The Menace

by Bruce E. Stoker © 2003

He lurks around the corners of my life,

And watches for the perfect times to strike

A blow, to shatter mind and soul alike,

To rend relationships with friends, my wife.

He counts on me to fear his crafted strife

That worms its way into my mind, snakelike,

Invoking doubts that lurk about, ghostlike,

Of sins, now past, with which my life was rife.

Although he skulks about, he has been caught.

And though his plots still catch me off my guard,

I know the accusations he may bring

Cannot rescind the offer of reward

That God has promised when His love is sought.

The menace fails when to God’s grace I cling.

Xochimilco, Sonnet #1

by Bruce E. Stoker, ©2003

Oh, Xochimilco! How I long to eat

Carnitas, refritos, tomatillos,

To relish your Mexican refrescos.

I long for time to partake of that treat:

Tortillas shrouding chunks of tasty meat

Smothered in quesos deliciosos,

But I’m thwarted by schedules muy locos.

By almuerzo I’m ready for defeat.

But mis amigos Roberto and Dale

Are surely, swiftly coming to my aid

To bring tidings of lunch; it’s my rescue!

Though workload has stopped the plans I have made,

With friends such as these my strength will not pale.

Xochimilco, I’m coming to see you!