Earl C. Bateman, Jr.

Laurel, Maryland

Earl has been writing poetry occasionally since 1965 and frequently since 1994. He and Mrs. Bateman are retired from federal service. They have one son and one grandson. Earl says his greatest inspiration to write is his "sweetheart of nearly 50 years and his wonderful family." He and Mrs. Bateman have traveled the world between special family events and other projects. The Batemans are active in their church and jointly have written specialized denominational curricula. They are doing extensive genealogical research and are writing a history of both family lines. Earl's poetry has been published in two National Library of Poetry anthologies and privately in four volumes about family, friends and special events. Earl says, "Through the imagery and structure of poetry, one can express what often cannot be expressed well or at all in ordinary language. Poetry effectively bridges the different values and perspectives of generations."

Waiting

How long should a parent wait
To reach that destiny of fate,
That with a child in harmony
Share privately, without parsimony?

How long must a parent wait
For honest union before too late?
It is for them to share
Important thoughts, with none to spare.

How long can a parent wait
To with a child communicate?
How long precisely can it be
For quarreling spirits to be free?

How long will a parent wait
For sincere love's wide open gate?
No one can foresee how long;
Only time can await this song!

Love So Great

Dearest Love, heart and soul of life
you keep my love secure.
Throughout our years in ease and strife
calm always you adjure.

Dearest Love, joyous ecstasy of life,
your tender touch is mine.
When days are o'er my precious wife,
I taste your kiss sublime.

Dearest Love, gentlest balm of life,
every thought you nurture.
Suggesting calm ' mid turmoil rife,
at peace we roam the future.