Where is al-Qaeda in North America

Here we are, September 13 and no significant activity on the part of al-Qaeda across North America.

Where are all the terrorists’ cells and individuals hiding? Did they not listen to the words of Osama bin Laden? I thought that the Remembrance Day of September 11 would have generated a few if not many actions against, in particular, white North Americans. There would be actions taken against the Americans in Iraq and Afghanistan; that is well understood; but across North America, nothing happened! Either the American anti-terrorist actions are forcing any al-Qaeda members to keep their heads low. It may even be that there are no al-Qaeda cells or there are inactive cells that may remain so for some time into the future.

The belief that there are al-Qaeda members in North America results in a continuing fear of terrorism resulting in the expenditure of many dollars to support all anti-terrorism activities. As well, the good citizens of North America will be subjected to the time consuming and debilitating security measures at the airports of Canada and the United States. Anti-terrorism has become a big industry with many dollars going to all the firms that are in the business. It is like a war industry. It has become a necessity and even to speak out against it might be deemed to be unpatriotic.

Of concern to the governments of Canada and the United States should be the potential recruitment by al-Qaeda of disaffected youth. Where will the come from? Can they be identified well before they fall into the mindset of terrorists? Can they be turned around to act as involved youth working to build a better world for others anywhere in the world? This concern needs to be addressed on a continuing basis.

Fear and Terrorism

Fear is everywhere and so often for some things we are able to take out insurance. In fact, insurance companies make money because they provide services that reduce our fear of catastrophes taking place that would make our living most uncomfortable.

Terrorism has now come into our daily lives though it is not as apparent here in Canada as it can be witnessed in the United States. Yes, those of us who fly have experienced long delays that have been caused by security measures that came into play after 9/11. As to insurance payments to reduce our stress from losses due to potential terrorism are not readily present, it takes little thinking to realize that the governments and airlines have imposed direct and indirect taxes on the traveling public as well as the expenses associated with additional security for the protection of public buildings. So much has changed in our society since 9/11.

The Canadian military has been involved in Afghanistan as a measure to stamp out international terrorism. We have gone through a spell of “support our troops” and if unwilling to hop on that bandwagon, one would be accused of being unpatriotic. There are some Canadians who say that they do not want any harm to come to our Canadian military personnel and they wish that no casualties would ever take place. To be realistic, there will be members of our military who will be numbered among the dead and injured. That is the history of our fighting personnel. It is their way of life, a life of living in danger. In fact those who are in danger because of physical location outside of Canada are awarded additional wages called “danger pay”.

To return to the “support our troops”, many Canadians do but they are not willing to support the government in its military objective of being in Afghanistan or, in particular, to extend the time that our forces would be there. This is not unpatriotic; it is a simple expression of how Canadians feel and with our sense of freedom, we can express our desires and interests.

Some Canadians would say that the Canadian Government should look into our own affairs and clean up our acts that relate to poverty, medical care, the treatment of our Aboriginal peoples and our homeless. The list could go on but there is a clear enough statement of our own problems and therefore why should Canada be spending money and sacrificing the lives of our Canadian personnel to solve the problems of peoples in other parts of the world?

We in Canada have been subjected to our own “state terrorism” when we can not obtain necessary health care services or see our homeless peoples on our streets which is particularly disturbing during our long cold nights of sub-zero weather.

Bring our troops home. Provide better health services. These are activities that politicians should endorse and make promises during elections that they will keep while in office.


Potential terrorism will always be with us. The Bin Ladens of the world will be with us for many years to come. We will be subjected to increased taxes, inconveniences during travels and some levels of fear. We will see people suffering the results of terrorist attacks. Perhaps we should try to understand why we are being subjected to terrorism or the threats of terrorism and do something to get at the root of the problem and do those things that are required to make our world healthier and happier.

September 11, 2007

Today the Prime Minister of Canada in his address to the Australian Parliament said:
“September 11, 2001 was truly a day that shook the world. Six years on, the horrific images from that morning still evoke anger, sorrow and – as intended – terror. The buildings may have been American, but the targets were every one of us: every country and every person who chooses tolerance over hatred, pluralism over extremism, democracy over tyranny”.

So we are targets because we have chosen tolerance, pluralism and democracy as a way of living. Should I laugh or cry? Both, first laugh then cry! Was the United States attacked because it had chosen tolerance, pluralism or democracy? Can we say this of other nations that have been subjected to attacks by terrorists?

Americans have been the targets for attacks because there are individuals around the world who disagree with American foreign policy, American interest in foreign economies for the wealthy Americans to become wealthier and to protect their interests abroad. There are many individuals around the world who say that America’s involvement in Iraq was not for any hidden weapons of mass destruction which have never been found but because of the resource, oil. It has been said that it is that simple.

Is Canada in the American back pocket? When it came to Iraq perhaps the answer is no; concerning Afghanistan, perhaps the answer is a big YES.

Now, a poem which was written on September 12 and published on September 13, 2001.



September 11, 2001

This day etched forever in a mind,
A deed so cruel, so unjust, so unkind,
In disbelief we saw so much,
Knowing death would so many touch.

Our tears were shed, emotions enflamed,
Our understanding and thoughts were drained.
But many found much courage deep,
They gave their lives, now they sleep.

Thus left behind, family and friends,
And many who wonder how to make amends.
Some in anger, some in fear,
War is the word we did often hear.

But American leadership is very strong,
Voices were raised in patriotic song,
A people in crises always do unite,
The scoundrel, the villain, they will fight.

And those with wounds do suffer now,
For you in the future we do vow,
Remembrance, you served your country
When struck by the common enemy.

For in our freedom we do share.
All those who worked with much care,
To rescue all who could be saved,
So many images in our minds engraved.

This day we will never forget,
A remembrance day to beget,
A day for strength to renew,
With blessings, many to accrue!

© September 12, 2001 by Louis Henry Reeves

Changing Times

I remember a publication by the name Changing Times which I read to keep abreast of opportunities to invest in personal health and wealth. Although I can’t say that I was as successful in gaining great wealth but when it comes to health, I must say that I feel great. Today two individuals commented on my appearance for they could not believe that I am as old as I am. But age brings with it, at least for me, feelings of not wanting to participate in activities such as voting. Perhaps a sense of futility has settled in with my expression of: “One party is as bad as another”. Am I cynical? Yes, of course!

I have refrained from writing items which I might share with others for no sooner do ideas come to mind, other ideas seem to replace that were held earlier. Yet, I do write many emails to individuals and organizations for by doing so I am able to disburden myself of thoughts which tend to depress me and by doing so I can get onto other topics. As an example I want to write a letter to the Imam of a local mosque which is under construction. It will cover some topics which I would not want to share with the general public but which I do want to present to this Muslim authority. It will no doubt be a “mild blast” which will cause him to think and to perhaps appreciate what others might be thinking. Some parts of the contents of that letter might be used in some future article. Now, I will share one small item which may reflect a linguistic and cultural gap that exists between the Muslim community and the wider Canadian community. A sign was posted on the property which read: “Absolutely No Trespassing”. To most North Americans, “No means No” and the additional word “absolutely” does not wear well on those who read the sign. As well, the noise and dust created by the continuous drilling for the excavation in bedrock for the foundation of the building had been an ongoing nuisance to most of the local residence. It has been said that on Friday afternoon during the prayer session attended by Muslim men, the drilling was halted. “How nice for them”, a local resident said, “While we have to put up with the constant noise”.

I have always felt better after I “speak my mind”. It so often helps to “clear the air” and lets me get onto other tasks.

NOBILITY

nobility

to find oneself
alone with nature
in comfort

knowing with
the deepest respect
for all of existence

to preserve all
for the benefit
of the continuity of life

to live the life
there for all
of simple nobility

nobility of presence
along all the paths
of life with nature

so simple / so direct
for happiness / for contentment
the lives of the noble

© 2007 by Lou Reeves

Creativity

A guitarist picks up his guitar, picks a few notes, and strums a few chords, to loosen his fingers, to listen, to feel, to appreciate where he is at. After many strokes, music fills the mind, a few chords at a time. If there is a melody, a pleasant sound, even of discord, that might be the beginning of something greater that an idle guitar sitting in some corner, close, but at a great distance from creativity.

Creativity only comes with activity. One may have a "vision" of a beautiful sculpture, be it in clay, granite, marble, metal or wood. It might be of great size. It might be positioned in a park site and there to be seen by many from whom a few positive feelings might be generated, the extension of the feelings, interests, ideas and even ideals of the creator. Even if far removed from the original creative image, without any understanding of the why, a viewer might find the starting point of thought, of desire to create in any media available.

Creativity frequently comes from sources unknown and unrecognized. The loss to the self and the world comes when one hides from self and from others that which is deep within the self, forms of identity, of pleasure that remain hidden or dormant in semi-reverie, never to come out in the open where others might appreciate. Such a loss, never known to all, but a loss for the great opportunity was there, lost because it was not fulfilled. How many losses has the world experienced? There have been so many, unrecorded, never understood for non-exposure is nothingness. What creative genius responses from the self to the world have not seen the light of day, only being exposed to the creative imagination of the individual?

Loss and Lost

What is not shared is lost.
What is shared, always there.
In memory, on canvas, in print.
In stone or metal cast.
If not forever, at least for the now.
Ever present in the memory,
Of those who choose,
To see, to think,
To feel, to understand.

What is lost to the world,
What is lost to the self
The images many,
From imagination bright,
With ideas and ideals,
With emotions and love.

That which is not shared is lost.
Lost in a vacuum of nothingness,
Lost in the heights and depths,
Lost where loss means nothing,
But the emptiness of life,
The death non-deserved,
Buried in a heap of nothingness.

The loss of the lost.

© 2007 by Lou Reeves

Words for closing the year 2006...

Reading, thinking and writing require time. The thinking that exists between the reading and writing is what is done by all of us who do read and write. The quality of thought I shall not comment on. When it comes to reading, those who do are selective based on the costs of the reading material, personal choice and the ability to grasp and understand the written word, the ideas of the writer. Few of us write. Though I have the desire at times to write, I find that what I want to write about has already been written with superior thoughts and quality of words that I might only aspire to. The tendency for me now is to read and think, within the time available.

I have not touched upon seeing, much of which occurs watching television and how that action takes away from reading and writing. It may provide relaxation and inspiration but may lead nowhere when we think of the development of the individual, his physical health and mental sanity. We also have participation in sports activities or should I say the non-participation for I speak again of television. Have we become a nation of obese individuals who consume food, television programs and movies to the point of losing the quality of health that might otherwise be ours?

There are Americans who complain about the quality of their educational system and the quality of their health programming for the people of their nation. There is a complaint of the quality of living that most Americans live with as the rich become richer and all others fall behind. Where is the great American dream? It is always there for the freedom that may always exist in American society is but a dream and all can possess this dream without cost.

In most societies there is a sense of greed, where more is always better. If money is the root of all evil, then the fruit from the American tree of life when consumed leads to corruption of many sorts. There is little need for exploration here for the results are most obvious to the many who understand.

For a word or two on religion I turn to prayer. There are prayers to God, the God of different religions, there are prayers offered to gods and goddesses. All of these prayers must be beneficial to those who pray but going beyond the words of prayer and the belief that goes along with those prayers is the continuing belief in hope. Without that hope the human race would surely collapse. There is the hope for a better world for our children and all subsequent generations. In spite of all the “acts of God”, there is prayer and most importantly the quality of hope that is within the hearts and souls of many. That is the root of survival of the human race. Let there be prayers and let there be hope. Let there be positive actions that reflect the goodness that exists within the hearts of most leading to the downfall of that which might be termed wicked. There is hope!

Christmas Day, 2006

Lonely

She felt so lonely,
Sitting by the fireside,
Looking into the flames,
Changing by the second,
Reviewing memories of her past,
The many loves,
Of family, of friends.

Today, all has changed,
Important ones have departed this earth,
Others have departed the area,
Some are enjoying their lives.
With families and friends.

She sits alone,
Looking into the flames,
For her the past is gone,
Yet life continues,
As the flames continue,
Soon the flames will end,
Her life will end,
The end to loneliness.

© 2006 by Lou Reeves

Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve Dream

I dream of
Rings, earrings and pendants.
Saphire pairs in cuts,
Of oval, round and pear.
In colours pink and blue,
From distant lands,
Of Kashmir and Ceylon.

I dream of
Rings, earrings and pendants.
Emerald pairs in cuts,
Of oval, round and pear.
In colours of beautiful green,
From distant lands,
Of Colombia and Brazil.

I dream of
Rings, earrings and pendants.

Ring, ring, ring!
I am awake.
It is Christmas day.
To the tree I go.
There a box for me.
A tumbler blue.

Then to
Rings, earrings and pendants.

I can dream, can’t I?


© 2006 by Lou Reeves

Freedom...

Unbound and Unrestrained

Sequential words falling,
On waiting paper,
Thoughts surrealistic,
Unbound by convention,
Unrestrained by religion.

Understood by some,
Unbound for receiving,
Unrestrained for accepting,
Surrealistic interpretations,
Worldly and worthy.

© 2006 by Lou Reeves

Another Artistic Craft

Beautiful Glass Beads

From sand to glass.
With heat transformation.
With colours bright
Beautiful glass beads.

Reflecting transparent elements
Of my faith, of my soul,
Colours of the rainbow,
Moved by direction.

My creativity I share,
For all to enjoy,
Knowing the pleasure,
Of work and relaxation.

Beautiful glass beads,
Our productive art,
Existing for delight,
Dignity is our craft.

© 2006 by Lou Reeves

Unseen Eye

Rainbows

Did you see the rainbows last night?

Crystal droplets filtered through darkness,
There for the unseen eye,
Of wonderment,
Of possession.

Within the reflected mind,
Mirrored in the shadows of shade.

Tasted, consumed,
Replenished to the light.

Did you see the rainbow today?

Thoughts Surrealistic

Unbound and Unrestrained

Sequential words falling,
On waiting paper,
Thoughts surrealistic,
Unbound by convention,
Unrestrained by religion.

Understood by some,
Unbound for receiving,
Unrestrained for accepting,
Surrealistic interpretations,
Worldly and worthy.

© 2006 by Lou Reeves

The Nation of Quebec

Quebec has always been a province different from all the others. Its political system and laws are different. Its primary language is different. Its educational system is different. It has its own system of immigration. Anyone living in Quebec would recognize the many differences.

Now is the time for Quebec to refer to itself as the Nation of Quebec. That Simple! It should be no longer the Province of Quebec, equal to all the other provinces.

The Nation of Quebec should have a president. That sounds great.

Messages

messages

chalk on walls
give messages
words on paper
give messages
words spoken
give messages
leaves on trees
give messages
exploding bombs
give messages

rain washes chalk on walls
fire burns words on paper
separation ends spoken words
leaves fall at seasons end
explosions leave carnage

time passes
everything changes
man comes and goes
only the earth survives
with creatures
which write not
speak not

messages
messages
messages

Naked Truths

naked truths

fight for freedom
down with oppression

comfort for lovers lost
through separation
through battles
imprisonment
hunger starvation death

criminal genocide
loss of home
separation of families
refugees in distant lands
cultures new
language lost
sadness in the air
happiness lost

tears fall on dry land
rivlets form
run to streams to oceans
sharing unhappiness
solitary grief
solitary pain
off loss
of body
of mind

sharing
naked truths

Police Brutality

From time to time we see on TV the actions, and sometimes the brutal actions of police officials against our citizens. If it were not for modern technology we would never become aware of these incidents. Without cameras and recorders the evidence that points to brutality would not be there.

When police brutality does take place there are two sides to the story. The police action is most often justified on the basis of the force exerted having been necessary. What I most often see does not agree with police statements. The police frequently have unions which come to their defense. Lawyers are also there to assist in every way possible.

What happens to the abusing and brutal officer? What happens to the abused citizen?

While under investigation police officers most often have their salaries continued although they are not on duty. This is most appropriate even though investigations may continue for quite some time. The question then comes up as to why it must take so much time. There is a story of one officer who actually completed a master’s degree in criminology during the time of an investigation, at full salary. Is this justified?

I believe that whatever rights that citizens have, these can be violated by the police.

Some officers are downright criminals.

We need the police. We deserve the best possible services that they can provide. They deserve our respect but when they do not show respect to citizens, where does that leave us? We question, we develop doubts and in the end our trust in them and our respect for them are diminished.

At times brutality and physical violence are also extended to verbal abuse and mental cruelty. Police officers sometimes show intolerance toward minority groups, older citizens, people of other languages and religions. There is a clear deficiency here. What facets of character or of moral integrity are missing?

Are there not tests that might be used to weed out applicants who have those characteristics that might lead to violence? Can training programs not include the development of sensitivity towards the aged, or individuals who might be experiencing physical or mental difficulties? Are the poor and the homeless treated in the same way as those individuals who are wealthy, who have big homes, expensive cars and no doubt political and social connections? I don't think so!

Something needs to be done!

Rumsfeld resigns

Good news! At long last, Rumsfeld resigns.

It is unfortunate that President Bush had not asked for his resignation in the past.

Rumsfeld had offered his resignation in the past but it was not accepted.

Bush was blind. Bush was deaf. Bush was dumb and dumber!

Would it not be wonderful if Bush were to resign? The Vice-president would take over. Would he be any better? Wouldn’t it be wonderful if he were to resign as well?

And then?

"B & B" Republicans

The mid-term elections are over. My predictions turned out to be quite accurate. My “desires” were met. We have a Democratic victory and the world will be the richer; American society as well. The “Bushite & Bullshit” Republicans have been rebuked!
Americans, get out of Iraq. Bring your children home.

There was a time when American mothers did not want to have their children fighting “foreign wars” on foreign soil. Where were the American mothers this time around?

What a waste of American men and women! What a waste of money. I always liked the expression: “Yankee go home.” I did not like the expression, “Ugly American.”, I still do not!

Now, the expression should be; “Americans, go home.” Return to your family and friends, return to your world that needs to have your strength and dedication to a better way of life. You have many social problems that need to be addressed and can be resolved. If you had invested all the money spent on that war in Iraq to do good for your own people, you would be a healthier and happier.

Fear has been the concern of the day since 9 / 11. Security has been the order of the day.
It has become an “industry”. It has generated a complex of control. The government has the control and the power.

Canada as a county followed the example of Americans in instituting controls for the security of the nation. Now the laws have been challenged and found wanting. Canadians have suffered incarcerations and torture in the prisons of foreign nations. Americans have contributed to these activities out of their own fears and their search for security. That is where we find ourselves today.

So, to put my remarks in simple terms: “Bushite & Bullshit” Americans, get your house in order; get out of Iraq. Drugs and pollution are the true internal enemies of Americans. This is where your security industry should be involved. Americans are being controlled by foreign countries through the illegal drug industry. Americans are living lives that will be shorter and subject to ill health because of toxic chemicals and general pollution of the environment.

Americans, get your house in order before it is too late.

JE ME SOUVIENS

JE ME SOUVIENS

J’entends les voix,
Portées par la douce brise,
Au-dessus des prairies,
Des arbres dépouillés,
Dans les forêts profondes
Qui ont vu tant d’hommes passer.
Courbés sous le poids de leurs armes,
Ils écoutaient les ordres :
Il fallait obéir !

Ils pensaient à leur foyer,
Leur famille, leurs amis, leur amour.
Ce n’était pas la peur qui les faisait trembler,
Mais bien le froid glacial et humide,
Et cet instant qui fige l’air,
Avant qu’éclate le vacarme des attaques lointaines :
La machine combat la machine,
Et l’Homme combat l’Homme.

Ils pensaient à leur jeunesse
En sentant la fin approcher,
Cernés par ces explosions
Qui faisaient trembler l’air et la terre,
A ce fracas surnaturel…puis soudain le Néant !

J’entends les voix
Portées par la douce brise :
« Je t’aime, je t’aime »
Ultimes paroles criées en tombant,
Que nul n’entendra jamais,
Ni leur famille, ni leurs amis, ni leur amour.

J’entends les voix
De ces camarades tombés.
Tant de jours ont passés, tant d’années !
Mais ils sont toujours là !

Je marche à travers les prés,
Parmi les fleurs et les vestiges,
Je pense aux temps impitoyables,
Aux frères tombés là.

J’entends leurs voix.

Alors, je me souviens.


© 2006 by Louis Reeves

A Voice from the North

The American mid-term elections are almost upon us! I hope that my good friends in the United States will all see the light and vote for all Democrats.

Why? Americans need to have a change in government policies that relate to foreign countries. American “democracy” is not necessarily a “good” thing for other countries.

Might does not make right. America’s way of life is not that which should be emulated by other peoples. In fact, in terms of social problems America has enough to take care off without going elsewhere to impose its form of “democracy”. All Americans in Iraq should leave that country which would save America many more lives and the heavy expense in waging an “unjustified” war. Bush was in grave error. He lives in error and the sooner the Republican majorities are reduced to minority positions the better.

It is unfortunate that most countries of the world will live under the “might” of the American president. That “might” does not make “right”; he was wrong in the past and with a tighter control over him, the world will be spared of his continuing wrong-doings.

Our North American World

Has human behaviour in North America been changing for the worse over the past ten years? It might appear so as there are so many disclosures of corruption in government among political parties, business and industrial organizations and within religious organizations.

Could it be that many disclosures are now there because of today’s technology? There is so much information on television and the internet concerning the mid-term American election with many negatives relating to political personalities. I could almost feel sorry for the individuals whose lives have been shattered by revelations but at the same time I feel that they deserve what they are getting.

The question has to be, how many more leaders are guilty of corruption and other offenses against society? We may see many early retirements or many individuals who will not want to assume leadership positions that demand “no skeletons” in their closets.
Political life is hard enough as it is and the scrutiny that may be undertaken in the future may become just too much for many.

Support our military

Support our military! Of course, we should. How? Bring them all home; the sooner the better, from Iraq and from Afghanistan. Some say that it is unpatriotic to not “support” the military in Iraq. Let it be said that the best support is to bring them home to their families and loved ones. American can’t solve the problems of the world let alone the problems at home but, at least, all efforts should be directed to the solutions of the social ills at home.  

The world would be a better place without American and Canadian military personnel in far-off lands.

When I think of Americans wanting to spread democracy around the world, to make a better world, I feel like laughing. The USA and Canada have enough problems at home relating to poverty, health, race and religion. All expenditures to support the military efforts abroad would go a long way to improve the lives of North American peoples.

The mid-term elections might bring about some changes but if the American economy and the wealth of the rich are dependent upon war, then wars will continue. The American economy has always done well before, during and after conflict abroad.

Now there is a form of internal “conflict” with an unseen enemy. This enemy consists of terrorists and many millions of dollars have gone to protect the American people from these terrorists. There is fear and more than enough generated fear to provide more dollars to “fight the enemy”; one wonders where all of this will end.

I Remember (German translation)

Ich Erinnere Mich

I hörte die Stimmen,
Getragen von sanfter Brise,
Über Wiesen, grün,
Durch Bäume, entblößt,
Wälder, unsere stillen Zeugen,
Das Hinscheiden der Männer,
Belastet durch Kriegsausrüstung,
Befehle erhalten, ausgeführt.

Gedanken an Zuhause,
Familie, Freunde und Geliebte,
Schaudern, nicht aus Angst,
Aus Kälte, Feuchtigkeit, Bewegunslose Luft,
Klänge des Gefechts aus der Entfernung,
Maschine gegen Maschine,
Mann gegen Mann.

Sie wußten, wo das Leben begann,
Sie wußten, wo das Leben enden könnte,
Explosionen überall,
Erschütterungen der Luft und Erde.
Unnatürliche Klänge, dann Dunkelheit.

I höre die Stimmen,
Getragen von sanfter Brise,
„Ich liebe dich, ich liebe dich“
Klänge niemals gehört zuvor,
Von der Familie, Freunde und Geliebte.

Ich höre die Stimmen,
Von gefallenen Kammeraden,
Tage und Jahre sind vergangen,
Aber Erinnerungen dauern an.

Ich gehe auf der Wiese,
Mitten under den Blumen,
Zwischen den Markierungen,
I denke an unverzeihliche Zeiten,
Den Verlußt der gefallen Brüder.

Ich höre die Stimmen.

Ich erinnere mich.

© 2006 by Lou Reeves

CBC Literary Awards

Yesterday, for the first time, I submitted a poem to the CBC Literary Awards.
Yesterday was the deadline date. I made it!

There are so many fine poets competing for these awards. So, why would I participate? I have run in a dozen marathons knowing full well I would be well back in the pack, to the very end. To the winner goes much glory. To others there is the thrill of completing the race. Likewise, there will be two winners for this literary award for poetry. The first place poem will bring $6,000 to the poet and for the second place winner, all of $4,000. I look forward to reading the winning poems.

But, I am also a winner. Under some personal pressure I completed the 1,000+ word poem in time. It went through some five readings resulting in minor changes to arrive at a point of sufficient satisfaction to send it in. Now, I am pleased. Job done and now I will move onto much shorter poems, more in keeping with my earlier productivity. Yet, I must say that the two longest poems that I have written were completed within the past five days. I trust that was done as a warm-up to the somewhat longer poem for the CBC competition. Next year, if I am alive and well, my submission will be sent in before the deadline or so I say today. In any case, that is a resolution, to be my first written resolution for the New Year, 2007.

truths that survive

truths that survive

below the surface
among the roots
that nourish
into the stalks and stems
profusion of petals my love
dreaming with colours
petals bright crimson
orange colours of blood
dried tears upon past smiling cheeks
kisses upon lips open to the light
after nights consumed in love
from the dark earth we came
from haunting dreams of nothingness
to flowering life
passing days the stars
hidden above the clouds
seeing all with understanding
of all the unknown
as we walk the roads
work the land
smell the flowers
oh my love
how to resist passing time
feeding us the motion
from the winds of time
caressing your sweet domes of life
the sweetness of kisses upon brows
upon brown skin naked to the winds
with thoughts of flowering gentleness
the sun partaking of growth
for gentler times were there
my love far from the cold earth
we and only we shared space
that other petals falling from origins of nature
knowing happiness and sadness
bringing joy and pleasure
upon the grasses of the earth
parted lips of lovers
words murmured in the darkness of the night
remembered at the sight of beauty
sight of flowers
crimson scarlet blue of blue
shining with the glow of life
lover speak to me
with light tones of green
emerald sounds of ocean waves
falling on the rocks
where life never ending
the truths that survive
we my love will part
our sounds of spoken words
never to be forgotten
upon the earth
dried flowers return
windless days and cloudless skies
hours of time
returning days to nights
returning to the sands of time
to nourish the roots
to stems to flowers
delight at beauty
showing others the ways of love
oh beloved our words are heard
in the bosoms of others words
of love never forgotten
upon the soft earth
upon the grassed green and worn down
the weight of lovers
and passing times
we part my beloved
to return to the earth
to nourish the beauty
of blossoms falling from pleasures
given to passing lovers
on the land of our fathers
we were we are forever
the beauty of the earth
our truths survive.

© 2006 by Lou Reeves

I Remember

I Remember

I hear the voices,
Carried by the soft breeze,
Across green meadows,
Through denuded trees,
Forests that have witnessed,
The passing of men,
Burdened by war equipment,
Orders given, direction taken.

Thoughts of home,
Family, friends and lovers,
Shivers, not of fear,
Of cold, damp, motionless air,
The sounds of distant actions,
Machine against machine,
Man against man.

They knew where life began,
They knew where life might end,
Explosions everywhere,
Vibrations of air and land,
Unnatural sounds, then darkness.

I hear the voices
Carried by the soft breeze
“I love you, I love you”
Sounds never heard,
By family, friends and lovers.

I hear the voices,
Of fallen comrades,
Days and years have passed,
But memories linger on.

I walk the meadows,
Among the flowers,
Between the markers,
I think of unforgiving times,
The loss of fallen brothers.

I hear the voices.

I remember.

© 2006 by Lou Reeves

How to win friends...

Many of us remember the words of Marie-Antoinette: “Qu’ils mangent de la brioche”, translated: “Let them eat cake.” She didn’t win too many friends and her enemies took care of her later!

In an item on the social lives of Ottawan’s a write of a “social page” wrote :”Everyone who is anyone right now showed up to …” Wow,  I wonder how many friends she made or better yet, how many enemies she made. Imagine all the people who did not show up who might have read her social page. What would they think? Who is she to make such a statement?

Now, as a “common man” I must say that I have no interest in such gatherings. Let them eat their cake, drink their wine and hobnob. Some may need it; others are obliged to attend. Our city is filled with members of parliament, other politicians, senators and embassy personnel. They gather and participate in activities while living for short periods of time in our town.  The wealthy, the “upper class”, participate for longer periods of time continuing the never-ending social gatherings.

So we see a division, those who are “anyone right now” and all others. Yet among those who are not “anyone” are people of high quality and virtue, deserving of the highest praise for their existence, for their work and contributions to humanity. They could be labeled “common people” and I am one of those. This is said with a sense of pride and respect for all those who are not “anyone”.

The courage of conviction

It takes courage of conviction to attempt to change an Act of Parliament or the policies of government departments in Canada. There are a number of Canadians who are opposed to the monarchy and any display of allegiance to the Crown is abhorrent.  There are many who are monarchists and supporters of all that relates to the Crown.

As a young man of sixteen years of age, an army recruit swore allegiance to the Crown. Later in his career he achieved the rank of Captain and found himself no longer a believer in displaying loyalty to the monarch. As an example he found no reason to salute the queen at such an event like a mess dinner when a salute is required when the anthem “God save the Queen” is played.

There are Canadians who are loyal to the Canadian military and country but have little desire to serve under the Crown. During the two World Wars Canadian personnel served with dignity and many Canadian personnel either died or returned as wounded. They served for “King and Country” which was understandable. But today Canada has its own constitution and many believe that Canada should be an independent and free nation without any subservience to a “foreign” monarch.

My personal view is that Canada will achieve a status of independence within twenty years. Why? Simply, Canadians are loyal to Canada.  Is there a need to have a Queen?
Absolutely not! Within twenty years the majority of Canadians will be second and third generation descendents of immigrants. Those immigrants did not come to Canada because there was a sovereign living in England. They came because Canada offered a land where a person could improve their lot in life in a democratic nation. As well, the question of which “God” is to save the Queen? Religion will come into the picture and many Canadians will want their religious beliefs respected.

I wish the Canadian Captain the best in his law suit which is against the top military person and the Canadian Government. It takes courage to stand up against the system. One thing is almost absolutely sure is that he will never be promoted again; his career will come to a stand still. Yet, he will be saluted by those Canadians who want the Queen’s representative to simply leave town.

The Costs of War

The costs of wars are innumerable and the most devastating relate to human suffering and death. The pains to families created by war live on well after any war’s termination.

Without reference to the human tragedy of the war in Iraq, the costs of the war to the American public stood at $330,822,018,254 for a brief second at 6:26PM (EST).

How might these dollars have been spent to alleviate the human suffering of countless Americans who exist in poverty, lacking in adequate food and health care services and who frequently are homeless or have inadequate shelter? And there in America they have democracy and the war in Iraq has been said to be waged in part, to spread democracy.

Is this being realistic or plain stupid? Should “charity” not begin at home?

Now, for a little story coming from the Talking Tree:


The Talking Tree talks about American trust.

Two young Americans go camping with a cooler packed with beer and sandwiches.
After a day of walking they come across a beautiful spot for their camp. Realizing that they have forgotten a bottle opener, the older American says to the younger: “You must go back and get that bottle opener. Without it we can’t drink the beer.” “No way,” says the younger, “by the time I get back all the food will be gone.” I won’t, I promise,” says the older guy, “just hurry.”
Two days pass and there is no sign of the other American. Some what exasperated and quite hungry the older guy bites into a delicious sandwich. Suddenly the younger guy jumps out from behind some big rocks and shouts: “I knew it…and I am not going!”

So much said for American trust, by the "Talking Tree", for a little laugh.

Adapted by “Talking Tree 2006” from an anonymous non-copyright text, which was somewhat racist.

The unwritten poem.

I thought for some time that I would write a poem today to serve as an anniversary statement about my feelings five years after the poem "September 11, 2001" which I wrote on September 12, 2001.  Here we are, five years later and I find that I have no interest in writing that poem. My blog of September 07, 2006 included the poem "September 11, 2001".

I recall how deeply I was affected by that terrible day. From December 20, 2001 through to January 5, 2002, I neither turned on my TV nor read any newspapers. I went into “seclusion” and listened to music and read a number of books. I did not want to be faced with the horrible images that we have all seen or to be exposed to on-going commentary relating to the Year 2001. I had had enough, a point of super saturation!

Yesterday I read a few words from my newspaper and caught a few of the American President’s words. I read on the internet some words from an address by the Canadian Prime Minister. I got the feeling that both these men were attempting to justify their countries involvement in war. Their solution to terrorism seems to be to fight, to kill all those individuals who can be described as terrorists before they come to North America.

What those governments should be doing is reviewing all the things that the Americans had done around the world to turn the feelings of so many against them. That would not be such a difficult task but that would be admitting to facts and there would be the ensuing feelings of guilt. But, Americans should never feel guilty. They believe in the right, but their right is simply might. America will be brought to its knees by individual terrorists even as today there is fear and that fear is being met by security measures that are costing the American public “big bucks” with no end in sight. Security is a big business. As in most business ventures, some individuals profit and live the “good life”, they eat, drink, and are quite merry, living their lives in luxury while many millions of people around the world go homeless, are hungry and lack in medical care; they suffer.

Lest we forget, where were the Americans in 1939 when many nations of the world were involved in warfare to defeat Hitler and his associates?

I would like to think that Americans in general are good and kind people. Americans are really friendly.  I have many American friends and I like them very much. So what is the problem? Can Americans really believe what their President has to say?  

We now learn about the earlier justification for the war in Iraq. Many untruths were told. Even without the weapons of mass destruction in Iraq, it is said that there was a plan in place to attack Iraq. Could it be that there are war games on paper? I can see that for any country that might become an enemy there is a “war plan” and that includes Canada.

America has the might but does that give it the right to impose its will on many foreign countries? Might there be a plan in place to attack Iran? Is the American government preparing the people psychologically to accept a war there?

The Americans supported Israel in its “stupid” war against the people of Lebanon. Their justification was that two soldiers had been kidnapped by the Hezbollah and they wanted them back They had hoped to teach a lesson to one and all. But Israel learned the lesson and the Americans did too.

Now I wonder about those two soldiers. Were they really captured? Are they still alive? Is it possible that all that we have learned are lies and fabrications? Is it possible that this possible fabrication was a set-up for the “war”? This is stuff for a novel and the questions are perhaps not worthy of being written for this blog but I did get something off my chest and perhaps, just perhaps, there will be some reaction.

It is now recognized that all the heavy equipment, planes, bombs and military personnel can’t defeat terrorists on their own soil. There are lessons to be learned from American involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan and from the recent Israeli war.

So there is no poem today, just words reflecting feelings that I have today that I did not have five years ago. But there was a poem yesterday that might be read.

Five years from now, if I am still alive and you are as well my dear reader, I hope to write a poem for you.

time does pass

time does pass

respective / respectful
paths followed / destiny calling
over mountain / across valley
voices from afar
under changing clouds
with winds / rain / snow
the many seasons of life 
days of passion / wonderment
of sadness / delight / pain / pleasure
tears / smiles / laughter / song
friends / family / culture / truth / beauty
words / the poet's voice
nights following days / life continuing 
with work / good deeds 
leaving earth a better place
for our passing

© 2006 Lou Reeves

It is all about oil...

“It is all about oil” said a young man in Bosnia. He was referring to late intervention of the Americans in the Bosnian war. Had oil been in Bosnia, the Americans would have been there much earlier. It was his belief that the Americans are central to all that takes place in the world.

There is little doubt in the minds of the educated people of the world that the United States of America is the most powerful nation in the world. They are also viewed as the wealthiest, great spenders on the luxuries of life. If viewers of film and television believe what they see, they develop a completely false image and understanding of the American situation. A much better understanding of the U.S. would be gained by reviewing what too place during the Katrina disaster and what followed for a full year. How much criminal activity took place, how much greed was displayed, how the political processes failed, all of these happenings and much more would surely provide foreign governments with a clear understanding of America the Great. American the Great was brought to its knees. America is like a two sided coin; one side shows the positives, the other the negatives. Even for many Americans, their lives are holding the view of the negatives.  Many of the systems in America need revision or improvement, to benefit all Americans. If one looks at the health care system, the education system, the political system, the employment system and the system for “sharing the wealth” of the nation, a quick conclusion could be drawn that America is sick. The country is alive but not well. Many of the maladies are curable but that would require a reshuffling of the cards of wealth. The wealthy are too much so. The poor are too much so. A distribution system to “share the wealth” is necessary. But the wheels of government are controlled by the wealthy. This has little to do with which party is in power. All that being said, it is necessary to say that there are many other nations on earth which are sick, for many of the same reasons. In fact, some nations are much sicker.

The world is sick. There are so many wars taking place. Weapons are in the hands of children and these are being used to kill “others” who are different for whatever reasons which might include language, culture and religion. Has it not been ever thus? What does history tell us?

The cry of “Yankee go home!” can still be heard and if not as loud as in the past, it still is there in the hearts and minds of many people. Could one ever have imagine that an individual could “declare war” on the United States of America? Probably not but it did take place. Since that declaration was made, American has changed. There is rampant growing fear for the security of the nation. Security as an area of employment has increased rapidly to match the fear that exists. As we approach the fifth anniversary of 9/11, that fateful day that changed the American world for ever, I would like to share a poem written on 9/12 of 2001.


September 11, 2001

This day etched forever in a mind,
A deed so cruel, so unjust, so unkind.
In disbelief we saw so much,
Knowing death would so many touch.

Our tears were shed, emotions enflamed,
Our understanding and thoughts were drained.
But many found much courage deep,
They gave their lives, now they sleep.

Thus left behind, family and friends,
And many who wonder how to make amends.
Some in anger, some in fear.
War is the word we did often hear.

But American leadership is very strong,
Voices were raised in patriotic song,
A people in crises always do unite,
The scoundrel, the villain, they will fight.

And those with wounds do suffer now,
For you in the future we do vow,
Remembrance, you served your country
When struck by the common enemy.

For in our freedom we do share.
All those who worked with much care,
To rescue all who could be saved,
So many images in our minds engraved.

This day we will never forget,
A remembrance day to beget,
A day our strength to renew,
With blessings, many to accrue!

© 2001 by Lou Reeves

Afghanistan Today

Canadian Forces in Afghanistan have sustained a number of deaths and many casualties to date. Now that they are committed to the battle scene all Canadians at home can do is to wish the military personnel there the maximum safety and security possible. The Nation is in morning with those families which have lost members as a result of military battles.

An earlier Canadian commitment was that of helping in the reconstruction of Afghanistan. This changed to supporting the fight against the Taliban. A fight under the American led counter insurgency war in Afghanistan.

I would prefer to see Canadians involved in the destruction of this year’s poppy crop which will only fuel the drug trade in North America. No doubt the profits from drug sales will support the Taliban and strengthen the drug trade around the world.

Canada needs to set its objectives for its external affairs in keeping with the improvement of the world through the reduction of poverty, the reduction of the AIDS problems in Africa. Canada needs to be a country that supports improvement in the life circumstances of all of humanity. There is a role to play and this must be far from the killing territory of Afghanistan.

American society is turning away from supporting the Republican Party in part because of the war in Iraq.  If the Democrats are successful in the next Presidential election, will the American nation become any more secure? I believe the number one concern of Americans will be internal security. All the money spent in the support of the external wars should be used to improve the lot of Americans and to assist in the solution of the multiple social problems that exist.

Canadians in Afghanistan

Canadians do not belong in Afghanistan. What is the justification for their being there? Time passes, things change. Canada has entered into a long term commitment to the “war” effort in Afghanistan. Why?

I am not overly concerned about the dollars that are being spent to help the people of countries that suffer from war activities. I do not support Canadian involvement  in military activities. Too many of our military personnel have died to date. Now we learn that our Canadian military personnel have brought about a death and wounding of police personnel who are supposed to be friendly to our forces. What went wrong? Will this happen again? Perhaps!

Are we sending military personnel who lack the appropriate training to carry out the missions assigned to them? Do they have the necessary equipment and sufficient personnel to do what is required? Who is responsible for the strategies being employed? Are the rules of the “game” changing? Are we there to support American policies and American interests in Afghanistan? Is Canada there because Canada did not join the Americans in the war against Iraq? There are many questions being asked by Canadians. More will be asked in the future.

An election may be called to justify the Canadian settlement of the “soft wood” problem with the United States. I think that an election should be called on the basis of the questions being asked concerning the Canadian policies regarded Afghanistan. Would the Prime Minister dare to call an election now? I doubt this very much!