By: Megan Marinello

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  I N S P I R A T I O N A L

THE CLOUD DANCER
THERE'S AN ANGEL IN MY TUMMY
OKAY
SPECIAL MAGIC
MY COMRADE
SOLDIER OF THE WEB
  L O V E

THINK OF ME
CAFÉ MEMORY
THE LITTLE BOATY, BOAT
IT BRINGS TO ME
FROM ABOVE
IT CAME AND WENT THIS WAY
  R E A L   L I F E

THE SINGLE LIFE
PAPER CUT
ADDICTION
BRAZEN MAIDEN
NIGHT, NIGHT
SUCH IS ALL MINE
A PERFECT WOMAN
CHOICE OF MY MOTHER
GREAT IN BED
  F R I E N D S  &  S T O R I E S

ANGELA, ANGELA THE WONDER WHIRL
LITTLE DUTCH
GRANDMA PICASSO
THE LAST SHIP BACK
HOW DO?
TRISH THE DISH
COSMICALLY COED
THE LAND OF BRUCE
I LOST


INSPIRATIONAL
THE CLOUD DANCER

High, High above you'll find my love
Dancing on a cloud in silver rain
Spinning with a golden sun
There is no pain

Dance for me softly, dance for me sweet
Creating serenity with each move of her feet

Twirling a light with all her might
Spreading joy far and near
Stretching her feathered wings
There is no fear

Dance for me morning, dance for me night
The angels have awoken and taken flight

Floating, singing bells are ringing
Laughing and scampering alert
Lighting the stars and moon for us all
There is no hurt

High, High in that part resides my heart
Her spirit secures our tomorrow
Romancing the angels with kisses
There is no sorrow

Dance for the winter, dance for the spring
Moving the earth with each flap of her wing
Whirling the wind with all her power
Embracing our souls sweet destiny
Reflecting the bad from below
There is no misery

Dance for the oceans, dance for the sea
Right where you twirl is where you must be

High, High in the sky remains my why
Why must she be a cloud dancer?
Around and around she spins in my mind
And accept that
There is no answer

For Keri and the Hickey Family on the Anniversary of your Cloud Dancer

Copyright © 2003 Megan Michelle Marinello

THERE'S AN ANGEL IN MY TUMMY

There's an Angel in my tummy
That flutters left and right
I'm soon to be her mommy
When she flies into the light

I wonder what color eyes
Will soon stare back at me?
I wonder if she cries
Will my arms fulfill her need?

I feel her everyday
Dancing and floating about
I wonder what she'll say?
When she finally glides on out

Inside I know she's okay
Safe and warm in my shell
Sometimes I wish she'd stay
So I'll always know she 's well

Yet soon it will be time,
As she soars into my arms
And than she'll be all mine
Seducing with her charms

Her tiny hands and little face
Will melt my tender heart
As she comes into this special place
Where all good souls must start

And so my Angel greets the unknown
Fleeing my safe tummy
I caress her tender wings alone
As I whisper I'm your mommy

For Tara and Baby Shannon

Copyright © 2000 Megan Michelle Marinello

OKAY

What do you say? What do you say?
Why of course, you say you're okay.
I'm okay; I'm okay, when you ask me today,
Why of course, that's what I must say.
Do you need anything? Can I help in a way?
Are you all right? Do you need me to stay?
What do you say? What do you say?
Why of course, you say you're okay.
I'm okay; I'm okay, when you ask me tomorrow,
Why of course, I'll be well with my sorrow.
Do you need to talk? Can I bring you a chair?
Are you in line? Can I offer more care?
What do you say? What do you say?
Why of course, you say you're okay.
I'm okay; I'm okay, when you ask in a few days,
Why of course, I'll be content in my ways.
Do you need to go out? Can I bake you a pie?
Is the house warm enough? Is it wrong that I try?
What do you say? What do you say?
Why of course, you say you're okay.
I'm okay; I'm okay, when you ask some weeks or so,
Why of course, can't you see I've let go?
Can I buy you a present? Do you need some new clothes?
Is the house way too cold? Can I knit you some throws?
What do you say? What do you say?
Why of course, you say you're okay!
I'm okay! I'm okay! When you ask months away,
Why of course! Can't you see what I say?!
Can I help you clean up?
No, thanks I've got a maid!
Do you need some money?
No, I've just been paid!
What did you say? What did you say?
Why, I say just go away!
Go away, go away-
For my spirit is lacking, my mind is alert,
Each day passes and I still wonder why?
Some nights I don't sleep, some times I don't eat,
And some mornings I just want to cry!
So what do I say when you ask in that way?
Are you happy? There, for I'm not okay-
And probably won't be for some time.
For my wounds are deep and my heart feels on hold,
My eyes are still red and my emotions are bold.
The memories are vivid - the time ticks so shrill,
There's a void in my life that I can't seem to fill.
I look to the heavens and hold my head high,
For my saving grace is, how do you say?
Now-safe in the sky.
And for that, I will answer; I will answer from now,
For that I will heal and move on some how.
So, what do you say? What do you say?
Why of course, you say you're okay.
I'm okay-I'm okay-
When you ask me-
Someday.
For someday,
I will be-
Okay.

Dedicated to the Hickey Family

Copyright © 2001 Megan Michelle Marinello

SPECIAL MAGIC

People say I'm different
I'm a special sort of kid
Sometimes I act all funny
And I don't know what I did
My walks a bit unusual
And my words don't sound so right
I often forget where I am
When I wake up late at night
My mom has to care for me
More than my sister or brother
When I ask how I can help
She says I need only to love her
Sometimes the other kids are mean
They call me a freak when I pass by
My mom tells me to pay no mind
Even though I want to cry
She tells me I'm exceptional
What I am they can never be
And so that is why they make fun
Because they're all so jealous of me
It's so hard to understand things
It seems there's so much to know
Words and motion all seem to mix
And it's so hard when it's all so slow
But Mom tells me I can be taught
It doesn't matter how long it may take
As long as I learn just one thing
How to live with the special magic I make
She says my talent came from birth
Something went right, instead of wrong
God gave me a wand and a top hat
And a rare gift to help me along
Sometimes I don't see what's so wonderful
But mom tells me I shine everyday
Sometimes I wonder why I'm so special
And why God has made me this way?
Mom says there's no rhyme or reason
My special magic is hard to find
And so when people say that I'm different
I say thank you-you're very kind

Dedicated to Baby Cousin Alexander

Copyright © 2001 Megan Michelle Marinello
MY COMRADE

Seldom are there moments where we can say
My comrade I feel the very same way
This sensation is not only yours alone
My companion, just as you
I ache for what has been done
I'm heated and sad, broken in two
I'm bitter, yet relieved for what I can do
Let me collect you, so soft and limp near the ground
And erect you, while not even making a sound
Up, up, up the pole to the very tiptop
Fly, fly, fly my friend and don't ever stop
Let the wind make you sail for the few and the proud
No rain, nor snow, nor wind will ever wear you down
For you are the symbol, the light and the voice
The icon that allows my freedom and choice
As I salute you, old pal, for allowing me to convey
My comrade I feel the very same way

Dedicated to America

Copyright © 2002 Megan Michelle Marinello
Soldier of the Web

And then there came a note
Kindly expressing that
I touched a place in him
That went and brought him back
To some years before
When he braved a mighty war
In the trenches for our land
He marched within a band
Of bullets, machines and dust
His pride and strength he thrust
To defend our country true
And protect our red, white and blue
From the battleground he flew
Never forgetting what they knew
He carries within his soul
A mighty soldier’s role
From the war straight to the Web
He expressed what’s in his head
And kindly offered me praise
Although to him my hat is raised
Some late nights he shares his heart
And often will suddenly depart
Escaping the Web he travels
To the depths of what’s been unraveled
Not many others are so brave
To relinquish what they can save
And as he surfs the sorted sites
He still preserves our rights
For our children of the world
Without return he kindly unfurled
The connections we now can make
From his soul that would not break
Our Soldier of the Web watches us all
Those in trouble need only call
On the warrior who has saved our place
In the evolution of the human race

Dedicated to US Marine Will Thiery.
My friendly Soldier of the Web.
Thank you. Much love, Meg

BACK TO TOP
LOVE
THINK OF ME

Think of me when the sun sets
When it rises and when it turns
Think of me when the sands hot
And when your body starts to yearn
Think of me under palm trees
In the pool or near the bay
Think of me when the ocean
Creates a wave right where you lay
Think of me when a bead of sweat
Creeps slowly down your face
Think of me when you're moving
Or when you're simply stuck in place
Think of me when the heavens
Shoot lightning across the sky
Think of me when you're laughing
Or when you're sad and want to cry
Think of me when your mind's full
And you can't think anymore
Think of me when a rainbow
Grants you more colors to explore
Think of me floating on the waves
Or while you're sailing on the sea
Think of me when you're doing nothing
When you simply just want to be
And think of me when the breeze blows
Your perfect drive right off the tee
Think of me whenever I think
That you'll be thinking of me

Copyright © 2002 Megan Michelle Marinello
CAFÉ MEMORY

He saw her on a crowded street
And offered coffee
They sat and reminisced about ways
Things, dreams and the like
Her eyes warmed his like before
His smile eased her like those days
They laughed and touched
Her hand, his arm
Her face
His leg
The spark ignited
And she was once again in his arms
He was once again in her mouth
They were once again with each other
At separate tables
In the cafe
Discreetly eyeing each other over their
Spouses glance
In awe of the sighting
As their coffee grew cold

Copyright © 1999 Megan Michelle Marinello
THE LITTLE BOATY, BOAT

There was a little, boaty, boat
That sailed upon the sea
On it were two sailors
One was you and one was me
It sailed its course through troubled waters
Sometimes too high to see
Yet it always made it through each storm
Because of you and me
But then one day the boat got lost
Spiraling around and around
And there was nothing we could do
When it washed up on sandy ground
But the little, boaty, boat will always remain
In the hearts of the two who challenged the sea
And it will always belong to us, the love of you and me

WAMH-Never Again.
Meg, Meg
IT BRINGS TO ME

Beneath a sea of broken glass
Awaits my serpents bitter past
Alas each night it brings to me
A tray packed with my inquiry
It stops 'bout the foot of my bed
And snarls its strong voice
And lowers its head-
Yet it understands my immobility
With all its gifts it brings to me
Without it to aid my helplessness
I'd be nothing more than a tattered dress
It brings me the incentive to mind my being
Instead of thoughts of careless fleeing
I love it so; I need it dear-
More passion is sought each passing year
Yet once again I fear I will be alone
No more cherished visitor from the unknown
But until that day draws here or near
I'll respect and cherish the past I hear

Copyright © 1987 Megan Michelle Marinello
FROM ABOVE

I write this poem tonight
For someday I'll be your wife
Because no one else will do
As I say I do to you
You've crawled inside my heart
And not even death will depart
The feelings I hold inside
Will not be withheld by pride
You are the one I want
And one blessed day will start
A journey though the years
No matter the doubts or fears
I will give to you my love
That was meant from up above
Every tear I shed will be
A glimpse inside of me
That only you shall find
As you search within my mind
And find out who I am
A lover and yes a friend
I will pick you up when down
I will hold your soul around
My gentle grasp and touch
Because I love you that much
So much in fact I'll say
I want you everyday
A bond that will remain
Through the climax and the pain
Please let me say tonight
I know that this is right
Please let me own your heart
And give to you that part
That inner place that's me
And only you shall see
That forever my sweet love
We were meant from above

Copyright © 2000 Megan Michelle Marinello
IT CAME AND WENT THIS WAY

It came and went this way-so I'll just file it away…
Save it for another day when I'm more inclined to say
The things that weigh my soul, that maybe you don't know
All the things I want to say seem to always wait another day…

I tried to express it proud, yet you quickly shot me down
At least I know I tried, swallowed all my pride…
And watched you walk away, not much you had to say
As it came and went that day-so I just filed it away…

I wondered how you'd been, if you found your true success
As I fought a rare disease-alone, I did my best
And when you did dare call, no strings hung in your way
All the things I had to say would just wait another day…

I tried to make you see, I would no longer pursue
If you wanted us to be, that was now all up to you
So I went and lived my life-come whatever may
And once again it seemed-I'd just file it away…

Was there something in the eyes? Or a feeling in the touch?
One never knows what it is-only that it means so much
But if it's not reciprocated, there's not much mind to pay
So all the things I had to say would just wait another day…

There can't be any structure with no time for foundation
And keeping status quo holds no fear of expectation
Assuming a love of convenience-what must that convey?
And so I told myself -just file it away…

So it came and went-something inside of you gave in
That night you pulled my shirt towards you, I knew where you had been
And for the first time I sensed-you wanted me to stay
But your eyes directed me-to just wait another day…

Maybe I'm a romantic-but I know what's true is true
There's a reason people touch and the rest is up to you
And even though you had walked away, I gave another chance to say
Yet you still instructed me-to just file it away…

Not one to bite my tongue-I say what I do feel
Not phony vein or rough-just natural and real
Had to take a chance-and when it came and went this way…
All the things I want to say…at least-won't wait another day.


Now you never have to ask why or how I went...
Much love, luck and happiness, Mr. Kaz...Meg


Copyright © 2003 Megan Michelle Marinello

BACK TO TOP
REAL LIFE
THE SINGLE LIFE

Whatever you do is up to you
No one to complain or annoy
Whatever you get it's a safe bet
That it will be your very own toy
No need to share, no need to care
No calls to say you'll be late
Never a whine when you lose track of time
Or forget that anniversary date
You can always play not having to pay
For there's no one ever to please
No need to explain if you cause some pain
For forgiveness is not sought on thy knees
What a wonderful life without a wife
Or a husband to point your way
But it's a catch 22 when the mirror sees you
And you always appear the same
When you're sitting at home all alone
And your toys can't seem to stand in
For that sugar and spice and everything nice
That a phone call sure could bring in
And the sound of a whine could ring divine
To say they're running late
Or to inquire within where you had been
From a trusting and caring mate
Well, whatever you do is up to you
For the single life can be a real treat
But don't let it control that part of your soul
Where two singles finally meet

Copyright © 2003 Megan Michelle Marinello
PAPER CUT

Life.
Huh.
Work. Sleep.
In-between.
Phone. Car. Traffic.
Car. Phone.
Office.
People. E-mail. People.
Traffic. Car.
Phone.
Home. Children. Deadline.
Flight. Laptop.
Sleep.
Meeting.
Flight.
Deadline.
Birthday.
You're 50.
Life.
Huh.

Copyright © 1998 Megan Michelle Marinello
ADDICTION

Escaping is what the world needs to do
Avoiding the paths that are carved out for you
The pain and the jealousy, the scares and unrest
Not feeling those feelings must surely be best
Ascending so free up a tower divine
Leaving the hurt and the cruelty behind
Exploring the reaches of time and black space
Those places that surely protect and erase
No memories, no worries, no care in the world
Expelling the demons and placating absurd
Louder and louder it comes and it goes
Softer and softer it beckons and blows
Walk away from reality and follow the mind
Through channels of mystery frozen in time
Your comfort and elegance must surely arise
There's no demands when all is abstract in time
Watch your body float way up above you so far
Why catch it when you haven't a clue who you are?
Dormant, immune, calling for attention
Yet all that appears is constant misdirection
Soak it in, need it, crave it and pretend
That you will surely find you waiting in the end
There's no breath, there's no pulse, no life left at all
Only concrete and dirt awaits when you fall
And it's better, more important than anything true
When you realize your addiction was all up to you

Copyright © 2000 Megan Michelle Marinello
BRAZEN MAIDEN

Rosa Mary lit the way with a flashlight and a sigh
Goodbye brazen maiden
Goodbye
See you when the ring moves past the moon
Alone in a place where the shadows rule
Keep the light in the depths; hear my breath at your back
Heed the only option of a simpleton down below
Taunted by the time as it presses forward ever still
Cast away what lives above as you descend beneath
It's no place for a maiden once reserved for a man
But your tiny, angels' tummies growl hard in your head
So you press on-challenging the fickle perils of the pit
Chisel your destiny; whittle the gems that sparkle for others
It's too dim in the caverns to render your shine
The soot and dust invade your refined lungs
Breathe it in, suffocating the screams of your soul
Carry your light Rosa Mary for the others that follow
Goodbye brazen maiden
Goodbye

Dedicated to the mother coalminers

Copyright © 2002 Megan Michelle Marinello

NIGHT, NIGHT

And so it came and went
Like a blip of life that never seemed to dream
Left with only a hole open to no understanding
You kissed me and said, "night, night"
To me and many others
Foolish to believe, longing to be accepted
Just another ingénue you skillfully connived
And so you say no one will ever love me more
I don't believe that
You knew no love, only the love of self
And you hate yourself…
Completely.
And that is why you will never truly love another
Night, Night
SUCH IS ALL MINE

Such strong, petite arms
Such small, little eyes
Such perfect toes
Such innocent cries
Such a round, button nose
Such tiny, red lips
Such a calming smile
Such delicate fingertips
Such joy to behold
Such a gift to be praised
Such a bundle of hope
Such vulnerable ways
Such a celestial creature
Such a package divine
Such a heart wrenching decision
Such is all mine

Copyright © 2000 Megan Michelle Marinello
A PERFECT WOMAN

He said he'd be there by eight
Alone, I prepped and primped
For my perfect date

The perfect dress, the perfect hair
The perfect shoes, the perfect tights
The perfect practiced stare

I skipped lunch, worked out an hour too long
I dreamed about the perfect dance
As I picked our perfect song

The perfect place setting, the perfect linens
The perfect candles, the perfect centerpiece
The perfect duck with all the trimmings

He said he'd make sure and bring the wine
The perfect glasses I chilled
Surely will be fine

The perfect temperature in the room
I checked again and again
Since he'll be arriving soon

I basted the perfect dinner one last time
Then I checked my reflection again
It appeared perfectly sublime

The perfect everything awaited him
I smiled thinking how perfect
His heart tonight, I will surely win

The clock's hand skipped past eight
Do I hear his car?
Oh, so perfect he's a few minutes late

Now, Nine O'clock, the perfect duck is dry
How long do I wait exactly?
Until I begin to perfectly cry

Everything seemed so perfectly in place
Until there came no man
And reality became his perfect face

Only a perfect shame dined that night
As I blew out the candles
And wished a perfect woman goodnight

Copyright © 1997 Megan Michelle Marinello
CHOICE OF MY MOTHER

And so I thought why must all my energy
Be consumed by the hopes and dreams of another?
Why, oh, why I ask this night
As question the choice of my mother.

I am no longer a servant, slated to serve
I can do as I please and skip the absurd.
I can jet off to the coast or travel first class
Yet, I will be alone when they ask me to dance.

I can refuse, I can accept, I can do as I please
No longer a refuge chained at the knees.
I have a checking and savings, frequent flier I am
Can vote each election and speak when I can.

And so I thought why must all my strides
Remind me of this burden to uncover
Why, Oh, why I ask this night
As I question the choice of my mother

I can marry rich or support someone poor
I can wait for a hand to reach or open the door
The music I choose might not be what they planned
Yet, they can't turn it off if it is my demand

And so I wander around with my briefcase and throw
Fighting the elements and longing to know
If my choices are choice and my commitments are true
Knowing I can practice all that I do

Yet, still I turn to the brave woman who carved my path
Still I ask with sincerity if it's all right to love her
Why, Oh, why I ask this night
As I question the choice of my Mother

Copyright © 2002 Megan Michelle Marinello
GREAT IN BED

Warm Haagen-Dazs just out of the microwave
Maraschino cherries plucked by sticky fingertips
Pillows of marshmallows dipped in chocolate sauce
Cotton candy twirls around my tongue and lips

Vanilla puddin' sweetens my soft blanket
Hot, hot chocolate tickles me deep inside
A box of Godiva hidden some place special
Above sheets of strawberry syrup I slip and slide

Red-hot licorice tears from my sharp teeth
Raspberries lay silent next to crunchy, popcorn balls
Cold Popsicles enter my mouth in and out
As bits of sugar dust and velvety, caramel falls

Cream filled Oreos submerge deep into lukewarm milk
Tongues wrap around tender, pointed, Hershey kisses
Silky sheets parachute up as sugared hearts wildly scatter
Chocolate snowcaps top a mountain of hard candy wishes

I drink down a slow stream of peppermint mocha
Grabbing tight a headboard of gingerbread and spice
Let me breath in an aroma of pure, delicious delicacies
Please erect all my quintessential taste buds so nice

Oh, all those sinful treats are so great in bed
Whether taken in icy cold or red hot
And unlike most men
They always hit the spot

Copyright © Megan Michelle Marinello
 

BACK TO TOP
FRIENDS & STORIES
ANGELA, ANGELA THE WONDER WHIRL

Angela, Angela the Wonder Whirl
Look at her shinny colors spin
She turns and turns so much
She often forgets where she's been

Try and plant her in the ground
Her pin-wheel stake will not take
Try and tape her to the wall
I assure you it will be a mistake

For she was born on the wings of the wind
To spin her, toss her and fly her around
For she was created for her amazing ability
To never keep two feet on the ground

If Angela, Angela the Wonder Whirl stopped
People would simply no longer be living
If Angela, Angela the Wonder Whirl changed
The world would miss out on all she is giving

As I watch from a far-a child picks her up
His tiny, pursed lips blow her round and round
I think to myself how wonderful it all is
She works magic without even making a sound

Angela, keep doing what you're doing.
The world is a better place because of you.

Copyright © 2002 Megan Michelle Marinello
LITTLE DUTCH

Watch out Ladies and Gents 'cause you can't touch
Queens Village's very own Little Dutch…
He's all grown up. Whoo! Such a ladies man
Yes, Walter is his very own biggest fan
He can't wait for tomorrow, cause what does he say…
He just keeps getting better looking everyday
How, funny, knee slapping he kills with the lines
His eyes dance and dazzle the bimbos he blinds
A red head, for Tuesday, that brunette gets a brunch
Only the sure things on Saturday ever get lunch
A Walt of all trades, a comedian divine
Surely, only true geniuses ever do time
Once hefty and round, now svelte as a twig
When he finds your annoyance he'll dig, yes he'll dig
Pay him no mind, let him frolic and hound
His disposition is whimsical as he floats above ground
Oh, his annoyance is merely a cover of love
As he laughs at the little people he hovers up above
His jokes, yes, repetitive, he'll say them time and again
Yet, he wouldn't bother you so if he wasn't your friend
His children causally say, "Oh, that's just like Dad!"
But in their smiling faces you know that they're proud
Give a hand to the man who can fast light up a room
And bring it crashing down to its knees equally soon
Flawed, yes a bit, but Little Dutch a definite lover of life
And he'll try and he'll try and maybe one day he'll get it right

To Walt With Love

Copyright © 2002 Megan Michelle Marinello
GRANDMA PICASSO

My Grandma is so far away-miles beyond,
A good portrait or so past the usual kind.
No bowls of fruit, trite vases of flowers,
For she is what they call an unusual find.
Like a fine Picasso, so abstract in nature,
Held by few and misunderstood by most.
Grandma masters an art of aggressive character,
And a flamboyance few could boast.
For colorful traits, and socks and jewels,
Some clanging circles of silver up her arm-
Leads the way to a spirit of intense ideas,
A mere flicker of her exasperating charm.
Just like all great artists she entered and evolved,
Different periods, some black and some blue;
Where sadness and alienation drew her mood,
Until, sudden inspiration pulled her through.
A time when she bloomed so big and so bright,
As a large rose, shinning, yet hidden in a field.
The sunlight made her more optimistic,
Each layer unwrapped, was a pedal revealed.
Displayed on an easel way too big for her frame,
Yet too small to hold all the love in her turbulent core-
She created six more portraits of abstract beauty,
Knowing these new artists would go on to design more.
Assembling her brilliant, large collage of life, and dreams,
Each piece told a different tale-each stroke a new color.
For her small trinkets wrapped in plastic, wrinkled bags,
Are the gems of her day, while to others, useless clutter.
Cards of paint allow her a solitary game to win over self,
While each crossword filled, is another crossroad uncovered.
An inquisitive nocturnal spirit, for watching movies makes her dawn,
For every handwritten journal written is another thought discovered.
See everyone holds different views when it comes to such art,
No two takes and perceptions are ever quite the same.
The reality we create and that of what exists can blind us,
Especially when there's no power there to change-only to blame.
And so her colors mesh and blend and ooze distinction,
It's an experience just to view her and try and figure what makes her tick.
For it isn't the easiest thing to break through her powerful colors,
For her paint is always so sturdy, so protective-and thick.
The beauty, the uncertain images that bring her vast canvas to life-
Maybe the mysteries of Grandma are sometimes better left that way.
For every design, every emotion that someone creates is their own,
For one will never know exactly what each artist meant to say.
And so she decorates our walls, our lives, our emotions and memories,
Will explore our homes, evoke moods of wonder, disbelief and often awe.
For she hangs in our hearts and minds as our unusual Grandma Picasso,
That amazing , unique personality, the world couldn't possibly ignore.

For Grandma on her Birthday…Love, Megan, 2001
THE LAST SHIP BACK

One night there came a smile
Lighting up a dark, Island bar
It belonged to a rebel whose liquor
Always kept his feelings-far
He thought he could land every girl
Making each barmaid beg and plead
Yet little did he know his game would change
With the one player who would not concede
He knew there was something unusual about
The eyes that served his brew
And with each rejection she offered up
His curiosity intensely grew
Until the night, he missed the last ship back
And had no place to rest his head
The face that always turned him down
Kindly offered him a crisp, warm bed
And so he got his prey, just like all sly
Condescending men-
Yet in the morning something was wrong
He felt compelled to see her again
His day was soon not complete without hearing
Her voice on the phone
And if the line kept ringing -
He wondered why she was not at home?
He'd show up mid afternoon and invite her to ride
Along his big, strong wake
And off they drifted fighting the tides and the
Indifference he struggled to fake
They spoke about the simple things
The reality that excluded his life
And soon his soul could not pretend
And she discovered he had a rich wife
She tried to swim away, faster and faster
Hoping the current would hear her shout
Yet, he told her the marriage was over-
Only a matter of time before he'd be out
And so she naively believed his promises
And saw the renegade change
He fought his demons and looked at himself
No matter how difficult or strange
The man she new was different now
More grounded and confident in his stride
She thought that maybe all would be fine
And into the sunset they would ride
And time past,
And past,
And went,
And meshed-
A day leading to a week, then a month-
A year
He still couldn't leave
Couldn't seem to conquer his one last-
Haunting fear.
Where would he be without her money?
Forty with nothing to show, but-
Himself
And so he preferred to stay a boy
Pondering dusty trophies upon a shelf
I was this
I did that
I had this
I was-I swear
You should have seen me then
And all she kept thinking was when will he leave?
When? God, tell me when?
All the chances were washed up
All the hurt mounted to high to see
And she sat in the corner crying one night and asked,
Hey God, what happened to me?
And so her memory drifted to that smile
That lit up the room that night
To the arms of a stranger that turned into a love
She knew she'd remember for life
And the phone kept ringing and ringing
Like it had done so many times before
The sound crept into her soul and echoed deep
In her hollow core-
And the man on the other end
The one who had accomplished so much
Reverted back to the rebel, internally tied to the life
He had made his crutch
And so he allowed it to happen
He again missed the last ship back that day
But this time there was no unusual eyes offering
A crisp, warm place to stay

WAMH-Never Again. Meg, Meg

Copyright © 2000 Megan Michelle Marinello
TRISH THE DISH

Trish the dish don't all the boys wish…
They can leave the party with you!
Too hot for the kitchen, too cool for the snow
No longer afraid to just get up and go
Yelling and chanting so all the boys know…
Sorry, young chap you're just a crampin' my style
You can fetch me some dinner and stay for a while
But don't expect flowers, steaks and pink lace
To keep a big smile up here on old Trisha's face
I've got schoolwork and friends and lots to do
Surprise! The end-all-be-all of my life isn't you!
If you don't care to write or call for a week
Bite me! Who cares? Go ahead -- hide! I won't seek!
Tricks are for kids and strong men are for me
If you can't fit the mold then a big, fat C'est la vie!
I'm experienced to know the guys I should pass
Easy -- those opposed to "kissing my ass!"
Move along, got plays to see and pottery to bake
Peace missions to oversee, birds to heal and reservation to make
I fly like the lightning and I shoot for the stars
Fueled by double, apple martinis from neighborhood bars
I will not give into the sea until I've caught the last bass
The Meryl Lynch Bull my symbol of impeccable, male class
He's big where it counts, doesn't speak much, so horny and spry
He can't run very far, only longs to be fed and has no reason to lie
Why can't all the other morons have his good style and taste?
Instead I'm swimming around a tank of slimy, testosterone waste!
But dear Trisha it wouldn't be fun if this wasn't the case!
Life wouldn't be worth living if not for the chase - So…
Trish the dish don't all the boys wish…
They can go home with someone so true…
But isn't it great that if you turn down the date
You can still leave the party with you!

For my friend Trisha Monk (aka Donna Bradshaw)

Copyright © 2003 Megan Michelle Marinello
HOW DO?

Freddy left a note one Sunday
He asked if I'd drop by
He loved to have tea
He loved to talk

So I put on my old shoes, tattered house coat and headed out
Walked a few feet-
The kettle was whistling
The porch door was open

And there was Freddy
Dressed in a tattered house coat and an old pair of shoes
He pulled out a chair and said, "How do?"
The tea was poured, spilling over the rim

A subtle breeze began to blow as we sipped
He loved to have tea
He loved to talk
I listened, and drank until the tea grew cold

He said, "see ya next Sunday
I'll save ya some tea"
Always such long farewells
The porch door slammed

Freddy left a note one Sunday
He asked if I'd drop by
He loved to have tea
He loved to talk

So I put on my old shoes and tattered house coat and headed out
The porch door wasn't open
The kettle wasn't whistling
So I turned it on

I pulled out a seat
I love to talk
I love to have tea
I made sure it spilled over the rim

I listened and drank until the tea grew cold
I said, "see ya next Sunday
I'll save ya some tea"
Always such long farewells

Dedicated to the Memory of Shelter Island's own
The Amazing Freddy Stern 1901-2001

Copyright © 2001 Megan Michelle Marinello
Cosmically Coed

So you find out the college HANDBOOK is missing one thing
Basically the most important thing
Which is where to begin?
Your things barely fit in the closet that now is…
Your room, and the new faces around you are
Quite quick to assume
That the best bed is there’s, and that you’ll
Sacrifice, so you think to your self, hey, well, isn’t that…
Nice?
So you suck up the tension and make your way out
Where the heck is my class?
Even if you did shout ­
Would anyone even listen?
To one, lone Coed in the Universe – finding her way…
Don’t take a map – memorize your travels that day!
For fear of looking like a tourist in a country of strangers…
As your Mother’s words echo, “Now remember the dangers!”
So when you finally do find the class
And think all might go well – someone then whispers,
“Crap! We’ve got the teacher from Hell!”
So your homework is mounting and you still can’t find the bookstore-
As you look to the stars, and listen to your new roommate snore!
What should we get for dinner?
Please, no more pizza tonight!
As you ask the mirror-
Will I ever get this right?
Is my hairstyle hip? Is my skirt chic enough?
Are my jeans all the rage?
As you long for the time before you were - cast on this stage
Wonder what mom fixed for dinner?
Is dad yelling at my sister again?
All hope seems lost…Until…
…Walla!
You meet a special friend
Someone as clueless and dumbfounded as you
But now together there’s help – to get you through
And suddenly the classes are easier and the assignments more bright
And all your college woes go from wrong to…
Right…
And the planets come together, so perfectly in line…
…And the Universe is signing, “this is truly your time.”
To grow and explore and discover all of me
To learn to expand - to be the best I can be
And soon you want to give back all you have learned
– So you start to draft for the HANDBOOK what you’ve discerned
A simple chapter, an anecdote to help the new kids cope
A little head start to offer them hope
So you simply state – journey out on your own-
Be brave enough to face the wild unknown
No tricks of the trade, no direction no rules – do what I did,
Use your own special tools
Just look to the stars, when you’re lost at night…
Trust that the moon will spare you some light
And when all the planets start to rotate your way –
When the sun rises with you through…another day…
You’ll be selected a member, invited in…
…POOF!
You’re Cosmically Coed…
That’s where you’ll begin!
Maybe just a speck, a small blip in this large Universe…
But at least you can say that you weren’t…
…The first!

For Lauren, Lauren on her entrance into Fordham

Copyright © 2001 Megan Michelle Marinello
The Land Of Bruce

Welcome to the land of Bruce,
All peasants proceed to the right.
All heavyweights surrender your pride,
For this reign is too strong to fight.
Now listen to my golden rule:
Hand your work in on time.
Cater to my every whim,
And you will do just fine.
My arrangement is quite simple,
I get the castle; you get the moat.
That’s the true test of you,
If you will sink or stay afloat
For I am my kingdoms sole ruler,
I decide what it should do.
Maybe I’ll take your suggestion,
Yet I’ll never admit that’s true.
I request you call me Sire,
As I dine on my elevated throne.
Watch as I ingest my royal feast,
And occasionally throw you a bone.
Once again my rule is quite simple,
I say tomorrow, you deliver today.
I demand that you fetch,
And you quickly ask me which way.
I tell you how to do it,
Then say go on your own.
I show you how to do it,
Then expect you’ll complete it alone.
Production should be constant,
As my empire expands and grows.
If your hands get to tired,
Feel free to use your toes.
My philosophy is easy,
Be loyal and you’ll remain on my team.
But remember you’re still a peasant,
No matter how devoted you seem.
So salute your skillful Sovereign,
For I remain the master of my land.
For my kingdom will carry on,
No matter where my castle may stand.

To my advertising mentor, Bruce Epstein...Meg ‘98

Copyright © 2003 Megan Michelle Marinello
I LOST

I lost myself some time ago
Where it went I do not know
Yet my teeth are white
My skin is tan
And for that I call myself a man

I lost my soul when I was young
It was traded in for booze and fun
Yet I have some golf clubs
And a pocket full of tees
So I’ll do whatever the damn I please

I lost my conviction in the past
I sold it for greed and things that went fast
Yet I have rented furniture
And get pay on the twenty-ninth
And for that I think I’m living life

I lost my direction in yester year
When I followed a path of lust and beer
Yet my body is buff
And my tattoos have yet to fade
So I’ll just keep thinkin’ I’ve got it made

I lost my passion way back and behind
I wasted it on much easier things to find
Yet I’ve got strangers at the pub
And each day a brand, new scare
As I drink and wonder just where you are

I lost my kin when she was born
I couldn’t seem to sing that baby song
Yet I’ve got a freezer of TV dinners
And my own table at the strip joint
So what does it matter if I disappoint?

I lost my love a year ago
Because of these things she seemed to know
Yet I’ve got a façade that I’ve built so thick
And nothing real, but the fools can’t tell
As I bake in the sun and make believe I’m well

You lost. Never Again.

Copyright © 2003 Megan Michelle Marinello
 


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