Friday, June 6, 2014

Looking Up--By Maralee Gerke--United States

Looking Up

His favorite teacher
taught him to name the wild stars
that span the night sky.

Her gift, imprinted
on his youthful mind
remained for life.

As he looks up toward the stars,
he remembers it all.
Her passion to ignite the universe in him.

She shared her astral light
and reflected it back
in pinpoints of celestial memory.

Maralee Gerke lives and writes in Madras, Oregon. She is and avid reader and gardener. She describes herself as a work in progress. Her poems have been published in Calyx, Exit Thirteen, Moonset, Bathtub Gin, Anthology, Nerve Cowboy, Avocet, and Tigers Eye. She has published two books of poems and has had poetry and prose accepted in several anthologies. Her work can be seen online at Shadow Poetry, Long Story Short, and Moontown CafĂ©. She recently recorded 4 poems for the Oregon Poetic Voices Project. They can be heard at oregonpoeticvoices.org One of her poems “Refuge”, was recently selected to be printed as a limited edition broadside by the Penland School of Crafts.

8 comments:

  1. Surely, most of us remember who inspired us in life and your poem is a beautiful reminder of that, Maralee. So proud to read you here on Whispers, look forward to more! Sheri / www.poetryandbeyond.net

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  2. I agree with S Sta. This is a wonderful story poem and makes me think of a number of people in my life who have left a life long mark.

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  3. Maralee, thank you for sharing "Looking Up." I too had a junior high teacher that encouraged me to pursue my dream....being a writer. I am not sure where she is today, but I still remember her face and her voice, as well as her smile. Continued blessings!

    -Maurice J. Reynolds, Owner / Editor
    TGBTG! Publications / Creative Inspirations
    www.tgbtgpublictions.com

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  4. There are lots of things and people who inspire us; in this case it's your poem that inspires me! It evolves from simplicity into a great final climax. well done. // paul

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  5. Thank you so much for the beautiful tribute to a favorite teacher. I couldn't help but think of mine who was so loving, patient and kind but most of all encouraged me in my budding artistic talent.
    Charlene

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  6. What a beautiful gift this poem is Maralee! It left me feeling very inspired and uplifted. Your last stanza is just off the charts! Brava my friend! Blessings and Aloha, Connie

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  7. Hi Maralee,

    Your poem was an uplifting poem to read and so beautifully written. I know a few people who continue to inspire me and it's something special that you don't forget.

    Sandra Stefanowich

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  8. Wow, Marilee! This is a wonderful tribute to the impact a teacher can have on a student. It was my sister who introduced me to constellations and I have been forever grateful for that. Each verse is beautifully written and the ending is absolutely stunning! Thank you for sharing. Blessings to you, Carolyn

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