAKES THE WHEEL

Life tries to take the wheel, But we get in the way. We make a turn on our own, Without listening to what it has to say. Life sometimes gets the best of us And tries to keep us down. But then we find courage inside And turn it all around. Life often hides its purpose From those who seek its truth. It shows its face in elder years, While hiding in our youth. Lifes not all a mystery. Its view widens so we may see. Be patient. Listen for what life has in store.

TOO LATE
You were mine On borrowed time. This I didnt know. I took for granted youd be here, At least, until tomorrow. Now tomorrows here, And youre gone. Im so sorry I was wrong. Too late for me To let you know That I loved you so.

AHA MOMENT
Did you have your aha moment today? How loud was it? What did it say? Did it reveal your lifes surprise, spark that inspiration in your eyes? Did you find whats meant for you? Share with me what you must do.

COLORS OF ME
There are many Shades of me. They cover you And color me. I can be any hue I want to be. Black or white, Neon bright, A darker color when we fight, A softer shade, Relaxed for when I sleep. A blue for when Im feeling low. When wide awake, a light yellow. A range of shades for everything. When ready, Im an aubergine. I change from day-to-day, you know, Like many colors of the rainbow. I shine brightly for all to see, Growing daily like the evergreen.

A POETS SONG
I live in verse. I think in rhyme, Thinking, rhyming All the time. The sadness that you may see, Is all poetry to me. The happiness youre feeling now Turns into rhyme for me somehow. I dont know how Or even why. It sings to me from deep inside. And it makes up The best of me, Living, breathing poetry

BRIGHT LIGHTS UNDERNEATH

Just how bright Is your light, The one we all see? Does it make your surface glow, Shine from underneath? Is it dim, barely there? Can I see it anywhere? Does it shine All the time Or only when youre feeling fine? Is it obscured by others shades Or can it flaunt its own array? Adjust it now so we can see Your bright light underneath.

POETRY LIVES HERE

A door has opened up for me. Inside that room lives poetry. It invites me in, Says take a seat, And offers me its words to eat. It embraces me. Then takes my coat. Then sings to me In special notes. It comforts me. Says stay awhile. Encourages me With its warm smile. It offers me a place to stay, And says Please come back any day.

I am your friend,
It says to me. I open up. It sets me free.

KNOWING MY WORTH
Does the strength of my words offend you? Or is it The tone of my voice, The wisdom I possess, The knowledge I give, The air in my chest? Does knowing my worth frighten you? Or is it The arch in my back, Curve of my waist, Shape of my thighs, That smile on my face? Does the fierceness of my love shock you? Or is it The hunger of my kiss, The pleasures I possess, The comfort of my embrace, Knowing that your fears, I can erase? If I frighten, offend, or shock you, Its because I am beauty, I am life, I am woman, And I know my worth.

OF ALL BEINGS
Fellow women of today, Do you know the power that you hold? A power sought by every man, One thats even sold? Bringing life and pleasure forth, Forgetting it, you should abhor. Rewarded with so many qualities, We are the best of all beings.

THE LONG ROAD HOME

Ive walked on hands and knees Down the long road ahead. Should I sprint to the finish Or take my time instead? Ive carried others on my back And sometimes theyve carried me. Held some hands along the way. Did mostly as I pleased. My destination is on my mind, A sight I almost see. I smile and hold it inside, Thinking of how it will be. Every road must come to an end. I cant wait for mine. Happiness and long-lost friends. What a lovely ride.

THE SOUND OF SIGNS

I hear the birds chirping, As if to say, Your time is here. It is today. The willow weeps, As if saying to me, The time has come For you to leave. The tree breaths, Sounds fully, Giving the breeze What it needs. The signs are there For you to see. Close your eyes. Listen closely.

A CALL TO ARMS
*STOP* Turn off your television set. This is not a test. What have you done until today to better our existence? What do you have to say? Have you really done your part Or have you yet to start? Time waits for no man. Its not too late. Ive grabbed my pen. What weapon will you choose? PLEASE Take your shot, Or we all lose.

HOME
My home is where I lay my head And pray at night, Beside the bed. My home is where I leave my heart, Where true love lives, Though were apart. My home is where I chose to be, Where happiness lives Indefinitely. My home can be one place or a few. My home may just be with you.

THE BETTER PRIZE

The outer beauty that we see Is only a faade, A trick used to confuse the mind, Although it seems quite odd. We tend to judge Those whom we see On outer beauty alone. But what lies inside, The better prize, Should crown our lovers throne. This mortal life we live Can be so short and sweet. We turn away, And in our haste, It passes instantly. Open your foolish eyes, Ignorant to whats inside. So easy to believe a lie, And miss out on the better prize.

RELAXING MY MIND
Been a long day. Im tired already. Time to sit and rest my mind. My bodys weary. Spirit, too. But I know things will be fine. Ive seen this day before, And I know more will surely come. Unfortunately, thats the way life goes. I remember to relax today. Save some work, add some play, Try to balance both and remain whole.

TROUBLES GOT A HOLD ON ME

Trouble road begins at my door, And I know nothing else. Ive given up on happiness. It must lie somewhere else. Accustomed to the worst of what Life has in store for me, Blinded by the darkness inside Too black to set me free, I often dream of a better place Where trouble hasnt been, Where all is calm, and I stay safe, Surrounded by my friends. So I continue to Keep hope alive, And pray trouble runs out of time. It should be tired of me. Why wont it set me free?

THE GREATEST ESCAPE

Slow down for me. Youre driving too fast. How can we be Or even last? We cant go on. There is no room, No space for me, To ride with you. Youre speeding now, Without your brakes. Even the belt Wont keep me safe. As I brace For the crash, You smile at me And hit the gas. I close my eyes, Look to the sky, And then thank God I learned to fly. Away I go To a better place, Nothing to fear Of the greatest escape.

THE FALL
Land mines, Covering your insides, The snipers waiting for that clear shot. Afraid to make a sound. Worried Ill be found. So much to lose, everything Ive got. I wait until its dark, Hoping that youre not The smartest of us two, afterall. Premeditated steps I take with no regrets. Can never take the leap. Worried about the fall.

MAKING MOVES
Every now and then, We find ourselves in A situation where we cant let go. Scared to make a move; Afraid that what we chose Would set us back further than we know. We wish for the best. Hope our move wont make a mess. Take a step and not look back. Then we realize The move was just right, And were finally on track. Dont be scared to let go. Make your move. Youre right where you need to be. Dont be afraid. Do what you say. That moment is meant just for you To make your move.

WINNING THE RACE

Ive wasted too much time. Focused on today, And now half my lifes Just floated away. Life just passes by. It never waits. I never saw the signs, Or what they tried to say. And now the time is here For me to finally shine. Although my mouth is closed, My eyes are opened wide. The final bell has rung. Its time to take my rightful place. Light miles ahead, Ive already won the race.

TRUE FRIENDS
I call you. You call me. But were just friends. You listen when I talk, Taking it all in. Its so innocent, The times we share. You know Im really into it, And I need you there. Because when I need someone to vent to, You always take my call, Even when I want to vent About nothing at all. I need you to show me Just how I should be. Im glad I have you in my life, A true friend, indeed.

KEEPING SECRETS
Sometimes its not good to share Every little thing. There are times When we may find Some things troubling. We need to learn What to say, And what things we should keep. Often times Those little things Should remain a secret.

WITHOUT DOUBTS
The time has finally come For me to move on From this dark and pitiful place. Time to be happy again, For me to finally smile, Change that ugly expression on my face. Time to realize That this isnt right. Its not what life is really about. Time to forgive, So I can move on and live The life Im meant to have without doubts.

ANGER
Ive just realized I have to let go of the anger inside. Its eating me alive. Im ignorant to let it survive. Ive got to let it die. I cant continue to let it control my life. Its too much, and it wont hide. Im letting go to save my life.

MY MOVES
Where have you been? You say to me. Thought you were long gone, Maybe dead. I say, I was where I was meant to be. Had some things to work out instead. You say, Its too late For me to play today. I say, Yeah, right. Move out of my way. Its time for me to blind you with my moves. So dont forget your shades.

FOLLOW ME AS I CHANGE THE WORLD

Listen up! I got lots to say. No more sitting still for me today. So much to do; So little time. Too much for me to hold inside. Ready for me to begin. Hold the door. Im coming in!

WHEN YOU COME FOR ME

When you come for me, I will be ready, Waiting for you to take me to some other place. Im tired today. When you come for me, I wont be sad. This life has gotten really bad. Im looking forward to the trip ahead. When you come for me, I pray that those Who love me wont be sad when I go. When you come for me, In the end Ill be happy for the chance To begin again.

A MERE SMUDGE
Im a smudge on your window pane. Cant get rid of me. You open up, but dont know what to say. Guess Im in too deep. Loving the way That I confuse, Desire being my excuse. Giving in to your every want and need, Just how a smudge succeeds.

A PRISONERS LIFE
I want to be free. You say itll never be, That I cant survive on my own. I try and try To live your life, But Im the one that pays the toll. You say, Celebrate with me. Drink my wine. I take a sip, accept your smile, Not knowing poisons inside. A prisoners life is what I lead, Locked away indefinitely, Awaiting that fateful day When I can escape.

AT A CROSSROADS
Here I am, Sitting still In a spot Id never thought Id be. All at once, It hit me hard, And I finally see. A choice to make: Where do I drive? Should I turn left or right? I must decide Which way to go; Decision time tonight. No one to help me with this one. Either way, itll be done. I hear. Close your eyes. Ill guide you. Make your move, And Thats just what Ill do.

DRIVING THE BLUES AWAY

Sad songs are all I heard, Year after year. Happiness and joyful days, They didnt live here. Awkward distance, Arguments, They silenced all the tears. And I held on, Too scared to move, Mainly out of fear. I cant always be afraid. From this life I need more. Ive got to drive those blues away, So they dont live here no more.

HOW
How can I tell you What it is When you dont know what it means? How can I show you What is lost When you cant even see? How do I explain How I feel When you cant hear me? How do I fight For what we have When we have no meaning?

IT, TOO, SHALL PASS

Pain cant last forever. Its got places to go. That bell it rings, And pains waiting At anothers door, Consuming who it occupies, Making you believe you died, Taking over everything, Till only it survives. But It, too, shall pass, Because nothing ever lasts Of pain. It, too, shall pass.

HOLDING ONTO MY PRIDE

I try to hold my head above water; Fight to keep it all in order. Try not to let the weight get me down; Try to turn it all around. Every day is a fight for me, But the price I pay is worth being free. I suit up for the war, For the misery in store, And I fight with my head high, Holding onto my pride.

OUR DOWNFALL
We are a sad society: So quick to judge, Point fingers, Skirt the blame. We dont see What lies within. So afraid of being called out our name. Its become customary To point out all the flaws, Mistakes that others seem to make, All the while hiding ours. Such a wicked game to play, Although we are among friends, Believing those wicked smiles, Our downfall in the end.

BEING FREE
I wont let you change who I am. Why change for someone who doesnt give a damn? I will be who Im meant to be, The only way truly to be free.

MY WORLD
Sometime ago I lost myself. Dont know how long its been. Forgot who I was inside, What treasures lied within. I gave so much to others And put their needs before mine. This thought had become commonplace. Its how I lived my life. My eyes are open now, Remembering who I was. Picked up where I had left off, Just the way a record does. Now its time for me to grow, Time for me to shine, Concentrating on what Im meant to do, My world finally mine.

MY PERFECT RAY OF SUNSHINE

Somewhere out there lies The perfect ray of sunshine. Its there; I know, Although it tries to hide. See Im making it my goal, Something I must find: My perfect ray of sunshine.

NEARLY BROKEN
Thought it was the end of me. So glad that I had faith. My spirit nearly broken. Thought there was no escape. My mind said all was lost. Hope not within my reach. But the voice inside Said I would rise And would not concede defeat. As the pieces began to mend, I begin again, Nearly broken, But Im on the mend.

MY FRIEND
Oh, the freedom I have now! I have finally found A friend I havent seen for a while. Shes beautiful And full of life. A mother, daughter, and a wife. She knows how much I meant to her. Shes happy, Because she knows her worth. She loves me more than anything. That friend Ive found is me.

THE SMILE AND THE FROWN

Neighboring emotions: The smile and the frown. One right-side up; The other upside down. The stories they tell Without saying a word, Saying everything With just a smirk.

REMAINING LONELY
Loneliness, have mercy on me. Loosen your lovers grip. Grant me the pity I deserve From this endless trip. The love I lost, Ill forever mourn. Memories barely keep me warm. Id rather have my love with me. Instead, I remain lonely.

FEAR INSIDE
I challenge you To sit in silence. Imagine your worst fear. Close your eyes. Take a sigh. Visualize its there In front of you. What will you do? Will you run and hide? Will you take flight or stand and fight Your worse fear from inside?

EMMA LEE
A warm embrace, Holding me always. A wise womans face Embedded in my brain. A sweet smile, Welcoming me home. A feeling of togetherness. I never felt alone. You were everything to me. I miss you so, Emma Lee.

FREEDOM
And Im free today! I dont care about what you say. Throwing caution to the wind, Letting no more darkness in, I knew this day would finally come, And I would have my freedom.

TODAY
Well, I dont give a damn anymore. Sorry, I gotta say Im tired and I want to go. Too bad I cant stay. Im tired and you made me Into what I am. I cared and cared till I was bare, And now I dont give a damn. I should be sad, But I am not. And I know Ill be okay, And I will be just fine alone, Starting with today.

WAITING
All I do Is wait around for you, My time no longer mine. Im the fool Because I allow you To dictate how I spend my time. I should say How I feel, But to you, feelings are no big deal. So here I sit, Waiting once more, Until you walk through my door.

SINGING TODAY FOR YOU

Are you free to sing At any given time? Do you take for granted This simple given right? We werent always free To sing any time, you know. So I sing today for you, Because this Im thankful for.

NOT LISTENING
Why dont you please stop talking to me? I stopped listening long ago. Yet your mouth moves constantly, Though I dont listen any more. Why dont you please Close your mouth? Stop those words from tumbling out. I dont care what you have to say. Im not listening anyway.

WINDOW TO MY SOUL
I see you Through the window to my soul. You know me Better Than I ever could know. You watch and study me, Taking in all you see, Loving everything I am, And what Im meant to be, Looking through The window to my soul.

PRETTY FOR A BLACK GIRL

Youre pretty for a black girl.
Such condescending words! As if the fact that I am black Lessens my worth.

Youre pretty for a black girl.

Am I supposed to smile, Ignore the ignorance of your statement? Should I really be proud?

Youre pretty for a black girl.

What does that mean? Can being pretty and black Co-exist for me?

Youre pretty for a black girl.

Thank you for letting me know. Too bad you dont recognize That I am so much more.

FOR MY SISTERS
My sister, you are beautiful. Thought I should let you know. Beauty lying inside and out. Has anyone told you so? Do you walk with your head held high? Take every step you make with pride? You are a queen, you know. Thought I should tell you so.

THE TIME IS NOW

The only time we have is now, To share all weve got, To show each other why were here, Even if weve forgotten. To feel how it should be, Seeing all were meant to see. This place weve gotten to somehow. The time we have is now.

BIO
Kimberly LaRocca has been writing since elementary school. Her first publication was a short story entitled, The Amazing Mr. Glonka, for which she won the Pride award for writing at age ten. She writes poetry, short stories, and songs. She lives in sunny Florida with her husband and four sons.