Femininity

 

Regina Angelorum by William-Adolphe Bouguereau

I pray that femininity returns upon this earth,

To its former beauty and immeasurable worth.

Somehow in the shift of time without much of a glance,

An evolution’s taken place that’s minimized ROMANCE.

Which once was grace and mystery now seems a phantasy,

To only be remembered with desire and DIGNITY.

Many men have lost some of their valued self-esteem,

To a woman’s disrespect or undermining scheme.

Though these incidents are isolated it is true,

They can begin a rippling effect with just a few.

Like tidal waves gain speed and power as they surge along,

Assaults on femininity can cultivate a throng.

Our role model should be the Virgin MARY on this earth,

Who was the sweetest humblest woman from her very birth.

Chosen as the Mother of Our Savior Jesus Christ,

Her beauty was more RADIANT than the loveliest sunrise.

In order to restore our world to its former grandeur,

Imitating Mary will obtain it to be sure.

Some quiet moment meditate on Mary’s GENTLE heart,

Praying from your company that she will never part!

Believe that Your Loved Ones Are In God's Hands

Believe that Your Loved Ones Are In God's Hands

Believe that your loved ones are in God’s hands, with angels all hovering near. Picture them very SECURE  in His grace, then eliminate worry and fear. Acknowledge their lives don’t depend upon you, since they have a path of their own, where they will be guided by heavenly grace, and the path of their life clearly shown. Feeling their gladness depends upon you, is doubting the power of God. The times you very  let go you can see all the more,  how He BLESSED all the paths they have trod. Our loved ones are really so safe in God’s hands. His power is strong and immense. The depth of His pure unconditional love Is unfathomable profound and intense. Visualize your loved ones at PEACE with themselves, confidently strong every day. See in your mind them surrounded by grace, that’s protecting and guiding their way. Believe very deeply that nothing can thwart, God’s awesome and majestic power. Then let it settle down deep in your soul, comforting you every hour. Say to yourself “I am bountifully blessed, overflowing with grace from above. My loved ones are safely protected by day, and all through the night by God’s love.” Do not be afraid of illness or death, since we have God’s promise that He, will COMFORT enlighten us strengthen and guide us, through life and for eternity. Try to reflect for a moment each day how the angels will come from above, to guide us to heaven in unending light where we all will be wrapped in God’s love. Have faith you have always been cared for and GUIDED along every path you have trod. Then have total trust that your loved ones are safe, and secure in the strong hands of God!”

— Family Life: Poetic Reflections To Fill Your Heart with Devotion by Marsha Santos

“The Country Mouse’s Remedy

                                   The Country Mouse's Remedy

The country mouse woke up one morning, feeling somewhat worn. And since this was unusual, she felt a bit forlorn. She realized this would not last, since she would quickly find a positive solution to regain her peace of mind. Immediately she thought of all her very favorite things, along with the delightful joys that each one always brings. First was fresh hot COFFEE perking which would fill the air, with its aroma as she sipped it from her kitchen chair. Sunshine peeping cheerfully through windows open wide, past ruffled tied-back curtains she had hung with joy and pride. Fruit PIES baking in the oven scrumptiously enjoyed, with tasty homemade meals, she was so happy to provide. Putting on her hat and shawl when chores were promptly done, to window shop within the village in the warming sun. Cozy LUNCHEONS with a friend at an outdoor café, then choosing something tantalizing from their pastry tray. An ocean tide down at the beach where every gentle wave, softened the sand that would allow footprints to be engraved. Resting in a lounge chair bathed in radiant beams of light, Or later, peacefully, under the twinkling stars at night. Decorated birthday CAKES and colorful balloons, Good friends gathering at parties singing cheerful tunes! Going on vacation when the wintry weather comes, to the sunny south for recreation rest and fun. Later coming home again to her delightful home, comforted by feelings that she had no need to roam. The country mouse then realized her weariness was gone! And so immediately began to hum a cheerful song. It went something like this and had a happy little tune, "Each time I think of pleasant thoughts CONTENTMENT fills the room! I will vow to never have a sad negative view, but with every wholesome thought my mind I will imbue!” 

The Country Mouse Collection: Poetic Reflections for the Cheerful of Heart by Marsha Santos  Amazon.com  Kindle Edition

Simplify Your Problems

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1. SIMPLIFY your problems to make life much easier. Eliminate the difficult and do things you prefer. Change your plans when stressed to recreate a cheerful mood. Do something that makes you laugh and do not be subdued. 

2. LIGHTEN up your schedule leaving time to spend alone. You need not tackle everything to which you feel prone. Tranquility awaits you as it beckons you to come. Let your bondage fade away just like the setting sun. 

3. Brighter days are bidding you to bathe within their warmth. ANTICIPATE their healing and each doubt and fear abort. Buy yourself a special gift that you’ve been wishing for, at a very charming place or lovely antique store. 

4. There have been so many things that you have longed to do That will easily acquire healing through and through. Pick the most desirable one. PURSUE it now with love, asking God to shed His grace and blessings from above. 

5. Sometimes just sit back RELAX when undergoing strife. And be a detached spectator of your very own life. Enjoy the lazy days of summer and I’m sure you’ll see, You will possess contentment to a very high degree!

Make Your World a Smaller Place!

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1. Make your world a SMALLER place and try not to concern, yourself with very lofty matters you should not discern. The world can sometimes be an overwhelming place it’s true, if we let it pressure us in everything we do. 

2. The BOUNDARIES that we set within our mind are alterable, and we will not experience peace within our souls until, we set confines and limits to the things we take to heart, and all the matters causing stress we learn to set apart. 

3. The answer is to have the FAITH that God is in control. Acknowledging His sovereignty, His might we must extol. He does not need our help in caring for humanity. His power can restore our health and give security. 

4. Surrendering concerns for others helps us to regain our focus on the life that God has given us again. He wants us to take notice of the flowers and the birds, and be consoled by those we love and by their gentle words. 

5. We really can’t enjoy life when we're focused all the time, on other people's problems and for us things too sublime. If you make your world a smaller place you'll finally see, that God meant life to bring you joy and set your spirit free! 

"O Lord, my heart is not proud, nor are my eyes  haughty; I busy not myself with great things, nor with things too sublime for me. No, rather, I have stilled and quieted my soul like a weaned child. Like a weaned child on its mother’s lap, so is my soul within me.” Psalm 131:1-2

The Dark Valley

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1. When in the dark valley I will not be afraid, for God’s light pervades making dark shadows fade. His presence is with me with SHELTER and might, effortlessly putting all fears to flight. 

2. Around every corner and with every bend, the GRACES we need He is ready to lend. Shadows are only what their name implies. Intangible they will not cause our demise. 

3. Always have faith in God’s POWER and care. He promises us He will always be there. He constantly waits with His healing and hope, along with each tool that will help us to cope. 

4. He also has MIRACLES planned from the start, though at times we might feel we have drifted apart. Trust Him to care for you every day, and then receive gratefully His help come what may. 

5. He’ll never forsake you no matter the cross. Rejecting Him would only be your great loss. So in the dark valley you need never have fright, for with Jesus it’s filled with the most brilliant LIGHT!

In the Early Morning

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1. In the early morning when the sun begins to rise, from the darkness with its pale tint before our eyes, it can bring such COMFORT that a new day has begun, and with it the promise of great hope ‘till day is done.

2. Before the break of dawn is the most PEACEFUL time of all, when others are still fast asleep awaiting daybreak’s call. Blanketed in darkness all the earth appears asleep until it yawns and nods at early morning sun’s first peek.

3. It is such a restful time when we feel so serene, and an opportunity to just relax and DREAM.

4. Other thoughts can wait until much later in the day, but for now all those not calming should be kept at bay.

5. Before the world has risen from its slumber is the time, to only entertain the thoughts that ease your soul and mind. Try to rise up early just before the break of day, so you will gently be TRANSFORMED in the most peaceful way!

I Love the Country Mouse!

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1. I love the country mouse, tucked in her cozy house. Though clouds may billow, on her pillow she cannot be roused. CONTENTED and serene, while she may not be seen, though just a smidgen in her kitchen, truly a mouse queen!

2. Fresh blueberry PIE, appealing to the eye, is in the making, freshly baking, worthy of a sigh!

3. Her cheerful apron on, that she relies upon, with incentive, quite inventive, whether dusk or dawn. COOKIES the perfect size, I think you will surmise, are so delicious on their dishes for snacking or sunrise.

4. Fresh hot coffee brewed, with tasty breakfast food, or COOKIES dipped with every sip will cheer anyone’s mood.

5. Contented in her house, the little country mouse, is a sample and example how our. JOY should rouse. Keeping her in mind, I’m sure that you will find, a lasting peace while worries cease and troubles left behind!

An Old Fashioned Person

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1. I’m an old fashioned person 
who likes modern things,

and many conveniences 
that modern life brings;

such as clocks and appliances, 
cars and airplanes,

televisions, cell phones, 
computers and trains.

Deep in my heart though 
I have a great love

of old fashioned pleasures 
I often dream of;

like good home cooked MEALS 
and pies freshly baked,

attractively served 
on a fine antique plate.

2. Sitting in front of 
a crackling FIRE

while reading and dozing 
before I retire.

Spending much time 
with my family and friends.

Avoiding unneeded 
superfluous trends.

Planting a garden 
of flowers and plants.

A candlelit dinner 
and wine for romance.

3. Strolling in parks, 
near a boat dock or lake.

Fun birthday parties 
with ice cream and cake.

Evenings at home 
in my cozy attire.

Watching a movie 
in front of a fire.

Raking up LEAVES 
on a warm sunny day

and watching them fall 
in their colored array.

4. Building a snowman 
or pulling a sled.

Eating a muffin 
or fresh home baked bread.

Writing a letter, 
a card, or a note.

WALKING through snow 
in a warm hat and coat.

Sitting in summertime 
under a tree.

Watching a bird 
or a small honey bee.

5. Making out CHRISTMAS cards 
late in the fall.

Shopping for items 
or gifts at a mall.

Chatting with a special friend 
on the phone.

Quietly writing a song 
or a poem.

All of these old fashioned 
favorite things

lighten my spirit 
and give my heart wings.

When I reflect 
and recall them anew
I feel deep contentment 
and peace through and through!

The One Horse Open Sleigh

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1. Clippity clop. Clippity clop. Imagine the sound as the horse's hoofs drop! Down to VILLAGE and throughout the town, while capturing smiles from the people around. A brown horse with reins draws a quaint open sleigh, which creates the most soothing enchanting display. Two passengers both with a smile on their face, sit comfortably snuggled in their cozy space. 

2. Contented with feeling the crisp dancing breeze, their horse draws the carriage with poise and such ease. The sound of his hoofs has a hypnotic power, as snowflakes float down in a delicate shower. Imaging where they are planning to be, allows them to feel very tranquil and free. They are thinking of heading for a shallow pond, to do some ice SKATING of which they’ve grown fond. 

3. Then a PARTY with friends they both anticipate, with cocktails hors d'oeuvres pastries cookies and cake. But the sleigh ride alone over snow covered hills, may very well be the best cure for their ills! They begin to imagine the scenes they will pass, like a church’s large windows of dazzling stained glass. Down in the village they'll be happy to see, some strollers enjoying a fun shopping spree. 

4. Once out of town in the quaint COUNTRYSIDE, they are certain to pass deer and squirrels as they glide. It does not seem easy to fully portray, the joy that’s derived from a horse driven sleigh. Over the hillside and down through the vale, as you turn and then glide with the wind at your tail. Then later relaxing when you start to tire, you can sip fresh hot cocoa in front of a fire.

 5. Many people may never have known the delight, of a horse driven sleigh ride by day or by night, but its warm charming image remains to be seen, in the hearts of all those who will take time to DREAM!

Winter Doldrums

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1. Have winter doldrums got you down? Try and call a friend. Is nothing cheery left around? A note of KINDNESS send.

2. Others also feel blue as winter takes its toll. Do not mope around the house but take a little stroll, around the yard or down the street, alone or with someone you meet. At the mall or a café to BRIGHTEN up a gloomy day. 

3. Fresh clean air will clear your mind while CHEERFULNESS you're sure to find. When the sun comes out once more your peace of mind it will restore.

4. Make some cookies, bake a cake. Share them then for heaven's sake. Wear a smile upon your face to brighten up the human race. LAUGH be merry jump and shout. That's what life is all about!

5. God became a man to share our hopes and dreams so be aware. Each time that you begin to frown just quickly turn it upside down. When lovingly you freely GIVE, you truly have begun to live!

"A cheerful heart is the best medicine, but a depressed spirit dries up the bones." Proverbs 17:22

It's Ever So Cozy Inside!

1. After a wintery walk in the snow it’s ever so COZY inside! It doesn't matter which places you go or if it is just for a ride. Parties are pleasant with pastries and treats and the friends you are so glad to know. Whether you're dancin g or sitting in seats confirsation can eaasily flow. doesn’t matter which places you go or if it is just for a ride. Parties are pleasant with pastries and treats and the friends you are so glad to know. Whether you’re dancing or sitting in seats conversation can easily flow. 

2. All of the seasons bring fun things to do but I think that the happiest time, is when the festivities are finally through and you’re home where it’s cozy inside. FIRES in winter can be so relaxing when it is a cold wintry day. And after a day that was taxing you'll find it will warm all your troubles away! 

3. During the autumn the leaves are all changing their colors to red orange and gold. But once they have fallen they soon begin fading from shades that were brighter and bold. Autumn’s a time to be skipping and romping in crackling leaves on the ground, or drinking hot COCOA right after a hayride with colorful leaves floating down. 

4. The weather is changing becoming much cooler a time to begin dressing warm, but that cannot lessen the beauty of autumn that brings us its magic and CHARM. Whether it’s spring summer winter or autumn we should never have a regret, but draw on the source of each mystery contained and their glory not ever forget. 

5. Enjoy all the seasons and wonders of nature and happily with them abide, but cherish the thought that for every creature it’s ever so cozy INSIDE!

A Winter Wonderland

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1. One of the most treasured things that one could ever see, is a winter WONDERLAND depicted magically. Let me paint a picture of one that I hold most dear, especially when the holidays or wintertime draws near. 

2. A snowy country road as horse drawn carriage passes by a beautiful Victorian HOME beneath tall trees and sky. Its roof of many peaks artistically covered with snow, fluffily gives way to crystal icicles below. 

3. Lamps radiantly shining through the long windows so clear, are warm and so inviting to the NEIGHBORS who draw near. A cozy railed porch stirs thoughts of weather warm and fair, while comfortably relaxing in a quaint white wicker chair. 

4. Right across the snowy road the steeple of the church, points to a subtle pastel sky at the onset of dusk. Down a hill some scattered homes are all sprinkled with snow, as they snuggle warm and cozily in evening’s glow. What is more appealing that an evening can impart, than MEALS cooking, pastries baking and fire in the hearth. 

5. Problems wisely left out on the doorstep always bring, freedom and contentment like a lovely breath of spring. Inside the village homes resides a joy beyond compare, for all of those returning know that LOVE is waiting there!

High Tea!

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1. Please join me for a High Tea as the British people do, with dainty sandwiches and pastries in late afternoon. Served on lovely three tier CHINA servers brings delight, with a rich assortment that creates a splendid sight! 

2. Sitting around antique tables on their matching chairs, is elegantly charming pleasing all those gathered there. Imagine dainty SANDWICHES delightful to the eyes, With chicken ham cucumber cheese salmon egg and chives. 

3. Fancy linen napkins both so colorful and quaint, add the perfect touch while the anticipators wait. When all is ready to begin aromas fill the room, as steaming TEA carefully poured sounds like a rippling tune. 

4. The vivid shades of painted flowers on cups saucers and plates, a rich old fashioned European AMBIENCE creates. Entertaining thoughts of years gone by blankets the heart, with fond cherished tradition no one would wish to depart. 

5. As minds all journey back to the magnificent display, of sandwiches and PASTRIES set near elegant bouquet, the guests begin to chat and sip as they gladly agree, that there is nothing that compares to a British High Tea!

A Country Town In Winter

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1. A country town in winter with snow upon the roofs, and rising chimney smoke from hearth filled fires, paints a charming portrait very deep within our hearts, that richly satisfies our fond desires. Quiet streets at evening as the stars twinkling above, sweetly invite all to go inside, where they will not feel lonely, since the atmosphere is homey, in the cozy warmth where gentlefolk abide 

2. The fast pace of the city can at times seem like a dream, compared it to this most calming country town. The people are more peaceful as they work at slower pace, while at evening you can barely hear a sound. Sitting by the fireside while chatting cozily, SERENITY is more than just a word. It is a way of life that is imbedded deep within and is a quality by which all were allured. 

3. Nighttime brings a slumber that can only be compared, to tranquil thoughts of angels hovering round. With their wings unfolded they are lovingly aware, that in their presence HAPPINESS is found. 

4. When the morning once again rides in upon the dawn, those who sleep are gently wakened by its smile. As pale tints of sunlight now begin to filter in, through the curtains, shades, and every window blind. Flickering on eyelids the enchanting morning sun, arouses those awakened to arise. UNHURRIEDLY and prayerful they all lift their hearts toward heaven, very confident in each new day's surprise. 

5. Let this small town teach you that the SIMPLE things in life, were meant to be the greatest of them all. God showers all His blessings like your family friends and nature just as plentiful as snowflakes gently fall!

A Prescription To Relax!

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1. I saw a movie once about a doctor I admired. He was endowed with WISDOM and considering to retire. His many patients were so very grateful for his help, valuing his skill and insight even more than wealth. He always seemed to know the right advice and medicine, for both the elderly and all the young women and men. 

2. It was such a pleasure just to visit him by day. He seemed more like an uncle than a doctor I would say. Living in his homey town since he was just a child, he had a witty sense of HUMOR and easily smiled. His laugh was very hearty putting everyone at ease, then when at work or during leisure was easy to please. 

3. The thing that people loved and looked so very forward to, was that his office was at HOME in a most charming room! People helped themselves to coffee and his fresh pastries, Contentedly relaxing as they browsed through magazines. Now this brings me to the reason for my little poem, which I wrote while sitting by the fireside at home. One of the doctor’s patients came to him under duress, because she found it difficult to be relieved of stress. 

4. I thought it very humorous what the good doctor said, right after he examined her and sensed her total dread. When handing a prescription to her she was so surprised. A tropical VACATION she had surely not surmised! Reaching out her hand with grateful smile upon her face, she thanked him for his good advice and left at leisurely pace. 

5. And so my friend by now I’m sure you have begun to see, that this could also be wonderful advice for you and me. occasionally you might need a RETREAT away from home, where you can comfortably relax and calmly rest alone. Those times you may not even need a doctor if you write, your very own prescription to relax by day or night!

The Little Snowy Town

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1. I saw a picture of a little snowy town one day, I felt was very CHARMING and somewhere I'd like to stay. Cheerful as it was I felt such joy and warmth inside, which made me want to find a town just like it to abide. 

2. In the center was a church with tall steeple of white, and colored stained- I imagined lit at night. One majestic fir tree snuggling up right to the rear, lovingly looked down upon a smaller one quite near. A few INVITING houses very pleasant and serene, added so much color to complete the lovely scene! 

3. Two children on their SLEDS slid down a small snow covered hill, warmly wrapped in snowsuits to prevent a wintry chill. In the distance a few scattered country homes were seen, bordered by a string of stately trees all evergreen. 

4. Smoke rising from chimneys had such warm cozy appeal, that seamed to summon families to return for home cooked meal.  Glancing once again back at the  center of the town, I was pleased to see a cheerful SNOWMAN smiling down! Most appealing were small rolling hills covered with snow, reflecting sunlight warmly as they seemed to gently flow. 

5. I have endeavored ever since to find towns such as this, and every time I do it fills my heart with joy and bliss. I hope that you enjoyed my story and make it apart, of all the little TREASURES you have buried in your heart!