Connie Vainavicz 

Grand Rapids, MI, USA 

My occupation for the last 17 years has been caring for the elderly. During my poetic journey I have learned that without a spiritual life nothing in this world will make sense. In pondering words of wisdom, I have found the peace that eludes many. Sometimes, it is in conquering our own fears that we can create positive changes in this world. I am so grateful for the many awards and recognition that my poetry has received thus far, and with my first volume of poetry newly completed, I now beckon a publisher.

Veteran

When you came back
bearing the gift of peace,
we cheered for a day,
then turned away.

Your wounds from the battle
still needed medical care,
we closed yet another hospital,
claiming the money wasn't there.

Alone in their minds
some are still fighting the war.
We just shrugged our shoulders
and let them lose their homes and more.

At home, not at war,
were you put to the test,
and oh, how you stood
above the rest.

It is only because of you . . .

I am free,
I am safe,
I am here.

Mother of the World

Mother of the world we sing
sing to the mother of our King.

You wept at His cross
where no one felt the loss.
His mission was complete
as He died at your feet.

Let the church bells ring
ring for the mother of our King.

Holy Mary we pray to you
we are the selected few
blessed, blessed are you.

Delinquent 

Afraid to be uniquely me
I hide behind avid sadness.

Watching my ice sculptures
melt into a puddle of nothing.