louis gander

louis gander, 19 march 2013

How Little Love

Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
Another child molested,
while we live unaware.
 
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
Abused and battered mothers -
but leave - they wouldn't dare.
 
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
A mother and her daughter -
now homeless, in despair.
 
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
They've no place with little food
and nothing much to wear.
 
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
Then a fellow takes them in -
another plight they share.
 
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
Tell yourself that they're okay -
it's not so bad out there.
 
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
Go about your business and
convince yourself it's rare.
 
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
Faithful always, our routine
with comfort in the air.
 
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
It doesn't really matter.
It's happening elsewhere.
 
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
We'd rather do the talking
from our most favorite chair.
 
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
Pray a few more minutes and
convince your God you care.
 
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
Tell God about your troubles -
then see if He's unfair.
 
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
'Common folk' to billionaire,
how little love we share.
 
©2010 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
 
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Matthew 25 (NASB)
42 '...for I was hungry, and you gave Me nothing to eat;
I was thirsty, and you gave Me nothing to drink;
43 I was a stranger, and you did not invite Me in;
naked, and you did not clothe Me;
sick, and in prison, and you did not visit Me.'


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louis gander

louis gander, 19 march 2013

The Hourglass

Who begins the timeline,
life's hourglass, brand new?
Excitement grasps first days of life
as grains of sand slip through.
 
Youthful times surround us.
We lack full wisdom's clue.
We learn to make decisions though,
as grains of sand slip through.
 
Middle age is stressful
with obligations due -
so we go about our business
as grains of sand slip through.
 
Oh, to know the answers -
and every facet knew -
so we prepare the answers then
as grains of sand slip through.
 
With sunset years upon us,
we find God's Word is true -
but still the days flee fast from us
as grains of sand slip through.
 
Who holds our real value -
and have regrets, will you -
as the hourglass stands empty and
the final grain slips through?
 
©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
 
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Ecclesiastes 9:12 (NASB) Moreover, man does not know his time: like fish caught in a treacherous net and birds trapped in a snare, so the sons of men are ensnared at an evil time when it suddenly falls on them.


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louis gander

louis gander, 19 march 2013

Horizon's Path

When all the richest people rest in graveyards,
before their grand possessions rot and rust,
I turn my eyes and humbly look to Heaven,
for Jesus is the only one I trust.

When all the famous celeb's rest in graveyards,
and all their loyal fans find other 'stars',
I turn my eyes and humbly look to Heaven,
for Jesus is my friend who holds the scars.

When all the greatest rulers rest in graveyards,
down underneath the oxen and the plows,
I turn my eyes and humbly look to Heaven,
for I have life which only God allows.

When all the folks around me fall to pieces,
solutions sought - but they can find them not -
I shake my head in wonder with the Heavens,
for I have Him whom they have all forgot.

When all the world can wonder why I'm happy -
and simple minds can't seem to understand,
I simply trust God's promises in Heaven,
continuing to hold His loving hand.

When friends and family wonder why I journey,
to places in my thoughts they'll never know -
horizons of my faith still kiss the Heavens,
as that's the path I'm traveling below.

©2010 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Job 23 (NASB)
10 "But He knows the way I take;
When He has tried me, I shall come forth as gold.
11"My foot has held fast to His path;
I have kept His way and not turned aside.
12"I have not departed from the command of His lips;
I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food.


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louis gander

louis gander, 18 march 2013

Hope

In despair,
we'll sometimes be.
At these times can we cope?
Yet always free,
if we can see
the One who offers hope.
 
©2011 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/ 
 
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louis gander

louis gander, 17 march 2013

This Old Scrap Of Burlap

This is a poem I wrote back in 2008 to noone in particular...

This big, bright world,
is like a drawer full of lace,
though I am but a leftover rag;
quite awkward, uneasy,
and so out of place.

Lace is chosen
by those with whom they connect.
and selecting their own special piece;
they want their lives
to be so perfect.

Then stew they will
when things go terribly wrong.
Their lace gets soiled, stained and tattered.
For this worlds special lace
doesn’t last too long.

They’re all sewn up,
still seeking what cannot mend....
But this leftover rag- this old scrap of burlap;
though nowhere near perfect,
is still your special friend.

©2008 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander

louis gander, 15 march 2013

Patient One

FOR MANY YEARS they crowded me -
they grew so very tall...
but You, my Lord, had stunted me -
created me so small.

They pushed me off
and stole the sun,
and rose up to the sky...
but every year You held me down
and I had wondered why.

The winds and rain
blew very hard.
Beneath them I was crushed...
and You, my Lord, had gone away.
My blaring screams were hushed.

For many years this happened -
and they'd ignore my plea...
and You, my Lord, seemed not to care,
when they would laugh at me.---

So many years have passed since then -
a hundred years or so...
yet You, my Lord, answered my prayers,
and patience let me grow.

A million weeds had laughed at me -
yet long ago they passed...
and You, dear Lord, protected me,
just as my prayers had asked.

For many years Your little tree -
was pushed around by weed...
but oh, dear Lord, You strengthened me
and met my every need.

And now today, I tower high.
I'm seen for many miles -
but oh, dear Lord, You've taught me well.
You've humbled all my smiles.

©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Psalm 37:7 (NASB) Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who carries out wicked schemes.


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louis gander

louis gander, 14 march 2013

The Little Kitten

A tiny little kitten
whose feet were very sore,
wandered through the drifting snow
and right up to my door.
The weak meowing stirred me,
and drew me when she cried.
I crossed my room with aging feet,
inviting her inside.
 
She shivered and was hungry,
was frightened, very weak.
Confused, she wasn't trusting,
her future somewhat bleak.
Now even though I loved her,
I saw a troubled sign.
I thought about it for a bit -
compared her life to mine...
 
As she warmed up to me a bit,
I let her eat and rest -
but ran, she did, if I came close -
afraid of me, I guessed.
Now I was like that kitten,
and it became quite clear -
that I was frightened, ran away,
when Jesus got too near.
 
Then as the days kept rolling by,
she finally did prefer -
to be around and close to me.
She knew that I loved her.
Before I learned that God so loved,
my life was very grim.
And though He loved me very much,
I had no faith in Him.
 
Knowing that I love her so
and take good care of her -
knowing that I listen when
I hear her prayerful purr -
defines a word called "faithfulness",
defines a true belief -
not wandering out aimlessly
in blowing snow and grief.
 
So now you'll find her in my lap,
a tiny ball of fuzz -
but she had taught me faithfulness.
I know it's true because -
I once roamed like this kitten,
where snow and drifting harms,
but now I lie in pastures green -
with Jesus, in His arms.
 
©2012 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
 
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louis gander

louis gander, 13 march 2013

Evergreen Hope

Spectacular wonder, the view way out yonder,
from high on this mountain slope.
God's vast great creation brings glad adoration
to Jesus who offers us hope.
 
From just one small seed, a potential indeed,
once crushed, by mistake, underfoot.
I whispered a prayer and stepped over where
another small sapling took root.
 
And on that rock shelf I thought to myself,
"Oh, how can that seedling be grown,
up here where it toils in hard rocky soils,
in midst of more turmoils not known?"
 
Then over the years through blizzards and fears
rose doubts that had made me take pause,
"It sure hadn't thrived but had it survived?
Had it overcome nature's laws?"
 
Now several years later I found something greater
when I returned back to that tree.
I had to admire, it soared so much higher,
and grew so much taller than me.
 
It once had been crushed, but now I am hushed,
and humbled at what God had done.
One tiny example of something we trample
brings life from the tomb of His Son!
 
A long time ago under hail and snow,
despite its long discord and strife,
its tap root enlocked way down deep in a rock
that faithfully brought it to life!
 
Oh, why can't I be like that evergreen tree,
that grew up so high in the sky?
The greenest of green that I've ever seen,
oh tell me Lord, why cannot I?
 
Spectacular wonder, the view way out yonder,
from high on this mountain slope.
God's vast great creation brings glad adoration
to Jesus who offers me hope.
 
©2012 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
 
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louis gander

louis gander, 11 march 2013

Show The Lord (an Easter Poem)

Now everyone was nervous here and not a thing made sense. 
The Judge had entered quietly. The room was very tense. 
"Let's only hear the gospel truth and accusations quench! 
This court is now in session!" said 'His Honor' from the bench. 

The 'Whip' was not at all deterred and spoke up suddenly, 
"Alive, He was, when I was done - untied and then set free! 
But I had noticed something else when He had left my place. 
I saw Him with the rugged 'Cross'. Now that's your real case!" 

The 'Cross' responded bluntly and without an ounce of tact, 
"It wasn't me, Your Honor sir, and that is just a fact! 
I didn't do a single thing and really, I did care. 
I merely was the backdrop for the 'Nails' had held Him there!" 

The 'Nails', three, were hence accused but chimed in unison, 
"It wasn't us who had Him killed (God's one and only Son). 
When all the three of us looked up, the truth had come to light - 
that wicked "Crown' had pierced His scalp and made a gruesome sight!" 

Then hushed, the crowd, who set their eyes on such a cruel 'Crown' - 
but it had sought the mercy of the Judge with sorry frown. 
And then it weaved so carefully a short and subtle lie, 
"It wasn't I who killed Him sir, the 'Whip' caused Him to die!" 

And so it was that blame was passed around, around again - 
so tell me, "What had killed Him then - just plain and simple sin?" 
Yes, then that Judge, with piercing eye, had raised his brow at me, 
and said, "You are the guilty one! I sentence you to be..." 

But then that very instant, a gentle voice was heard. 
His voice had calmed the courthouse down - and every heart was stirred. 
"Release those who've repented and were faithful through and through. 
For I have paid the highest price and saved their souls too." 

The Judge slammed down His gavel hard - and said, "I will it so!" 
And that is where this story ends. Are you prepared to go? 
Don't be the Whip, Cross, Nails or Thorns- who passed their guilt along - 
who tried to blame somebody else and claimed they did no wrong. 

The heart you have you made yourself. You're humble or you're proud - 
so if acceptance you must have, you're lost just like the crowd. 
How long has pride now stole your soul? Days, weeks or months, or years? 
Don't pass the blame to someone else, but show the Lord some tears... 

©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED 
http://www.ganderpoems.org/ 

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louis gander

louis gander, 6 march 2013

A Toad

I'm just a toad who had thought he'd been kiss-ed,
but then had found out that no princess exist-ed.
But how was I (a wee toad) to know -
that I hadn't changed as of yet and so -
don't ever think that your prince, by you, rode -
for deep down inside this bright armor's a toad...

~gander  Copyright 2013


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louis gander

louis gander, 5 march 2013

Knight In Shining Armor

A knight in shining armor?  I certainly am not -
but if, indeed, I really was, you just might laugh a lot.
 
I'd be astride my big white horse, (a stallion through and through)
riding straight and very tall - and trotting right past you.
 
You'd see my polished armor and you'd see the golden trim -
just before I ride my horse right under one low limb.
 
I'd be a bit embarrassed there while lying on my back.
You'd see my pretty armor with some punctures, dents and crack.
 
My horse would keep on galloping as it ran out of sight.
I wouldn't know quite what to say except, "I'll be all right."
 
You'd tell me calmly, "Do not move." and also "Just stay put."
And then you'd see my armor covered with the blackest soot.
 
It's after that, I'd just admit, that I had tried to flee -
that big ol' angry dragon whose hot flame had bested me.
 
No, I'm not a noble knight nor any princess charmer.
I've make too many dumb mistakes to be a knight in armor.
 
Therefore, as a princess, you will need to wait awhile -
and grab the next knight riding by that's full of charm and style.
 
He'd pull you up behind him on his horse, you'd yell, "Goodbye!"
Of course, I would apologize and once again, I'd cry...
 
I've done so much for everyone- have given things and stuff -
but this I've learned- I'm not a knight- nor nearly good enough.

©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED


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louis gander

louis gander, 3 march 2013

Pirates!!

Oh, I remember back, when young -
the pirate tales from grandpa's tongue -
where peg-legged men with but one eye
had sought their treasures, chanced to die.
 
Now Captain Pirate had a hook
and he cared not from whom he took.
He boarded ships and stole their goods -
then hid his treasures in the woods.
 
And on the ship - he had some men -
who helped him rob now and again.
At times they partied and they drank. -
If one was rude, he'd walk the plank.
 
Now this old pirate wasn't fair -
and got so drunk he didn't care.
It didn't matter who he killed -
just so his humor was fulfilled.
 
A wee bit close, I happened near -
lost both my boots and lost my gear.
They tied me up that very night -
my wrists had hurt, the rope was tight.
 
Then one pulled quick, his shiny sword -
and threw me on that weathered board.
The ocean deep, the water black,
I felt his sword pressed to my back.
 
So I stepped out - again, again,
with nudges felt from earthly sin.
The steps I took were very short
but that old plank gave me support.
 
I thought quite quick but took some pause -
reflecting on life's silly laws.
So blinded by life's codes and rules,
I had nothing - them, the jewels.
 
Hoping here on earth I'd stay,
I stepped through life from day to day.
And this I knew, could not pretend -
this plank was short. There was an end.
 
My weight pushed low the outer ledge.
My toes could feel the very edge.
No turning back, what's done is done -
no place to turn - no place to run.
 
Our bodies end with earthly goals
as all life ends, but not our souls.
Emotions quake, as body shakes,
but after death, the soul awakes.
 
Oh, they held truth (though they got old)
those pirate tales that grandpa told,
but futile is a life that's wed -
with both the soul and body dead.
 
©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
 
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louis gander

louis gander, 28 february 2013

All To You

Oh, just as winds will carry on -
for years and centuries,
mere words cannot describe my love.
They pass with every breeze.

The winds still make it futile
as words pass by above –
but if I could grab hold of one,
I’d grab the word called ‘love’.

Words may describe a landscape -
some animals or birds,
but never is your picture worth
a mere one thousand words.

Oh, it would take a million words,
and then a billion more -
but have you time to listen as
I stand here at your door?

For every time your doorbell rings,
you yell, “Please stay away!”
but I have yet to even knock.
I’ve found no words to say...

Your doorbell keeps on ringing though
by yet another guy -
who runs on off to other doors -
and other doorbells try.

It seems I've stood forever –
but I will never quit -
in hopes that privately your door
will open up a bit.

Mere words don't mean so very much.
Our love was meant to be -
so I’ll keep standing at your door,
until you notice me.

--------

And then, by chance, your door should crack
and open up a bit -
I'd show you to your porch swing and
encourage you to sit.

Should sound not find my wordless lips
I'd take my nervous arm -
and put it 'round your shoulders with
a meek romantic charm.

Mere thoughts would run throughout my head -
for possibly a mile -
but then I'd hold your hand a bit -
as we sat there awhile.

My passion and my energy
could not hold back the bliss -
so then I'd lean right over and
I'd give your cheek a kiss.

I'd hold you close there in my arms
emotions on the move -
and there I'd stay committed as
my fervent love would prove.

The sun would set, but there we'd sit
in one prolonged embrace -
as words would still be meaningless
when I look in your face.

Oh, guys would still come knockin' -
recite their newest line -
but love cannot be broken now -
as you're forever mine.

And girls, also, just like words,
lack all their meaning too.
For I have packaged all my love -
and give it all to you.

~gander Copyright 2013


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louis gander

louis gander, 26 february 2013

Her Letter

I read, re-read her letter
a mere one-hundred times.
Her thoughts were pure and priceless,
in words of perfect rhyme.
  
I hadn't seen her smiling face,
but I will always be -
drawn, as if by magnet,
to her magnetically.
  
I hadn't heard her 'angel' voice
that sings as waves would flow -
yet somehow she has drawn me in
to shore where waters go.
  
I hadn't smelled her sweet perfume,
as garden full of flowers.
But oh, if I had breathed them in,
I'd be under her powers.
 
I hadn't held her fingers yet -
or hand in tender way -
or hugged her tightly when she hurt -
or kissed her tears away...
 
But oh, I understand her well -
and really must disclose -
that she's is kind and loving as,
a precious, perfect rose.
 
A rose that blooms so purely,
in rich, romantic hue.
A rose that grows securely,
in greatness through and through.
 
Her kindness and compassion
prove true humility -
so I'll embrace forever -
the letter she sent me.
 
~gander Copyright 2013


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louis gander

louis gander, 25 february 2013

Get Well Poem

Please tell me that it isn't so.
Please tell me that you needn't go.
I've been awake all day and night.
Please let me that you'll be alright.

But something reached down deep inside -
and seized my guts until I cried.
That 'something' pulled me in-side-out.
It hurt so bad, I had to shout!
 
Though we've shared words, this is the case -
that I've not seen your smiling face.
I haven't seen your flowing hair -
yet this is true:  Please know I care.
 
My prayers for you are true, sincere.
"Please get well soon" cries every tear.
Though I've not seen your 'sunshine' eyes -
of this I'm sure, you're very wise.
 
Please know that this is not a game -
I only know your lovely name.
Your health is dire - and this I fear.
Yet not one little peep I hear.

Please tell me- tell me all is fine!
Where's the signal?  Where's the sign?
That there's no news, has taken toll.
Stiff silence stabs my inner soul.
 
The clock keeps running- tock and tick.
Not knowing makes me really sick.
I wish I knew right where you were.
My tight embrace would surely cure.
 
Your favorite poem, I'd recite.
I'd sit beside you day and night.
But I don't have those super powers
to bring bouquet of fresh-cut flowers. 
 
Yet my concern runs really deep
so I'm awake and cannot sleep.
Wait!  Now again, my soul hums!!
Because your message finally comes :)
 
I'll be excited, so reassured -
when, at last, I hear you're cured.
Up and walking, quickly be -
smiling widely, you and me :)
 
~gander Copyright 2013


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louis gander

louis gander, 24 february 2013

In His Sandals (Easter)

I cannot serve two masters. I serve, but only one,
for if I love some sinfulness, I hate God's only Son.
Could I walk in His sandals? Do I really understand?
Of what would it encompass? Of what would it demand?
 
Could I put up with some abuse, and could I humbly be,
a whipping board of insults, for all to scoff at me?
Could I withstand a whipping? Tell me, would I know,
the pain down in my open wounds, torn flesh from every blow?
 
Could I, but bear the privilege - to be a king renowned,
my face stained in bloody streaks from such a thorny crown?
And would I know the cost of love, our God's most precious grace,
or would I simply think of me and hate the human race?
 
Could I endure the anguish then, as ropes bind hands and feet,
so knotted up so tightly that - I'd give in to defeat?
There on my back, could I stare at - a spike set on my skin,
then watch them take a heavy stone and slam it deep within?
 
Oh, I would know what's coming next.  I'd clench my other fist.
Could I endure another nail- or would I just resist?
Then tortured even further, could pain be so complete,
when to the cross I'm nailed with- another through my feet?
 
Slowly ropes raise cross and I. The base slides in the hole.
Then in ghastly, horrid pain, would that jerk shake my soul?
So there I'd hang, alone up high- for all to mock and hate.
Could I endure the anguish then? Can I, to that relate?
 
Could I survive for several hours in pain and endless shame?
and would I ask forgiveness for those that I could blame?
Could I die for ALL the world- their sinful sacrifice -
and know that few would love me? Would that, for me, suffice?
 
Would my final miracle call for heavenly hosts -
or would I yield to Father's will and then give up the ghost?
No, hate and anger would not end.  The sword would pierce my side....
Oh, would I slip away and hide? Which way would I decide?
 
His sandals are too large to fill. His time, so long ago,
and Heaven- much too far away, while I'm down here below.
But could I wear His sandals- if I was called upon,
and are my trials greater that- I'd gladly put His on?
 
He demands my little faith. He holds no speck of wrath,
when He's a lamp unto my feet- a light unto my path.
Yes, I wear His sandals- for I've been called upon
and faithful every morning I now slip them boldly on.
 
This poem may explain it- but who really understands?
For every sin that we commit puts nails through Jesus' hands.
We cannot serve two masters. We serve, but only one.
We have to hate all sinfulness, to love God's only Son.
 
©2007 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
 
Luke 16:10 (NASB) "He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much; and he who is unrighteous in a very little thing is unrighteous also in much.”
 
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louis gander

louis gander, 23 february 2013

Final Walk (Easter)

Now forty lashes - minus one
The torture, anguish has begun.
Thirty-nine lashes, horrid pain,
I can't endure - but won't complain.
 
A crown of thorn cuts in so deep,
Energy gone, I've got to sleep.
But on my back, a timber placed -
it weighs a ton, blood/sweat I taste.
 
I feel the cross beside my face.
I cannot walk a faster pace.
Skin open rips - each time I slip,
so tighter, I must keep my grip.
 
Each step I take is harder still
when trudging up this cruel hill.
The slivers pierce me as I trod,
both big and small - please help me God.
 
Please give me strength - for Heaven's sake
for every muscle in me aches.
With that huge cross along my back,
my knees give out.  My legs go slack.
 
Exhausted, I can hardly crawl
and then I drop it as I fall.
My shoulder hurts, the pain intense -
then they all stare in awed suspense.
 
I can't hold it any more
yet I know next, what is in store.
My lungs hurt so, I've lost my breath -
but give me strength before my death.
 
At the top, I finally rest -
but now this cross, my final test.
I love you all - am faithful still,
right here on top of Calvary's hill.
 
Yet all the pain endured thus far
cannot erase the sins that are.
Sacrifice, death - wages of sin -
now demand pain on the cross begin.
 
©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
 
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louis gander

louis gander, 23 february 2013

If I Could Say...

I think about her every day
and also all today.
If I could say some words to her,
well this is what I'd say:

If we should meet, our hearts would beat
together right in time -
as music notes our thoughts would float
in harmonizing rhyme.

We would not fear for truth is here.
Our minds will not be crushed.
The air above holds perfect love
and it will not be hushed.

Some day we'll see that patiently
our worlds will become one.
That day the birds will sing these words -
"Their lives have just begun."

I think about her every day
and also all today.
If I could say some words to her,
well that is what I'd say...

~gander Copyright 2013


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louis gander

louis gander, 22 february 2013

My Dearest Friends

The stars come out to welcome me.  The sun had set so fast.
I need to live a simple life, forgetting evil's past.
Here, I'm at peace with all my friends - at this, my Alma mater.
A seagull swoops so ever low as wingtip kisses water.
 
Now true friends have a way of understanding every word -
though swaying branches speak to me in language never heard.
But I can understand them all, for I've been here before.
So lonely are the busy ones who only hear the shore.
 
The moon looks down with saddened frown.  I sense it's message there,
"We love it when you visit us.  We really, truly care."
But even so, I soon must go.  Much stronger, blows a breeze.
It's whisper lingers, "Do not go.  Stay longer, if you please."
 
Each time I leave I don't forget their many loving ways.
They're etched into my mem'ry like- the sunset's brilliant rays -
that shower down around me as a rainbow's vivid hues
and light up like a halo to enhance all nature's views.
 
Between my obligations, torn - decisions I regret -
then say, the leaves up in the trees, "Please do not leave us yet."
And say, the little waves on shore (as they splash near my feet),
"To have you here- to talk to is- a real cheerful treat."
 
So I respond in loving kind, "God made you so divine!
You'll always be my sincere friends.  The pleasure is all mine!
"I so enjoy our favorite talks and I, great wonders, see.
So rich, our time together is.  I love your company."
 
Reflecting off the water's waves, the lights from distant shore -
still seem to make me want to stay and talk a little more.
Yet like the sun, I now must run.  The sky is turning black.
They may not know I love them so, but I'll be coming back.
 
Just one more time, I soak it in.  God always makes it right.
"I'll miss you all, my dearest friends- and bid you all Good night!"
I turn to take a final glance before I walk away.
I hesitate, a tear slips down.  There'll be another day.
 
©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander

louis gander, 20 february 2013

Judgment Day

You float above your body,
ascending into sky.
You hear the angels singing.
You're really not sure why.

You hear them a Cappella,
for just a song or two -
and then the instruments chime in
which take all breath from you.

Tall, massive sculptured columns
hold alabaster beams -
high above your stature.
It, overwhelming, seems.

The granite steps are pure as glass.
The huge and massive doors -
now open up, reveal in full,
the warmest parquet floors.

A bright light draws you hither,
between the velvet walls.
You hear those massive doors go shut.
A hollow echo calls.

But you have done no walking.
You simply float along -
until you enter room that holds
ten thousand angels strong.

The ceiling seems a mile high,
with walls a mile wide!
There is no time to make amends,
there is nowhere to hide.

Intimidated by this all,
in center of the room -
with bulging eyes, your jaw has dropped.
You hear a massive "boom"!

You're stripped of all possessions.
You're standing there alone.
The gong still echoes in your ears -
and God is on the throne!

Your earthly life, you quick relive.
Oh, what have you achieved?
Exposed and feeling guilty now,
have truly, you believed?

You knew that judgment day would come -
but why was it so soon?
You've missed your last vacation
and it is now 'high noon'.

Lightning cracks with thunder!
You think it very odd -
but then you understand it all.
It is the voice of God!!

Your mouth still hangs wide open.
You cannot even squeak -
and then begin to wonder -
will Jesus stand to speak...?

Oh, one more chance, you wish you had -
but it will never be -
for you are reading this right now -
and yet, you cannot see -

nor hear Him knocking on your heart,
the door to your own soul.
However, if you let Him in -
then He will make you whole.

Not even you can be so bad
that you have lost all heart -
for Christ had died for everyone -
including you - so start.

Two thousand thirteen years ago
it took a real Man
to sacrifice Himself for you.
Repent in tears. You can.

©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander

louis gander, 17 february 2013

Secret Admirer

(from a woman's perspective...)
 
Damp were the petals, kissed by the dew,
on bright, vibrant rose held up for my view -
from soft velvet fingers and unweathered skin
from one faithful heart full of true love within.
 
The rose was exquisite, so perfect to see -
with flower now open so beau-ti-ful-ly.
It seemed to rest easy on leaves of bright green -
(if now, you could only imagine the scene).
 
Behind that great gift was another one too -
who whispered poetically, "Oh, how I love you!"
It floated from voice so familiar to me
that stopped my whole world - instantly, briefly.
 
He caught me off-guard and I must concede
that inside his heart was a great love indeed.
For there behind raised arm, so patient and mild -
I saw the cute face of my very own child.
 
Reached, I there down - and speaking in prose,
I said, "Thank you child." accepting the rose.
And then to the side, I gave curtain a push -
and sure enough missing, my rose from rose bush.
 
But forced I a smile and gave him a kiss -
for this is one day that I'll soon reminisce.
His innocent countenance had drawn me to pray,
"Thank you, dear Lord, for my child today."
 
©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
 
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louis gander

louis gander, 15 february 2013

Valentine's Day

"Love our dear Valentine" we always say,
whenever we think of Valentine's Day.

Big hugs and kisses and also some fun -
is love's expression for our 'special one'.
Flowers, dinner, and maybe some wine -
as we treat our 'sweethearts' especially fine.

But oh, long ago on one fateful day -
when we threw our greatest of loves away -

Hatred surpassed all the love we had won -
as hugs were not there when the nailing begun.
Thorns replaced flowers, and then sour wine -
and that's how we treated our Lord divine."

Love our dear Valentine" we always say,
but how do we love the Savior today?

©2010 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander

louis gander, 13 february 2013

Waves

With waves that crash upon the beach,
my love rolls further in to reach -
and further up, they roll some more -
I haven’t loved like this before.

I never thought I’d fall in love,
but you’re the one I’m dreaming of.
I close my eyes in your embrace,
and still I see your lovely face.

I kiss your lips and hold you close
but never get my final dose.
We hug so tightly for so long -
in arms of love we both belong.

I peer into your pretty eyes -
oh, please don’t love the other guys.
Their love for you can’t be this strong -
and can’t be tear-filled for as long.

Each time I think about your pain,
I cry but it is all in vain -
yet nature knows the sun won’t shine,
until her raindrops fall with mine.

So when it rains just think of me,
my tears of love will always be.
With every tear of mine I cry.
I’ll wash your pain and hurt good-bye.

I’ll kiss each sore, each scar, each kind -
until your smiling face I find.
I’ll kiss you often and so deep.
Please tell me that I’m yours to keep!

The rain will end and will succumb
to colors when the rainbows come.
And as the sun shines bright above
it will expose our perfect love.

When we’re apart, I’m very blue,
I just can’t get enough of you.
Your lovely hair, your pretty nose,
your perfect legs, your tiny toes…

As every wave keeps rolling in,
I cannot hold my love within.
My thoughts run quickly – run so deep,
but you my Love, I’ll always keep.

Your beauty cannot be replaced.
Your silhouette, my memory traced.
You are so perfect – know it’s true.
Oh, please believe that I love you.

My love is soft and does ignite
a cry for you each lonely night.
There’s something special deep inside
which you and I can never hide.

You stole my heart. It’s all yours, but
it’s very fragile - delicate.
So promise me, that you won’t break
this tender heart, if you should take.

For if your love, away should fly,
my soul would shriek and I would die.
The earth would shake. With stomach curled,
they’d hear me scream around the world.

I’d get so sick and turn away -
I’d die a million times that day.
I love you more than you could know -
So never, ever let me go.

The water’s vast between each shore -
but this is true - I love you more.
My waves of love keep rolling in.
Together, may our lives begin?

As I need air – I so need you -
so please, my Love - please love me too.
Tell me yes and not just maybe -
be my Princess, Barbie baby.

If there are tears, I’ll kiss them dry,
so smile with me and do not cry.
Walk close with me on golden sands,
forever always, hand in hand.

©2010 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED


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louis gander

louis gander, 12 february 2013

Against Evening Skies

Before we both met - so lonely I was.
I cannot explain it - but maybe because....

Two rabbits were playing in grasses, lush green -
enjoying the sunshine - a sight so serene.
Two love birds were playing and choosing a path -
still making life’s choices, while taking a bath.
Two flowers were growing, though so intertwined -
but not at all trapped and supporting in kind.
Two ducks in the water - a hen and a drake,
were always together - on their private lake.

One day very lonely - the sun would soon set -
but then I saw something I’d never forget.
There, two lovers kissing, embraced on the shore.
It burned in my memory – as never before.
I peered in the water but all I could see -
was my lone reflection - a lonely 'one' (me).
The sun set behind them, the outline of two –
but I kept on dreaming - of being with you.

And now that I met you – I’m happy because,
I remember how lonely - how lonely I was....
I’m glad that I waited – great patience a plus –
My memory’s now real when others see us....
as lovers on beaches with magical charms -
we’re wrapped in caresses, in each others’ arms.
None will know passion - or ever forget -
as we are embracing in our silhouette -
still kissing each other as passions arise -
in silhouette fashion - against evening skies.

©2010 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED


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louis gander

louis gander, 9 february 2013

Why Angels Sing

The muscles tighten in my face
and tears come to my eyes -
each time I think of how you hurt
or hear your helpless cries.
 
You know if I could help you out,
I'd stop your pain today.
I'd use my little magic wand
to whisk them all away.
 
But if my magic wand was broke,
I'd buy them all with cash -
and then I'd torch each single one
and turn them into ash.
 
But if I couldn't burn them up
I'd open up your heart -
I'd take your sorrows- all of them -
and tear them all apart.
 
But if I couldn't tear them up
then I'd go to great length -
to throw your burdens off a cliff,
with every ounce of strength.
 
But if I wasn't strong enough
I'd haul them, height and breadth -
then watch them all splash overboard
into the ocean's depth.
 
But if your burdens didn't sink,
I'd work for many years -
right along beside you where
I'd kiss away your tears.
 
But if I couldn't dry your tears
I'd wish beyond degree -
that all your hurts would melt away
until you're bright with glee.
 
More tears go streaking down my cheeks.
I see you in great pain -
and now I've proven I can't help.
My work is all in vain.
 
Oh, how it saddens me to know
that I can't do a thing.
Yet God can heal your broken heart -
and that's why angels sing...
 
So smile awhile and lift your voice -
a voice so filled with love!
For those who hate will wallow here -
as you ascend above!
 
©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
 
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louis gander

louis gander, 7 february 2013

Patient One

FOR MANY YEARS they crowded me -
they grew so very tall...
but You, my Lord, had stunted me -
created me so small.

They pushed me off and stole the sun,
and rose up to the sky...
but every year You held me down,
and I had wondered why.

The winds and rain blew very hard
beneath them I was crushed...
and You, my Lord, had gone away,
my blaring screams were hushed.

For many years this happened -
and they'd ignore my plea...
and You, my Lord, seemed not to care,
when they would laugh at me.

---

So many years have passed since then -
a hundred years or so...
yet you, my Lord, answered my prayers,
and patience helped me grow.

A million weeds had laughed at me -
yet long ago they passed...
and you, dear Lord, protected me,
just as my prayers had asked.

For many years Your little tree -
was pushed around by weed...
but oh, dear Lord, You strengthened me
and met my every need.

And now today, I tower high.
I'm seen for many miles -
but oh, dear Lord, You taught me well,
and humbled all my smiles.

©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Psalm 37:7 (NASB) Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who carries out wicked schemes.


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louis gander

louis gander, 3 february 2013

A Wondrous Story

I'd love to be a poet - a real one, you know -
so I could write man's world off allowing God's to glow.
I'd write a wondrous story, that we could all take part
and live it in reality - each one with perfect heart.

I'd think outside my circle, with paper, ink and pen -
and think outside my flimsy box to live in peace again -
in gardens filled with blossoms - all colors full and bold -
 that I could sweep my arms across and many flowers hold.

I'd jump inside my story with animals and birds,
living in His nature and camouflaged with words -
that whisper as the breezes in true harmonic cord,
that bring us lives so unsurpassed when living with our Lord.

I'd peer up to the mountains, at several waterfalls,
that rain grace down from Heaven where every angel calls -
to show to us a perfect world where He can overwhelm -
where man rejects but God perfects His great creation's realm.

I'd never hide inside my world, but fully would expect -
that men would treat each other with a solemn, deep respect -
that women dress with modesty and also could endow -
that girls learn to curtsy slow and boys would learn to bow.

I'd stroll inside my poem free from envy, sin and hate -
and walk beside still waters where 'the way' is always straight.
And I shall keep on writing true for many, many years -
until I see no longer through my sad and yearning tears.

I'd love to be a poet - a real one, you know -
so I could write man's world off allowing God's to glow.
I'd write a wondrous story, that we could all take part
and live it in reality - each one with perfect heart.

©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander

louis gander, 2 february 2013

The GUN FIGHT !!

The sun was rising in the east
behind some hitching posts -
and weathered boards, on buildings old,
had nothing left to boast.

But I wore fancy cowboy duds,
I was a handsome sight.
A crowd of people gathered 'round
to watch this old gun fight.

The street was dead and empty
except for sin and I -
and how I ended up out here,
I'm really not sure why.


A bullet? Very perilous
if we've no self-control -
and sin is much more dangerous,
because it kills the soul.

Now noon met with humidity.
The sun was dry and hot.
Some beads of sweat rolled down my face -
my stomach, in a knot.

But no, I wasn't nervous -
though duel had begun.
I counted out ten paces -
then turned and drew my gun.

But sin is faster, furious -
much quicker than the eye.
Oh please! Dear Lord and Saviour -
I do not want to die!

And then... in just an instant,
I dropped down to my knees.
I fell as peace passed over me
and felt the gentle breeze.

But something stood in front of me.
Its shadow crossed my face.
I then saw Jesus on that cross.
He took my very place.

Ashamed, I dropped my pistol.
My pride was killed that day -
as I pulled off my fancy boots
and flung my hat away.

Now humbled on the dusty street
with crowded eyes on me -
my every pride had vanished as
I learned humility.

In faithfulness, I stood again,
though I was at a loss...
Oh, how could Jesus love me so
from that old rugged cross?

The sun was setting in the west
behind some hitching posts.
And weathered boards, on buildings old,
had nothing left to boast.

©2012 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander

louis gander, 31 january 2013

I Wander Yonder

I wander yonder over hills where those before me trod -
aimlessly through wants and needs. I find it somewhat odd.

I wander yonder guessing so and pay a heavy price -
by following some friends I have and words of ill-advice.

I wander yonder through my life and laugh along the way -
deceiving self, believing I am happy every day.

I wander yonder up until the day I get so old -
a speck of truth will be revealed that I had not been told.

I wander yonder 'til the time that I begin to ponder -
God's great faithful, loving Son, so full of grace and wonder.

©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander

louis gander, 29 january 2013

Circle Of Love

. . . . and bring our love around again in selfless peace that has no end -
as with a circle bright and true, is love of fam'ly, love of friend -
though some may laugh while others grieve, forgiveness we can sure achieve,
through God's vast blessings scattered 'round so those in need can hence receive -
the Son of God who's virgin born - through whip and nails and piercing thorn -
our sacrifice, the ultimate - a perfect Savior, bloody, torn -
because God loved and likewise we, bring certain hope that others see -
these blessings of a risen Lord so that they too could also be
in peace that's pure as snowy dove while singing praise to God above -
while standing faithful hand in hand in this, our circle filled with love . . . .

©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander, 27 january 2013

A Rainbow Life

No matter how the breezes blow,
just seek the promise, God's rainbow.
For Noah's faith was always pure,
never failing - always sure.
 
A rainbow I can see, not touch -
though it doesn't matter much.
God holds it fast, as He holds me.
Bright colors of His rainbow see.
 
So close, God's armor I will wear.
This world can't fill me with despair.
The storm clouds of the world seize
when touched, I am, with Spirit's breeze.
 
I state I'm not a 'doubting Thomas' -
but standing fast in Jesus' promise.
He parts the dark clouds of man's sin,
and brings full light of life within.
 
Before God's spectrum kisses ground,
I know His promise will be found.
I gaze - awed at His universe,
singing praise - each word and verse.
 
If joy is violet and indigo,
patience pink and peace yellow,
if kindness orange and goodness gold,
then all good fruit of His I'll hold.
 
If grace is blue and love is white,
and prayer is green and God is light,
the world's sin won't overwhelm,
for I'm in Him - another realm.
 
If life's a footrace, death blood red,
then God is rainbows of color ahead.
If we're resurrected from sin and strife -
then we have one great "Rainbow Life".
 
©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org
 
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louis gander

louis gander, 26 january 2013

A Proud American

This poem ain't a good one.
It may be crass and mean -
but if you read a few more lines,
you'll see what I have seen:
 
---

I care about appearance. I'll show off latest trends.
I'll change the way I talk and act impressing all my friends.
 
Don't call me dumb and stupid. I'm not a bit insane -
yet clueless as to pricing so I angrily complain.
 
First I waste my money on some foreign plastic toy -
and then complain there are no jobs in states like Illinois.
 
I vote for those who give me stuff like total free health care -
then think I won't be paying it (naively unaware)...
 
I want a king or emperor to handle my provisions -
tell me how to act and think and make all my decisions.
 
Don't call me dumb and stupid. I'm just confused with facts.
Just promise me more goodies now. The rich can pay my tax.
 
Wow! Every time I hear you speak, my knees begin to go.
I faint within your promises - oh, how I love you so!
 
Just deposit, every month, some cash to my account -
and I'll be so contented. Keep track of my amount!
 
And 'Bill of Rights" I'll never need - so scrap them all today.
I'm in a state of ecstasy when I hear what you say.
 
Abortion I don't care about as long as it's not me.
Allow me my vacations so that I can feel free!
 
My 1st amendment, I can't use. Why bother I, to preach -
that people ought not kill or steal? ( 'cause that's for you to teach ).
 
And I don't need the 2nd so protect me from my gun.
 Shoukl someone point a gun at me, I'll just call 9-1-1.
 
"Search and seizures" - what are they? You're welcome anytime -
and I won't flush the toilet even once if it's a crime.
 
The 9th amendment's silly. I have no need for rights -
(nor my responsibilities) - so stop these petty fights.
 
The 10th amendment, I nix too, awaiting your dictates.
Let's call ourselves "United" and eliminate the "States".
 
United, we'll be holding hands as one huge human chain -
and simply jump the border here if we spin down the drain.
 
Though foreign countries snicker, I'll vote again for you.
For I'm a proud American. My insolence shines through!

©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander

louis gander, 25 january 2013

Summer Day

There is nothing more fine on a warm summer day
than lying in grasses of clover and hay,
where breezes make music through all of the leaves,
and birds do their singing among all the trees.

A butterfly zig-zagged here hither and yon
busily flapping as I had looked on.
I raised my eyes up at the vastness of space
and wondered what God thought of His human race.

Soaking up comfort in all that I saw,
lying there silent, in skeptical awe -
pouring His beauty in nature below,
oh, how did God start it so long, long ago?

He continues to bless us year after year -
and why does He love us? It isn't too clear.
Now God did create us - all different kinds,
so what does He look for in all of our minds?

My horse wandered over and nuzzeled my head.
He wanted me up in the saddle instead.
I sat on his back, took a minute or two -
and pondered the question, pondered a clue.

As I kicked his haunches I knew as I grinned
that he would obey as I leaned to the wind.
He faithfully galloped with all of his might -
the answer revealed as I rode out of sight.

©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander

louis gander, 23 january 2013

Stalking Us

You follow me and haunt me
in terrorizing ways.
Your silence keeps me guessing here
in my most frightened gaze.

Sometimes you stalk me from my left -
and sometimes from my right.
Sometimes you're right in front of me -
or just beyond my sight.

Sometimes taller, you appear,
intimidatingly -
and every day I see you here,
I simply want to flee.

To add some distance, I sometimes
accelerate my pace.
Yet matters not, my quickened step,
I can't increase the space.

You march 'lock-step' along with me
and blatantly impede -
my privacy and liberties
exacting my same speed.

I get enraged and shake my fists -
but you make your fists too.
Once and for all, I'd be so glad
to rid myself of you.

You hang around me mimicking!
I plead with you - just GO!!
I find myself at my wit's end
escaping my own shadow.

Oh yes, just like our shadows,
temptation follows us -
stalking us where e'er we go.
That's why we need Jesus.

©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander, 20 january 2013

Prayer Of Love

Dear Lord and Savior, hear my prayer -
help me comprehend and share...

...please touch my eyes, that I might view -
in ways a blind man might see You...

...please touch my ears, that I might learn -
in ways a deaf man might discern...

...please touch my nose, that I might smell -
Your perfumes where Your flowers dwell...

...please touch my lips, so I can speak -
so bravely bold, yet ever meek...

...please touch my hands, that I might show -
Your awesome works to souls below.

...please touch my feet, without delay -
so I can walk - what others say...

...then touch my heart, from there above,
so I can give - and others love.

Amen.

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander

louis gander, 19 january 2013

Grandma

Grownups seem so funny. They never seem to change.
‘Specially my ol’ grandma. She always acted strange.
Peculiar smells escaped out when she opened up her door.
And as I stepped into her house - heard creaking in the floor.

She seemed a bit hunched over. She wasn't very thin.
Her teeth would sometimes chatter when she moved her double chin.
She decorated very nice. A corner held the broom.
And she'd have her nylons hanging ‘round the living room....

God made grandma special. Her cooking, Heaven sent.
She hadn't much to offer but she really was content.
She was always cooking with her hair back in a bun.
And always had her apron on – had little time for fun.

Sometimes I got in trouble taking cookies from her jar....
The crumbs would seem to mark my sin. I didn't get too far.
One day we had a party. She cried when she was glad.
She cried when she was happy too and cried when she was sad.

Once she claimed I was in sin. I asked her what she meant,
So she opened up her Bible and read a whole event.
I had so many questions that she took me by the hand,
She had so many answers that I couldn’t understand.

She said God loved so deeply and - death held the only key,
So back behind the bloodstains Jesus had to die for me.
Maybe sin is so disgusting that - love has to be unfair,
And maybe that's why grandma cried - when she knelt down in prayer.

When I got hurt, she kissed it well. She was the "best-est" nurse,
Then she said, "Be careful" quoting yet another verse.
She often looked so busy. She sometimes looked quite weak;
But when I left, she always had the time to kiss my cheek.

I miss my grandma very much. She died some time ago.
But when she spoke of Jesus, her face was all aglow.
When I close my eyes I see - that same familiar face,
Reminding me of Jesus and God's everlasting grace.

©2007 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander, 17 january 2013

A Moment To Smile

(A true story from southern Wisconsin - 2006 or 7)

Deep into the woods in my truck I seemed lost.
The brisk, chilly breeze was still holding the frost.
Because it was dried up and totally dead,
I decided to cut down this big tree instead.

The ants had been busy all over that tree,
before my big chain saw had made them all flee.
The noise and vibration and all the turmoil,
(had it happened to me, would have made my blood boil).

But they simply scattered if off to the races,
to other safe havens - to other safe places.
My muscles all ached from my head to my feet,
but I felt so content - with my job now complete.

It seemed that my actions were merely a bump,
to ants now so busy inside that tree stump
I wondered which one, if any, had won -
the ants or myself as I thought my job done.

As I sat on the gate of my rusty old truck,
loaded down heavy with logs - was now stuck -
and realized then that it's sometimes worthwhile,
to sit back a moment, a moment to smile.

©2007 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander, 13 january 2013

Erasure Dust

Erasure dust was scattered 'round
my make-shift desk where I was found,
inside my garden court serene,
behind a stand of evergreen.

I should have guessed. I should have known,
mistakes I made were all my own.
I wrote too fast and wrote too long
when pencil slid on paper wrong.

Could all God's people understand?
I tried to move my shaking hand.
To reach lost souls is very tough...
Oh Lord, are these words good enough?

No, back and forth erasure moves,
erasing sins that pencil proved,
that sin's mistakes can ruin lives.
They make a mess as death connives.

And next to rose that set on desk,
erasure dust is so grotesque.
Confused, I was, and ill at ease,
at makeshift desk behind the trees.

The perfect roses, red and pink,
had really made me stop to think.
But if I quit, then life grows still -
so write, I do, and always will.

Though God forgives, the pain remains.
Distracting wrongs bring mental strains.
They bring us pain, great guilt and strife,
but God brings breath, forgiveness, life.

Oh, our mistakes will sometimes be,
yet grace through faith will set us free.
When God brings forth a stiff wind gust
and blows away erasure dust.

©2012 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Ephesians 2:8
For by grace you have been saved through faith;
and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God;


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louis gander

louis gander, 12 january 2013

Reminiscing

Something way down deep inside
my lost and lonely soul -
had eaten me until I died
of all my self-control.

Someone special lent a hand
that I did not deserve -
and touched an inner fragile strand -
a close and tender nerve.

I knew not what to make of it -
that kind, unselfish act.
My knees got weak and I admit -
was thankful. That's a fact.

And then I sensed a flicker as
a flame on candle waves -
and saw their bumper sticker
that read, "Smile! Jesus Saves!"

Then something in my reddened eyes
had made it hard to see -
when choked, I was, and all my cries
came pouring out of me.

So stunned in awe, I stopped to think
of all I'm guilty of.
I know my sin - once set in ink -
was wiped away with love.

Now, reminiscing has a way
to judge my many years -
so hymns in church on Sunday's now -
can well my eyes with tears.

©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander, 10 january 2013

Obeyed?

Here is another true story poem (summer 1934)
about my grandmother (Ida McDermott) and my mother (Ruth)
who traveled every day between their farm at North Clayton, Wisconsin
to to deliver cream to Soldier's Grove as told to me by my mother.
(Told in 'first person' from my mother's perspective...)

I had got on and sat upon our wagon load of goods.
all set to view the country hue on rustic road through woods.
But mom said no, I couldn't go. I rarely ever stayed -
but this time did so down I slid. I'm glad that I obeyed.

Our old wagon, always saggin' had rough, rugged boards -
but it did hold that precious load as she had started towards -
the creamery - a guarantee - of how we paid our bills -
in such a life, excessive strife - through vale against the hills.

She left that day on road of clay delivering with care -
four dusty mile - with grimaced smile - and cream that must get there.
Familiar sounds - some barking hounds, a crow up in a tree -
and tough routine, unlike a queen, that she would never see.

Out of the blue without a clue -around a curve and hill -
a drunken guy - flew passing by - like we were sitting still -
then ripped the side of Topsy's hide and threw mom off her seat.
She landed hard, but not too scarred, between the horses feet.

Though somewhat numb, she scrambled some from under hooves and wheels.
A bit perplexed, what happened next - she scrambled and did feel,
a massive rock where she took stock and hid as God provides.
Protected there in silent prayer from grace that never hides.

Some seconds spent, bewilderment, that held them there at bay -
so trampled not, she never got - before they ran away.
She tried to nurse ol' Topsy's curse. Oh, why did God allow -
old Topsy's death with its last breath and further hardships now?

The wagon load could not be sold. I thought that I would scream.
But mama taught that I ought not - to cry over spilled cream.
Is life not fair? Does God not care? Well, mama knew His way...
Obeyed was why - so safe was I. She thanked the Lord that day.

I had got on and sat upon our wagon load of goods.
all set to view the country hue on rustic road through woods.
But mom said no, I couldn't go. I rarely ever stayed -
but this time did so down I slid - and glad that I obeyed.

©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander, 7 january 2013

Life Was...

(A true story poem from the summer of 1934
as told to me by my mother, Ruth)
I hope you enjoy "Life Was..."

Worked like a mule, when not in school, below the scorching sun.
I couldn't treat my calloused feet. My work was never done.

Near idle plows, I milked the cows. A barn, we didn't have -
but under stars, the land was ours and where our cows would calve.

With weary hands I filled the cans. Their tails they would flick -
and sting my eyes while swatting flies. Then bucket, they would kick.

Two hours flat, was done with that, from my familiar stool.
The cows backed off their drinking trough where I put milk to cool.

The morning after, I worked faster, hitching up the team.
One called Nancy, the other Topsy - hauled our milk and cream.

Those two old nags had swayback sags. They were a stubborn lot.
I must confess, they lacked finesse. Race horses, they were not.

The wagon bad, but all we had, so up my brother climbed.
The little whelp was not much help, but "Giddy-up!" he chimed.

As we would sing, the cans would cling the four miles into town.
Population: Twenty seven - but that's if we're around.

With morning sun, that work was done - but now, another day.
We'd fertilize while bread would rise and maybe bail some hay.

I always worked - and never shirked - my duties. I was nine.
But God gave strength to me at length - and life was truly fine.

©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander

louis gander, 5 january 2013

Faithful Footsteps (a fun one)

Okay, here's a 'twist'.
The word that rhymes is not in this poem.
Just for fun, I've inserted another word.
Can you guess all the rhyming words?  Write them down as you go along... (no peeking, they're at the bottom)

---

An old man lived on the outskirts of town,
wore an old suit that was tattered and
gray.

His hair, snowy white, was always unkempt.
Because kids made fun, he was full of con-
sideration.

Years back, when in school, he make a mistake.
He once, on her desk, put a poisonous -
mushroom.

Now he didn't know that the mushroom was bad.
and when she arrived, she got really -
pleased,

because she liked mushrooms on all types of things,
pizza and pasta - and on chicken
soup.

But then she noticed - removed it from sight.
She knew about mushrooms and knew it wasn't -
edible.

She asked who had done it. This very young child,
didn't admit it - but sat there and -
felt guilty.

Despite good intentions he misunderstood.
He couldn't admit it, now tell me, who
is he?

His conscience held hostage, he couldn't ignore,
Was this still a child that mom could -
forgive?

Though all his emotions were torn far apart,
he learned a good lesson and made a new -
Friend.

He started to give and help out the others,
helping with strangers, sisters and -
with their needs.

Just when we think that we've figured life out,
We let out our holler and let out our -
chest.

I learned that humbleness Satan will thwart,
and with good intentions, we still will fall -
far,

far from Gods promise, far from above.
Once sacrifice fixed it but now it's His -
grace.

He later admitted to teacher, Miss Laurie,
"I thought it was good, I am very -
wrong."

Well, she understood and the story ends here.
He learned a good lesson and had a good -
education.

Wisdom was gained far back in his childhood,
He wasn't perfect but he knew he was -
bad.

Will Heaven we see, if we're very proud?
Will our pride cripple? Will we be -
dead?

Jesus gives life! Don't let Satan deceive,
for we are forgiven if we'll only -
have faith.

For even the demons - they're shuddering still.
Do they believe, and do His good -
commands?

Yes, Jesus proves faithful, time after time,
so follow His footsteps and you'll always -
rhyme!

2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Just in case you're unsure of some of the 'rhyming' words... here they are:
Brown
Contempt
Snake
Mad
Wings
Right
Smiled
Would
Adore
Start
Brothers
Shout
Short
Love
Sorry
Year
Good
Allowed
Believe
Will
And of course the last word "rhyme" is correct


number of comments: 4 | rating: 7 | detail

louis gander

louis gander, 1 january 2013

Signs

Reflecting back to my childhood in the 1960's, I wrote this story poem.  I hope you enjoy it.
 
There, spaced along the highway were twelve inexpensive signs.
Just simple words of black on white next to some rigid pines.
The signs were spaced just far enough they caught my drifting eye -
so pondered I, each single word as they went marching by...
---
"For God..." "so loved..." "the world..." "that He gave..." "His only..." "begotten Son..."
"that whosoever..." "believeth in Him..." "should not perish..."
"but have..." "everlasting life..." "John 3:16"
---
So many times from grandma's house we read 'John three-sixteen' -
and millions more had seen this verse against the evergreen.
My dad, my mom, my brother, I - in humbleness would read
those words as we were driving by and faithfully did heed.

Now who had thought of doing this and painted them with care -
then dug the holes in God's green earth and set them up to share -
to other people driving by so they too could embrace
this verse of loving kindness - of vast forgiving grace?

I read those words each time we passed and wondered who'd take time
and paint the words for profit not - not even for a dime.
I wondered who that man could be each time that we passed by -
and wondered as some years went by - whose signs had caught my eye.

Yes, even as a teen I thought, who painted each of those -
then did the work to put them up? I pondered, just suppose -
he cared not for his pocket book but wanted to impart,
with work and pure compassion - some love within his heart.

Well, nothing lasts forever and sometimes something breaks -
so dad pulled to the shoulder and then hit the car's old brakes.
He took a hammer from the trunk. Bored, waiting for my dad,
I saw him fix a broken sign - and then I knew who had.

©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander, 28 december 2012

The Terrorizer (a riddle)

It's smaller than a meteor and hasn't that much girth -
yet stronger than the largest bomb and could destroy the Earth.

It can be smooth as velvet and sometimes it can run -
or cooler than a summer breeze or hotter than the sun.

It's smaller than an average gun but started many wars.
Oh, but its so lazy too, escaping many chores.

It started every argument that those around can hear.
It's something most will never lose and always very near.

Receiving orders from the brain, air flowing from the lung -
but if you don't quite get it yet, just bite your wicked tongue!

©2006 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

Psalm 10:7 (NASB) “His mouth is full of curses and deceit and oppression; Under his tongue is mischief and wickedness.”

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louis gander

louis gander, 26 december 2012

A Poet's Prayer

"Father," I pray as I walk along,
"give me the words that would flow like a song.
A poem of promise, of hope and of love
that would focus lost sinners on You up above....

The moon's shining bright from behind an oak branch,
but it's cold here tonight on my dear humble ranch.
I'd be so happy if I was a tree,
for they stand much taller, much taller than me.

Their tops are much closer to Heaven I know,
and they just get closer, the more that they grow.
There's no clouds in the sky - but if so, they would be
joyously singing up there with Thee.

The stars in the sky seem much brighter tonight.
They must be so close they reflect Heaven's light.
The gold, alabaster - the pearls and brass
I bet shine like prisms through diamond-like glass.

Oh, to get closer to Heaven - one peek....
could give me the thoughts that would make these words speak.
The sights would bring words and to earth I would bring
the poem of poems - itself it would sing.

Instead, here I stand in the shivering cold,
a mindless numb man who was late getting old.
But here, down on earth, I'll perform every task,
and faithfully do everything that You ask.

I know that these people will not have a clue,
because this small poem cannot describe You.
So quickly this world forgets who You are,
They miss (as they're sleeping), the bright Morning Star.

I know that the God of Love's heart had to grieve,
when Heaven's gates opened to let Your Son leave -
to die on a cross that folks want to forget.
They just do not care - not one little bit.

But because of Your grace and faith, I believe.
You're the Great Poet and me You don't leave.
You live deep within, so I'll faithfully start -
for the greatest of poems come deep from the heart.

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander, 21 december 2012

Tears No Longer

Behind the doors of many homes,
no matter where you go -
a multitude of people weep.
Their tears forever flow...

I sat behind my mommy in
the back seat of our car.
My daddy did the driving, but
we didn't get too far.

My mom and I were talking,
and we were smiling wide,
but someone ran the traffic light
and hit us hard broad-side.

The truck came out of nowhere -
the driver, DUI.
And buckled in her seat belt, mom
had watched my daddy die.

I woke up in a hospital -
in pain for several days.
Our fragile world turned up-side-down
in many, many ways...

"Jesus, heal my broken heart.
I feel emotion's tug,
whenever mommy holds me tight
and gives me daddy's hug.
Embraced below Your sunsets
through visions of the wreck -
I know my mom is crying too.
Her tears run down my neck.

"She says we'll be in Heaven there.
It is her only prayer.
Daddy, mother, also I -
are in Your precious care.
Though she forgives the driver -
forget? She never will.
And though the years are passing by,
our tears are flowing still.

"But please forgive me Jesus -
I can't get on my knees.
Fun and laughter, drugs and beer
is all the world sees.
Is several years of crying worth
some stranger's day of fun?
'They know not what they do' You said.
Our tears forever run.

"You hear all my petitions
My deepest thoughts I share.
Your great omniscient presence
surrounds my wheel chair.
And I am not discouraged.
Through faith in You, I know -
in Heaven, we'll be together -
where tears no longer flow."

©2012 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander, 19 december 2012

Love To Love

It started out as others, when I got dressed today -
ate breakfast with my fam'ly, for that was just our way.
You dropped me off at school. Your love shone in your eyes.
We hugged and kissed each other. We said our last "Goodbye's".
As I stepped to the entrance, I turned around once more -
and waved to you one final time - then stepped on through the door.

I saw some other teachers. They do what teachers do.
They all had smiled, said "hi" to me - and I said "hi" back too.
I soon got to my classroom. Some other friends were there.
I chatted with my classmates some and then sat in my chair.
Obey the teachers, I was taught. I followed every rule -
but no one knew that this would be, our final day at school.

Life usually, will glide along - and all goes fairly well -
but those are times we soon forget how close we are to hell.
We soon forget that God is love and hates our every sin -
but selfish man gets what he wants as he is dead within.
Not even one short moment here, should ever pass us by -
where Jesus holds our inner thoughts and we don't question why.

Though God hates sin - do we as much? For what man wishes, weaves -
his 'wants' to be accepted - until himself deceives.
From smoking, drugs and alcohol or any selfish thing -
there's someone who will pay the price for what these habits bring.
Why is it there are people who will only love to hate.
I pray that others will be saved - before it is too late.

Oh, why do we love other 'gods' including 'killing games'?
Why do we swear, show disrespect, call God [our Father] names?
Why don't we often worship - honor father, mother?
Why are we never faithful - steal, lie and murder?
Why are we very jealous, envious and covet?
Why not confess, repent? Oh, why will we not do it?

I heard that last announcement. Today, pure evil flowed.
Now I'm okay. I'm in HIS arms, because HE loves me so.
I know it's hard to hold back tears from feeling deeply blue -
but I so love you mommy still - and Jesus says so too.
I'm so amazed to see this place you couldn't even dream of -
a place of immense beauty - where here, we love to love.

 
In memory of the 20 school children and 6 staff/teachers at Sandy Hook School, Newtown, CT
 
©2012 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander, 16 december 2012

I'll Not Forget

My little Angel sat in school
to learn her A B C's -
yet no one knows the 'half of it'
to put my mind at ease...

There's something in the way I talk
that seems so different now -
that weighs me down here on my knees
and makes me take this vow:

I'll not forget those days we spent
together - you and me.
I'll not forget our memories
and they will always be.

I'll not forget your sunshine smile,
the freckles on your skin.
I'll not forget your flood of love
that flowed from deep within.

I'll not forget our little games
we played - like 'hide and seek'.
I'll not forget your kisses from
your lips upon my cheek.

I'll not forget those little tears -
those times I saw you weep -
then mixed with mine, ran down my cheek
before you fell asleep.

I'll not forget your final hug
was very, very tight.
I'll not forget your final wave
was such a lovely sight.

I'll not forget your first small step
or your first day at school.
I'll not forget God's wonderment -
my precious little jewel.

I'll not forget your favorite clothes,
or favorite ice cream choice.
I'll not forget your little ears
that heard your teacher's voice.

My little Angel sat in school
to learn her A B C's -
It's God who knows 'the all of it'
that puts my mind at ease...

In memory of the 20 children
and 6 adults killed at Newtown, CT

©2012 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander, 11 december 2012

Born Again

Oh, how I thought I knew it all when I was in my youth -
but as I turn in circles now I find an ugly truth -
that time had shut a door on each decision I had made
and now I have to suffer from the high price I have paid.

Now Jesus led me as a youth but I had vainly went
the stubborn way I wanted to. My whole life I had spent -
going my own selfish way through each and every door -
and thinking that each new one was much better than before.

But then I looked around me as the final door slammed shut.
So stunned, I was - completely - as it echoed in my gut.
I walked through each door willingly to get to where I am -
and now my soul is naked as I stand in front of Him.

But then my God allowed me there to reach back with my hand
and open up that final door. I didn't understand...
I stepped back through and found myself where I had been last week -
and then I saw another door so took another peek.

It too, had opened up for me - so I stepped through again -
and there I was two weeks ago right back where I had been.
So on and on I went through doors as fast as I could run -
until I was a child again - then back where I'd begun.

Now this time I will have no pride and this time I won't fight.
I'll follow in His footsteps and I'll follow Him just right.
Now each door that God opens makes us one close happy team -
and everything goes perfect 'til I wake up from my dream.

---

I only had one lonely chance to live an upright way -
but I messed up. I put me here. There is no more to say...
except that Jesus pulls me from my putrid, sinful grime -
and gives me one more final chance to get it right this time.

©2012 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander, 8 december 2012

Nativity Christmas

Does someone call as snowflakes fall
upon my window sill?
Then comes a sleigh. The horses neigh,
in spirit of goodwill.

There's not a breeze. My mind's at ease.
They bid me, "Come" they say.
So I step out. There is no doubt -
that this is Christmas Day.

I hop aboard and ride on toward -
a town that's splashed with sights.
I look ahead at green and red.
I love those Christmas lights.

The air is crisp. I see a wisp -
on front of horses' mane -
that bounced with pep at every step.
The horses did not wane.

Heard sleigh bells chime through all that time
until I got to town -
And hooves had clopped until they stopped
as I arrived downtown.

Nativity... I smiled with glee -
heard carols in the air.
The shepherds spied. The three Magi
saw Jesus sleeping there.

A camel knelt. In joy they dwelt -
in cushioned stable hay -
A scene on earth of virgin birth -
where one man came to pray.

A poor old man, all wrinkled tan,
was kneeling on the ground.
His hair was messed but he was blessed
as snow fell all around.

Some kids walked through, in contrast to
his contrite position.
And then they felled the cane he held -
reckless recognition.

God woos each one who seek His Son -
but they paid no attention.
I heard them joke each time they spoke
within their own dimension.

He reached in vain to get his cane.
His countenance was grim -
then heard him say, "wife passed away."
as I gave it to him.

Through eyelids tight, they drew my sight -
I saw more tears come through.
It touched my heart, tore me apart -
so I knelt right there too.

Snowflakes falling, Jesus calling -
calling from above.
Can you live it? Christmas spirit -
wooing all, in love...

©2012 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Mark 2:14 (KJV)
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.


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louis gander

louis gander, 5 december 2012

Beyond My Weathered Window...

Beyond my weathered window,
beyond my little view -
I see one from my rocker and,
I pray you see one too -
see one on each hillside,
see one on your way,
see one in each valley,
see one every day.

The moon shines on the water,
the sea reflects the light.
Boats pass through this painting,
with sails of halo white.

A sea bird glides in silhouette,
above the sails masts,
above the ropes and bollards,
as breezes travel past.

Final work arrives at dusk
before reflections cease -
on piers I've known since childhood
on this, God's masterpiece.

But few have seen this sunset,
and fewer wonder why -
God's bright and vivid colors
still wash across the sky.

And people race His colors -
oblivious and blind -
as God continues painting
so generously kind.

Wide brush strokes still continue,
with colors bold and lush.
Though 'man' has stole the meanings,
God still holds the brush.

Beyond my weathered window,
beyond my little view -
I watch Him from my rocker and,
I pray you see Him too -
see Him in the sunsets,
see Him in your prayers,
see Him in the life you live,
and see Him everywhere.

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander, 3 december 2012

A Perfect Masterpiece

Peered I, up to the heavens. So stunned, I stood in awe.
His hand swept over East to West and this is what I saw...
A sight exposing every truth, that made me nearly faint.
A sight, that in a million years, no man could ever paint.
A special, brand new masterpiece that God creates each day.
A special, brand new vision that He gives along my way.

I see a vast creation that is pure outside and in
before His work is tarnished by horrendous, evil sin.
He paints His skies so differently. No two are just the same.
He paints the creatures on the earth - the wild and the tame.
The sunsets over mountain peaks are not identical -
and snowflakes falling from the sky - not precisely equal.

The clouds float freely with the breeze while rolling on thin air.
Though no two skies are just alike, they share the canvas there.
And no two meadows look the same as I walk down His path.
I see no trees identical when grown through nature's wrath.
Not equal are the mountain streams or creatures of the wild.
And so unique the sunsets are - as faces of a child.

So patiently, a flower bud waits ready to unfurl.
A swirl of brilliant petals bloom. I see a little girl.
Her whole life laid in front of her that she became forthwith -
another link within the chain this world had yanked her with.
Priorities had dragged her from her work to shopping mall.
And every day, a masterpiece - yet she had missed them all.

Now richly dressed as all the rest who never seemed to care,
she peered inside a cancer ward and saw young children there.
She saw the face of one small boy with cute and chubby cheeks -
and though the tears had dried away she saw the many streaks.
They washed away the happiness in life so short, but giving -
as sin has made the sky to fall on innocent still living.

God waves His hand across the sky, but have I failed to see -
out way beyond my own routine, beyond my vanity?
God paints a perfect masterpiece on each and every child.
I finally saw His masterpiece when that young child smiled.
Peered I, up to the heavens. Through tears, I prayed in awe.
His hand swept over East to West and that is what I saw...

©2012 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

 
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louis gander

louis gander, 27 november 2012

AMERICA!

They're Patriots, they're fighting! But Lord, who understands?
Their gift to heirs was liberty, was fragile in their hands.

A liberty that's priceless and was paid with hero's blood,
but liberty that's fragile and as latent as a bud.
Some day the waves of grain will grow in nation gold and bright -
but now the revolution's fight is questioned whether right...

I see a sacrifice so great, from will that never bends,
I see the loss of families, their farms and closest friends.
I see that they were tested greatly under Washington -
and they were tested all the more in battle that was won.

Yes, tested with the seasons that brought hot and cold extremes,
and tested with great trials that had crushed the smallest dreams.
So many lost a limb or two. Some others met their grave,
but great were all the freedoms that to us they freely gave.

Now we'd enjoy these freedoms, if - we care to really own
and guard with every vote so that our freedoms could be sown -
to later generations that would seize the free baton -
to hold our fragile liberties so freedom carries on.

Years later, I saw clamoring and stumbling unsure -
and one by one God-given rights were trampled here under -
the feet of every voter who demanded more and more -
the money clear from Washington 'til all of us were poor.

They argued, as in protest and they fervently appealed,
to eat up necessary seed for next year's harvest yield -
and voted for more cretins who would place their final bet
on wasteful obligations that would pile up more debt.

Naive we are and so deceived with all the 'pc' spin,
"He'll give you lots more money if you'll simply vote for him!"
They buy our selfish, greedy votes and bribe us all until
elected, they're securely fixed right there up on 'The Hill'.

So arrogant, those cretins are, that they need never hide.
They know their office is secure and wear this thing called 'pride'.
They promise us a silver moon (that's moldy old swiss cheese -
with holes in thick promises that shift there with the breeze).

So powerless we all become when they tie up our hands.
They hasten us and chasten us - yet no one understands..!
There's just no more that we can give, for they have taken all -
in taxes, fines and hidden fees, licenses, et al.

They rushed so quickly to the aid of those too big to fail -
and then ignored the rest of us that they refused to bail.
Collecting campaign contributions from the greedy ones -
they then give them the very last of our few meager funds.

Refusing to repent and out beyond the furthest hope,
I see a country dangling from an unforgiving rope -
from poor results that legalized and drove our morals loose.
I see inflated, selfish heads above a tightened noose.

The feet still kick and wiggle as we take our final breath -
and offer no assurance from a sad and certain death -
because we still refuse the God of patient, certain wrath!
Oh, how can we complain when "we, the people" chose our path?

We've mortgaged off the waves of grain and every native park!
We've mortgaged every standing tree - the branches, trunks and bark!
We've mortgaged off Mount Rushmore and the Lady Liberty -
who shines so very beautiful! It's pure insanity!!

I see a sacrifice so great - but our 'will' never bends.
We lose our farms and families - we lose our closest friends.
I see we're harshly tested from a Washington DC -
and we'll be tested all the more until our freedoms see...

We're Patriots! We're fighting! But Lord, who understands?
Our gift to heirs, true liberty, is fragile in our hands.

©2012 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander, 24 november 2012

Sin Still Stinks!

BASED on a true story
during gooseberry picking season, 1934
as told to me by my mother, Ruth.
---

On our old North Clayton farmstead -
my brother, sister, I -
were picking berries with our mom,
when brother caught my eye.

In each our hands, a bucket with,
our minds on all our work.
We each were very diligent
'til brother went berserk.

Wisconsin's early summer brought us
many ripe gooseberries -
but never could we match what mom,
within her bucket carried.

God's trees stretched high above our heads,
His briers pulled our clothes -
yet creek ran faithful, east to west -
while heat, with sun, had rose.

You may not know our brother yet,
but all of us could tell,
that trouble followed him around
and knew him very well.

He said, "Look at this big kitten!"
He poked it with a stick -
but when it turned and raised its tail,
our mother shouted quick.

Although it wasn't humorous,
we giggled in our fun.
But when mom said it was a skunk -
we sure knew how to run!

Now sin can sure deceive us.
It's fun, this world thinks -
but it is not to play with so,
remember, sin still stinks!

©2012 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander, 11 november 2012

What Is Art?

"What is art?” if to me, you would ask,
I'd say its a laborious, challenging task.
God creates life that we can't comprehend -
then puts it in nature, beginning to end...
We suffer the challenge to come even near
the beautiful landscapes we hold ever dear.
The brilliant full sunsets that take breath away
only proves artwork is futile and gray.
Though it’s improved and forever is honed,
creation is simply just mimicked and cloned.
With all of the paintings and all of the words,
none can replace nature’s flowers or birds.
I search, and within me, I find that great art -
comes from creation through a humble heart.
So never take credit, profits or fame -
for next to creation, our work is a shame. 
 
©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
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louis gander, 10 november 2012

Shattered Glass

A gold fish swam to the glass.
It's tail fin made the water stir
against the glass. It peered beyond,
but it could swim no further.

I reached too - but couldn't through.
That invisible glass prevented me.
Surviving in our own little worlds
isn't always meant to be.

We have eyes but what deceives?
For everything will come to pass -
this side of the present tense,
and out beyond the solid glass.

Sins law, like glass, invisible.
It's nothing but a deadly lie.
I reached but couldn't feel His touch.
It stayed between my God and I.

I was deep in waters sin.
Within there is no air.
There is no grace inside the law -
and faith cannot live there.

But then one night some time ago,
in quiet stillness, the world heard -
a star shone bright above a babe.
Something big on earth occurred.

He reputed worldly wisdom.
His death on earth did pass,
but heard before that quiet night -
the shout that shattered glass....

"Abba, Father" shattered it.
Sin's law in pieces, everywhere -
forgotten, forgiven, gone.
Grace unlocked us from despair.

Hope washed us ever closer.
Free from circling without breath,
free from sinful bondage where,
the wages of sin is death.

Some day soon we'll see our graves -
yet sin no longer holds us slaves.
The glass is broken. Make no waves -
just tell the world that Jesus saves!

©2008 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

Romans 6:23 (KJV) For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

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louis gander, 4 november 2012

An Old Abandoned Cabin

Nestled in a valley in a clearing of large oak,
while sunlight touched but treetops where the baby robins woke,
stood an old abandoned cabin that had seen some better days,
had once seen better fam'lies and had once seen better ways.
A little stream meandered by with water clean and pure
that seemed to say, "Come drink from me. Your problems, I will cure."
And sparkled bright, the diamonds that had glistened in the sky,
as did the dew on God's green earth that blessed the patient eye.

Hither, yon the squirrels worked and did what squirrels do.
They shared their ample spacious trees where little finches flew -
where trees wore brilliant yellow, red and golden colored suits
where leaves had wiggled in the breeze among leftover fruits.
But when the sun had cleared the hill and peeked between the trees
exposing all the guilt of man and sin that Heaven sees -
it brought to light the darkness deep inside those timbered wall,
where dust and cobwebs fought a war and won man's mighty fall.

Now just a second, let's step back and tell me how they can -
how tiny little spiders beat the big and mighty man?
Just maybe, man with ego big, was thought too big to fail -
and now the dust and spiderwebs own every board and nail.
That cabin once was filled with 'men', with love and life and health,
but now sits there abandoned and long gone his pride and wealth.
I once knew well the fam'ly who had lived inside those walls
of that abandoned cabin where our Savior's voice still calls.

If mighty man's big head was pulled along with his conceit
from clouds so he'd descend back down and settle on his feet -
then maybe he could still enjoy the cabin in the trees
and persevere through patience with the autumn colored leaves -
that dance above the cabin roof, that seem to taunt en mass -
to each and every one of us until possessions pass -
that man was beaten down by bugs who haven't any clue
that God is still in full control over me and you...
©2012 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander, 1 november 2012

Christmas Eyes

My mama was a loving spouse who did her very best
to keep my father happy and she never did protest -
to what my father said and did to add to her abuse -
and all the things I saw him do. There wasn't an excuse.
My father was a spiteful man who argued quite a lot
and it had hurt my mama so that she became distraught..
I pulled weeds from her garden and I chopped a lot of wood
that heated up our cooking stove. I helped her all I could.
As we prepared for Christmas Day and all that was in store,
enjoyed, I did, those special times with mama even more.
Yes, more than any other month could ever even boast,
December was that special time that we enjoyed the most.

One cold December morning came when father went to find,
a full and perfect Norway Spruce. (I tagged along behind).
The woods were vast. There must have been a million evergreen
which held a billion snowflakes out in sparkling winter scene.
Reflective sunlight shimmered bright which made my eyelids squint
so I looked down and found that all my footsteps made a print -
in snow so fun to walk through as it crushed beneath my feet -
(although at times the drifts caused me to detour or retreat).
That made me pause and catch a glimpse of smoke from fireplace
meandering above our house so wanting to embrace -
a family fraught with nervous fears and silent times 'to boot' -
as father, with his ego big, had muffled mama mute.

But fragrance from the many pine had found my little nose -
and tiny snowflakes glistened while they settled on our clothes -
reminding me that all is well despite my parents quarrels
and I could choose a better life with character and morals -
to live a life, not crooked, as we trekked from place to place -
to find that perfect tree to decorate our living space.
We trampled each direction and at last he gave a sigh.
We finally found that perfect spruce - my father, saw and I.
The night was strangely silent as we sat around our tree
when mom's love and compassion had been proven true to me.
Out through the corner of my eye, I viewed dejected years -
and though she tried to hold them back, I saw those lonely tears.

Throughout that night the light escaped reflecting off the floor,
and whispered prayers were carried out from underneath her door...
But light no longer flickers from the candles flaming tips
and silenced are the verses that I heard from mama's lips.
I know that father long regrets his former wicked ways -
but through my tears, I won't forget those special Christmas days
with scenes of the Nativity and tree exactly right,
with memories of mama and the truth that came to light.
Yes, this was many years ago that father and I spied -
then cut that perfect Norway Spruce the day before she died.
I heard his weeping through the door - such deep, repentant cries -
but now he sees as mama did... through humble Christmas eyes.

©2012 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Romans 10 (NASB)
8 But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart”
—that is, the word of faith which we are preaching,
9 that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord,
and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved;
10 for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness,
and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation.
11 For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes in Him will not be disappointed.”
12 For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek;
for the same Lord is Lord of all, abounding in riches for all who call on Him;
13 for “Whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.”


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louis gander

louis gander, 1 november 2012

Joyful Tears

In quantities, our teardrops fall,
they drip off sorry faces -
resulting from our broken hearts.
We save them in our vases -
for yet another lofty dream -
another selfish rose.
Is anyone the wiser?
Tell me no one knows.

And here, our vases set alone,
still filled with empty dreams.
Oh, everybody has them -
it's just the way, it seems.
It's popularity for some -
for others; riches, gold.
But when it's over, said and done,
their rose is dead and cold.

The tears we shed are endless,
and from our souls drawn.
We water every selfish want -
then later wish them gone.
We hold our very special vase -
we think of only 'me' -
but rather where still waters are -
our tears of joy should be.

Do roses last forever?
There is a day they die -
then scattered are the pieces of
the heart that happened by.
Lost pieces, scattered everywhere -
forever, broken are -
and at the end of shattered dreams,
there's one eternal scar.

When in, our earthly dreams, we live,
regret is always sure -
for when we grow our selfish rose,
it simply won't endure.
I often wonder why we work,
and waste away the years -
accomplishing so little with
such lonely, painful tears.

So walk beside still waters.
Through joyful tears you'll see -
a love that never wavers and,
a grace that's always free.
And if your faith is watered
and grows from day to day -
there's really nothing more to do -
for joyful is the way!

©2011 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander, 26 october 2012

His Works

He laid a sheet of paper down
upon a table top -
and from his chair he wrote and wrote
so faithfully, non-stop.

They laughed at him and bragged about
the works that they had done.
They filled vast reams of papers, yet -
he had but only one.

They boasted of the many works
their fancy hands exposed.
Great works in rich calligraphy
were pridefully disclosed.

Again they stood around and laughed,
but never did he gloat.
They laughed and scoffed and scoffed and laughed
at everything he wrote..

His life was written on one page -
but what? I didn't know.
The paper he had laying there
was as the driven snow.

Sorrow filled his teary face.
This world fatigued his soul.
The agony that he endured
had taken quite a toll.

I saw that many people judged,
made fun of and demeaned,
ridiculed and criticized
his works that they had seen.

Yet faithfully, he wrote much more.
Were no works written there?
Still blank, his paper had appeared.
I thought it quite unfair.

Unfair that he was working hard
on words that wouldn't be.
Unfair that he was judged by those
on work they couldn't see.

Sometimes we think life's all in vain -
those things we do for God -
but He knows every one of us
and how, through life, we've trod.

So why was his completely blank?
Confused, I sat to think -
but then I learned his words were penned
with tears instead of ink.

It's not the works that we can see
that's valued on our page -
but rather what was done in love
that God will one day gauge.

©2012 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander, 24 october 2012

Where Are You Lord?

I searched and searched but couldn't find -
along still waters I was blind.
I was confused, I was dismayed
until I stopped, until I prayed...

Where are You Lord?

Soften my selfish eyes that stray
that I might see a better way -
so I can find You.

Where are You Lord?

Soften my selfish ears of choice
that I might hear Your still, small voice -
so I can find You.

Where are You Lord?

Soften my selfish hands that wring
that can't hold firm to Your blessing -
so I can find You.

Where are You Lord?

Soften my straight and prideful nose
that I won't judge and won't suppose -
so I can find You.

Where are You Lord?

Soften my foolish, selfish words
so I'll enjoy Your singing birds -
so I can find You.

Where are You Lord?

Soften me as a potter would
who'll mold me into what I should -
so I can find You.

Where are You Lord?

Soften me with a discipline
that I might stop, turn, then begin -
so I can find You.

Where are You Lord?

Soften my selfish heart so I
might feel the hurt, the faintest cry -
so I can find You.

Where are You Lord?

Were still waters meant to be?
Although I searched, I couldn't see.
Yet there behind me all the way
was Jesus. Then I heard Him say,

"I AM above all
nature, beauty and goodness,
power, supremacy and holiness,
wrath, sovereignty and greatness,
mercy, compassion and fairness,
grace, knowledge and boldness,
respect, teaching and kindness,
love, patience and faithfulness,
loyalty, giving and happiness,
peace, joy and gladness".

I had searched, but couldn't see -
and I was at a loss -
until I stopped and He found me -
from high upon a cross.

So now it is
I follow Him -
in hands that are the Potter's -
faithfully and steadfast,
with endurance and perseverance,
along His peaceful waters.

©2012 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander, 24 october 2012

ONLY One Journey

I walked through the valley of the shadow of death.
I turned each direction. The sight took my breath.
The way through that valley was ever so wide,
and sin was so rampant that many had died.

Lust, lies and deception, like grains of the sand,
the bodies and souls - they covered the land.
Stepped over, I did - strewn here and there,
for they were all lost, in death, unaware.

It seemed so atrocious. I felt so inept -
but I journeyed along as I carefully stepped.
So many had fallen far short of their goals,
and the valley was covered with forgotten souls.

Now so many limbs and bodies were crossed,
that each proved our sin has a very high cost.
In every direction, I trembled in fear,
yet some tracks pressed on, so vividly clear.

So many had prospered, so many were great,
but they had all worked to a merciless fate.
I stepped over more - the young and the old.
Each day some would fall and then would turn cold.

It seemed, was no end - as a fight in a sewer -
then noticed the footprints, were fewer and fewer.
I pressed on ahead through trials and all,
I fought the good fight and then heard His last call.

The footsteps had dwindled to just a small few.
Then leaving the valley, there were only two.
Now one set of footprints went straight on ahead,
while the other one stopped, and turned back instead.

But through the dim darkness, a light I could see.
It fell as a halo - and then covered me...
My armor still glimmered as if still brand new,
despite all the work that He asked me to do.

There up from the valley and over the crest,
I saw that old cross and knew I was blessed.
Some friends greeted me. There were but a few.
Then I laid down my cross, as they had done too.

We're living here now, above valley and loss -
for we wore our armor and looked to the cross.
It's easy to know now, how we gathered here,
despite those one set of footprints, it's clear.

When He is in us, we are more than a sparrow -
we walk in His sandals, the straight and the narrow.
You have but one journey. He guides your steps now.
He'll show you the way and - He will show you how.

He knows that the valley of death will bring pain.
It'll run you in circles and drive you insane.
But wear your whole armor. Endure to the end -
for He is your Savior, Defender and Friend.

©2006 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Psalm 23:4 (KJV)
“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil;
for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.”


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louis gander, 22 october 2012

HIS Hands

"I've cried my eyes out every day.
My burdens, I've out-poured
in never-ending prayers to You.
Why can't You hear me Lord?

"Oh Lord, the stinging hurts me so.
They smear my wounds with salt.
My mind is scarred and You know why.
These burdens aren't my fault.

"And physically, I'm also scarred.
Each hurts a different way.
So tell me... once again I ask,
'Do You hear what I say?'"

"As days go by, I cannot cope.
Will nothing ever change?
If there were different burdens Lord,
I'd happily exchange.

"I'd trade all mine for other ones.
This pain is just too great.
Please let me trade my burdens in,
if it is not too late."

And then I saw my Savior's hands,
cupped high above my head.
He slowly lowered them to me,
and this is what He said.

"If you wish, then I will trade.
Your Savior understands.
I'll take each burden you don't want.
Just place them in my hands."

So collected I, my burdens.
They numbered as the stars.
And just before I threw them in,
I saw those nail scars.

Instinctively, I held them back.
Now I was at a loss...
I cannot trade my burdens for
His day upon the cross.

"Oh come, my dear and troubled child -
come rest in my embrace.
Have faith that I will vanquish them
and I will show you grace."

So once again, still weak in trust,
and hesitant, I feared -
but one by one I set them in
and each one disappeared!

Now I have grace... And burdens? None!
No cross of any kind!
I gave to Jesus everything -
and now have peace of mind.

©2012 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander, 14 october 2012

Washed Away

Do our hearts ache when swift waves break
and wash up sandy beach
or do the waves sing, "Jesus saves!"
when up on beaches reach?
Does 'make life fair' entwine our prayers
though time cannot reverse?
His divine force would change our course
for better - not for worse.
 
Though freewill stalk will alter walk.
We traverse where we will.
Through other lands or beach head sands,
we'll travel on until -
our final stride meets where we died
and breath no longer flows -
and final prints expose all hints.
...for that is how life goes.
 
As I looked back, my lifelong track -
I was so much dismayed.
I persevered - but disappeared
those tracks in life I made.
My earthly talk was not all walk.
Again I look around.
With seashore grim, so stunned I am.
My prints cannot be found. 
 
All lost one day and washed away -
a life that lived in haste -
and purpose quashed when prints were washed,
away - ohhh, what a waste!
I don't succumb, but ponder some -
now when I bow to pray.
And so it was, His waves, because
He washed those sins away!
 
Divine, His grace, hung in my place
when Jesus died instead.
With sins forgiv'n and bound for Heav'n
my earthly work is dead.
Let heart not ache, when waves should break
to smooth out wicked beach -
but follow yon His footsteps on,
'til destination reach...
 
©2012 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED 
http://www.ganderpoems.org/ 
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louis gander, 10 october 2012

Hopelessly Helpless

I woke up from sleeping and found myself eating
a piece of old barley bread.
While feeding on breakfast, I thought it most unjust
that yours was a warm one instead.

Though willow branch bends, it cannot make amends
to a place that I'm sitting between.
A rock and a hard place that's hopeless to face -
and torment, the greatest I've seen.

My great sacrifice just wouldn't suffice.
These shoes that I wear aren't by choice.
"We can't refinance" was the bank's 'song and dance'
but who would hear my little voice?

Despite life-long effort, they're selling me short,
my business at such a great cost.
The bank never spared because they hadn't cared,
hence millions of dollars were lost.

So don't store up treasures for everyday pleasures,
in things of this earth that will rust.
The great love of money has never been funny,
for only in God should we trust.

It's so disconcerting my children are hurting,
yet hopelessly helpless I am.
Despite expectations to pay obligations,
I now can't help any of them.

I sit in the shade of these problems they made.
This willow tree weeps with me too.
The moral of story is not really gory
if we've learned a lesson or two.

Those decades of years bring me sad lonely tears
for they took everything that I had.
But what greater loss - than was Christ's on the cross?
I maybe don't have it so bad.

©2012 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander, 4 october 2012

Yellow Stained Page

I sat in my room with Bible in hand,
trying to fully, to best understand;
But as I looked down, all I could see -
was a yellow stained page, staring back at me.

I turned my mind to another thought,
became discouraged, became distraught;
I concentrated - but all I could see,
was a yellow stained page, staring back at me.

I peered at times out the huge windowpane,
and knew that I shouldn't at all complain;
So I glanced back down but all I could see -
was a yellow stained page, staring back at me.

The big, red sun was settling down,
and longer shadows grew around;
I refocused my eyes but all I could see,
was a yellow stained page, staring back at me.

For quite some time I sat and thought,
for hours and hours my eyelids fought;
I pushed them up, but all I could see -
was a yellow stained page, staring back at me.

I stayed up half the night it seems;
then went to bed with the weirdest dreams;
Against dark blackness all I could see,
was a yellow stained page, staring back at me.

For many years, I sat at a loss....
I failed to fully understand the cross.
While I had eyes, I just couldn't see -
but the yellow stained page, staring back at me.

Yellow stains? You ask me why?
Teardrops felled from saddened eyes.
My vision blurred - I couldn't see,
but the yellow stained page, staring back at me.

By grace alone, I know my God.
He comforts me - His staff and rod.
And now through faith, no longer see -
a yellow stained page, staring back at me.

©2007 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander

louis gander, 3 october 2012

Where Are You God?

Early mornings, I talk to You.
I pray until the sky is blue.
Faithfully I do my chores -
for You are mine and I am Yours.

I read the Bible, every verse -
but yet the world grows worse and worse.
So where's the bounty? Where's the fruit?
Did You get lost along our route?

Tell me now - where are you God?
You should be here. This is quite odd.
Do You just sit there on Your throne,
and leave me down here all alone?

A mustard seed - my faith exceeds.
I live a Godly life indeed.
I pour out Christian love each day -
spreading seed along my way.

So tell me why You're way up there.
and leave me here in such despair?
Please tell me, why are we apart?
Could I have followed my own heart?

Could it be, I followed me -
I never listened, couldn't see?
Yes, maybe I had took a turn,
because I didn't want to learn...

You are there and I am here -
Now I shall follow and not fear.
Early mornings, I'll hear You -
so guide me Lord, and lead me through.

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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number of comments: 3 | rating: 2 | detail

louis gander

louis gander, 30 september 2012

My Horse

The course was very narrow,
the trail, straight and long -
I moseyed on that perfect path
where I could do no wrong.
I kicked my big, white stallion,
up rocky slopes one day -
and when I made this clearing,
I knew I'd found the way.

And while I sat there on my faith,
atop the highest hill -
and as I peered on valley low,
I judged folks all until -
I found great fault in everyone
no matter, great or small -
so I could sit up highest on
my saddle, straight and tall.

I prayed; "Oh, those pathetic souls
are hardly good for thee -
for never are they good enough,
unless they're just like me.
Just look at their bad habits,
just look at all their stuff,
and why don't they attend my church?
They are not good enough!

They sin in many different ways,
they fall in numbers too.
They just don't understand that they -
are not like me and You."
Now after seeing others
had wandered off the course -
t'was then that I was knocked right off
my high and mighty horse.

©2010 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Matthew 23:12 (NASB) "Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled; and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted."


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louis gander

louis gander, 28 september 2012

Get REAL!

Tattoo's ink smeared everywhere,
with piercings by the score -
and color-copied rainbow hair,
how can we handle more?

To get a little self-respect
our clothes must have a label.
Our auto's must be perfect,
or we appear unstable.

Eye lashes must be fastened on.
Scent squirts out from sprayers -
liner must be perfect drawn
with powder caked in layers.

Our jewelry we can wear with pride
and aging spots can cover -
the wrinkles we can try to hide
so no one will discover.

Through remedies we dig and dig.
We make a real fuss.
But apply the lipstick to a pig -
it's surface, surface, surface!

We try to conquor blunder,
we think we've conquored dull,
but what I have to wonder
is, what's inside our skull?

Man can't look beyond the skin,
Man looks at the face.
Man sees only fat or thin.
Man sees only 'race'.

God sees through all shallowness.
God sees through the skin.
God sees down inside our heart,
God sees deep within.

Some day man might teach our youth.
Some day man might feel.
Some day man might learn the truth
and hopefully get REAL!

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander

louis gander, 28 september 2012

His Hands

"I've cried my eyes out every day.
My burdens, I've out-poured
in never-ending prayers to You.
Why can't You hear me Lord?

"Oh Lord, the stinging hurts me so.
They smear my wounds with salt.
My mind is scarred and You know why.
These burdens aren't my fault.

"And physically, I'm also scarred.
Each hurts a different way.
So tell me... once again I ask,
'Do You hear what I say?'"

"As days go by, I cannot cope.
Will nothing ever change?
If there were different burdens Lord,
I'd happily exchange.

"I'd trade all mine for other ones.
This pain is just too great.
Please let me trade my burdens in,
if it is not too late."

And then I saw my Savior's hands,
cupped high above my head.
He slowly lowered them to me,
and this is what He said.

"If you wish, then I will trade.
Your Savior understands.
I'll take each burden you don't want.
Just place them in my hands."

So collected I, my burdens.
They numbered as the stars.
And just before I threw them in,
I saw those nail scars.

Instinctively, I held them back.
Now I was at a loss...
I cannot trade my burdens for
His day upon the cross.

"Oh come, my dear and troubled child -
come rest in my embrace.
Have faith that I will vanquish them
and I will show you grace."

So once again, still weak in trust,
and hesitant, I feared -
but one by one I set them in
and each one disappeared!

Now I have grace... And burdens? None!
No cross of any kind!
I gave to Jesus everything -
and now have peace of mind.

©2012 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander

louis gander, 23 september 2012

Prayer Of Thanksgiving

The table, set with centerpiece,
fine china, silverware -
and food prepared deliciously
with tender loving care -
and hungry eye, I relish this -
this meal, my daily bread -
then fold my hands and bow my head
before my prayer is said.

I do recite it quick and slurred,
but with the best intent -
and now that grace is said and heard,
it is a blessed event.
The phrases I was taught to say
were pressed down deep in me -
but words are empty without thoughts
of pure sincerity.

Yes, just before we eat, we pray,
but there's a place so crude
which moves us closer to the truth -
that others have no food.
It haunts me as I look around, the
visions of the starved -
who wide-eyed blankly stare at me
behind my turkey, carved.

I see their bloated tummies and
the flies around their eyes.
I hear soft moans from babies lips,
the echoes of their cries.
I taste the mush that they call food.
It lingers on my breath.
I feel the tears start down my cheeks.
I smell the stench of death.

I hesitate with my first bite,
I ask myself, "Do I
really care they're teary eyed
and hungry 'til they die?"
I pray that all the "least of these"
are eating well in Heav'n.
Please help me Lord, to understand
the blessings I was giv'n.

So now when I recite my prayer,
as I sit down to feast,
I ask myself if I'm sincere
and thankful in the least.
For that's when I can hear my voice
ascending to His ear.
He knows if I speak empty words
or if I am sincere.

©2012 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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number of comments: 2 | rating: 3 | detail

louis gander

louis gander, 9 september 2012

Adrift!

Waves were crashing everywhere -
port, starboard, forward, aft...
My troubles kept on pouring in,
upon my humble raft.

Typhoon winds of pain whipped up -
first one way, then the other.
My earthly troubles slashed about -
another and another.

Adrift on troubled waters,
but where? I did not know!
Yet here out on the stormy seas -
there was dark death below.

The shark infested waters
that I remember still -
snapped temptations fangs at me
and broke my fragile will.

And then on top of everything,
it couldn't get much worse -
when wet, dense fog surrounded me -
my little faith, a curse.

I screamed from fetal position,
"Do something! Please... You must!"
My fist shook at the Heavens.
I lacked sufficient trust.

I threw my hands up in the air
and wondered, "What's the use?"
Now isn't this the way life goes
as sodden ropes let loose!

The wicked waves tore at the logs.
My raft began to split.
Apart, my hopes were shattered then.
What could I do, but quit?

And then when giving up on life -
I saw - but could it be??
Walking troubled waters there -
my Lord had came toward me!

But raft continued breaking up.
The waves were just too great...
My groping arms flung out to Him -
but I was just too late...

With remnants of my raft adrift -
this Jesus disappeared!
Out in the fog He vaporized -
a sick mirage, I feared.

The gift of life is special -
but eternal life much more.
For Jesus was my sacrifice,
and who that cross was for.

Were hope and faith both obsolete
as waves crashed on my back?
Last remnants of my raft dispersed -
and everything went black.

Engulfed by churning breakers,
my feet touched solid stone...
God's precious love threw me to shore!
I never was alone!

I'm thankful God broke up my raft.
Could I have asked for more?
That raft was really nothing with -
my Jesus on the shore!

©2012 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Psalm 23:4
"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me."


number of comments: 0 | rating: 4 | detail

louis gander

louis gander, 19 july 2012

True Love

So many things in body / soul
are empty, undefined -
but read this poem carefully,
and answers you may find.

The knowledge of the Love of God,
comes through in loving stages -
so see if you can find a clue -
within this couple's ages...

.......

The couple faced each other close,
while standing toe to toe.
The clear new day was very young.
They had no place to go.

His right hand held her left hand and,
His left hand held her right.
He slid a daisy through her hair.
She was a pretty sight.

The springtime breezes did not quell
the sun's most warmest rays.
As ocean waves kept rolling in,
they held the longest gaze.

Her face was like a sunshine's glow.
Her toes sank in the sand.
Her hair flipped in the open breeze.
Her fingers squeezed his hand.

Some folks had paused and stared a bit
when softly came the kiss -
but never would a moment pass,
a moment quite like this.

And with these two, that special time
would never go away -
for faithful is that one true love.
There is no better way.

So scenic was the sandy beach,
so beautiful, the pair -
yet only God creates true love
that I saw perfect there.

.......

Now just in case you're wondering,
what ages they could be...
Well, she's but two years younger than
his age of eighty-three.

So if assumptions, you had made -
in poem told above -
then you have also missed the mark,
of true Agape Love.

Therefore, question all the writings,
discovered here and there,
that often miss the God of Love -
the hearer of each prayer.

And don't have shallow notions or,
wear blinders to 'believe' -
or come to some conclusion that
some well-known 'experts' weave.

Sometimes we think we know it all,
when all the facts we weigh -
but we do not create the God
who loves us every day.

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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number of comments: 0 | rating: 2 | detail

louis gander

louis gander, 17 july 2012

An Obvious Need

“Dear Lord and Savior, hear my plea.
I've one request - wait, two or three....
This time though, I'm in a fix,
so maybe there'll be five or six....

Please answer quickly, hear me now
and I'll pray daily - that's my vow.
Unlike before, please don't postpone,
for really Lord, You should have known.

I've sacrificed so much for You,
for years been nagged by 'you know who'....
The children too, yell at the spouse -
we really need a larger house....

My boat is bleached from Your hot sun
so I really need a brand new one.
My wardrobes full - but can't wear those -
for Heaven knows I need new clothes.

You know I just went out to eat,
‘all I could eat' - wow, what a treat -
topped it off with cream and cake -
so take away my stomachache.

I've tried so hard to lose some weight,
from all this fat that You create....
I feel so tired and weak somehow,
so give me strength - I need it now.

Well, thank You for my new guitar,
my brand new camper, one more car,
but vacation's what I really need -
roller coasters, lots of speed.

You are so great. I know You care,
so answer now - my simple prayer.
These aren't mere words, these are my needs
and if You grant, I've more good deeds....

There's so much more I'd ask of You,
with credit cards long overdue....
But you, dear Lord, must surely know,
the fish are biting - I must go.

I only ask for what I need.
These are not 'wants' so please proceed.
Stay close to me - I'll call again.
Please grant me what I need, Amen.”

©2007 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander

louis gander, 16 july 2012

The Ol' Barn

There was a barn once painted red
which stood on grandpa's old homestead.
T'was built so very long ago -
a sorry sight. I told him so.

I often, as a boy, had wondered
why it hadn't ever timbered.
I knew the sagging rafters creaked
and roof, with missing shingles, leaked.

I stepped inside, the barn doors gone,
found it home for sparrows' song.
Circled they, around freely,
over the floors in man's debris.

No matter which way I would glance,
dust in sunlight rays would dance.
Warning cobwebs seemed to sketch.
Between the timbers, they would stretch.

Foundation laid in cobblestone
but its sure footing wasn't known.
Between some stones were gaping cracks
that could not hide the basic facts.

Every post in building leaned,
wall to wall had needed cleaned.
Winter winds would whistle through.
That big ol' barn had lost, I knew.

Its only purpose, couldn't render -
so it offered full surrender.
The weather's sin had taken toll
and wind and sleet had found its soul.

That ol' barn is much like us
and in our need we'll make a fuss.
Our sagging souls are so uncouth
that we no longer seek the truth.

Deceit flies in our open door
'til we care little anymore.
We’d rather compromise instead
as cobwebs fill our empty head.

Our minds are filled in sins' debris
with anyone whom we agree.
The love is lost between our bones
and leaves us cold, loosened stones.

Will our beliefs stand firm, upright -
or will we yield to stormy blight?
Are we responsible instead -
or our character really dead?

Now over the years, time has lapsed
and long ago that barn collapsed.
Now as I look at its demise,
I listen to the worlds last cries.... 
 
©2008 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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louis gander

louis gander, 22 december 2011

It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Jesus

To the tune of:
"It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas"

It's beginning to look a lot like Jesus,
everywhere we go.
Take a look at the Christmas birth. Seeing it once again -
it warms our hearts and makes our spirit's glow.
It's beginning to look a lot like Jesus,
miracles in store -
but the prettiest sight to see
is the baby that will be -
who we can't ignore.

With no pair of sandals and cross with no handles,
He carried it right up until -
the weight was tremendous, our actions horrendous -
He fell halfway up the hill.
The soldier men, so full of sin, just wanted to torture and kill.

It's beginning to look a lot like Jesus,
as we knew before -
so Christians must always be, like the Jesus that we see -
in a world at war...

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/


number of comments: 0 | rating: 6 | detail

louis gander

louis gander, 3 december 2011

Log Cabin Christmas

You ask about this picture
that hangs here on my wall?
Many thoughts come to my mind.
I can't recall it all.

It's of our old log cabin
that stood along a stream -
nestled in a heavy woods
with weather most extreme.

The summer heat, unbearable,
preceded autumn hues -
and winter brought the heavy snow
which drooped the many yews.

Our hard work filled the wood box.
Much colder times, there'd be.
I'd follow dad's familiar tracks -
to seek a Christmas tree.

A chair set by the window,
sat I, upon the chair -
peering down our old dirt road
with grandpa not yet there.

The sunrise and the sunset
was all the clock we had -
so hours I would be on watch
with brother, mom and dad.

So patiently the snowfall
would cling to window sill.
Serene and quiet were those days -
snow blanketing each hill.

Then at last his carriage came,
bouncing up the drive.
Anticipation answered,
and Christmas came alive.

The planks beneath dad's footsteps
sounded from the floor.
He gave a pat as he walked by,
then answered our front door.

The gift that I received that day
came in a homemade box.
I opened it and once again -
long underwear and socks.

Toys were quite a rarity.
I thought it not unfair -
for on those chilly winter nights,
I didn't really care.

The fire dancing in the hearth
was better than fine art -
and love was not for brand new toys -
but rather from the heart.

The inconvenient hardships
were really not so bad.
Grandpa and my family,
were really all I had.

Sunday was our day of rest
that I enjoyed the most -
when father parked our wagon near
the church's hitching post.

Patience filled our earnest souls,
charity, the mind -
and my most precious presents now,
are memories, every kind.

We bore so many crosses
with work and suffering -
but they bound us together and,
I wouldn't change a thing.

If now an opportunity
brought back 'the good old days',
I'd trade todays conveniences
for more rewarding ways.

I don't regret my childhood.
I would not trade the years.
Now please, you must forgive me for
my sentimental tears...

Oh goodness, my - how time does fly!
It's almost half-past seven!
But stories more, you'll hear some day
when we meet up in Heaven.

So that's my picture on my wall,
reminding me of Christmas -
a world of true tranquility -
where I found love for Jesus.

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/


number of comments: 0 | rating: 8 | detail

louis gander

louis gander, 1 december 2011

So Far To Go

The year, I'm told, is eighteen-ten.
The weather's dry and hot.
I 'reckon dad knows where to go.
The horses do not trot.
We're tired and very thirsty,
with rations, water low.
The wagon trails' a long one and,
we have so far to go.

The wagon covers' full of holes
and leaks each time it rains.
The mud strains both the horses.
Our perseverance wanes.
But persevere, we can and must.
That's what mere patience proves -
while breathing in the trail dust
behind the horses hooves.

Supplies? ...almost depleted.
Before I go to sleep,
I lay awake, my stomach hurts,
I hear my mother weep.
The bread, she trims the mold from -
it helps my hunger pangs.
A line is stretched above my head.
Our dripping laundry hangs.

I'm not the wisest western child
I don't know very much.
I'm not quite sure how 'blessings' work,
and 'thankfulness' and such.
But Jesus, we are so obliged -
for shoes that fit our feet,
safety from the wolves and snakes,
and berries we can eat.

I'm sorry that I think of corn,
potatoes, peas or fish -
but if I lived in different times,
or place - that'd be my wish.
I'd eat just like a gentleman.
I'd eat my last string bean.
I'd eat what others did not want -
then lick their dishes clean.

Sometimes my mom... I'll see a tear.
She hides it pretty good.
But Jesus, I know mother -
she'd help me if she could.
She stays up nights when I am sick.
I hear her prayers to You.
She shows her love to everyone
and knows just what to do.

So answer, Jesus, my small prayer...
I ask it for our Nation -
that it would always thankful be -
bent not unto temptation.
I wonder if Americans
will ever truly know -
this wagon trails' a long one and,
we have so far to go.

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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number of comments: 0 | rating: 6 | detail

louis gander

louis gander, 30 november 2011

Terror & Blessings

Terror on the rampage,
terror in the sky,
terror in the cities,
terror by and by -
with no concern and no remorse
with cold and callous sigh -
enjoyment from the children with
their most despondent cry.
Death is by the devil,
where hate and anger lie,
terrorizing innocent,
until they see them die.

Blessings by the number,
blessings by the score,
blessings from the Heavens,
blessings that outpour -
to each of God's creation,
yet then He gave us more -
a Son who came to save the lost,
with crown of thorns He wore.
With nails in His hands and feet,
from terrors' angry roar.
The greatest of all blessings,
though terror wanted more.

Spiritual life
to terror's death...
who took dust
and gave us breath?
No matter how dumb
or how naive -
no matter what man
still wants to believe -
earth is below
and Heaven's above -
God is love.
God is love.
God is love.

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/


number of comments: 2 | rating: 6 | detail

louis gander

louis gander, 29 november 2011

SPEED!

The hare runs very swiftly,
for ten years he can go -
but patient, walks the turtle for
a hundred years or so...

---

Rounding curves, squealing with a
couple hundred horses -
stretched out over lawful edge,
anticipating forces.

Sporty style and glossy paint -
surpassing every class -
clean and polished, buffed and waxed,
with tinted window glass.

Transmissions humming through the gears,
bring screeching to the tires -
and then the booming drowns the streets -
huge speakers strung with wires.

Flying off at green lights hue,
with pedals under lead -
wasting gas, polluting air,
to break at every red...

The pedals crush the metal flat
with heavy laden feet -
yet idle through the drive ups then,
for food that's good to eat.

Running full in circles wide,
while rushing far and near -
important is the coffee cup,
some cigarettes or beer.

Another day, another laugh,
for fun is not a crime!
Let's get the guys together 'cause -
it's almost party time!

Then sharp, the sirens pierce the night,
and everything goes wrong...
A child wandered in the street.
The doctors take too long.

So many people crying,
so many people sad -
so many people blaming God,
so many people mad.

This poem's not about a car,
a cycle, or a van -
but oh, about the drivers there,
the much impatient man...

---

Now God created turtles,
and God created hares -
but then created patient man,
if patient are his prayers.
 
©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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PLEASE DRIVE SAFELY - ALWAYS!


number of comments: 0 | rating: 5 | detail

louis gander

louis gander, 27 november 2011

I Wonder

Sometimes I wonder how a tree
can stand the way it does -
so crooked, gnarled and twisted.
I wonder what it was...

What made it lean way over -
its shallow roots in mud?
Or was its last encounter a -
tornado? lightning? flood?

Though I am not an expert,
and haven't much, a clue -
I've often looked at people,
and wondered how they grew.

Opinions leaning way too far
with grumpy, creaking sounds -
they're true, 'un-timbered' miracles
with such unbalanced pounds.

But God still pours out blessings.
His grace forever flows -
and nourishes the lazy root -
no matter how it grows.

Sometimes I wonder how a man
can stand the way he does -
so crooked, gnarled and twisted.
I wonder what it was...

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http:/www.ganderpoems.org/

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number of comments: 4 | rating: 8 | detail


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