Poet's Platform Column | 14 Aug. 08 by Janet Nesler | The Scioto Voice | Wheelersburg, Ohio

Get a Grip (on self control) An enemy I strove to know. Dogged my steps where ‘ere I’d go. My plans he balked and blocked my way. To lofty goals he answered: “Nay!” ‘Till I from him the veil did draw. I looked and lo... myself I saw. Mary Woodward Wooster, OH Just Say No We all need a “stop doing list.” To do or not to do. Do keep things focused. Choose your assignments carefully. Refuse to open the door to every opportunity that knocks. Do remember that opportunity does not equal obligation. Stop! Check your “not to do list.” Just say no. Mary Woodward Wooster, OH   HOW CAN EARTH SMILE Just when the dawn begins its radiant glow, I steal away to hide in nature’s arms Beside a tree where rippling waters flow, And tranquil hours erase all thoughts of harm. I see the earth in wise routine display The smells and looks of spring from year to year. But, now I wonder with each passing day, How can earth smile behind its falling tears. As plastic trash is seen most everywhere. And cigarettes with tat-tail stubs are left With beer cans that seem to foul the air And no one seems to have a care or regret. Perhaps some day when life on earth is through We’ll spin in space like dying planets do. Edna Keffer Portsmouth   CHOICES Our tomorrows are shaped by today’s choices. To stay or go To love or not. Choose carefully the path for tomorrow’s dawn. The decision may haunt you forever. Janet Nesler Sciotoville