Margaret L. Schroeder Corpus Christi, Texas

Since I was eight years old, I have been writing poems. My talents also include singing and theater. Many of my poems have been published. I have won numerous awards for my poetry and have been honored twice with the President's Award For Literary Excellence in The National Authors Registry.

Leaves Leaves dancing on the rim of summer -- Twisting in the breeze, Clinging desperately to life Amidst whispered trees. Leaves along forest pathway -- Their robes of red and gold Masterpieces of stunning beauty Now sadly tarnished and old. Leaves crying in the wind -- Youth and sweet laughter gone, As nature winds its way into night To return again at dawn. Running, running fast away -- The objects of a child's delight, As piled high along roadside fair They wait for bonfire burning bright. Leaves dancing on the rim of summer Waiting for wild wind to blow. Leaves scattered far and wide -- Beauty lost forever to echoes.

Let Us Never Forget Let us never forget freedom -- That treasured jewel rare, Or those who gave their lives for it That we might live without despair Let us never forget honor Found in our flag of stripes and stars, And the majesty it holds Protecting us from oppressions prison bars. Let us never lose hope Or let our patriotism sag, But let us look heavenward And rejoice in our flag!

An Old Maid's Complaint Oh joy! Oh rapture! What man can I capture For a moment of humble bliss? It seems to me That no matter what be, I'll always be a Miss. A miss, amiss For one frail kiss In a moment all too fleeting and rare, Oh how sad it seems, That in spite of my dreams, There is no one with whom life I can share! Oh joy! Oh rapture! What man dare I capture For that one most important kiss? Alas for me, No matter what be, I'll always be a Miss!

All poems Copyright © 1996 Margaret L. Schroeder. All rights reserved.