POEMS AT LIGHTWORKERS WORLD

Greetings to all,

Please come read  my first literary contribution to the positive website Lightworkers World.  I did a small posting of three of my inspiring poems. I hope you enjoy, it really is a great website full of inspiration and pure loveliness.

My thoughts tonight are with everyone in the wake of Hurricane Sandy, wishing safety to all as the storm approaches.

Love and Light,
Namaste'





http://www.lightworkersworld.com/2012/10/inspiring-poetry-by-rose-bruno-bailey-love-light-namaste/

MESSAGE FROM A STRANGER

Have you ever had a day or two when your mood sours and you reflect on what is going wrong in your life. It can be all consuming when that happens. It could be something so small that sets you off, or a larger life problem weighing down your weary shoulders. 

I am rarely ungrateful, and I usually see the light at the end of the tunnel even when I am feeling discouraged or displaying embarrassing moments of self pity. When that happens, I usually look to my volunteer work, as giving back always puts life in perspective. I never go out into the world without interacting with others, sometimes those interactions with strangers leave you humbled and understanding the greater message of the universe.

Such a moment happened to me a few weeks ago. I was working out and afterwards a few people struck up a conversation with me. An older woman approached, and joined in on our chat. Her name was Aggie, and she was originally from Budapest and has been living in Beverly Hills for years. It is amazing how simple chats with strangers reveal the most interesting stories, you just have to have an open mind and choose to be present and engage yourself with others. Listening grants the loveliest non material gifts.

Our conversation went from the beauty of Hawaii, its music and culture to European travel. I visited  Hawaii only once but it left a lasting impression on my life. Europe on the other hand, I dream of seeing all the splendid countries across the pond. All of a sudden the older woman named Aggie asked me some questions about my family. She was from Budapest and I told her my unrequited dreams of Europe. She started to tell me about her travels, she has been to every continent except Australia.

I was intrigued, I love history and elderly people. I wanted to know who this free-spirited elderly lady was. I truly believe it is a sad that so many people go through their days without listening to older generations. They are walking history lessons, with beautiful stories to tell if you just are receptive to them. I answered her questions and I asked her if she had family in Budapest.

All of a sudden, Aggie opened up with the most fascinating stories of her past. She did not have any family left. She was orphaned after World War II. She continued to tell me that she is one of the last survivors of the Holocaust and was recently featured in a documentary. She was taken to a concentration camp at the age of ten, and after the war was the only member of her family to survive. She lost her parents, her whole family. She told me about an interesting memory she recalled about her school days before and after the war. She came from privilege, and at her school  the children with parents and  children who were orphaned were all photographed together for the same school picture. After the war, all the children photographed for the school portrait were all left orphaned. She also told me in the beginning of the war, she and her family were not aware of the travesty's that were going on just blocks from her home.

She continued to tell me about her life after the war, her marriage and her amazing travels. I was also blessed to meet her husband Peter. They were truly walking history and her spirit out rivaled most people I have ever met. She was not bitter about life, quite the contrary she embraced it and took every opportunity it offered. Happiness had not eluded her even with her tragic past. We exchanged emails and I knew I had made a new friend.  She instructed me to email her, and she exclaimed she would return the email with a link to the documentary she was in. She was the epitome' of survivor, and she reminded me of my own Mother.

After my encounter, I  suddenly felt so alive and went through my day with an extra smile on my face and extra appreciation for life. No longer was I wallowing in my own worries. Aggie had put all my silly problems in their place, and she was not even aware she did so. She inspired me with her story of survival and her zest for living despite her past.  I  left my encounter feeling like I normally feel, just blessed to be breathing. I knew I could do anything, be anything no matter what obstacles were to ever come my way; and those usual obstacles were self doubt and insecurity.  Life is too short to ever succumb to such useless feelings of not being worthy. We are all the same, and we all can do anything as long as we believe. Of course as I always feel, compassion and love for others is always the most important reason for being. It is the essence of life. Keep your eyes open and  ears clear or you may miss the messages the universe is sending to you. 

Interesting side note on the topic of the Holocaust. I have always been saddened yet fascinated with the stories of that tragic scar on humanity.  I have watched many films and read many books on the topic. I have written a few poems on the subject.  I  do not have a personal connection to that part of the past but for some reason I have always felt it deeply, and I have no understanding why except that my heart bleeds for all the injustices of the world. 

One day I was traveling from Mamaroneck NY on the train going into Manhattan. Just as the train descended into the tunnel that leads to Grand Central Station I saw the light fading, and I lost my breath. In that moment I wrote two little poems.

MANKIND'S WICKED WAYS
The train descends the alley of darkness,
Deeper into the abysm of bias.
Millions of tragic faces
Crammed into a traveling casket of steel,
Aware that fate has abandoned their cause;
As the last of the lightness fades to ebony.
Lured to the worlds sinister atrocity,
Too many souls cries unheard;
Reduced to ashes at the mercy
Of just one mortal man.
(c) Rose Bruno Bailey

SHROUD
The sky weeps ashes,
Hearts halt in its wake.
Dimness remains, idle;
Unaware of the receding sun.
Masses of memories haunt as
An overcast sky turns to filth,
Suppressing pardon.
A belated liberation for some,
Yet not for everyone;
It was the ugliest scar on humanity.
(c) Rose Bruno Bailey

We all have problems, maybe not as deep as Aggie's but they do weigh us down from time to time. At the end of the day it is how we choose to face adversity that matters. I choose to do so with love for my fellow creatures and gratitude for every blessing that has been bestowed upon me. If I get lemons, I will make lemon cookies so I can share my abundance with my fellow neighbors.  Believe in yourself, but also take the time to make a difference as you are out in the world making a name for yourself. Don't forget to pay attention, there is inspiration everywhere.

Namaste' love and light.

Rose

DIVING BACK INTO THE POETRY SCENE

As a poet, I really enjoyed doing readings at open mic's in NYC, and I was also featured on a local cable show. Since moving to CA I have not done any readings.  I have decided  not to  use the independent press in NYC that wished to publish my collection, so now it is time now to dive back into the poetry scene. I have found some great venues, and the only thing holding me back is a bit of fear. I will probably attend one by myself if I cannot get anyone here to go with me.

That part has been very disheartening to me, in NYC I have many friends who would drop everything and support me in my artistic endeavors. Here, even though my friends are lovely, they are busy and getting someone to go with me on  Sunday afternoon is like asking someone to give up their right arm. You see, Sundays are now football again, a passion I understand my friends do not wish to give up for my silly poetry readings. Even my husband who supports all my poetry will not give up football for an open mic.  So I will be attending solo, with no one to take photos and cheer me on. Cue violin music.

Ok, so my self pity is at an all time high, and I am romanticizing about my life back on the east coast. Time to act like a big girl, dust off the negativity, and just go it alone. I can do this, even if it is a lonely and frightening concept. I must do this for my artistic sanity has been hanging in the balance. The next open mic I plan to attend is on the third Sunday in September. It is at a very well renowned venue called Beyond Baroque. A lot of the CA who's who of the poetry and literary world got their start here.

The poems are printed up and I plan to practice reading them before I go.  I have been inspired by my friend and fabulous poet in Dover DE to always to something that frightens you. Even if you have to go it alone!! Namaste' Love, and light to all.
Rose

       If my beloved Rascal could go I know he would, lol.

FRUITS PRODUCE BAR IN WEST HOLLYWOOD CA

I think one of the best things you can do for your health and beauty is to eat 5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables a day.  I understand a lot of people have a hard time making such a quota, so juicing is such a wonderful way to get those nutrients and vitamins in.

I do not own a juicer, nor do I wish to go through the hassle of buying one.  We really do not have the counter space here in our West Hollywood apartment.  One day last week I was walking down Santa Monica Blvd and I noticed a new business, and it caught my curiosity.  I asked the girl what it was, and she brought me in and showed me around.  It is a little market called FRUITS PRODUCE BAR.  Fruits produce bar is the brainchild of Jonathan Killy who is originally from France.  It is located at 8729 Santa Monica Blvd. West Hollywood, CA. 90069.

When you walk in you are greeted with a genuine smile, and then they give you a little mesh bag for you to pick your own fresh fruits and vegetables, and they juice them for you right there. You can also get your fruits and vegetables blended into a smoothie with fat free, sugar free Greek yogurt. They also have a menu if you are unsure what juice combination you prefer, with juices to help with issues and ailments. After you receive your juice you have the option to add all natural flavors and sweeteners to your liquid gold. There is also complimentary fresh water infused with different fruits which I absolutely loved.

The staff is truly exceptional and they will be happy answer any of your questions and help you in your quest to find the perfect juice for you and your personal needs and preferences. The service is amazing, and they treat you like a friend and will remember your name when you return. They plan on expanding on their menu, with healthy food options so it can be a one stop shop for food and juice. Special thanks to Manager Drew and his wonderful staff.  Micah, Joice, Ben (pictured). I would also like to thank all the other staff members for making my experience such a lovely one. Maya, Jessica, and Eva.

So if you wish to have a natural health and beauty elixir, come visit Fruits Produce Bar in West Hollywood CA. It is such a quick and convenient way to get your vitamins paired with a true California experience. If  you prefer you can also sit outside and soak in some of the suns amazing vitamin D in their lovely outdoor seating, or sit inside in their eclectic market and read one of the many health books they have on display.

As we say in Yoga, Namaste' Love and light. Keep on juicing, your mind, body, and your complexion will thank you for it. 

I AM AN AMERICAN PRINCESS

It seems not a day goes by when I do not see a posting from someone

saying that they are a princess and deserve to be treated as such.

Women, mostly American women are fascinated with princesses. They grew

up with them in Disney films and fairy tales. They preach to their

boyfriends of their "princess status," exclaiming how they wish to be

treated. Their children grow up with princess expectations.

In my opinion if one wishes to live the life of a princess one should

look beyond the glamour and gold and see how true life royalty live

their daily lives. I am not denying they are a privileged jet set

portion of society. In fact, they are probably the most privileged

people in the world, but there is more to their existence then tiaras.


Royalty in England is service to the people. Look at all the good

deeds Princess Diana did in her lifetime. She visited Aids hospice

patients and fought to assist the victims of landmines. Queen

Elizabeth spends her days serving her people, and she is now the ripe

old age of  86 and has no interest in slowing down due to her

advancing years.


Even the new generations of royalty are involved with charities and

giving back. Prince William is a rescue pilot and has saved many

lives. Yes, they have the designer clothes and the pomp and

circumstance statuses. They could sit around drinking tea and

eating crumpets all day and ignore the less fortunate.They choose to use

their titles and platforms for the good of mankind.


Pick and choose your role models carefully and if you decide you

wish to like to live like a princess, practice compassion and

graciousness.  Remember the one quality in common all Disney

Princesses possessed, they were kind to all creatures of the universe.

They practiced giving and they were never narcissistic. In fact, I think

it was always the evil witches or wicked stepsisters that displayed 

selfish and demanding tendencies.


If you want to emulate a princess, go ahead and volunteer with the

less fortunate.Treat others as you wish to be treated. Give back to

society by helping the community around you. Visit a nursing home or a

children's hospital. Volunteer walking the dogs at a shelter. Find

where your passions lie and in return you may find people treating you

with the highest esteem. Not only will you earn good karma, you will

have officially earned the crown jewels of compassion.

(c) Rose Bruno Bailey

THE PAST HAS PASSED. LEARN FROM IT AND LET IT BE

I feel very strongly that growing up somewhat underprivileged had its advantages. I never look back at the past with regret. I believe everyone holds their fate within the palm of their own hand, whether it is smooth or calloused. When  I look back on my childhood days, a hand me down sky blue dress for my eighth grade graduation was a gift and not an embarrassment; I had food, I had shelter, I had love. My Mother recently apologized for that moment, as if she did something wrong. I tried to thank her for not only being a wonderful Mother, but for raising me to be humble with compassion. Those gifts are worth more to me now than a sparking new dress for school would have been then.

I am a poet, and I started thinking I should delve into the past to write some new old poems. That made me think of Dolly Parton and her coat of many colors. The song brings tears to my eyes. First of all I can only imagine what it was like to live in that kind of poverty in those times. I read a quote recently by Dolly Parton which put a lot of things into perspective. They were so poor they did not always have toilet paper.

“My aunt in Knoxville would bring newspapers up, which we used for toilet paper. Before we used it, we'd look at the pictures.” Dolly Parton

 

Dolly Parton may have been lacking in material needs, but she was rich in love, spirit, talent, and humor. She has never forgotten where she came from; she learned from it, created from it, but has  never let it shape her identity.  I would love to meet her one day, she is such a positive inspiration. I had the same gifts, my Mother was a survivor and I am proud of my modest yet treasured upbringing. So if you find yourself wallowing the shallow waters of the past, remember sometimes blessings are found in down to earth disguises.
Always, love and light.
Rose

 Coat of Many Colors
Lyrics by Dolly Parton

Back through the years
I go wonderin once again
Back to the seasons of my youth
I recall a box of rags that someone gave us
And how my momma put the rags to use
There were rags of many colors
Every piece was small
And I didn't have a coat
And it was way down in the fall
Momma sewed the rags together
Sewin every piece with love
She made my coat of many colors
That I was so proud of
As she sewed, she told a story
From the bible, she had read
About a coat of many colors
Joseph wore and then she said
Perhaps this coat will bring you
Good luck and happiness
And I just couldnt wait to wear it
And momma blessed it with a kiss
Chorus:

My coat of many colors
That my momma made for me
Made only from rags
But I wore it so proudly
Although we had no money
I was rich as I could be
In my coat of many colors
My momma made for me

So with patches on my britches
Holes in both my shoes
In my coat of many colors
I hurried off to school
Just to find the others laughing
And making fun of me
In my coat of many colors
My momma made for me

And oh I couldnt understand it
For I felt I was rich
And I told them of the love
My momma sewed in every stitch
And I told em all the story
Momma told me while she sewed
And how my coat of many colors
Was worth more than all their clothes

But they didn't understand it
And I tried to make them see
That one is only poor
Only if they choose to be
Now I know we had no money
But I was rich as I could be
In my coat of many colors
My momma made for me
Made just for me
(c) Dolly Parton

Staying Young and Glowing

I have been getting some lovely comments as of late, ever since I have started eating a clean diet. People often ask my what I am doing, and believe it or not I approach anti aging  holistically.  No, I have not had any work done, nor  do I have hair extensions. I am flattered when people ask me, but always try to stay humble and remember the best benefit from eating healthy and exercising is good health.

I have been really working on eating clean, with tons of fruits and veggies. I drink water constantly, and also drink the super health beverage coconut water. I believe your skin glows when you eat and drink your vitamins and minerals.There has been studies done on beta carotene and the affect it does on the color of your complexion. I am proof positive it works.  Today I had a fresh juice of celery, carrot, grapefruit and ginger. I swear it gives me my glow. I take the supplement Hair, Skin,Nails. It gives me extra biotin and aids with the growth of my hair and nails and keeps my skin rosy . I eat mostly a vegetarian diet, but I have added some fish for now. It seems to help me lose weight, and the omega threes truly help in achieving that glow everyone searches for. My latest obsession is fat free Greek Yogurt with a tablespoon of walnuts, a banana, and a tablespoon of semi-sweet chocolate chips for my sweet tooth. Treats are important in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Without them you may binge, and we all know how that story ends.

Of course grooming to a point is essential to looking young. My nails and toes are always neat, and I keep my hair and eyebrows trimmed and groomed regularly. I never sleep with makeup and I moisturize like it is a religion. I use BB Cream, it is amazing and has sunscreen. Do not forget your sunscreen!!!  I want to be tan for an event I have coming up but I will choose to spray tan rather than damage my skin and expose myself to the risks of skin cancer. Don't forget to exercise daily.

Of course try to always stay positive, smile, and remember to give back. The best advice to achieving a glow is to look within. Take the time to live your life to the fullest, don't take anyone for granted, and to have fun along the way. I always describe myself as a deep old soul who is very young at heart.  Love, light and peace to all. xoxo

                                                      Hamming it up with an IPhone.

MOST BEAUTIFUL OBLIVION

If I could do nothing

with my days,

I would be content

to sit idly by;

bask in the nothingness,

never complain

or wish for more.

 

I would be simple,

drink sweet tea;

eat almond cookies,

Watch my cat

linger in the sun;

endeavoring

to be like him.

 

If I could do nothing

I would savor

the warmest breeze,

walk amongst

lilies of the valley;

and just revel

in their intoxication.

 

I would flee

like an eagle,

never worry

or come undone;

my days would

be carefree,

my nights starry.

 

Birds would be

my serenade,

I would listen

instead of talk;

I would see

with closed eyes,

and deeply feel

with all my senses.

 

If I could do nothing

with my days,

I would make

every moment count;

express my gratitude

to everyone I love,

never taking for granted

my fleeting freedom. 

 

 

OUT OF BODY

I found a local yoga journal and they take poetry submissions. I think this poem would be appropriate to send to them, it seems to speak yoga. Namaste to all on this beautiful Thursday and remember to treat your body and mind as temples.

                     OUT OF BODY

Within the twilight of  my sleep,
We mirror each others likeness.
We are expansive, one
With the eagle, flying high;
Free falling through space
Amidst the clouds connected to
The sky that is our blue vista.
Diving through the unbiased air,
We hover above the summit,
No gravity yet drawn upward.
Half awake amid delusions and dreams,
The breeze brings me down to earth;
Reminding me I am caught between
My own philosophical heaven,
And reality to which I must return.
© Rose Bruno Bailey

Natural Therapy and the New Year

It is the first week of the new year and I have started a second blog. www.blossomingrose2012.blogspot.com
It is my New year's resolution blog where I will be documenting all of my resolutions and transformations in 2012.


We are always evolving and reinventing ourselves. Whether physically, emotionally or spiritually, we are constantly seeking new beginnings and second chances. Trees shed their leaves yet flourish again once the spring returns. I believe we all get a chance to begin anew, like the towering tree holding court over the ocean.

NATURAL THERAPY

The azure sky above tints my reality

with a little glow of heaven,  

An existence formally tainted;

within the eclipse of my soul.

Depleted unfulfilled and lost

within a colorless endless Monday;

searching for a free haven,

a place where weariness

drifts away in the haze;

illuminating the shadows.

Clouds take on a new shape,

artistry and the allure of the earth,

nature and spirit are entwined in bliss.

Fluttering in the mist of the rain,

water blesses me to begin anew;

I become the willow in the wisp,

communing with the celestial one.

Climb trees, reach high, embrace;

mother earth and all she stands for.

The scent of damp cedar,

captures my senses and I am aware;

there is more to myself than me.

Honeysuckle tickles, provokes, lingers;

teases my greedy nostrils

with the promise of the coming dawn,

and all the abandon that she offers.

The endless monotony of Mondays,

are replaced with the beauty of a blue beyond.

Slow down, breathe, take time,

be serene, own your peace.

The wonder of a midsummer delight

replaces the constant inner struggle,

when an individual steps outside

their vanity, their Jones' mentality.

Looks at their former world

from a different vantage point.

Grasps what is truly valuable,

We are all one with the earth

and the earth is one with us.

           (c) Rose Bruno Bailey

 When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.

- Lao Tzu 

 

 

HAPPY NEW YEAR

A brand new year is upon us, and I am making a delicious vegetarian lasagna to celebrate the beauty of the day. My family tradition is to serve sauerkraut and pork roast, but since I choose to be meat-free I am making up some new traditions of my own. My vegetarian faux meat sauce I am cooking now looks amazing. I use a good red wine and  lots of tomatoes, onions and garlic to flavor the ground soy. The lasagna is going to be delicious, what an awesome twist  on a New Year's tradition

My husband and I and our two cats are enjoying a quiet holiday, well not so quiet since it is also football Sunday. What are some of your traditions? Have you chosen to reinvent traditions to make them your very own?

A friend of mine lost her beloved cat Gypsy today. I am a self admitted animal lover, and my cats are my family. My heart mourns for her and her family as they grieve their beloved feline family member. Our pets are never forgotten, years go by and we still miss them terribly.

I wrote this poem about my cat Dewey, thirteen years after I lost him. He was my best friend from 13-29. My family had many beloved pets over the years, all since passed away. We now have two beloved cats of our own, Stormy and Rascal; they are our newest loves. The heart always has room for more love, yet never forgets those gone from this world.

I dedicate this poem to my friends Susan, Melissa, Kristen, Jessica, and Donna and of course to beautiful Gypsy.

DEWY-EYED

Midnight warmth,

memory of my childhood;

long gone from my world.

yet never forgotten.

Always near to me,

shadow of my steps;

your roaring signature,

healed my myopic soul.

Your presence was sheer heaven,

during undesirable days of hell;

frightened at what was to be,

you were my diminutive anchor.

Now all that remains,

is a collection of old photographs;

my reminiscence of your very existence,

to remind my mind to never forget.

Midnight warmth,

seems like a dream to me;

memory of my childhood,

memoir of my heart.

(c) Rose Bruno Bailey

Happy New Year. Love, light, blessings and abundance in 2012 for all.
Prayers for those going through loss and hardships, may you find strength in those you love.