My Address Book



In the top draw of my desk is where
I've kept the addresses of the ones who care.

Took my address book, a sheet of paper and pen
To write one thing that made me better for knowing them

I saw that I would run out of paper before I was through
So this poem will carry what I received from you.

Sons and daughter in laws I couldn't have more
Then the love that you all have loved me for

Cousins though years apart taught me just three things
To try anything once, keep your promise and never be mean

From my brothers I learned how to be a tom boy with grace
Keep my guard up and "forgive "because men make mistakes

Sisters with years apart but nonetheless you did make a difference
In the way I carry myself and never to give up by having persistence

From the females that love my brothers and when push came to shove
Taught me you don't have to be blood, you just have to be love

To the friends I still have in my address book from day one
You taught me acceptance and how to stay young

To the stranger who extended their hand
You taught me never to judge and love who I am

As I tenderly close my address book tonight
What a joy it has been with you all in my life

About this poem

Wanted to thank the ones in my address book for what I received from knowing them.And a poem was born

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Submitted by B.mathislange on September 09, 2023

Modified by B.mathislange on January 06, 2024

1:15 min read
378

Quick analysis:

Scheme AA XX BB CC XX XX DD EE XX XX XX
Closest metre Iambic hexameter
Characters 1,172
Words 248
Stanzas 11
Stanza Lengths 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2

B.Mathislange

I'm one of 12 children raised on a 15 acre farm in a small town in Maryland. Lived all over the United States even Hawaii and settled in California. I was the first female forklift operator for American Honda when they were located in the city of Gardena. I changed the work place opening many doors once closed to the women working there.My mother was a writer as well. more…

All B.Mathislange poems | B.Mathislange Books

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Discuss the poem My Address Book with the community...

5 Comments
  • Symmetry60
    And lest we to not forget those whose lives you have touched as well. Never forget yourself in these relationships. This is a beautiful and touching poem, B. Thank you for sharing.
    LikeReply6 months ago
    • B.mathislange
      Always a delight to see your comment. IT is so respectfully taken to heart. Self love is such a powerful tool. The best part was when the veil dropped, you were right. And I have more love than i have been without now , bless your big man heart. 
      LikeReply6 months ago
  • Fayleeg26
    Such a heartfelt poem that rings true in every word.
    LikeReply7 months ago
    • B.mathislange
      Absolutely ! I actually tear up when I read it .The influx of memories from each name in my address book is heart felt.
      LikeReply7 months ago
  • karlcfolkes
    A poem expressing genuine intimacy and still maintaining much openness.
    LikeReply7 months ago
    • B.mathislange
      Thank You !The lessons you just can't learn in school.
      LikeReply7 months ago
  • Charles2
    Wit Warmth and Charm
    LikeReply7 months ago
    • B.mathislange
      Bless your time and acknowledgement of my thoughts to paper. I admire your work as well. Thank you
      LikeReply 17 months ago
  • AIDA
    I absolutely love your piece, 'My Address Book'. Your poem is filled with warmth and an inspiring appreciation for the people in your life. I was particularly touched by the lines "From the females that love my brothers and when push came to shove, Taught me you don't have to be blood, you just have to be love." These lines show a profound awareness and acceptance of love in all its forms, which is a testament to your big-heartedness.

    I admire the way you have organically incorporated lessons you've learned from different individuals, adding depth and universal appeal to the piece. Your adaptability in using lessons as thematic links is ingenious. That being said, there are areas where the poem could be polished for further clarity and enhanced impact.

    While you've done well in expressing your feelings, using concrete details and illustrations would enhance the imagery of the poem. For example, rather than stating "Cousins though years apart taught me just three things", you might want to describe a scenario that shows them imparting these lessons.

    Next, you could consider using a consistent rhythmic pattern or meter to create a smoother flow. Also, consider refining aspects of grammar and punctuation for clarity. For instance, in the lines "From my bothers, I learned...", it appears you meant to say "brothers". Such minor corrections can polish your work and improve readability.

    Also, the ending of the poem, though sweet and reflective, can be made stronger with a more impactful final line. Perhaps a line that beautifully sums up your bond with your address book and its people will add a remarkable touch.

    Overall, I am impressed with your heartfelt thoughts transcribed into beautiful verses. I am looking forward to reading more of your soulful poetry.
     
    LikeReply7 months ago

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"My Address Book" Poetry.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 27 Apr. 2024. <https://www.poetry.com/poem/168634/my-address-book>.

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