2025

 


Gone are the Dark Clouds


The world was grey like a canvas washed with rain,
My spirit dampened, where joy was a distant flare.
Each step was a struggle, burdened by the strain
Of doubts and fears, a soul adrift in a nightmare.

But then a whisper as soft as summer breeze,
Stirred in the depths like a flicker of light.
And hope was a fragile seed, began to please,
Pushing through shadows, yearning for the bright.

Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind,
The sun breaks through - a golden, warm embrace.
A newfangled strength, a purpose I can find,
A smile returns to my long-weary face.

The path ahead, though winding, now seems clear,
Life once bleak, now vibrant where sorrows disappear.



WRITTEN FOR: ""Like a Song" Poetry ContestOpen in new Window. | "Poetic Traditions Poetry Contest Open in new Window.
PROMPT: Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind
LINE COUNT: 14 lines

IMAGE CREDIT: https://medium.com/intuitionmachine/six-principles-of-optimal-living-80efa6405dbe

 



In cabins nestled deep within the wood,
Where ancient trees and shadows intertwine,
A tale of summer's secrets will unfold,
Beneath the full moon's ethereal shine.

Vacationers and travelers seek solace there,
To escape the world's relentless pace,
But lurking in the twilight's silent snare,
A vampire's ancient lineage takes its place.

With fangs bared and eyes that gleam with night,
He roams the woods, a creature of the dark,
His thirst for blood — a haunting, primal plight,
A solitary soul, a lonely spark.

Yet, in the depths of summer's moonlit night,
A wolf howls, a challenge to the foe,
His primal spirit, fierce and wild and bright,
A guardian of the forest, ever-so.

A battle brews, a clash of ancient foes,
The vampire's cunning, the wolf's raw might,
Beneath the summer moon, their conflict grows,
A spectacle of darkness and of light.


Prompt: Write a poem with these words: Summer, Vacation, Travel, Cabin, Full Moon, Vampire, Wolf
Written for: "Spirits at Lighthouses ContestOpen in new Window.
Line Count: 20 Lines

Image Credit: Freepik.com
https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/3d-render-silhouette-tree-against-space-sky-with-moon_15887621.htm#fromView=keyword&page=2&position=31&uuid=74ade2c7-99b2-47ef-86d3-92afcc569ce7&query=Moon+Background


 


Seal of Love


Beneath a velvet cloak of stars, where moonlight paints the velvet night,
Your voice, a tender tremor, pierces through the silent flight.
"Set me as a seal," you plead, a vow upon the breeze,
A promise etched in starlight, carried through the ancient trees.

Not on cold, unyielding stone, nor bound by ink's dull decree,
But carved within the chambers where the heart beats wild and free.
Upon your arm, a signet forged in passion's vibrant hold,
A whispered promise echoing, a story yet untold.

For love, they say, a flame that dances with the reaper's hand,
A phoenix rising from the ashes, even in a barren land.
But jealousy, a serpent with eyes that gleam and dart,
Guards its domain with venom, whispering doubt within the heart.

Yet bind me near, where starlight paints the shadows soft and deep,
Two souls entwined, in dreams where love's own secrets sleep.
Not etched on stone, but flesh where pulses thrum and sing,
A symphony of passion, on love's eternal wing.

Remember, love, the tender dawn of days gone by,
When hesitant steps ventured down paths beneath a blushing sky.
But eyes met deep, a spark ignited, fierce and bright,
A love's own ember, kindled by the moon's ethereal light.

Through laughter's chime and tears that freely fell like rain,
We wove a fabric of trust, with threads that wouldn't wane.
Moments woven, dreams whispered on the wind's gentle sigh,
A symphony of passion painted across the open sky.

Now, let this seal, a proof in flesh and beating rhyme,
Stand tall against the battles fought, the victories claimed in time.
A promise etched upon your heart, where love's fierce fire takes hold,
A beacon burning brightly, braver than the winter's cold.

Like ancient oaks, our roots entwined beneath the ground,
Our love shall grow, where whispered secrets can be found.
Against the storm, our branches bend and sway in graceful dance,
Forever tethered, yet unbound, given free expanse.

And when the years have spun their silver thread, and age paints lines,
This seal of love, a memory that forever shines,
Will whisper tales of passion's enduring might,
A proof to love that burns eternal, ever bright.

So wear it proudly, my love, this mark upon your skin,
A signet etched in fire, where true devotion wins.
For love, like death, will hold us in its potent sway,
And jealousy's fierce grip will melt and fade away.

For in our souls, a pyre burns steady, warm, and true,
A love that binds, transcends, a yearning ever new.
And though the world may change, and seasons shift and turn,
This seal of love will forever burn, a beacon we discern.

Remember, love, when shadows veil the sun's warm ray,
This seal proclaims, "Our journey has just begun this day."
A whispered vow, upon the heart forever signed,
Two souls entwined, a love that fate itself has defined.

But know this too, my love, this seal we share and wear,
Is not a chain that binds, but wings upon the air.
For trust takes flight on love's celestial breeze,
Two souls unbound, yet tethered near, forever at ease.

So let us dance, beneath the moonlit canopy,
With spirits free, and love that soars eternally.
This seal a symbol, not of burdens we must bear,
But of two hearts, forever intertwined, a love beyond compare.

From whispered plea beneath the moonlit dome,
This seal of love becomes our eternal home.
Two souls forever etched in passion's fire,
Bound by trust, a love that will forever transpire.



PROMPT:
Set me as a seal upon your heart,
as a seal upon your arm,
for love is strong as death,
jealousy is fierce as the grave

¬Song Of Solomon 8:6.


Image Credit: https://wall.alphacoders.com/big.php?i=795713



Dear Me,


As another year comes to a close, it's time to reflect on the incredible journey you've been on. 2024 was a year filled with triumphs and accomplishments that deserve a standing ovation. Remember those goals you set for yourself last year? Well, you crushed most of them! "Dearest Me" even took home first place in the Writing.Com Official Contest, setting the perfect tone for the year ahead.

Your winning streak didn't stop there. You dominated the first two months of "The Writer's CrampOpen in new Window. and "Daily Flash Fiction ChallengeOpen in new Window., churning out winning entries that showcased your skills. Then came "Game of ThronesOpen in new Window., the excitement in your eyes when Kiya invited you to join The House of Targaryens was contagious. "Gervic in WonderlandOpen in new Window. is a proof of the passion you poured into that challenge. And who can forget your awe-inspiring achievement in "WonderlandOpen in new Window.? Being chosen as the champion and receiving the shiny plaque for "Gervic in WonderlandOpen in new Window. was a well-deserved recognition of your dedication.

Your winning spirit extended far beyond these specific contests. You racked up accolades in "The Bard's Hall ContestOpen in new Window., "The Midnight Traveler's ContestOpen in new Window., "Shadows and Light Poetry ContestOpen in new Window., "Search for a WDC HeartThrob Poet Open in new Window., "Share Your FaithOpen in new Window., "HONORING OUR VETERANS Open in new Window., "Poetic Traditions Poetry Contest Open in new Window., "WDC L'il Helper ContestOpen in new Window., "Senior Center ForumOpen in new Window.,"First and Second Chance Poetry ContestOpen in new Window., and "Tales Shown, Not Told Discussion ForumOpen in new Window.. Each ribbon you earned represents a victory and a valid proof of your diverse writing skills. Here are your winning pieces:

         *BulletB* "Love's Worst MarksmanOpen in new Window. in "The Bard's Hall ContestOpen in new Window. 
         *BulletB* "The Shadow WeaverOpen in new Window. in "The Midnight Traveler's ContestOpen in new Window. 
         *BulletB* "Through Struggle to DreamsOpen in new Window. in "Shadows and Light Poetry Contest"
         *BulletB* "Seal of LoveOpen in new Window. in "Search for a WDC HeartThrob Poet Open in new Window. 
         *BulletB* "Nature's NurtureOpen in new Window. in "Share Your FaithOpen in new Window. 
         *BulletB* "Our Heroes Battle CryOpen in new Window. in "HONORING OUR VETERANS Open in new Window.
         *BulletB* "Forgotten LetterOpen in new Window. in "Poetic Traditions Poetry Contest Open in new Window.
         *BulletB* "How to: Item EDIT LogsOpen in new Window. in "WDC L'il Helper ContestOpen in new Window.
         *BulletB* "Love's Enduring LightOpen in new Window. in "Senior Center ForumOpen in new Window.
         *BulletB* "Silent Love's TormentOpen in new Window. in "First and Second Chance Poetry ContestOpen in new Window.
         *BulletB* "Silver ThreadsOpen in new Window. in "Senior Center ForumOpen in new Window.
         *BulletB* "Nature and NurtureOpen in new Window. in "First and Second Chance Poetry ContestOpen in new Window.


Speaking of victories, a huge congratulations are in order for your sister, Cindy! Seeing her pass the Licensure Examination for Teachers, thanks in part to your support, must have filled you with immense pride. And the accolades kept coming! This past December, you were recognized as an Angel of the Month . On top of that, your one-man show activity, "WDC Dragon Vale Open in new Window., has been a resounding success. The dedication you've shown to this project and your appreciation for your "Dragon Tamers" are truly inspiring.

Lastly, your journey back to 2024 won't be complete if you forget to express your gratitude to all of the wonderful people on this site, since without them, your time here wouldn't have been fruitful, significant, and valuable. Naturally, you must be extremely appreciative of the charming couple (TheStoryMaster and TheStoryMistress) who created this website. Without them, authors like you wouldn't have a community to be with that is engaging, supportive, motivating, and safe. To Kiya and Legerdemain, whose gorgeous designs never cease to inspire you. You see? Writing.com is home to both outstanding writers and gifted graphic designers. To Dave, Max Griffin, and Huntersmoon, whose skills at writing and reviewing genuinely motivate you. To your new buddies, Elycia, Buddhangela, and Jeremy who proved that friendship knows no bounds. To your fellow dragons, Kiya, Steph, Jace, and Rachel, who supported you during the difficult battle in "Game of ThronesOpen in new Window.; to Jeff, whose blogging skills always leave you speechless; to Lilli, whose mastery of event planning and management always leaves you in awe; and to your dearest Dragon Tamers (too many to list, but the most active tamers, including Phyllis, Megan, Tiggy, Carly, Alockwood, and Jeff). Ultimately, to Enga and Jody, whose generosity and kindness are unmatched; Enga never hesitated to lend you money during your most difficult moments, and Jody always gives you virtual and physical gifts without expecting anything in return. These people are genuinely magnanimous that they have never hesitated to lend a hand, even if they haven't met you in person. May God's infinite blessings continuously shower upon them.


SETTING UP YOUR GOALS


Now, let's shift gears and focus on preparing you for the challenges and opportunities that 2025 will bring. Setting goals will help you navigate the year ahead. So, what does 2025 have in store for you?


*Drbag* HEALTH


Well, it's always best to start with your health. Prioritizing your health is paramount. Remember how important your health is, especially after the health scare in 2019. Let's make the most of this second chance.

         *Medical* Be diligent about taking your medications as prescribed. Never skip a dose.
         *Medical* Monitor your weight and achieve a Normal BMI rating. Let's set a healthy weight goal of 60 kg. That's just 8 kg away from where you are now! I understand that you can be picky with food. I encourage you to try some new things, even if they don't seem appealing to your taste. These foods might offer important nutrients that will help you feel your best.
         *Medical* Keep track of your steps. Strive for 8,000 steps daily. Your fitness watch can help you track your progress.
         *Medical* Nourish your body with nutritious meals. Avoid unhealthy eating habits and minimize sugar intake.
         *Medical* Don't forget to rehydrate. Drink at least 10 glasses of water daily.
         *Medical* Sleep early. You always sleep past midnight. Your goal is to go to bed no later than 10:00 PM. Oops, it's past 11:00 PM now, so let's start tomorrow! *BigSmile*
         *Medical* Minimize exposure to radiation. I know you've been exposed to radiation for more than 8 hours a day because of your work. Take breaks from your computer and spend some time outdoors.
         *Medical* Cut back on online gaming time. Doing this will definitely help you accomplish the two goals before this.



*Cross1* SPIRITUAL


         *Cross2* Read daily verse.
         *Cross2* Pray after waking up and before going to bed.
         *Cross2* Read your bible. Having installed the Blessed App was a great start.
         *Cross2* Attend the daily Gospel reading. Your office has a longstanding tradition of beginning each workday with a Gospel reading. I notice that you have not always participated actively, I encourage your full and consistent engagement in this practice this year.



*Dollar* FINANCIAL


         *Coins* I'm glad you finally checked that Money Notebook out. It's a good way to start saving. A thousand peso taken from your monthly salary to go on your savings won't be that much, right?
         *Coins* Minimize or best avoid spending on your online games. I've noticed your gaming expenses have been quite high in the past years.
         *Coins* Pay your loan's monthly amortization on time to avoid penalty.
         *Coins* Increase your investment. Your mini business venture that you've staterted with your colleague a year ago is doing pretty well. Consider increasing your capital investment for a higher share on profit.



*WDCLogo* WRITING.COM


         *WDC* Visit WDC daily. Aim to achieve a perfect streak for visiting this site.
         *WDC* Read at least three writing pieces a day in WDC.
         *WDC* Give at least three reviews per week or at least ten reviews in a month.
         *WDC* Participate at least one contest per month.
         *WDC* Aim to complete this year's contest challenge in "The Contest ChallengeOpen in new Window.. Also, try to complete those months you missed.



*Palette* DESIGNS


         *PaintBrush* Create more graphic designs. I've noticed that you haven't been creating as many designs lately. It might be because of your hectic work schedule but I encourage you to create designs during your spare time.
         *PaintBrush* Practice more on your Affinity Designer App. Your kindest WDC friend,


had gifted you with that Affinity Designer App bundle to aid you on your graphic designs. Perhaps, this is the time to let go of that old portable Photoshop CS6 and start fresh.


These are just a few of the things that I thought of to help you get started. I know there are always other things that you might consider doing along the way that are not listed here to make this year fruitful and productive. With all these goals, I've diligently set up a Habit Tracker to aid you in your journey. It can be viewed here:



I'm looking forward to meeting you at the end of this year, hoping these goals will play a part in your growth. Remember, even if these resolutions shift or change throughout the year, know that I'll be by your side cheering the loudest!

Cheers to us!


With love and anticipation,
Gervic