ALL POEMS DANNY SPEICHER

Poetry Series
Danny Speicher
- poems -
2
Danny Speicher (February 26,1982)
Danny Speicher was born on February 26,1982 and grew up in the college
town of Lawrence, Kansas. Raised by his mother (Cynthia Speicher) , aunt
(Patricia Collins) and grandmother (Ruby Collins) until his grandma's death
in 1997, Danny received love unconditionally from his family throughout his
upbringing. Having been the son of Frank Joseph Speicher (a prominent
figure in the city of Lawrence who died when Danny was 7) , he found a
unique and strong connection to the Lawrence community.
Speicher's faith in Christ had always been a central part of his life and for a
short while he attended Oklahoma Wesleyan University in Bartlesville,
Oklahoma to pursue a degree in Pastoral Ministry from 2004-2006. He is
currently back in his hometown of Lawrence, Kansas looking to pursue
degree in education, instead, after finding his passion for teaching at a local
elementary school upon his return.
Danny has been writing poems since childhood. However, he truly started
developing his passion for writing after he graduated from Lawrence High
School in 2000. His poems often express his faith in God; his passion and
romantic love for loved ones who have come and gone in his life; or even
more often express his love for family, friends or places. Whether he writes
of love or loss; faith or strife... He always writes with a unique authenticity
and classical style that is distinctly his.
3
A Bright Sun Shining
Don't cry, my dear sisters, don't cry today
The storm may be raging, thunder crashing
With clouds threatening and lightning flashing
Darling, the sky won't always be that way
Dear brothers, don't burden yourselves this night
The sky may be dark as a raven's wing
And you don't know what the next turn may bring
But, on the horizon, a line breaks bright
These troubled times are treacherous and tough
Oft wondering whether you'll eat or starve
But, each day is a day which our God carved
Even now, His provision is enough
Dream of that day with each silver lining
A cloudless day, with a bright sun shining
((May 15th,2009))
Danny Speicher
4
A Cloudy Night
Sitting under a cloudy horizon
With you in my arms, your lips against mine
Letting you see a place I go alone
You and I under a cloudy night sky
Silence was the language spoken that night
Thankful to see one another again
Staring deeply into each others' eyes
Not really knowing the dream we were in
Oh, to relive that night over once more
Perhaps I would hold you closer to me
Perhaps my kisses would be far deeper
Perhaps I'd hold you... Never let you free
Oh, how the moon would poke through the clouds
As if to smile in approval, sweet
And the few stars would shine down upon us
So sweetly dancing as our lips would meet
In one moment 'my place' became 'our place'
And all those things that I dreamt of right there
Those very dreams had finally come true
Under the clouds in that humid night air
((July 29th,2007))
Danny Speicher
5
A Cloudy Night Revisited
Sitting once more under a cloudy sky
Alone, yet dreaming of you sitting near
Once again alone in my place of rest
Missing you dearly and wanting you here
Silence louder than the claps of thunder
Rolling through the plains, shaking me deeply
Wet green grass reminding me of your eyes
Dreaming a dream within a dream, weeping
Oh, to relive that night over once more
Perhaps I would hold you closer to me
Perhaps my kisses would be far deeper
Perhaps I'd hold you... Never let you free
But, a year later the moon shines no more
The stars twinkle not between lofty clouds
The sky burst forth in tears to match my own
Bringing memories wrapped in night-time shrouds
Our place remains our place, although still mine
Yet all those things my heart once dared to dream
And all those thoughts that those dreams had come true
Remain a dream, less lasting than they seemed
((July 29th,2008))
Danny Speicher
6
A Dispatcher's Prayer
Dear Lord, please help my mind to be sharp
So that I might focus on the needs of others
Help my ears to be trained
To listen to the calls that need my attention
Train my heart to persevere
Though, at times, I may feel overwhelmed
Keep my voice steady and calm
As I guide citizens and professionals
Keep my hands quick and accurate
So that I might relay details precisely
Lord, never let me become discouraged
For I know You've put me here to help my community
Never let me be fearful
For I know You drive my words and actions
Never let me forget that You are my provider
And You will provide, hour by hour, what I need in this job
((May 30th,2009))
Danny Speicher
7
A Few More Steps
Walking up the hill, cross upon your back
Will that next step be the step causing you to crack
Wanting to scream out, “Lord, where have you gone? ”
Then you see Him on that hill as dusk becomes dawn
Just a few more steps until you’re in your Father’s arms
Just a few more steps until you’re away from harm
Just a few more steps walking in that blinding light
In just a few more steps… You’re gonna be alright
Money doesn’t seem to be in your reach
Another man on the phone giving you the speech
What he doesn’t know is how you would pay it all
But, the jobs you work just can’t stop the call
Just a few more steps until you’re in your Father’s arms
Just a few more steps until you’re away from harm
Just a few more steps walking in that blinding light
In just a few more steps… You’re gonna be alright
You have lost all your hope to find your way
A loving god wouldn’t let your hurt grow each day
But, you hear Him beckoning in the dark
And, deep within you, there is that passionate spark
No matter what the road may hold
And even if the darkness falls
He sees you shivering and cold
And He’s holding you through it all
Just a few more steps until you’re in your Father’s arms
Just a few more steps until you’re away from harm
Just a few more steps walking in that blinding light
In just a few more steps… You’re gonna be alright
In just a few more steps… You’re gonna be alright
((September 19th,2006))
Danny Speicher
8
A Kyrielle of Faith
Though all seems wrong within your life
And the light seems soon to depart
And though pain may cut like a knife
Trust in the Lord with all your heart
Don’t fear deceitful winds of change
Or think of those whom you’re apart
When it’s steep on that mountain range
Trust in the Lord with all your heart
Does He not feed birds of the air?
Or clothes to the lilies impart?
How much more does He care for you?
Trust in the Lord with all your heart
Though all seems wrong within your life
Trust in the Lord with all your heart
((April 4th,2006))
Danny Speicher
9
A Mighty Beast to Plunder
Waves crash against my boat today
Like many other days before
I've hooked the prey I've longed after
My hands so bloody and, oh, so sore
Th fish is strong in mind and heart
But, I am man and will prevail
He taunts me with his power
But, on and on, I sail
He circles once and circles twice
Constantly still still circling
All day, all night around and 'round
Not paying heed to my pain's sting
Pulling to tight will break the line
Giving slack will give him freedom
On this sea of purgatory
My batle will soon be won
His strength waning now, I know
His circles so small
For him, the end is drawing near
His flesh will feed us all
In the air he jumps so high
Saying his goodbyes one last time
We have bonded, the fish and I
Murdering him, I feel, a crime
Nature exists to give us life
This, my guilt, doth relieve
What a mighty beast to plunder
What a bounty to receive
((Inspired by Ernest Hemingway's book, 'The Old Man and the Sea'))
((October 20th,1999))
Danny Speicher
10
A Poem Long Forgotten
As we stroll down the pebble path
A poem, long forgotten, enters my soul
So long I've waited for a love like yours
So long I've yearned for its grace
You bring life to my solemn being
And purpose to my once lonely future
For all my waiting and patience, true
It has paid off for I've finally found you
All this time waiting
God must have been
Keeping my love pure
For you, my lover... And my friend
((October 22nd,1999))
Danny Speicher
11
A Poet's Touch
If once upon a lake of god
I stood and, I, a story told
Not one single soul did find
Peace given to a troubled mind
For when I speak, instead of write
It ignites no wisdom, no passion, no light
For what my pen can write today
Are words my lips could never say
For eloquent in speech, I'm not
It is words in ink, I have sought
I do not wish for words to speak
I am blessed with the paper I seek
God has granted me a poet's touch
Granted, however, it isn't much
But, with this talent to touch lives
With pen in hand, I'll live and strive
((August 28th,2000))
Danny Speicher
12
A Rush of Cool Air
A million questions swirl about my head
Wondering, pondering implications
If my heart will give my mind vacation
Or, this time, will logic prevail instead?
Her face clouds my thoughts each hour, each day
Her greyish blue eyes and blonde locks of hair
Rise before me like a rush of cool air
As the worries I once had fade away
Will I find peace at the end of this quest?
Will I, at the end of this present day
Be able to, with all confidence say
I’ll, forever, find shelter in her breast?
Lord knows I don’t know; But, I do know this
It’s worth all Hell, to find that kind of bliss
((September 16th,2010))
Danny Speicher
13
A Smile
Perhaps it was the mood I felt tonight
Perhaps just sheer coincidence of chance
Perhaps it was just an exhausted trance
But, I felt a smile, my face, ignite
I don't know what all it was that you said
Or if it was the words you spoke at all
But, tonight, for the first time since the fall
A smile came thinking of what's ahead
I don't know what might come of you and I
If our paths will cross or stay steady on
Friends or lovers, or a friendship long gone
All I know is that a smile drew nigh
So, thank you for bringing light once again
And finding where this smile's been within
((July 17th,2008))
Danny Speicher
14
A Sonnet for a Fearful Heart
Life is dimmed from time to time with heartache
We focus on the pain we feel inside
Realizing what we have put at stake
We are humbled by likely loss of pride
In this humility He works His love
Like only His love can work from within
Sweet is His grace that rains down from above
Restoring our wounds, burying our sin
He shows us His love through His Holy Word
Through the communion with Him in our prayers
Through smiles of a loved one, or laughter heard
Or the smell of rain, drifting in the air
Yes, God’s blessings are given everyday
Oh, how they should calm our fears and dismay
((February 25th,2005))
Danny Speicher
15
A Sonnet for the Sick
Why do we resort to all these harsh words?
Brothers, are we not called to be salt? Light?
To love the unlovable, dead in blight?
Why is truly loving the lost absurd?
Is this why our message now goes unheard?
Don’t we see we aren’t doing this quite right?
When the message we spread is out of spite…
The pathology of Earth goes uncured
Someday I think we all will be ashamed
When we find the believer’s real disease
Wasn’t recanting their faith in His name
Rather that they shunned the sickest of these
Concerned about being seen with the lame
To give them the Key that would set them free
((December 4th,2005))
Danny Speicher
16
A Sonnet of Hope
When the grind of life is wearing me down
And my heart is breaking to see your face
It helps to know that where my heart is found
You will always be found in that same place
Each day passes with hope for that great day
When no 'good byes' will ever leave our lips
And together we will enter this fray
And from this fountain of life we will sip
Yet, until that day, I sit and I wait
Longing to have your tiny hand in mine
Sometimes I think of life's humor of fate
How your far away... Always on my mind
I miss you so much when you're not here
Yet, when you're gone my heart grows so fond
How much fonder it is when you are near
And, so I wait for that sacred bond
How special will this be if we hold on
When you'll always be near... And never gone
((July 29th,2007))
Danny Speicher
17
A Springtime Sonnet
When the winter blooms into springtime, bright
And the birds are sweetly singing their tune
We consider Your benevolent might
And pray that the light doesn’t fade too soon
Yet, when the nightfall does fall from above
Your stars prolong the beauty of the sun
Shining on to remind us of Your love
And remind us Your work is never done
It is in these days of mild weather
That we find a relief from the harsh cold
One and all we all gather together
And fond memories and stories are told
At the end of winter you bless us so
Blessing, indeed, your creatures here below
((February 28,2006))
Danny Speicher
18
A Sunset Sonnet
When the sun sets over the mansion, west
And the breeze gently blows across the lake
I remember what I once thought was best
Thankful that turn, He didn’t let me take
When the peaceful sounds of nature replace
The busy sounds of students, cars and such
I stand in awe of God’s love in this place
As it reaches down for my heart to touch
When nightfall comes to take away the light
And the stars sing their silent songs above
It humbles me that even in my blight
I am given gifts of mercy and love
And, when the storm clouds come rolling on through
Still I'll remember this sunset’s warm hue
((February 15th,2006))
Danny Speicher
19
A Year Has Passed
A year's gone by since I last heard your voice
Yet, I still hear it at least once a day
Whenever a certain song comes my way
Oh, I wish loving you was just a choice
I didn't know what I thought would happen
When a year marked this anniversary
Perhaps peace, if only temporary
Or a thought that might, my love's flame, dampen
But, the twelfth broke not unlike another
And, yet still, a haunting figure lingered
My heart begged for my opera singer
How it longed even still for no other
But, alas, a year has passed without her
Still I sit alone and think about her
Our love wasn't like any I'd e'er known
How she had seemingly come from a dream
How surreal each moment spent with her seemed
'Twas easy for me to lay my heart prone
Nights in the cinema and holding hands
When I held her, close, in my arms I knew
That there is nothing that I wouldn't do
To protect her heart, her dreams and her plans
Nighttime sky, in a place that was just ours
Gently kissing and sweetly embracing
While crickets nighttime voices were raising
A summer song, upward to the bright stars
But, alas, a year has passed without her
Still I sit alone and think about her
A promise ring, inexpensive, but bright
After a brisk carriage ride to our meal
Oh, how elation was hard to conceal
In millions years I won't forget that night
But, the love grew cold as tragedy struck
And, when my thoughts were divided in two
She found it hard to believe love was true
The blessing, I suppose, ran out of luck
After a month of her contemplation
She chose to end what I thought was epic
Used money as the divisive topic
Although I sought her with admiration
But, alas, a year has passed without her
20
Still I sit alone and think about her
Still I sit alone and think about her
I dream of all that she might well become
And reminisce of days gone by, undone
Can't believe a year has passed without her
Yet, a year, indeed, has passed without her
And, I, alone, still do think about her
((April 12th,2009))
Danny Speicher
21
Again
Sailing on the water
You've strayed from your course again
But, the storm is coming
And, you're caught in the waves of sin
Jesus, my Lord, save me
From my sin
Please, Jesus, bring me
Back home again
Knock and He'll open
Seek and Your heart will find
Truth that will free you
And peace for a troubled mind
((November 23rd,2000))
Danny Speicher
22
All That I Did Wrong
Lord knows I tried my best to do my best
In all that I did that I did with you
And, Lord knows there's plenty I never knew
Of what you dreamed when, at night, you would rest
Although, in the end, I have no regrets
If I had a chance to do it again
I, frankly, don't know where I would begin
Of notes I'd change in our little duet
Perhaps, as a man, more strongly, I'd lead
Perhaps I'd give you more freedom to roam
With the full faith that you would return home
Million things I might very well concede
But, oh, to, once again, hear your sweet song
I'd make you a list of all I did wrong
((November 22nd,2008))
Danny Speicher
23
All That We Did Right
Looking back, now, on all that we once had
Laughter and the tears, all that's in between
Of that which lay invisible, unseen
Of those secret things that made us both sad
There were many things we did very well
Never once failing to say, 'I love you'
Or trying our best to prove the love true
And how quickly, yet logically, we fell
Grinning when the other came into sight
Trying to squeeze every bit of joy
From each moment, together, we'd enjoy
My dear, these are some the things we did right
And, though all we had ended in a fight
Please, dear, remember all that we did right
((November 22nd,2008))
Danny Speicher
24
All Things New
I grasp at air to find the words to say
I plunder my heart to find emotion
To aptly describe my life's devotion
To a God who makes complete each new day
A journey that has left me oft broken
A dream or two that have been left behind
Often made my eyes of faith all but blind
Often left only empty prayers spoken
Even when my heart did not believe You
Even when ev'ry ounce of hope was lost
All debt was paid as You burdened the cost
All praise be to God who makes all things new
Even when my heart does not believe You
Remind me to praise; You make all things new
((April 28th,2010))
Danny Speicher
25
Alone
My heart is breaking
All I hear is silence
My soul is aching
And I am all alone
I cry out to my friends
Only apologies come
And there is no end
To my suffering
((December 10th,2000))
Danny Speicher
26
Always Keep Hope
To you who are hurt and crying at night
May your desire be to be healed
May your heart be safe, and like wax, be sealed
And may your blindness, once again be sight
To you who have been cut, wounded and torn
May those wounds be, again, restored to health
Whether you're healed in poverty or wealth
Whatever the mode, may you be reborn
Always remember to cherish your life
And care for your body, your mind, your soul
And be patient in reaching all your goals
Be resilient in wellness and in strife
Surround yourself with those who care for you
And may their abilities help to restore
All that made you who you were once before
Let your pride die as their kindness imbues
May you rest peacefully under the wings
Of divine love and trusting in God's grace
May His presence move through you in this place
And sleep easy with the release He brings
Look for His blessings each and every day
Examine events that might seem mundane
Beauty exists in that which appears plain
Look for moments to meditate and pray
And may you always keep hope in your heart
Though it may be oft difficult to do
Though it may not seem the logical view
Never fail to keep hope within your heart
Amen
((June 29th,2010))
Danny Speicher
27
Anniversary
Here's to one year... One year that should have been
With all the flowers and poems and such
Oh, what a wonderful celebration
Because we would have made it through so much
Here's to the year, in part, that we did have
The history of memories and laughs
And, all the struggles that made us stronger
I write this for us on our dreams' behalf
Happy anniversary to what was
The 'what ifs' and 'could have beens', let them die
Don't relegate a great relationship
To nevermore futures of 'you and I'
Remember the good times that we both had
Don't have regrets of those things that were bad
Don't believe for a moment I am mad
So, don't look back on those months and be sad
Some things in life are meant to be lasting
Others are to touch our hearts and move on
I thought our love was to be forever
But, how blessed am I for the 'us' foregone?
((May 12th,2008))
Danny Speicher
28
Another New Year
Another New Year's Eve, now come and gone
Another New Year began all alone
No one to kiss or to call on the phone
No one to load my hopes and dreams upon
Perhaps she was correct so long ago
Perhaps I'm not worth the smiles she gave
Maybe I'll take poverty to the grave
Maybe it's best she went to and not fro
I'm just a man seeking something greater
Than the life that I have long been living
Won't gain wealth by sacrificing giving
Though selfishness might well help me later
Another New Year not settl'ing for less
Than distant dreams of my heart's happiness
((January 1st,2010))
Danny Speicher
29
Apart
Often I wondered how the tale would end
In suburbia with white picket fences
Or city lights exciting the senses
But, being apart I can't comprehend
Yet, here I am, with a heart on the mend
Or a heart that I hope will someday heal
From the pain and agony it now feels
Being apart I just can't comprehend
Yet, what more could I possibly contend?
I can't make you fall in love again, dear
No matter how truly my heart's sincere
Being apart I just can't comprehend
Here I stand, my prayers, for you, still extend
Yet still, apart, I just can't comprehend
((April 26th,2008))
Danny Speicher
30
Autumn Prayer
Staring out the window at leaves of red and gold
Gusts of wind spin them in a mix of rustic hue
Contrasting clouds, grey, above, overlap and fold
As the sun sets, bidding the long, cold day adieu
All of the trees are bare; and dying is the grass
The sun rises early and days quickly pass by
The scorching heat of the summer winds, gone at last
Too quickly, the frosty bite of winter draws nigh
Life moves slower and memories flood, deep, the heart
One can look and find no hope in these days of grey
Work seems harder and gains seem few and far apart
Hope dwindling further away, day after day
Lord, Giver of Life: for your people please provide
Comforter, Counselor: please heal these hurts inside
Savior, Messiah: from me, your grace, don’t divide
Almighty God, Creator: humbly we abide
For, in these times of great desperation and fear
It is then, beyond all other times, You draw near
((November 10th,2006))
Danny Speicher
31
Awesome Beauty
When the golden sunset
Sets over the amber hills
And when the moon shines bright
And all the world stands still
There is beauty, awesome beauty
God took the dust and formed a man
He paints each sunrise with His hand
He took all the love within His heart
And gave us beauty from the start
There's beauty, awesome beauty
When the storm clouds come
And thunder rolls
When skies are dark
And it hardens the soul
There's beauty, awesome beauty
God took all the love within His heart
And gave us beauty from the start
There's beauty, awesome beauty
Through every age
There is a call
To admire the creation
He gave us all
It is beauty, awesome beauty
See the beauty, hear the call
Enjoy the life He gave us all
God took the love in His heart
And gave us beauty from the start
There's beauty, awesome beauty
((May 17th,2000))
Danny Speicher
32
Be My Sight
I see a snapshot and I read the words
Hear the voice speak at the end of the line
Longing for just a little more face time
Wishing I could fly freely like the birds
See eyes on a page looking back at mine
Trusting, hoping I might be something more
Unsure I'd come close to the me before
Looking for a signal, purely divine
I've failed and I've hurt those I've loved before
Tears I'm responsible for on their cheek
Eyes clinched so tightly, not wanting to peek
To see the tears I'll weep forevermore
Can I find strength to fight this present fight
Lord, be my vision... Oh, Lord, be my sight
((July 6th,2010))
Danny Speicher
33
Be Still
The wind picked up from the north
As the clouds began to form
The men in the boat grew weary
Of the impending storm
The boat shook from the waves
And tears filled their eyes
They called out to Jesus
And He looked up to the skies
Peace, be still
The winds won't blow that long
Peace, be still
I can right any wrong
All nature bows down to me
So, surrender all your fear
So, peace, my son... Be still
He had strayed from those he loved
He had lost all of his hope
The road seemed long and winding
Life seemed so hard to cope
No prayers were made to God
Until that night at home
When he fell onto his knees
And asked for God, alone
Peace, be still
The winds won't blow that long
Peace, be still
I can right any wrong
All nature bows down to me
So, surrender all your fear
So, peace, my son... Be still
((November 18th,2000))
Danny Speicher
34
Beautiful and Free
If you love something you must let it go
For if that love was truly meant to be
It will come back after being set free
It's a quote and concept that we all know
When you asked to move on, I set you free
Not wanting to prolong your hurt or pain
Not wanting to, your happiness, restrain
I did so, though, I wanted you with me
I let you go to fly beautiful and free
Not wanting to fight or embattle you
Wanting your scars to be shallow and few
Knowing, you, I might never again see
I let you go to fly beautiful and free
Knowing, you, I might never again see
((January 13th,2009))
Danny Speicher
35
Beautiful Night
Beautiful night, how the stars, they so clearly shine
And the joyful moon how it mirrors back my smile
Oh, beautiful night, you're good to a heart like mine
Oh, beautiful night, you've made this long road worthwhile
Beautiful night, glow of the city behind me
Smile, I, with my heart at peace and my mind at ease
Oh, beautiful night, tranquility sets me free
Oh, beautiful night, I dream of moments like these
Beautiful night and all seems so right with the world
Questions come later; decisions, future doth hold
Oh, beautiful night, for now I watch the sky twirl
Oh, beautiful night, I wait for light to behold
Yet, in the stillness of evening I dream these dreams
That the beauty of this night is all that it seems
((After my first date with the most amazing girl on earth))
((April 21st,2007))
Danny Speicher
36
Belle
Just today I heard you were doing well
That you love your job and you love your life
Not one instance of hurt, nor bit of strife
And I caught myself happy for you, Belle
Often I pray for you to live your dreams
And think of the greatness you might achieve
I think of all the things that I believed
Knowing that one day, on a stage, you'd beam
I wish I could let you know how I feel
And, I wish I could still encourage you
Somehow feel the hug that's long overdue
And I'm praying that you'll live your ideals
But, today I heard you were doing well
And found myself so happy for you, Belle
((June 4th,2008))
Danny Speicher
37
Benji
I've heard those who mourn will be comforted
And, Lord, I am praying that verse holds true
Because I am in need of some comfort
Losing friends isn't easy to go through
And, though I know I'll see him once again
On a mountainside grander than those here
My heart still mourns and still needs Your comfort
I still need You to wipe away my tears
Funny, it doesn't seem so long ago
That your laugh brightened a community
And, your smile made any day better
Now, it brightly warms all eternity
And, though I know I'll see him once again
On a mountainside grander than those here
My heart still mourns and still needs Your comfort
I still need You to wipe away my tears
It's hard to say goodbye to friends so soon
I wish I could have come to know you more
I know this wasn't the last chance I'll get
I'll come meet you on that eternal shore
And, though I know I'll see him once again
On a mountainside grander than those here
My heart still mourns and still needs Your comfort
I still need You to wipe away my tears
((Dedicated to a friend of all, Benji Hawk, who we miss dearly))
((December 11th,2007))
Danny Speicher
38
Between Now and Eternity
Stuck between now and eternity’s shore
Pursuing a call, praying I heard right
Hurting from work, but, somehow, wanting more
Wishing I’d find a wink of sleep at night
Oh, how life is complicated right now
Wanting to be who God called me to be
Not knowing just what or exactly how
But, I fight for hope, I fight to be free
And relationships they come and they go
Some, longer than others, stay by your side
But, when their departure just isn’t known
It’s tough to know just how much to confide
Though I’m not alone, I’m lonely inside
I feel I’m throwing myself on the sword
Not knowing if work is my hope or pride
Time is a luxury I can’t afford
Stuck between now and eternity’s shore
God grant peace in my tumultuous heart
Even though now, my own voice I abhor
Give me Your courage, Your words, to impart
Danny Speicher
39
Beyond
Somewhere beyond these sad, overcast skies
There is beauty that is happening now
Stars, bright shining and twinkling above
With some stooping to earth to take a bow
Somewhere beyond these sad, overcast skies
He's giving a show, amazing to see
And, though we're here now, watching and waiting
Someday we'll see that grand show, you and me
Somewhere beyond these sad, overcast skies
There's a miracle happening above
As the angels rejoice and heaven shouts
Of the Father's great, omnipresent love
Somewhere beyond these sad, overcast skies
There is hope for a tommorow so bright
So, smile and know it's not far away
When, hallelujah, we, too, see the light
((December 13th,2006))
Danny Speicher
40
Bittersweet Release
Clouds roll in, black, full of desperation
Slowly been rolling in for quite some time
A dropp of memories here and then there
Drizzle reminding the heart, life's not fair
The clouds looked ominous and bleak above
The droplets fell like anvils on the soul
But, as the heavens opened the floodgates
There was a bittersweet release of fate
For all the things that once were striven for
Were suddenly washed away in the flood
And all those big dreams that once were so near
Beneath the storms gale, they soon dissappeared
One could be angry at such a sad plight
And one could sadly lament of this pain
But, odd enough, a bittersweet release
Has entered and granted this lonely peace
((February 5th,2007))
Danny Speicher
41
Born But a Little Child
He who spoke the world into creation
He was born but a little child
With love so meek and mild
His birth brought the world a new elation
Was born to die to save all the nations
He was born but a little child
With a precious glowing smile
Was to become the church’s foundation
He was born but a little child
To reclaim the fallen world for His own
He was born but a little child
He came that true love, through Him, could be known
He was born but a little child
To take on our sins, and for them atone
((May 31st,2003))
Danny Speicher
42
Bright and New Day
Yesterday is gone, never to return
And tomorrow is approaching quickly
Don't forget to enjoy life and live free
Because this life will soon be a page turned
Gone are those long days of sadness and tears
With memories and nostalgia wrenching
Wrenching emotions and your heart clenching
Here's to no fears and far happier years
Welcome to this bright and new day, my friends
Where assurance is ours of joy and peace
Brought forth by a God whose love doesn't cease
If we grasp it we'll know it never ends
Welcome to this bright and new day, my friends
If we will grasp His love, it never ends
((December 31st,2008))
Danny Speicher
43
Brighter Fate
The sun now descending
The moon draws close by
Another day is over
And brings me to a sigh
Where does all the time go
What comes of all the years
A life of great hopes and dreams
Has rendered naught but tears
The peace has been buried
Near future showing hate
But times, they are changing
Bringing hope of a brighter fate
((January 24th,1997))
Danny Speicher
44
Brightest of Days to Darkest of Nights
The sun shone for a time on hope so pure
As the rays danced upon those daydreams clear
All was right, with not a cloud in the sky
Together we basked in that day so dear
Oh, why do the brightest days have to end
So often preceding the darkest nights
How we long to diligently defend
That which seems, to us, entirely right
Why do brightest days fade to darkest nights?
The clouds rolled in that September evening
And all that was known was lost in the haze
As what was real was distorted by pain
And all we longed for were those sunny days
Oh, why do the brightest days have to end
So often preceding the darkest nights
How we long to diligently defend
That which seems, to us, entirely right
Why do brightest days fade to darkest nights?
Pain seared the marrow, intolerable
As horizon set that innocent sun
All that came easy, now was difficult
And those plans that we made were now undone
Oh, why do the brightest days have to end
So often preceding the darkest nights
How we long to diligently defend
That which seems, to us, entirely right
Why do brightest days fade to darkest nights?
Perhaps I am the one to light this flame
And give light to that which brings so much charm
Perhaps if the dark saw what shone each day
Maybe then, to light, he would do no harm
Fighting darkness always carries a price
Lord, give me strength and Your constant advice
Direct my steps as I carry this light
Help me not fade in the stillness of night
Help me speak wisdom into the cold air
So when he hears, he will know you are there
Let the words I speak be Your words, not mine
In this night, I'll need words that are Thine
Always stay near me and never be far
Always direct me by light of the stars
For, this light I bring is more dear to me
Than any other that will ever be
Oh, why do the brightest days have to end
45
So often preceding the darkest nights
How we long to diligently defend
That which seems, to us, entirely right
Why do brightest days fade to darkest nights?
Do these brightest days really have to end?
Do they always precede those dark, dark nights?
Perhaps today I'll finally defend
That which I know is entirely right
Perhaps today won't fade to dark, dark night
((September 17th,2007))
Danny Speicher
46
Broken
A broken heart is a broken spirit
It takes joy and humbles the soul
It feels as if a knife delves deep inside
And creates a never-ending hole
Some say pride comes before a fall
And pride is the danger to fight
Some say a broken heart could do you well
But, I cannot see the light
I've had many loves that haven't loved me back
I've seen many hearts come and go
Some say goodbye and leave me alone
Others keep me to toss to and fro
So, where are all the good girls, you ask
Where, oh where, could they be
They are in the arms of those who hate
Not willing to commit to me
I've seen so many people hurt
From the first day I was born
You would think I would know the pain
But, it's my ignorance, keeping me forlorn
So, here lays my heart, my broken spirit
Crushed, once again, by the one I love
So, once again I pray to God
To send me someone from above
((May 22nd,2000))
Danny Speicher
47
Called
Pain, like an anvil, heavy on my heart
Stress, like a vice, clamps tight upon my head
Wondering if I heard it correctly
Or if I’ve, by my passion, been misled
I look upon the darkening sunset
Across that stoic, storied hill of lost souls
The weight of their fate lay on my shoulders
Their sin, upon my conscience, like hot coals
Tip-toeing that fine line is a hard task
Between premature eagerness and sloth
I’m the guard on this city’s watchtower
But, when is best to light that fuel-soaked cloth?
So, I stand watch and I wait for a sign
As when to light the torch and blow the horn
‘Till then I sit in anticipation
Sleepless, eager, tired… never forlorn
For, my Lord called me here for a reason
So I rejoice in this cold, hard season
((October 23rd,2006))
Danny Speicher
48
Chad, Dan and Stan
There were birds in the air over there
Flying in the sun's glare, unaware
The farmer's son and his gun
Plans to shoot one just for fun
And the muzzle's blare did cause despair
All the birds fought to dodge the hot shot
Not to be caught and stuck in a pot
The young son cried, teary-eyed
Wanting their hides to be fried
But, failed at his plot to blot the lot
The boy, Chad, went home to his dad, sad
Sure his dad would be mad at the lad
But, he ran, his old man, Stan
His brother Dan had plan
And, they were very glad that Dan had
So, they went to the pretty city
In their truck, Itty-Bitty Gritty
And they prowled around for foul
Passed owls who started to growl
And singing ditties at six fifty
For at six fifty they found Nifty
Nifty told them where to go, thrifty
So the three found KFC
And agreed in jubilee
That this was thrifty and thanked Nifty
So, in the end, Chad, Dan and, dad, Stan
Went home and tomorrow's plan began
They'd drive down into downtown
And look 'round for food, renown
Never again planned to hunt or tan
((Loopy Limericks for Little Lads))
((October 13th,2008))
Danny Speicher
49
Cleft for Me
Look to the east, the sunrise is rising
Morning is breaking on the horizon
A new day’s come and the light is blinding
Been waiting so long, but now I’m finding
That all my dreams, my hopes and desires
Were swept up in His consuming fire
And I find that all that once I had thought
Was worthwhile, had been left out to rot
Yet, I remain, ever clinging to One
Who is as constant as the rising sun
Though I oft fear what tomorrow may bring
If I’m being truthful, my heart will sing
Oh, Rock of Ages, ever cleft for me
Won’t You, forever, let me hide in Thee
And, answers He, in compassionate tones
Reminding me that I’m never alone
Gently guiding me and making me whole
He gives me vision and restores my soul
I learn to be confident once again
And deny myself and reject new sin
Oh, never to boast in my newfound strength
I boast in His grace and His love’s great length
It stretched to my fears when I was afraid
And, though I owed a debt, the debt it paid
Blood-infused sweat and tears in the garden
Didn’t keep Him from granting my pardon
The water and blood from His side that flowed
Allowed nail-pierced hands to carry my load
Waking or sleeping, I find my delight
In the same man who gave the blind man sight
I find my joy in the hope that He brings
So, now my feet dance and now my voice sings
Oh Lord, each day that I rise from my bed
May I have your thoughts running through my head
And every night when I shut my eyes
May I dream and ponder only Your prize
So warped and twisted and darkened inside
Only by your grace, Lord, can I abide
Never in my own strength can I succeed
In Your providence I find what I need
Lord, my sinful heart cries out for Your cure
50
Each day mold me anew and make me pure
((October 8th,2010))
Danny Speicher
51
Cling to Love
Oh, Muse, long ago, you graced this doorway
Or, was it so long ago you were here?
Can’t remember your voice so well, oh Muse
But, at night, while dreaming, your voice rings clear
Oh, Muse, once you had my heart in your hand
Inspire or crush any time you chose
So long since I’ve seen your beautiful face
Still I see it clearly, when my eyes close
Oh, Muse, you took my heart for a season
Though I gave it to you for a lifetime
I sat at your feet and basked in your glow
As long as you’d grant your heart to touch mine
Oh, Muse, don’t abandon the love you know
And cling to love, oh Muse… Don’t let love go
Oh, Muse, you departed on a stormcloud
Late in Springtime you left without a trace
To this day I watch you from a distance
And fondly think of your tender embrace
Oh, Muse, you’ve chosen another to love
I pray that this time you’ll let that love grow
No obstacle, either real or perceived
Will avert love’s supernatural flow
Oh, Muse love deeply, think freely, live life
And cling to love, oh Muse… Don’t let love go
Believe in the power of miracles
Chase every dream that you’ve ever known
Oh, Muse, don’t abandon the love you know
And cling to love, oh Muse… Don’t let love go
((February 8th,2010))
Danny Speicher
52
Columbine Remembered
The alarm clock rings
Another day starts
Sleep fills her eyes
But, joy fills her heart
No fear was present
When she left home that day
She was still in study
When the bullets were sprayed
They never expected
The pain on that day
They never predicted
The price they would pay
They died as victors
Alive within glory
They died as heroes
Proclaiming a story
Still they live on
The doors flew open
Announcing their reign
How could no one have seen
Their hurt, their pain
We stand here mourning
A year to the day
And still is their memory
And it will, forever, stay
They died as victors
Alive within glory
They died as heroes
Proclaiming a story
Still they live on
Their lives weren't in vain
Their faces aren't gone for good
Their stories encourage us through pain
And our courage is found in their blood
They still live on
((April 20th,2000))
Danny Speicher
53
Come and Follow Me
“The harvest is plenty, workers are few”
And He said, “Come and follow me”
“And, through me, you will help them see”
Peter was out fishing with Andrew
The brothers of thunder were fishing too
And He said, “Come and follow me”
“And fishers of men, you will be”
Then, a tax collector came into view
And He said, “Come and follow me”
No matter what you may have done before
He still says, “Come and follow me”
He calls you to a life of so much more
He cries out, “Come and follow me”
And we follow Him, for Him we adore
((May 31st,2003))
Danny Speicher
54
Dagger
God, I feel it again... uncertainty
That cauderizing dagger to my heart
The burning, hot steel of anger and fear
Brutal... tearing my soul slowly apart
I called to You in my hour of doubt
When others failed, I trusted You, alone
I cried out to You when I had been crushed
And, in that moment, Your grace brightly shone
But, each new day brings a heart of sadness
Longing for those simpler days as a child
Each night's dreams bring images full of fear
With each vision my spirit is reviled
I come to You, again, praying for peace
Because, alone, this heart can't take much more
My sorrow, it exceeds my joy today
These deepest fears are too strong to ignore
Lord, I'm needing a hug from my Father
And an arm around my shoulder to guide
All I want is to lay down... quit the race
And there's no friend in whom I can confide
Danny Speicher
55
Dark Night
Hello again, my dearest friend, my child
It is good to see you again at home
I have watched you wandering the world
I have watched you feel very much alone
You've come back home with tears in your eyes
Another black dusk has darkened your sight
You saw the light on and Me standing there
And came in, weeping, giving up the fight
But, if you could only see what I see
From this window's view far above
But, if you could only see what I see
Through these eyes of pure, perfect love
If you could just see what I see
Within your heart... You would see Me
The world has crushed your spirit and your dream
But, deep within, you still feel the fire
If only you could find the strength to go
Purpose could once again be your desire
But, if you could only see what I see
From this window's view far above
But, if you could only see what I see
Through these eyes of pure, perfect love
If you could just see what I see
Within your heart... You would see Me
Each time through the fire, each time through the flame
Each flaw smoothed, each impurity removed
Each defect, weakness, tested and strenghtened
Each will, in the end, worth and value prove
So, when the darkness quickly drapes the sky
Try to invision, then, what my eyes see
As your heart is tested by the bleak night
And, in that darkest moment, you'll see Me
((April 20th,2007))
Danny Speicher
56
Dawn
Lord, hear my cry at the dawn of the sun
It is to You I want to turn
It seems my life is now coming undone
And now, Your love is what I yearn
Lord, so often I’ve turned away from You
I thank You for your loving grace
No other’s love is so perfect and true
I will forever seek Your face
Lord, I have now reached my darkest hour
Because, from Your mercy, I’ve strayed
I find myself now with weakening power
And all of my dreams slowly fade
Lord, take those broken dreams that I once had
And throw them in the blazing fire
Destroying my will, with Your will to add
Your purpose is my desire
Lord, hear my cry at the set of the day
When night slowly creeps up again
So, lead me and guide me is what I pray
And let my new life now begin
((March 14,2003))
Danny Speicher
57
Dear You
Dear You, to whoever that you might be
I just wanted to write to let you know
That I'm still waiting 'round for you to show
To see those eyes I've been longing to see
Dear You, I've been waiting for you so long
At times it seems as though I'll never find
You, that's been in my dreams and on my mind
So, I sit and wait and I write this song
Dear You, I've been mistaken once before
Through similar traits of another love
Apparently not you that I dream of
But, I'll wait for you, as I, you, wait for
Oh, love I had for the mistaken girl
How much more I'll have for that hidden pearl
Dear You, I am preparing, now, for you
Oh, my dear, I wish I'd started before
Oh, my love, I wish, by now, I had more
But, please don't view this blindness, now, askew
Dear You, wait for me as I build for us
A life in which you can easily live
And security I can surely give
I'm impatient, sweetheart, I must confess
Dear You, as I close this letter to you
To you, my girl, whoever you might be
I pray you'll stay pure and looking for me
And, I, myself, will remain pure and true
Dear You, the you I'm looking for out there
Each morning, for you, I will pray a prayer
((September 25th,2008))
Danny Speicher
58
Did You Know I Pray for You?
Did you know I pray for you in the morning?
As the dew wicks away from the rose petals
Or when Winter snow on evergreens settle
Even as Spring storms, they come without warning
Markedly, then, I pray for you that morning
When Summer burns so hot it could melt metal
And, in the Fall, when flowers lose their petals
My dear, I do pray for you in the morning
Did you know I pray for you during noontime?
And think of you fondly and wish you the best
And when the church bells in the evening do chime
Did you know that I pray for you to be blest?
Throughout the day I pray for you many times
And, at night, I pray that God might give you rest
((May 3rd,2007))
Danny Speicher
59
Divine
To You who has made me and made me glad
Praises and glory and honor to You
To the Sustainer of all that is true
Gratitude for all You've given, I've had
Though the darkness comes and stays for a while
Your Word lights the path within the twilight
Giving me sight when there should be no sight
Shining beyond mile after mile
And when sunlight breaks the eastern skyline
And the birds are singing their morning song
And the heavens and earth singing along
Joyful that through it all You were divine
Oh, Lord, Maker of every perfect thing
You have taught this once-saddened heart to sing
((November 8th,2008))
Danny Speicher
60
Do Not Fear
You hear the thunder rolling
It seems the sun has faded away
You've lost all hope for true love
You can't see the break of day
Sometimes it seems hard to live
So hard to move on from here
But, don't lose your faith
Because God's grace is near
Do not fear
God is with you
The night is nearly over
Day is is nearly here
((November 2nd,1999))
Danny Speicher
61
Do You Ever Think Fondly of Me?
Do you wake in the middle of the night
Crying, uncontrollably, desperately?
Do you cry like I cry within the night?
Oh, do you ever think fondly of me?
Do you hope, at times, this wasn't really true
Begging God for one more chance at this love?
Do you pray like I pray it wasn't true?
Oh, do you ever think fondly of me?
Do you ever dream dreams of days gone by
Of past memories shared, while your heart breaks?
Does your heart break like mine for days gone by?
Oh, do you ever think fondly of me?
Do you ever think what dreams may have come
Had we made it past this last obstacle?
Do you ever think like I think... dreams to come?
Oh, do you ever think fondly of me?
Do you ever think fondly of me, dear?
Wondering what I'm doing now and then?
Do your thoughts hangup and cause your eyes tears
When you sit and think and ponder on when
Once upon a winter's evening, so cold
We sat cuddled in each other's embrace
Do you ever think of that evening, so cold?
Oh, do you ever think fondly of me?
((April 17th,2008))
Danny Speicher
62
Don't Fear the Dream
Don't fear the dream, children, as I once did
Don't fear the dream in the stillness of night
Follow that call, given in the darkness
For it will lead you into that bright light
Don't fear the emotions that well within
Don't fear the emotions as the tears fall
Follow your conscience, speaking deep inside
For life with no heart, is no life at all
Don't fear the power that you've been given
Don't fear the power when your moment comes
Follow the Giver who gives you your strength
For there's reason you are who you've become
Don't fear the dream, so bold, as I once did
Don't fear the dream or the visions by night
Follow that call, as given by your King
For reward awaits those who fear, yet fight
And, even when your struggle seems hopeless
And, even when your heart begins to fail
Don't fear the impending evil ahead
For if He is with you, you will prevail
((January 19th,2006))
Danny Speicher
63
Don't Play Me Love Songs
Don't play me love songs filled with naive views on love
Can't you see this heart breaking? Can't you hear it cry?
Please don't play those sweet, old love songs; Please don't ask why
I guess this love inside I don't want to think of
Don't play me sad songs filled with harmonious woe
Don't you know I know how to be sad already?
Please don't play sad songs for this heart, so unsteady
My eyes have already cried far more than you know
Play for me, instead, a song filled with hope and dreams
Play me songs that speak of tomorrow, not today
Reminding me this pain won't always come my way
Make me feel that life isn't as hard as it seems
Don't play love songs, I don't want to hear of their bliss
Play me songs, instead, that give me hope of her kiss
((March 10th,2008))
Danny Speicher
64
Dreams
Day after day I try and find peace in the midst of madness
In the midst of sorrow and tragedy and poverty
I look to the sky looking for an answer, finding none
Finding only an ethereal hope
Lackluster life with daily monotony
Only finds my heart longing for something more
Longing for the life I once had
Longing for an adventure, longing for love
Yet, here I sink in mire and mud
Kicking to gain footing, sinking slowly in my effort
Reaching for a branch that used to seem so near
Seems further away, no longer at my fingertips
For so long I have wanted to rise above
Rise above real life to something of my dreams
Dreams of a love and a life of living not for me
Being a part of a partnership not floundered even by death
One shining moment I grasped a hold of that dream
Held it in my arms as night spun night to day
But, alas, I grasped too tightly and the dream fled from me
And I was left alone, alone in this sad reality
Still at night I dream, with vivid imagery
Of a new day and a new life and a new love just for me
I see the world as it should be, peaceful and serene
And I wonder if I’ll ever see a day that shines so bright
I dream of understanding for the world’s diversity
Brother and sister, hand in hand, across the globe I see
Black and white and every tan shade in between
Living together, loving each other, in perfect harmony
Yet, morning breaks and, again I realize
What I have realized each day of my life
That the world is mired by a curse of hate
Not easily cured with immediacy
So, I simply do my part in changing the world around me
By loving and having compassion on those who enter my life that day
Keeping my eyes open for the love that might come
And maintaining faith that my God, my Savior, will deliver His dreams for me
((December 11th,2009))
Danny Speicher
65
Dreams of Love
Cars speed by, below the city skyline
People walk by and yet they cannot see
The hopes and the dreams waking inside me
As I work and I strive to make them mine
And the street lamps, they act as stars above
The heavens never sparkle on this street
And the rhythm never loses its beat
But, despite the noise I think upon love
Oh, love, the dream that surpasses all dreams
Love, that had nurtured me, then broken me
Love, that will not let my soul simply be
Will it truly remain as it now seems
Dreams, oh dreams; and dreams of love just for me
They play out within where no one can see
((September 17th,2010))
Danny Speicher
66
Dreams Restored
'What's the use', I said to myself, once, as I sat under a tree, alone
For there were many problems I faced and sins which needed to be atoned
So, sat there, I, with clouded emotions and a sad look upon my face
Never wanting to lift my head, instead, sit there, alone, in my disgrace
Fear... What a horrible thing when it paralyzes youth seeking their dreams
If only they would look beyond reality... It isn't all it seems
But, pressures come and slowly crush that vision and curse the hope deep within
Until all that remain are shells of dreamers and thoughts of what might have been
Take heart! All who have lost your way, for those aspirations can be restored
Not just restored, brothers and sisters... No, they can be deeper than before
On the wings of passion and with the strength of experience these take flight
In stark contrast they blaze on, bright and beautiful, against the cold, dark night
In those moments, lived on for as long as you'll carry the torch, you then see
Fear you had wasn't of failure, but fear of what you might be called to be
But, fear not, at that time, for it is then that you'll feel His hand holding yours
He'll never leave you nor forsake you, even if you go to distant shores
And, I pray that you, being rooted and established as His true beloved
May have power to grasp how wide, how long, how high and how deep is His love
That you may know that this irrational love surpasses the knowledge of man
May you be filled to all the fullness of God, as you on truth, solid, stand
((September 28th,2007))
Danny Speicher
67
Dreary
Dreary Monday afternoon
Wishin' I could see you soon, clearly
Sadly, thinking of our days gone by
Wonderin' the reason why, madly
It wasn't 'cause I wanted to
But, here I am not holding you, so dearly
So dreary
Darlin', if I said I wanted to
Spend my life lovin' you
Wantin' wouldn't help you to
Be near me
Dreary Monday afternoon
Wonderin' if you'll ever never fear me
Dreamin' of what once we had
But, dreamin' only drives me mad
It wasn't 'cause I wanted to
But, here I am not holding you, so dearly
So dreary
Darlin', if I sang this song
Even if you've done me wrong
Would you please come along
And be near me
Dreary Monday afternoon
Hopin' you might find this tune and hear me
Just lovin' you and you alone
Oh, darlin', please just dial the phone
Say three words, my dear, and free me
On this Monday afternoon... So dreary
((July 20th,2009))
Danny Speicher
68
Equilibrium
The fog lifts beyond the hazed horizon
Morning illuminates the darkest night
And the fears I have now begin to fade
My faith returns that things will be alright
In my soul worry and fret lingers, still
But, God is replacing mistrust with trust
Realization... life would be lonely
If I believed no one... So, I must
Thoughts of friends rallying in prayer for me
Has kept this frail heart beating through the strife
And memories of life, love and laughter
Have helped me to keep perspective on life
Happiness is simply an illusion
Which no one can, alone, hope to attain
But, joy is fruit of a spirit that trusts
And, when trusting God, that fruit will remain
So, happiness, I do not have within
But, equilibrium I've found through joy
Fear, bit by bit, being replaced with trust
And, God, His grace, He lovingly deploys
I'll find joy in life, with God in control
Even when darkest nights, upon me, fall
I know I can rely on my Savior
To be my Rock, Shelter... My All in All
Danny Speicher
69
Era of Tears
In the silent darkness
I sit and ponder Your plan
Where You are taking me
And where exactly I stand
I wonder about my future
And, I reminisce about my past
I think about the joys I've had
And how they didn't last
You are the One Strong Fortress
That I can count on through it all
My rock of my foundation of faith
That still stands so firm and tall
But, still I hurt and still I cry
I suffer through this life
It seems my pain will never end
And all I see is endless strife
So, Lord help me through
This bleak era of tears
Clear me of my anger
And hold me above my fears
Give me strength to find hope
And hope to find love
And let my light shine above all
Until I rise to You, above
((April 12th,2001))
Danny Speicher
70
Ever Again
Do you remember late night talks
And innocence maintained
And a passion, insane
And moonlight campus walks?
Do you remember the romance
And finding love
And praising God above
And your teaching me to dance?
Do you remember nights together
And locking eyes
And sad goodbyes
And, walking in winter weather?
Do you remember fake fights
And silly jokes
And gentle strokes
And things whispered only at night?
Do you remember a night in the city
And the carriage ride
And me by your side
And you looking so pretty?
Do you remember us
And all that we stood for
And all we endured
Do you remember us?
Do you remember what ended our run
Can you tell me how
Love could blossom then, but not now
Do you remember what ended our run?
Will I feel love like that ever again
With innocence and naive trust
In a love not turning to dust
Will I feel love like that ever again?
Will I feel love like that ever again?
((September 1st,2009))
Danny Speicher
71
Everything that You Are
It isn't the waves of the lake
Nor is it the rush of the wind
It isn't the fresh smell of the leaves
That helps my heart soften, my friend
It's never been the rest or the sleep
It's not the dreams I often dream
It isn't the endless, sapphire sky
That sets my hardened soul free
No, it's the sound of your voice
It's the touch of your skin
That takes me past all my fears
To a place that I've never been
It is your laugh and your smile
It is your dreams, it is your smile
It is everything that you are
That heals this heart that is scarred
When my life seems like a busy mess
When it seems it will never slow down
It isn't just the music that calms
It's the feeling of having you around
Or, when I've had one of those days
Where nothing seems to go right
All it takes is the thought of your face
That keeps me relaxed at night
It's the sound of your voice
It's the touch of your skin
That takes me past all my fears
To a place that I've never been
It is your laugh and your smile
It is your dreams, it is your smile
It is everything that you are
That heals this heart that is scarred
((August 1st,2000))
Danny Speicher
72
Family Restored
Once, while walking down an old beaten path
Pondering a family once bestowed
But, once, a cursed word incurred their wrath
So, lonely, strode I upon that rough road
Yet in the midst of the darkest of nights
Sat, above the cloudy heavens, I Am
Who came to earth to take on hurts like these
To bear them as our sacrificial Lamb
Time went on and human hope soon faded
Of ever regaining what I had lost
How quickly humankind becomes jaded
When upon life's rocky roads we are tossed
Yet in the midst of the darkest of nights
Sat, above the cloudy heavens, I Am
Who came to earth to take on hurts like these
To bear them as our sacrificial Lamb
But, the cancer remained under the skin
Faith in forgiveness, silently killing
Forgotten, yet growing deeper within
Needing mankind's forgiveness, God willing
And, even when the hurt had been repressed
Still, at times, the heart was strangely depressed
Until that day forgiveness was granted
A loving God grace for fear supplanted
And in the midst of the darkest of nights
Sits, above the cloudy heavens, I Am
Who came to earth to take on hurts like those
To bear them as our sacrificial Lamb
((December 27th,2006))
Danny Speicher
73
Feeling Again
Everyday I wake up and my eyes see
The sun and horizon You paint for me
I just have to thankful for Your love
Every time I share a smile or laugh
Whenever I stand on someone's behalf
I just have to be thankful for Your love
And, in those moments where my eyes shed tears
And, my heart starts breaking in all my fear
Even then I am thankful for Your love
Because I remember as years unfold
That, how, once, my heart was so very cold
So, I am just thankful for Your healing
And, that my heart is, once again, feeling
Be it joy or sadness, passion or pain
I am simply thankful to feel again
((November 9th,2003))
Danny Speicher
74
For He is Good
Perhaps I'm not yet on the paths once tread
Perhaps it seems like miles stand between
At least I'm getting back to where I've been
Alive once more, learning from time once dead
I praise Him for He's worthy of all praise
I cried out in sorrowful, silent pain
Wondering if I called to Him in vain
Yet, run He did and He saved me today
What words capture this rapture of the heart
I could speak endlessly never finding
Liturgies that speaks of light so blinding
And the hope that this day is just the start
Give thanks unto the Lord for He is good
Mercy shines past what once I understood
((September 9th,2008))
Danny Speicher
75
For Whom I Love
The wind comes down from the mountaintop
To bring a fresh air to me
And in the breath I take, so deep
I, once again, feel so free
And I take the moment to thank the Lord
For the day that He has made
And I lay back and ponder His love
In the willowed tree's kind shade
The winter was so harsh, so cold
But, now the spring is nigh
And, I praise Him for His love and care
As I slowly close my eyes
I dream of all my life has been
And all that is waiting for me
I dream of those of whom I've loved
And how they've set me free
But, most of all I dream of those
Who have given me their hearts
Those who have cried on my shoulder
And needed me from the start
Those are the ones I long to help
And keep me going from day to day
Those are the ones I have a heart for
And for whom I daily pray
Lord, I pray that you'll always let me
Be a shelter for those who are hurt
And a liberator to set them free
((February 2nd,2001))
Danny Speicher
76
For You, Alone
Today's the day I live for You, alone
And the start of a brand new day in me
I want to leave a legacy behind
To leave my legacy, You are my key
So, I will strive harder to be like You
To live the life in my words, in my deeds
And to tell of Your love to all people
Like the scattering of the bluegrass seeds
I will consciously choose You ev'ry day
And when a new turn comes on this long road
I will seek Your stron ghand to guide the wheel
Until I see my heavenly abode
And, when I am raptured into that place
Even then will I seek Your righteous hand
No longer in question or doubt of You
For, then I will see Your eternal plan
Forever, I will sing your praises, Lord
'Holy, holy is the Lord Almighty'
As I stand, amazed, at Your throne, oh Lord
'Holy, holy is He, the King of kings'
((April 26th,2004))
Danny Speicher
77
Forever, Always This Way
To the girl who does make my world go 'round
To her who can make my hopes rise and fall
To she who walks with me, so I stand tall
And calms my weary soul without a sound
Whose presence makes a week pass like a year
Whose laughter delivers my spirit joy
Whose words remind me I am one blessed boy
And whose intentions are honest and clear
With eyes which men can drown in if they stare
With a body that forms an hourglass
That moves so sensually with each pass
And with a face that reflects that she cares
To you, my sweetheart, I can't help but say
I'll like you forever, always this way
She looks in the mirror and cannot see
The beauty that's reflecting back at her
The same face in which everyone concurs
Is far too perfect for a fool like me
Whether she's dressed up in a dress and heels
Or dressed comfortable, ready for bed
Be she dressed in black, blue, purple or red
When she enters, all attention, she steals
If she changed her appearance o'er and o'er
My heart couldn't ever change how it feels
But, how she looks right now... Oh! The appeal!
God has blessed me, just to let me know her
Dear, believe me when I tell you today
That, truth be told, I love your ev'ry way
((August 5th,2010))
Danny Speicher
78
Formidable Feeling Within
Oh, this formidable feeling within
How it chills to the bone as it slowly creeps in
Oh, this fearful heart that beats inside me
As this hope that deceived I, once more, start to see
Oh, world how you seek and wish it to be
Part of your life as you count on its jubilee
Oh, world, beware this commitment you make
For the more you commit... The more you have at stake
Oh, how do you know when their words are true
Or simply mimicry of words that were from you
Oh, how do you trust? You've been slain before
When each thought of forever is one you deplore
Oh, friends, you must remember to look high above
For that's the only way to learn to, once more, love
((January 23rd,2009))
Danny Speicher
79
Frigid Winter Wind
Frigid Winter wind, chilling to the bone
Oh, it never seemed all that bad last year
Never seemed all that bad when you were near
When I'd find your embrace when I got home
It's hard to believe the truth, even still
That the embrace I once looked forward to
When those bitter cold Winter days were through
Will never again ease this cold wind's chill
Each night I find myself dreaming of you
My subconscious not letting go the dream
Dreaming our love was as good as it seemed
And, that the dream dreamt was still coming true
My dear, how I long for your warm embrace
Longing still more for one glimpse of your face
((January 5th,2009))
Danny Speicher
80
Give Me Your Pain
Here you stand, again
Your broken heart in hand
Life isn't always fair to you
Constantly changing your plans
You try to bear the stinging pain
Put on your clown face... Smile
When the hurt in your heart
Tears your soul all the while
You can give me your pain
Shed me your tears
Soften your heart
Release all your fears
Because I love you
I'd do anything
Yes, I'd do anything for you
((March 13th,2000))
Danny Speicher
81
Glory
Gazing into the great glory of You
I cannot grasp Your grace
Peering through an endless sky
I feel You touch my face
Sunbeams from high above
Your love is beyond my thoughts
Mountains You formed stand strong and tall
Yet often I trust You not
But, Your grace reaches beyond my heart
Something only You can do
And You love me
Your love molds my heart
There's no greater love in all the world
Than when He took my part
And Jesus' love unfurled
And He died for me
Because He loves me
((October 18th,1999))
Danny Speicher
82
God Knows
Speckled stars shimmering, shining above
Scattered like salt grains on an onyx stone
Prior thoughts about future, hope and love
Fade in the stillness of being alone
Shooting stars and wishes made in the night
Prayers to the Creator of that night sky
With sounds of my heart racing at your sight
Mix within, thanking Him for 'you and I'
The moment won't last, time ticks quickly by
Suddenly I know this memory, now
Is one I will remember 'til I die
And this weight begins to rest on my brow
Forgive me for not knowing what to do
God knows I just want to be good to you
Oh, this picturesque celestial scene
How it gives strength, as it teases and taunts,
To pursue unwise avenues in hopes to gleen
One touch, one fraction of what my soul wants
A sudden but gentle let down is had
My mind pumps forth memories from my past
And I'm left afraid that it's all gone bad
Fearful that what seems so good just won't last
How I miss the days, not too long ago
When confidence was standard; hope was free
That is what you deserve, this much I know
Dear, I'm so blessed that you're patient with me
Forgive me for not knowing what to do
God knows I just want to be good to you
((August 2nd,2010))
Danny Speicher
83
God Will Provide
Long, I've sat in dark spiritual silence
Waiting upon the answers from above
Long, had I wondered if He truly cared
Doubting if I would, again, see His love
Troubles, they came as a hailstorm of fear
Not knowing when to run or when to stay
I'd lost my compass and I'd lost my guide
Questioning each footstep along the way
But, when the darkness became most blinding
And, when the storm had enveloped my soul
I, in my hopelessness and confusion
Cried out to the One who can make me whole
It was in that hour I again saw the Light
It started out as a flicker of trust
Growing into a flame of faith in Him
And knowledge that His provision is just
It was in my newfound recognition
That I now knew that I was blessed, indeed
'God will provide, ' I soon remembered
And, forever, this truth shall be my creed
((December 5th,2004))
Danny Speicher
84
Goodnight, Muse
It's been a long time coming... night has come
It's come and been for what seems forever
The landscape long since, to darkness, succumbed
Within light attempted to endeavor
But, long since you've laid asleep far away
Long since you've dashed from memory my name
And though my heart yearned for the light of day
Still your rest from me, it still stays the same
Every dream that has ever been dreamt
Came forth from times of twilight interlude
How my heart wishes the dream would have kept
However, farewell is long overdue
So, goodnight, muse, comforter of sorrow
Perhaps one day we'll see our tomorrow
((May 15th,2009))
Danny Speicher
85
Graduate
The world stands still
And my heart tries to seek
For a fond 'good-bye'
For my mouth to speak
The memories find me
And a tear finds my eye
It will never be the same
Without you by our side
I have never met someone
As amazing as you
I pray for success
In everything you do
There will be detours
And many chances to stray
If you stick with God
He will surely show you the way
You deserve the very best
Don't settle for any worse
I will always be here for you
Just always stay the course
((May 4th,2001))
Danny Speicher
86
Grandpa
Well, the time is drawing near
And, I've prayed for your peace
This legacy you've left
Will live on and never cease
The memories we've had
Will live on in me all of my life
They will be excellent stories
To tell my children and my wife
Stories of fishing trips and baseball games
Watched late at night in our chair
Stories of your changed life
Due to one little prayer
Grandpa, you've changed my life
And you've given me laughter and joy
But, now it's time to leave us
So, don't worry about your little boy
I'll be fine here with the family
And we'll all soon be with you, so do not cry
We'll see you and grandma... And all the rest
WIthin the twinkling of your eye
((July 6th,2001))
Danny Speicher
87
Gumdropp Glades
Somewhere far away from the city streets
A meadow of green cotton candy blades
Rolls upon a mound of chocolatey dirt
And the warm cinnamon winds gently flirt
While geysers of cocoa playfully spurt
In a place kids all know, simply, as Gumdropp Glades
Ask Lil' Lew Lemondropp who knows the way
Where the candy's free for the bill's been paid
And the children can eat the sweets all day
Without their teeth ever showing decay
And there are no adults to scowl and say
'Don't spoil your appetite down in Gumdropp Glades'
Someday you should go adventure to see
What lies just past the tall forest blockades
Where the brook that babbles past forest trees
In the glade, turns into sweetest sweet tea
And candy cane bluffs... Quite a sight to see
That rise up high on three sides down in Gumdropp Glades
I hear when we see it we'll lose control
And drink the waterfall of lemonade
While small gumdrops dropp from trees as they sway
We'll wish there would be no end to that day
As we play playfully as children play
When our hopeful eyes finally spy Gumdropp Glades
We'll wish there would be no end to that day
As we play playfully as children play
And we'll hope that we can, forever, stay
Within a gingerbread house, down in Gumdropp Glades
((October 4th,2009))
Danny Speicher
88
Happily Humble
I just heard the news... Kid, it made me smile
I know how much you are in love with love
I know how you've probably prayed above
You only had to wait a little while
Though I am lonely and missing you much
It's quite tough to not be happy for you
Because, in my heart, my heart always knew
Someone very soon would find your hand's touch
Too beautiful to go unseen for long
Far too talented to not cause some stir
Too classy to not attract some monsieur
But, still my heart hurts to see you move on
I'm not the first to watch my world crumble
Yet, her joy makes me happily humble
((July 14th,2008))
Danny Speicher
89
Have You Seen Her Here Before
Have you seen her here before
The one I am seeking after
Has she passed by here lately
With her beauty and her laughter
I have lost her once again
The girl that I have sought
Have you seen her lately
Found her, I have not
The girl I've been seeking
Has a sweet smile and charm
Her heart is for Jesus
And would never do me harm
I've chased her once or twice
So sure that it is her
Yet, when she turns and looks at me
I never am so sure
Or, sometimes she will run
And never turn around
And how would I ever know
That she isn't the one to be found
Too weak and weary to run
After someone who doesn't care
About my heart or feelings
That simply wouldn't be fair
But, have you seen her around here before
The one that I seek to find
Because my heart is growing hard
And love is going blind
((December 10th,2000))
Danny Speicher
90
Hayley Rose
Hayley, it has been far too long ago
Since my heart has last felt this kind of love
And, longer still, since my heart melted so
Encountering a blessing from above
Hayley, I don't know what my role will be
If I'll see you every week, month or year
But, just know... And, prayerfully, you will see
I'll never be far, though maybe not near
I expect great things from you, Hayley Rose
For you to be happy, healthy and wise
But, more than anything for you to know
That Jesus loves you; you are in His eyes
Learn to love and be loved by all you meet
Showing Christ's love and joy to all you greet
((December 21st,2006))
Danny Speicher
91
He Leads Me
On the fields by and by
The roses bloom so bright and red
And by the grass so green
I'm gently and kindly led
I'm led by His hand
The hand that made all we see
He tells of His children
And His plans just for me
He shows me clearest springs
Clearer than the bright morning sky
And lets me drink of them
On His shoulder, He lets me cry
He sent His only Son
To die on an old rugged cross
To save us from our sin
And take its lethal cost
Someday we'll see Him
In His glory and His power
I am ready for Him
Are you ready for that hour
((February 17th,2007))
Danny Speicher
92
Here's to Forever
I never knew how life could be
Living, giving love so freely
‘Till there was you, touching my life
Now I know just how life can be
Storm clouds still come darken the sky
And hurt still cuts deep, by and by
But, when you’re near you ease my strife
When those clouds darken the sky
I often dream of tomorrow
And the future only God knows
Pondering us, husband and wife
I love dreaming of tomorrow
I can't express my thanks in words
‘Cause after all I’ve seen and heard
I can’t believe you’re in my life
For all you’ve done, I can’t find words
Here’s to forever, you and I
And, never finding tears to cry
Only laughter, even in strife
Here’s to forever, you and I
((February 11th,2008))
Danny Speicher
93
Heroes
It feels like life is speeding by too fast
When peaceful and sweet memories of youth
Touch this fabric… This ambitious future
And idealism strays from the truth
The passions we once had, they fade away
When we think about the size of the task
And hope for brighter hope for tomorrow
When we’re forced to put on this happy mask
Because truth is, at times, we’re not happy
We see people hurt: their pain everywhere
Their hurt, at times, is an inconvenience
But, we will refuse to turn from their stare
God has blessed us all with these gifts of love
To stoop down and touch those who are in need
Will we choose to use these for His service
Or will we use them for our selfish greed
We know this task is too big for just one
We know we cannot touch this world alone
But, united against injustice… death
We can be heroes this world’s never known
((October 14th,2006))
Danny Speicher
94
His Legacy
For you who sinned from day to day
I died upon this cross
For you who are weak and frail
I hung upon this cross
Oh, what pain and scorn to bear
The sins of every man
But, on this greatest Easter day
I died so you could stand
When I died I knew that I
Would rise again so soon
The grave could not hold me long
I came forth from the tomb
Grave, where is your victory
Death, where is your sting
Satan's demons tremble as
The angel's chorus sing
((Inspired by Francisco de Zurbaran's painting, 'The Crucifixion'))
((October 8th,1999))
Danny Speicher
95
Holiday Memories
Holiday memories wrapped with love
Small gifts from God sent from above
With laughter and smiles, sprinkled with joy
A doll for the girls and a truck for the boys
Though this year memories won't be so bright
Without my family within my sight
Yet somehow I will find the will to go on
Though their faces won't be there come Christmas dawn
So often I sit at my tree, blue and white
And think of all those cold Christmas nights
Where my cousin and I would whisper and pray
That maybe that Christmas we'd see Santa's sleigh
The dinners, so great with turkey and dressing
And, uncle Mike would lead the blessing
Ah, but now those days are no longer here
I won't be able to hold those I hold so dear
So, I will quietly sit here at my tree and ponder
Of past holiday memories and past holiday wonder
((December 13th,2000))
Danny Speicher
96
Hometown Wish
My time in this city is dwindling
And, yet, very much I have never said
In all my years, from my birth until now
One might figure, Your Word, I would have spread
Instead I have stayed silent all these years
And I think it's time for me to speak Truth
To stand for what I believe in with love
Speak, boldly, to all men, women and youth
Praising, worshipping the one Living God
Shouting, 'He is the way... Christ is the way'
Loving those who contradict your message
But, still calling out, 'Come to Christ today! '
I have stood in stillness for far too long
Waiting for unbelievers to come, see
But, those who lay dying in this cold word
Have been wounded, and were waiting for me
Even though they don't think they need the One
I will cry to them, 'Come and see... Just come'
And, when they turn their heads and walk away
I will pray for them 'till the day is done
Lord, please be with those in my sweet hometown
Show Yourself to them like never before
Lord, please watch over my church family
Deliver each one to your crystal shore
To my hometown and church, of whom I love
Make strides to know your one true Creator
Keep your hearts open to His call in life
And, seek HIm like you've never sought before
((April,27th,2004))
Danny Speicher
97
Hopeless
At a loss for words, am I
Don't know what more to say
Or what more to do
Even now I still miss you
I've done all that I can
To erase you from my mind
To burn you from my soul
But, yet still I can't control
The feelings in my heart
Can't be purged
They can't be wiped clean
I cannot be weaned
From the love you gave
So freely, so easily
So absolutely perfect in every way
So completely every day
I don't know what I did
I don't know what to do
I can't keep my heart
And your love apart
I'm hopeless
I'm pitiful
I sit in silent fear
Wishing you were near
I'm alone
In the midst of a crowd that's mine
If only you were to be
One of those so close to me
Dreams and visions
Can never bring you
Close enough to feel
Your hands that can heal
Hopes and desires
Only prove to create
A false hope within
And further pity therein
I wish I could hate you
For the pain that you've caused
I wish I could despise you
With a fire so true
But, alas, I love you, still
And I suppose I'd rather hurt
98
Than to hurt the memory
Of us together, you and me
I could never find it within
To destroy the love we felt
The night we sat under the stars
Together, in each others arms
Although I miss you
Although I hurt
I wish you nothing but the best
I wish you all success
I wish you to overcome the rest
Even shen you're put to the test
I pray that you rise above
With a heart full of love
I wish you nothing but the best
((November 1st,2009))
Danny Speicher
99
Hour of Decision
There's an odd sort of feeling in my soul
Heat mixing with cold and hope with distress
Sense of destiny and losing control
When will this tearing apart be made whole?
Things I viewed so simply, once, as a child
Are things I view so deeply now I'm grown
Things that once seemed so tame have gone so wild
And life goes on at its click all the while
The hour of decision is now at hand
Ideas must be made reality
Oh, if I could stop the hourglass sand
I guess some things I'll never understand
Yet, here stand I, at the brink of my fate
Which shall I choose along this broken way?
Shall I slowly move and see what awaits?
Or step boldly forward and shed this weight?
What will become of me at the end of the day?
((April 16th,2007))
Danny Speicher
100
How Much Longer
How much more can my weary heart take, Lord?
I stand at Your feet and plead for Your peace
Each time I see it on the horizon
It ends up sliding further from my reach
How much more can my family take, Lord?
They have sacrificed much in recent years
Striving to do what You want them to do
Yet still they are left with eyes full of tears
How much more can my lonely heart take, Lord?
I frequently question if she's out there
And, if she is, how long must I linger
To catch a glimpse of her beautiful stare?
I seek Your direction and peace, my Lord
As this ship sets sail on the sea of life
I set my sails into the Spirit's wind
And pray Your navigation through the strife
How much longer until we get home, Lord?
How much longer must I wait to see You?
I long to see land off the crystal sea
And long for that earth: bright, shiny and new
((April 6th,2005))
Danny Speicher
101
How Often Have I?
How often have I gone into battle
With swords brandished on my own, without You
Selfishly fighting battles for myself
Attempting to blaze my own path, anew
How often have I, in desperation
Held out my bloody hand to shake in oath
With the devil I have sworn to defeat
Letting You and Your creation down, both
Yet, Lord, if I might, be granted mercy
I don't deserve it, unworthy am I
May I remember to follow your voice
Though I may not hear it, desperately try
For, though my actions are often contrast
From that which my heart beats from deep within
I still believe in Your plan and Your hope
And I seek You even when my hope runs thin
Lord, grant me a safe rescue from harm's way
Though I may feel the cold wind of defeat
I know that You still reign in victory
So, in You, I will never sound retreat
Lord, forgive me the destruction I've caused
The trusting blood spilled on the courtyard's floor
Pride and fear paradoxically collide
Lord, I'll look forward, and back nevermore
Thank You for Your loving grace, quiet peace
I know there will be days of struggle still
But, in these times when I feel Your embrace
I find strength for Your plans to fulfill
And, as each day passes, make me stronger
Make me more like You, loving without fear
When I'm strong, inspire my feet to move
And, Lord, when I'm weak, let me know You're near
((May 17th,2008))
Danny Speicher
102
How to Just Survive
Choke back those tears my brother, my sister
Don’t show emotion in this cold, cold place
Don’t tip your hand that they’ve gotten to you
Don’t stand apart from this dead human race
Just take a sip of your Starbucks coffee
That will hold back the screams within your soul
At least for a few seconds as you drink
Perhaps, by then, you can regain control
Your emotions are worthless here and now
Only what you do, what you say make you
And, if you do enough for the right friends
You may just survive and just make it through
Keep quiet about your soul and knowledge
Don’t talk about divine conspiracy
Their hearts are hardened so don’t even try
To the secular Christ is heresy
What’s true for you, may just be false for them
It’s arrogant to think you know the truth
Our gods of green can save if we believe
All is relative, there’s no absolutes
I know you feel this fire within you
Burning to ignite Earth with the divine
But, just drink the water of convenience
And that feeling will pass… You’ll be just fine
Danny Speicher
103
How Will I Know?
Oh, Lord, I stand before you, mind spinning
Not knowing just what step I should take next
I am so excited yet so afraid
Lord, how will I know, what path will be best?
Many great decisions are now at hand
Yet one seems to quickly rise to the top
All other decisions will come and go
Lord, how will I know, to go or to stop
Heart beating a thousand beats a minute
I ponder, deep, just what might be bestowed
A new era? New season of the soul?
Oh, Lord, how will I know? How will I know?
((April 23rd,2007))
Danny Speicher
104
Humanity
Far upon a building high
I see my past by and by
And with each memory it brings
Ancient voices, loved ones sing
Where they've gone I do not know
Someday I'll go where they go
Now I sit and daily pray
That I'll help others without delay
Humanity is all we've got
And, thus, humanity is all I've sought
What if all alive loved one another
Love like sister and like brother
What a wonderful world this would be
If we could learn to live in harmony
((October 5th,1999))
Danny Speicher
105
I Called to Him
In the midst of my darkness and despair
I cried to the Lord, begging and pleading
'Lord, take note of what this heart is needing'
My heart cried out to Him and He was there
Hope had been stolen by a thief by night
I called to those who had, once, given peace
Were, now, all looking for that same release
So, I turned to God in my weary plight
I turned to Him not believing He'd move
For no other reason I turned in fear
Longing to have Him, once again, draw near
And, for my sackloth mask to be removed
I called to Him; I knew not where to go
I called to Him and He burdened my woe
I had my doubts that I'd hear Him again
It seemed so often that I dreamed big dreams
To find they are impossible, it seems
And that I wasn't worthy of a win
Oh, but He heard my cry in that dark night
He loved me in spite of my disbelief
He embraced me and comforted my grief
He removed my mask and granted me sight
Despite my doubt, He found me wandering
He found me and gave me new life again
He searched me and forgave each of my sins
And, more than that, He calmed my pondering
He answered me and He showed me the way
Oh, how can I keep from praising His name
((March 30th,2009))
Danny Speicher
106
I Have No Choice
I don't suppose I noticed it in the dim light of the moon
Or the way your hand held mine all night long
I don't suppose I realized just what I felt inside
I may not have felt it then, but, I felt it soon
Ours isn't a love like any other I know
Feeling your heartbeat and hearing your voice
Looking to the heavens and finding the blessings here below
When it comes to you, I have no choice
I love you
It wasn't in the cool night air that kept you close to me
Or the way we swayed to the beat of the drum
It wasn't the Americana picture perfect scene
It was on that car ride home that I knew I was free
Ours isn't a love like any other I know
Feeling your heartbeat and hearing your voice
Looking to the heavens and finding the blessings here below
When it comes to you I have no choice
I love you
So, this is what it feels like to be in love?
I never knew my heart could feel so full... So empty
So content when you're near, turmoil when you're away
Who am I to deserve such a gift from above?
I never thought I'd know this loving fate
I never knew a love would spring from that first date
Never thinking I deserved an angel like you
Or that I'd see my heart find a love so true
This much I can say, for as long as breath fills my chest
I will long to make every dream come true, I'll do my best
And, when the day closes and you've lived all your dreams
We'll live a storybook life, pulled from fairytale scenes
Ours isn't a love like any other I know
Feeling your heartbeat and hearing your voice
Looking to the heavens and finding the blessings here below
When it comes to you I have no choice
I love you
Feeling your heartbeat and hearing your voice
When it came to you I had no choice
I love you
((September 10th,2007))
Danny Speicher
107
I Haven't the Choice
I breathe in because I haven’t the choice
Ah, though, the action, it may be pleasant
I breathe this breath to give me strength and life
I breathe for the day you might be my wife
I work hard, because I haven’t the choice
Though I get fulfillment from the effort
I work hard for a life for you and I
I work for our future home by and by
I seek Christ because I haven’t the choice
Though the discovery is exciting
I seek Christ to find out how to love you
I seek Christ to make my heart always true
I love you because I haven’t the choice
Though the love soothes any pain, any day
I love you, dear, because I know your heart
I love you when you’re near and when apart
I love you because I haven’t the choice
Though I know I’ve written it once before
I love you once wasn’t enough to say
I love you and long to say it each day
I love you because I haven’t the choice
And if in a hundred years I still say
I love you, Love, I love you more each day
I love you will be what I long to say
((July 17th,2007))
Danny Speicher
108
I Knew Peace
I felt the icy, strangling grip of death
Closing in quickly around my heart
As I struggled to breathe that one last breath
I heard my friends crying out around me
'Stay with us, please don't leave us now'
As suddenly my spirit became free
And, I knew peace, like never known before
I did not feel all those pains anymore
I knew peace, which surpassed just a feeling
I couldn't wait to see what was in store
I knew peace
Golden bricks on the streets were blazing bright
And the pearly gates were shining
The day, it never seemed to fade to night
Although the scenery was amazing
My joy came from deeper within
As my worries faded, I started praising
Yes, I knew peace, like never known before
I did not feel all those pains anymore
I knew peace, which surpassed just a feeling
I couldn't wait to see what was in store
I knew peace
((January 22nd,2007))
Danny Speicher
109
I See You
It's been a few months since I've seen you last
Perhaps the loneliness should have faded
Yet, still, within me, my heart is shaded
It seems to not want to forget the past
Whether it be on the couch or in bed
Oh, whether it be talking in the park
Or just watching a movie in the dark
I see you each day everywhere I tread
It's not easy forgetting one like you
It is impossible to let you go
I wish there was a way to let you know
That even though you aren't here, I see you
Whether it be morning, noontime or night
Even in my dreams, you are in my sight
((July 1st,2008))
Danny Speicher
110
I Wonder
I've often wondered when I'm all alone
What you're doing at that very moment
Whether life makes you happy and content
And if you gaze upon the great unknown
Are you thinking of me lovingly, dear?
Reminiscing about what we once had?
I wonder if thoughts of me make you sad
And memories make you wish I was near
I wonder if you're satisfied with life
If your living out God's purpose for you
That's what really matters, in my review
Although it often causes pain and strife
Oh, I wonder what you're doing right now
I pray you're living out your dream somehow
((November 17th,2008))
Danny Speicher
111
I Wonder if You Know
You hold each other under twink'ling stars
While the moon peeks through ev'ry passing cloud
I wonder if you know how blessed you are
You listen to the band's weeping guitar
While nightfall provides a privacy shroud
You hold each other under the twink'ling stars
Knowing the one that you love is not far
Holding hands throughout the bustling crowd
I wonder if you know how blessed you are
Sitting in the back of your rag top car
The night more perfect than should be allowed
You hold each other under the twink'ling stars
Taking her to a coffee shop or bar
With her clinging to your arm, you're so proud
I wonder if you know how blessed you are
Running to your love you see from afar
Forever pledges are forever vowed
You hold each other under the twink'ling stars
I wonder if you know how blessed you are
((August 4th,2007))
Danny Speicher
112
I, Once, Dreamt a Dream
I, once, dreamt a dream that dreamers oft dream
Of loving and living a lovely life
A house, my children and a caring wife
I, once, dreamt a dream that dreamers oft dream
Oh, how I long to dream that dream again
Where hope solemnly sought for nothing more
Than to find her standing there, at my door
Oh, how I long to dream that dream again
How do dreams die... Do they ever revive
How does one learn to trust the coming day
When the past keeps trust an arms length away
How do dreams die... Do they ever revive
I, once, dreamt a dream that dreamers oft dream
Oh, how it seemed closer than dreams oft seem
I lived a dream once upon a daydream
We'd walk slowly through the park holding hands
Speaking so sweetly and making our plans
I lived a dream once upon a daydream
I lived a love once when a love loved me
I knew her in ways that only I knew
I was the first among her chosen few
I lived a love once when a love loved me
In one heartbeat she chose a diff'rent path
Oh, how could she leave without one last kiss
I often wonder if love still exists
In one heartbeat she chose a diff'rent path
I lived a dream once upon a daydream
Oh, how it seemed closer than dreams oft seem
((February 2nd,2009))
Danny Speicher
113
I'd Wish
My dear, if I had one wish in my life
Just one to last me the rest of my days
I wouldn’t wish for my days without strife
Nor for the moon’s soft beams or sun’s bright rays
I wouldn’t wish for silver or for gold
Not even for long life or a quick death
I wouldn’t ask my story to be told
Centuries after my life’s final breath
And, though it be all that I ever dreamed
I wouldn’t wish for your love to be mine
Or for me to look better than I seem
No, my dear, all those wishes I’d decline
I’d wish for you to make sense of the pain
And for your heart to learn to love again
When I look in your eyes I see your fear
I feel the hesitation in your hand
Would your heart feel any better, my dear
To know that I, too, am afraid to stand
Or, would my fear only deepen your own
Do you count on me to stay strong and wise
Though thunder crash and shake me to the bone
Do you seek a gleam of hope in my eyes
Truth be told I would walk your path for you
I’d fight the monsters that haunt you at night
But, these are battles that you must pursue
But, I’ll be there with a wish and a light
Wishing for you to make sense of the pain
Praying your heart will love once again
I know that you doubt what I say sometimes
And, I know that you’ve heard it all before
You don’t understand what I find sublime
Or, what you possess that I’m looking for
It only took just one look in your eyes
From that moment, I never stood a chance
When you laugh, talk and even when you cry
All that you do strengthens my heart’s advance
There isn’t a thing I’d change about you
Not one thing, for my own sake, I’d erase
But, I know you hurt, and it hurts me too
So, if I had a wish I could embrace
I’d wish for you to see hope in the pain
114
And that you’d find the peace to love again
((December 14th,2010))
Danny Speicher
115
If I Ne'er Loved You
Sometimes I wonder just where I would be
If, on that April night, I'd ne'er met you
And, if, my dear, you had never met me
And we'd never known the love that we knew
Is it really true, as the old phrase goes
That it is better to loved and lost
Than that love to have never have had known
Was the experience worth the cost
What, if on that May evening, long ago
I had just walked away and ne'er looked back
Never had caressed your skin, white as snow
If I had never loved, would I have lacked
Dear, I often wonder where I would be
If I ne'er loved you and you ne'er loved me
((June 13th,2009))
Danny Speicher
116
I'll Rise Again Anew
It all came toppling, tumbling down
Believing rebuilding wouldn't reveal
Anything more than more heartbroken frowns
Or that feelings weren't things again I'd feel
It all came toppling, tumbling down
It's true that all that was built was destroyed
It happened overnight without a sound
Leaving hope dead with a large, gaping void
It all came toppling, tumbling down
And it remains in ruins to this day
But, chains are slowly becoming unbound
A day is coming when again I'll say
I'll rise again, oh world, I'll rise again
Rise again anew, let new life begin
((October 8th,2008))
Danny Speicher
117
I'm Waiting for You
I've seen you in my dreams, familiar one
Your face just beyond what my eyes can see
Each time I see you, my heart comes undone
Wanting so bad for you to be with me
I thought I had known you once already
Just an apparition, an illusion
A lover's heart that was far too ready
To find you, but was caught in delusion
Yet, I sit and wait for you and I dream
Of you, sweetheart, and of your love for me
I know you pray for me to be what I seem
And I know you wait, for my eyes, to see
Wait a bit longer; I'm waiting for you
God will soon find our dreams all coming true
((October 13th,2008))
Danny Speicher
118
In His Arms
Safe and secure within these arms of mine
Safe and secure, holding my neck tightly
And your eyes clenched as light flashes brightly
Oh, little one, in my arms you'll be fine
The world will turn and, my dear, you'll soon find
That words can hurt far more than sticks or stones
And broken hearts ache more than broken bones
But, little one, in my arms you'll be fine
But, if the day comes when my arms fail you
And fade away just as all arms soon do
I pray that you'll find arms greater than mine
And, dear, in His arms, you will be just fine
And His arms are bigger than your sorrows
And His arms, they will never let you down
In His arms you can take on tomorrow
As you learn He will always be around
So, if the day comes when my arms fail you
And fade away just as all arms soon do
I pray that you'll find arms greater than mine
And, dear, in His arms, you will be just fine
((July 4th,2009))
Danny Speicher
119
In My Life
With you in my life, the days seem brighter
Nights seem cooler, the stars shine more clearly
The gentle breeze blows softer than before
And my heart seems to beat more sincerely
With you in my life, birds sing joyously
As white clouds roll by waving as they pass
And, all seems so right in this little world
When you're near me, gazing at skies of glass
With you in my life, I strive for my best
To become a man worthy of your love
Ever yearning to prove my love for you
And praying I'll be the man you dream of
With you in my life, my joy overflows
Oh, how it makes me sing and laugh and write
Writing of love and hope and things unseen
And things seen only in dreams, shown at night
With you in my life, my heart looks to love
To find that which it's never found before
Oh, how inspiring... Terrifying
Always looking forward, longing for more
With you in my life, I feel emotion
From fear to joy and always elation
Waiting to see what will unfold beyond
To find what will be the next revelation
With you in my life, in short summary
Every day seems less mundane and more real
And, hope for the future is far brighter
So blessed to be in something so surreal
((June 5th,2007))
Danny Speicher
120
In the Dead of Night
Lord, why is it, now, times are so tough
When we work so hard for not enough
Thoughts of saving seem absurd
While the rich get the last word
Paycheck to paycheck sure can be rough
Lord, I know my life is in Your hands
But, there are things I can't understand
Like suffering of the good
Oh, I'd help them if I could
But, myself, I'm unable to stand
Lord, You've given me this one great dream
Reaching it is harder than it seems
Everyone seems to wonder
What curse I must be under
Which keeps me from picking up more steam
Lord, I know you have a master plan
And life is lived in a long lifespan
But, Lord, I'm growing older
And, my dream's getting colder
Oh, Lord, complete what, once, You began
Lord, I trust You in the dead of night
What can I do to temper my fright
So, may I humbly appeal
You to quickly take the wheel
Drive my life to purpose in Your light
Lord, I thank You for all that You've done
Sacrificing of Your only Son
And the dream You've given me
With the hope of being free
These promises that can't be undone
((October 20th,2008))
Danny Speicher
121
In the Light
Paradoxical, this light that we seek
As it appears and fades, leaving us weak
And all the world tells us we must find it
Yet not one of us has yet confined it
We've been there before, once warmed by it's rays
We remember them as happier days
But, that light suddenly faded to black
We found ourselves not wanting to go back
But, maybe there's still light out there for me
Waiting and praying I'll come set it free
Perhaps an Answer for this fear within
Can wash away nightmares of what has been
And, once again, I can be in the light
Oh, how burnished days incinerated
Makes one's view of fire complicated
When all you've ever known is the nighttime
Can you e'er see radiance as sublime?
But, maybe there's still light out there for me
Waiting and praying I'll come set it free
Perhaps an Answer for this fear within
Can wash away nightmares of what has been
And, once again, I can be in the light
So, today's the day I banish the fear
And, look deep within for courage to fight
I'll cling to the One who always draws near
As what's dark and safe take wing and take flight
For maybe there's still light out there for me
Waiting and praying I'll come set it free
Perhaps an Answer for this fear within
Can wash away nightmares of what has been
And, once again, I can be in the light
((January 23rd,2009))
Danny Speicher
122
In the Silence
All throughout the day I live, laugh and play
Never showing, never feeling the pain
Deeply lurks sadness, in his dark domain
In silence waiting night to turn from day
In the night I am found out... Found afraid
Hearing all the voices of those I've failed
Wishing for more noise than my breath's exhale
A quick ascent to dreams often I've prayed
I've failed so many and many do haunt
I wish I could somehow make right my wrongs
Wish I could be in both this and that throng
But, I'm one man... So the voices do taunt
Lord, take me quickly to dreaming tonight
For, in waking silence, I am affright
((February 17th,2008))
Danny Speicher
123
In the Vale
In the midst of my sleeplessness and confusion
And through my infinite nocturnal thoughts and dreams
Strong, there stands a figure keeping my stance upright
Hands hold me when life is tougher than once it seemed
And, though all my thoughts seem so real and so scary
Like premonitions... An end of the world of sorts
I know that these thoughts are just that; thoughts, for now
God wants me to live each day, no fears to distort
Oh, and through this time, now, of personal struggle
Where things seem to be the darkest they've ever been
Even still there is a flicker within my soul
And a great torch, He still gives to thsoe He calls kin
And, so as I struggle, I watch the world spin on
I see the birds fly high, I hear the children laugh
And I have peace that tomorrow will be better
As I, now, learn to let Him guide me with His staff
And, though, right now, I walk throug this valley of death
I will not fear the evil that gathers around
For, God, my Shepherd, He is with me, in the vale
And, HIs staff will keep me secure and homeward-bound
((June 21st,2005))
Danny Speicher
124
Into the Light
'Lord, I really wanted this job so bad'
He said, crying out to the Counselor
'I just can't seem to find work anywhere'
'Lord, won't You please show me what is in store? '
'I've got so many bigger plans for you'
'Just follow me into the light and see'
'Plans to prosper you and not to harm you'
'A road that would forever set you free'
A young couple talks about what's ahead
They see different paths on what's to come
She smiles, kisses him goodbye one last time
Now he wonders, where will his love come from
'I've got so many bigger plans for you'
'Just follow me into the light and see'
'Plans to prosper you and not to harm you'
'A road that would forever set you free'
Sometimes life seems sad and laden with fear
Just give Him your heartache and all your tears
One day a sweet girl is playing softball
Hits the ball as her teammates cheer her on
Goes to bed healthy and happy that night
But, when morning comes, her spirit is gone
'I've got so many bigger plans for you'
'Just follow me into the light and see'
'Plans to prosper you and not to harm you'
'A road that would forever set you free'
'A road that would forever set her free'
'Eternally, for always set her free'
((June 25th,2004))
Danny Speicher
125
It Isn't
It isn’t in the way you say my name
Though it’s sweetest sound I’ve ever heard
Nor is it in the way you stake your claim
Though proud, I am, to be yours, rest assured
It’s not the way your lips smile at me
Nor their soft caress that makes me love you
It’s nothing that you can taste or can see
It’s not anything you say or you do
If I had ten thousand songs to sing
And if I had a million pages to write
Oh, even then, I couldn’t truly bring
The words or a tune to express it right
So, look in my eyes, dear; see how I feel
There’s no other way to show you what’s real
((February 18th.2010))
Danny Speicher
126
Kindness
Gently lifting friends from turbulent times
Finding in each person something to love
Knowing that compassion comes from above
Kindness is difficult business sometimes
Holding needs of others above your own
Praying each night for those you don't yet know
Reaching the needy in heat, sleet and snow
Showing everyone the love that He's shown
Living random acts of kindness each day
Randomly 'til they are a habit of love
Seeing the problem and answer thereof
Commiting yourself to end the dismay
Heroes we may not be, just women, men
Devoted to help those hurting within
((November 13th,2008))
Danny Speicher
127
Kyrie Eleison
God, I come to you broken, sore
Peace, I desire, nothing more
But, if chaos I cannot flee
Oh, Lord please have mercy on me
At times it hurts to love so much
To open your heart to be touched
But, love I must... Hurt I must be
Oh, Lord please have mercy on me
I've been blessed with many riches
In my distress, it enriches
So, whether pain or jubilee
Oh, Lord please have mercy on me
In my time of indecision
Where shadows darken my vision
Open my eyes to clearly see
Oh, Lord please have mercy on me
Life is not always manifest
But, may I always show I'm blessed
So, the world might someday plea
'Oh, Lord please have mercy on me'
((July 26th,2006))
Danny Speicher
128
Kyrie Sonnet
Pain pulsing from every inch within me
Eyelids closed to shield my eyes from the sun
Each strand of my body coming undone
Wishing, from agony, to be set free
Depression flows in like the rolling sea
My emotions rise and fall like the tide
Happiness and sadness, closely reside
Within the shadows of this soul called 'me'
Lord, can't you hear me crying for relief?
Can you not see me striving to be strong?
Yearning to hear a harmonious song
I sit, patiently, in silence and grief
Oh, Lord, break these chains and set this man free
Oh, Lord, won't You, please, have mercy on me?
Unseen daggers rip my innards apart
An endless resounding gong fills my ears
No one can dam the flow of my eyes' tears
Too often my days end before they start
My dreams are left in the darkness of night
Unfulfilled, hopeless and so far away
I wish just one could see the light of day
But, when morning breaks, they're nowhere in sight
Father, I know You draw nigh when I cry
Father, I know You have a master plan
Holy Ghost, gently guide me by the hand
Assure me His will is best, by and by
Oh, Lord, I pray, let me abide in Thee
Oh, Lord, won't You, please, have mercy on me?
((November 13th,2009))
Danny Speicher
129
Last Night
Last night, last night, I held you in my arms
Cuddled close as the world spun night to day
Gazing sweetly upon your loving charms
Oh, for last night's embrace to be replayed
Last night, last night, special to me were you
Your head nestled so very close to mine
Dreaming of a love eternal and true
Oh, for last night's vision of love to find
Last night, last night, how close to me you seemed
Forever I could have held you with me
As your eyes fluttered sweetly as you dreamed
Oh, for last night's image of you to see
Last night, last night, I glimpsed our destiny
Lying in my arms, your hair all around
Forever, always, laying next to me
Oh, for last night's prophecy to abound
Last night, last night... Just last night I held you
Oh, how I wish I were there beside you
((September 3rd,2007))
Danny Speicher
130
Lawrence
Lawrence, my grand hometown down by the Kaw
Oh, how I love her beauty and her lights
As, once over Pleasent Grove, I behold
The dorms of KU's campus lit up bright
I love the people who take pride in her
How when asked who the best 23 was
MJ doesn't always trump Simien
But, most of all, I love Lawrence because...
She took time to nurture a Kansas boy like me
((March 20th,2005))
Danny Speicher
131
Let Your Healing Never Cease
My hands are busy
My heart is cold
My life runs quickly
And my eyes turn old
If for just one moment
I could take some time alone
To explore this aching heart
And chip away at its stone
I give my love so frequently
I help them get away
I take their problems, personally
And lead them on their way
But, emotions are a luxury
My heart is going without
And takes from my being
Like a never-ending doubt
I dont' want to be sad
But, I want to be able to cry
I don't want to be apathetic
But, I want to be able to sigh
Lord, take this heart that's seen it all
And mend each broken piece
Lord, rest my war-weary spirit
And let your healing never cease
Lord, never let me become
One who cannot feel
And, Lord, always have me be
The first to pray and kneel
Give me this day, my daily bread
And give me the strength to go on
For a war-weary man with nothing to lose
Is like life's pawn
Give me an epiphany
Just a simple ray of light
To take me to the place
Where my eyes can meet your sight
((July 2nd,2000))
Danny Speicher
132
Life Revised
It's been a few years
Since I've seen your face
Walked a few miles
Since I've felt your grace
I keep replaying the day you died
Everytime I do, I still cry
Things have changed a lot
Since you've walked this earth
Been quite a few changes
Some deaths, some births
I know you've been with me
And I know, my life, you see
I never needed you quite as much
As I need you right now
Grandma, please help me
Some way, somehow
((May 1st,2000))
Danny Speicher
133
Lone Sails a Ship
Sailing through these present currents and tides
This ship moves gracefully about the sea
Passengers and crew they never quite see
What's churning and spinning beneath these strides
Ever spinning further out of control
Ever wondering when the vortex ends
Pondering just where this ship will descend
And if someone might seek its drowning soul
Where will that fatal last iceberg appear
Where does the battered, splintered hull find rest
Will it e'er sail again... Finish its quest
What lonely course should be set from here
Lone sails a ship, with ease above the waves
If only one knew the torrents it braves
((March 5th,2009))
Danny Speicher
134
Loneliest of All
I suppose my thoughts were always naieve
Believing that when you found that someone
That life would be happy and filled with fun
And, that feeling would remain when she'd leave
Reality set in the day she left
When the joy remained, but sadness set in
Thinking about when I'd see her again
I fear the summer will not be so deft
The irony whipped my heart in a squall
That though I had found the girl of my dreams
And, love, on the horizon, sparkles and gleams
Now she's gone, I'm the loneliest of all
Yet, the horizon nears close everyday
Dear, may we keep this path and never stray
((May 20th,2007))
Danny Speicher
135
Lonely
Here in the darkness I sit and think
Upon times past on those yet to be
And wondering where do I go from here
It is so painful just to wait and see
I watch the dying of my closest friends
As tehy fight to survive, they die to me
I fight and I struggle to keep them near
But, who can fault a friend trying to be free?
And all the wise sages who once taught me
Are active in their teaching, even still
Yet, their lessons teach generations next
And, this transition, indeed, is God's will
Family I love and have loved so long
Even they oft misunderstand my words
Though I try to tell of the dreams I see
My voice, inadvertently, goes unheard
I try hard to pray to God, whom I know
And meditate and listen for His voice
But, often I go deaf from the silence
And relieving slumber becomes my choice
For in my best dreams I dream of the past
Of family, friends and sages of old
Still laughing and talking with each other
And my heart doesn't seem so sad, so cold
And, in my dreams, I see her face... smiling
Who she is? I do not know her by name
And when I awake I forget her face
But, oh, how my heart loves her just the same
But, rise, I do and find myself alone
Still wanting to be dreaming of love
Still dreaming of the past and of her face
But, awake I am, and lonely thereof
((May 23rd,2005))
Danny Speicher
136
Lonely Autumn
Slate grey sky over an overcast heart
A new day dawning somewhere in the world
Here, only wishing that new day would start
Instead clouds, above, unfold and unfurl
Oh, this long, sad, lonely Autumn season
Bringing a subdued sadness to the heart
Solemn expressions keep, far, the reason
The reason that this love was torn apart
Orange and golden hues line the city streets
They give hope in a time when hope is dead
Bringing fond memories when each leaf meets
The eyes of lovers, who often have said,
'Cold, sad Autumn, embracing your blank sky
Love will find not a lover such as I'
((October 24th,2008))
Danny Speicher
137
Lonely Refrain
I once dreamt a dream, of life filled with love
And a girl I loved whom I had dreamt of
So much was in store, so much left to do
But, love wasn't mine; her heart wasn't true
So, I sailed along and dreamt of the day
When God might bring her beauty back my way
But, the years have passed, and I have grown old
The dream was a dream, or so I've been told
Why do we oft fall in love with our dreams
The truth is never as good as it seems
Love's fleeting; impossible to obtain
So, why do I sing this lonely refrain?
She found someone new, in no time at all
He was richer and more handsome and tall
Despite my heart breaking inside my chest
I sadly smiled, knowing it was best
Why do we oft fall in love with our dreams
The truth is never as good as it seems
Love's fleeting; impossible to obtain
So, why do I sing this lonely refrain?
I've seen a million faces with my eyes
I've given love more than a couple tries
But, each time it seems a part of me dies
I'm left the rogue, who sits alone and cries
Why do we oft fall in love with our dreams
The truth is never as good as it seems
Love's fleeting; impossible to obtain
So, why do I sing this lonely refrain?
I sit here alone, singing this refrain
My heart breaks within this lonely refrain
((December 1st,2009))
Danny Speicher
138
Lonely Winter
Lonely is my heart
Empty is my hope
It seems each turn is blocked
Trapped by emotions I can't cope
Every time the winter wind blows
And trees sway in silhouette form
I feel my heart freezing inside
With no love to keep it warm
When grey clouds sweep the sky
And the cold raindrops turn to snow
It makes me wonder why I've left
And where my heart is leading me to go
Sometimes I can hear whispers in the wind
Speaking of love and hope to live on
But, there is no one there when I turn
I am nothing but fate's last white pawn
The birds of the air laugh in mockery
At my life's impending doom
So, I silently stare at the lonely clouds
And await my future tomb
((November 15th,2000))
Danny Speicher
139
Long Ago Her Roses Died
Her eyes could soothe my deepest pain
Though they attempted to restrain
The tears she always tried to hide
For long ago her roses died
A Spring, a Summer and a Fall
We shared nothing, yet we shared all
But, Winter came; she left my side
For long ago her roses died
Dreamed, I, one day she’d come alive
That she would smile, laugh and thrive
But, to this day shadows abide
For long ago her roses died
I’d give my all for them to bloom
But, long ago her roses died
((January 5th,2011))
Danny Speicher
140
Lord, Be With Them
Lord, be with them, and keep them in Your arms
Lord, open their eyes to Your miracles
And open their ears to Your voice
Soften their hearts to receive Your love
So, that in their older years they may keep You
And retain their youthful laughter and innocent smiles
And may my steps be ones that they can follow
To reach a heavenly goal
May my love for them and the lives they live
Shine through as a testimony to Your love for them
And may my faith open the doors to Your Kingdom
That the little children may come to You
Lord, be with them and open their eyes to Your presence
((December 29th,2001))
Danny Speicher
141
Lost in the Mist
Chin up, my son, today you are a man
No more tugging on mommy's apron strings
Quit asking and asking help from her hands
No more time for all your childlike things
Stop crying, stop weeping, mourning your loss
Why can't you just stand on your own two feet?
Live your life... leave family, be normal
Stop looking for her, your problems, to meet
See that gold necklace placed upon her neck?
It isn't your pendant lying there now
Symbolism is clear... He took your place
It will do no good to furl your brow
Danny, you're a man now, like it or not
Close family... it will never exist
Quit longing for it and striving for it
Those days are memories, lost in the mist
((May 11th,2007))
Danny Speicher
142
Love Anew
I hear your voice on the line and wonder
If you know just what your words mean to me
How they resurrect me when I'm under
Feet of depression and anxiety
It's been so long since I've known this feeling
Of hope and a wanting of something more
And all the nights of fears so unyielding
Don't come 'round when I dream of what's in store
Oh, I've been wrong about feelings like this
Let my heart become attached far too soon
Cupid, may your aim not easily miss
'Tis too late, my heart doth already swoon
Oh, Cupid, your arrow aim straight and true
For my heart now dreams of a love anew
((July 24th,2009))
Danny Speicher
143
Love for a Season
The phrase has been said time and time again
It is better to have loved and lost love
Than never to have had love dreamed of
And, I s'pose, that's my solace in the end
Though she broke this loving heart in April
At least I had her in the Summertime
Waiting for the time her eyes would find mine
Memories I've had, linger even still
Though she broke this loving heart in April
At least I had her in Autumn's season
How love grew with no apparent reason
Memories I've had, linger even still
Though she broke this loving heart in April
At least I had her in the Wintertime
With her rosy cheeks and cold hands in mine
Memories I've had, linger even still
Oh, how she did break my heart in April
With tears streaming down our both our faces
Knowing we were going diff'rent places
Pain I felt then, it lingers even still
In the end I s'pose all we have are dreams
Oh, I wish love was easy as it seemed
((June 8th,2008))
Danny Speicher
144
Love Lost, Part I
His grandma dead now, gone and passed away
The last page of her life written and closed
Her scarves lay neatly in the drawer
Of her dresser of solid, antique, oak
The funeral comes and goes that day
The world is a surrealistic portrait
All the colors blending in
All the brushstrokes combining as one
People crying as the organ plays
The casket now in the ground
The dirt piled in monument of
The one who loved this boy
((November 17th,1999))
Danny Speicher
145
Love Lost, Part II
By her grass-covered grave, the old man stands
With a yellow flower within his hand
Remembering her love, now lost and gone
How one he had her company
Now he remembers at the memorial site
The sight of their very first kiss
Standing at the old town bridge
Memories flood his soul
Now he sits at home alone, alone
No family to claim his name
Why did she have to die so soon
Why is he now alone?
((November 17th,1999))
Danny Speicher
146
Love Undiscovered
Please don't sit here and cry, sadly, my dear
For love that you, so longingly, yearn for
Bring forth that lovely smile and dry that tear
For when we fall in love, you'll cry no more
Often I've laid quietly, quarreling
With the demon of heartache and despair
Dreaming of that one delicate darling
And, oh, how much, I want her to be there
So, whoever you are, sweet seraphim
Don't think that I am not searching as well
Stay steadfast, and don't commit on a whim
In loneliness, like I, 'till we meet, dwell
For, I stay pure and whole for you, my dear
That's what I am hoping to find in you
So, bring forth your lovely smile, dry your tear
For, God's plan for us, forever is true
((September 23rd,2003))
Danny Speicher
147
Lumber and Wood
As I looked out while driving down the road
Gazed, I, on a stack of lumber and wood
And thinking back upon fond memories
Lamented the building no longer stood
Oh, the place was one I did not enjoy
Where, once, I was forced to be long ago
But, thoughts of my companions made me weep
For, that known haunt I'll never again go
But, life rolls on without heed to my heart
Progress takes sacrifice once in a while
But, will I remember memories there?
Will I remember my grandmother's smile?
Those images lie deep within my heart
Where no earthly advancement may destroy
Yet, I wondered, now, what I could recall
From those carefree days when I was a boy
And, I prayed as the light went red to green
That I'd forever remember my past
All that which made me who I am today
Will, deep within my soul, forever last
((March 7th,2007))
Danny Speicher
148
Magnificent Light
Months, seeming like years, in darkness and dread
Wondering when tomorrow's dawn would break
Praying an end to this constant heartache
Praying, 'Dear God, raise this heart from the dead'
Starting slower that I thought it would be
One ray broke through the horizon's dark clouds
Faintly breaking the terrifying shroud
As ray by ray, light poured in, I could see
Magnificent light, brighter than the sun
Gleaming brilliantly off each mountaintop
Illuminating those dark valley drops
And brought peace as darkness was now undone
Magnificent light, beam radiantly
Keeping fears and each dismay far from me
((September 17th,2008))
Danny Speicher
149
Masterpiece
Perhaps it's cliche; a bit overdone
But, it seems apparent each day in life
Is a page written full of joy and strife
As though we're characters when the day's done
Some pages filled with ineffable bliss
Still others are wrought with heartache and pain
Some where the hero is going insane
What possible good could come of all this?
But, each day, anew, brings with it a choice
To become the hero or the villain
Tread on safe paths or those that are thrilling?
After each defeat to raise strong their voice?
Will our hero fade to their sad decease?
Or dawn triumphant in their masterpiece?
((June 3rd,2008))
Danny Speicher
150
Meet Me There
My dear, I know that our time here is through
Oh, how I wish I could just change your mind
I have no choice but to let you leave me
And pray that someone better, you will find
Those conversations we once had each night
Have ended... May not ever come again
So, just in case I never hear your voice
I can't wait to see you when these days end
Oh, meet me there, across the Jordan
Where my arms can embrace you once again
Oh, meet me there, at the eastern gate of Zion
And you'll see where my heart has always been
What a wonderful day that day will be
When again I clearly hear that sweet voice
Oh, how I've missed hearing that precious sound
To hear it again makes my heart rejoice
Oh, meet me there, across the Jordan
Where my arms can embrace you once again
Oh, meet me there, at the eastern gate of Zion
And you'll see where my heart has always been
Live your life to the fullest, dear sweetheart
Don't leave any dream in the still of night
I'll see you soon, don't worry about me
Your future is standing before you bright
And, when, at last, you've followed every dream
Your face, peaceful, content, with death dew's gleam
Walk forward into magnificent beams
These years, they are much shorter than they seem
So, meet me there, across the Jordan
Where my arms can embrace you once again
Oh, meet me there, at the eastern gate of Zion
And you'll see where my heart has always been
I'll be standing there a smile on my face
You'll see where my heart has always been
Please meet me there, upon the streets of gold
Where my arms can embrace you once again
((April 17th,2008))
Danny Speicher
151
Mind of Prose
I've seen their faces in my thoughts, my dreams
Their solemn silhouettes offer no sound
Their cries, however, blare out as a scream
They call for their sceptres, robes and their crowns
Look over there, a prince of stone kneels down
While his damsel, frozen, yearns for his kiss
No magician's spell, for them, will be found
While the mage's staff seems not to exist
Open the door to the noble throne room
See the King sitting so regal and strong
And the Queen, she stands firm, beside her groom
They wait, patiently, for that which they long
They see me sit at the keyboard and scribe
Their eyes go wide each time I grasp a pen
Awaiting history to be described
Who will lose the fabled war? Who will win?
For you see, these characters and their foes
Exist not in this world of flesh and bone
But, instead, subsist in the mind of prose
Waiting, for them, to the world, to be known
((August 14th,2004))
Danny Speicher
152
Missing Missing You
An odd conundrum of sorts, I suppose
Nostalgia following nostolgic thoughts
After months of this sad heart being fraught
And my mind thinking thoughts nobody knows
But, here's my heart, not missing you as much
Finding peace and solace in our contrasts
And the memory of your touch has passed
Yet, oddly, I miss the thought of your touch
Depressed in joy, a paradox am I
Moving on, looking back into the mist
Missing missing you; missing what I missed
Though I've moved on, you're with me by and by
Missing missing you is a mystery
But, I suppose that's how I'll always be
((November 1st,2008))
Danny Speicher
153
Misty Eyes
Life hasn't been the same for some time now
With the dark taking light some way, some how
And, I'm alone, unable to disguise
That now I see this world through misty eyes
Hasn't been long since you were here with me
I still hear that laugh, setting my heart free
But, oh, how all these precious moments fly
Now, I walk this road with these misty eyes
Perhaps life is meant to be seen this way
Perhaps joy isn't meant for me each day
Perhaps I'm to reprise those last goodbyes
Daily my heart dies and brings misty eyes
It dies as it remembers its demise
And so, each day I see through misty eyes
((July 12th,2008))
Danny Speicher
154
Moonlight
The night was dark and the road was lonely
And, I found myself wishing for a friend
A travel companion to keep me safe
One that will help me to my journey’s end
I found that companion within the Moon
With Her white Light radiating so bright
With her kind glow giving sight to my path
Illuminating the dark roads of night
I saw southern clouds rolling in quickly
To my dismay, there was naught I could do
Yet, I still fell in love with the Moonlight
Knowing darkness I’d soon have to go through
The clouds rolled in sooner than I had hoped
And the rain, it poured, like tears from above
And, for what seemed like several lifetimes
I was without the fond Light that I loved
Despite duration of my endeavor
The clouds rolled back to display brighter Light
Brighter than even that glow from before
I praised God for His care through this dark night
And, through the night, She kept me company
But, then gently in the East, the dawn rose
And, I saw what the Moon was reflecting
Sunrise was greater than anyone knows
For, I saw the fruition of the Light
I saw, in glory, that which I had chased
And, drove slowly in complete speechless awe
While my focus on the road was unphased
So, in the darkness, when the moon shines naught
Even when the moon returns from its shade
Focus first on the road laid before you
And, look for the dawn of Light, He has made
((May 31st,2007))
Danny Speicher
155
Moonlit Moments
On nights like these it's easy to miss you
With the stars in the sky twinkling above
It isn't hard to miss our long-lost love
As I sit at our spot, thinking of you
I never pondered I wouldn't get
To share all these moonlit moments with you
Sitting under a sky of twilight blue
Yet, here I am, and alone I sit
I suppose I'll never see you again
But, I'll always remember nights like these
With crickets chirping in yonder trees
And you snuggled so close, my arms within
Though I long for moonlit moments with you
I'll always treasure memories of you
((May 15th,2008))
Danny Speicher
156
My All in All
Where do I go when earth crumbles below
And the sky turns dark as sackcloth above?
Who can I trust? Whose refuge do I know?
When I’m unlovable, who will still love?
Though dreams be crushed and vision becomes dark
And truth I once knew be revealed as lies
No matter how oft I may miss my mark
I know that on You my heart can rely
My Rock and Savior; Shelter in the storm
I lean upon You for all others fall
May my desires finally conform
To Your will, oh Father, my All in All
I lean upon You for all others fall
Father, may You become my all in all
((November 17th,2010))
Danny Speicher
157
My Declaration of Independence
To all who keep by my side
And to all who have done so before
To all who will be with me tomorrow
And to all who know me no more
I have spent so many years
Trying so hard to be
Someone that people would love
I have forgotten to be me
So often I would compare myself
To a friend or an acquaintance or a star
Thinking of ways to be like them
And wondering how they are the way they are
So many people want me to be one way
While all the rest want me to be another
They lure me in with promises of love
And shared fellowship with one another
'If you were just a bit more like this'
They say with so much hope
'You would do wonders'
So, in belief, I grasp for their rope
But, each new time a hint comes my way
I realize that it didn't achieve the wanted goal
Only to find after I've changed my ways for them
I've just dug myself deeper into my own hole
It's been so long since I've been true to myself
I don't know what my heart wants anymore
I've been told so many times I'm one way or another
And that I should change or disaster was in store
'You're too nice', 'You're too generous'
'You're too romantic' and 'You're too shy'
'Don't get so attached to those you love'
And, 'Don't let everyone else see you cry'
Well, what's so wrong with being nice?
And, what's so wrong with giving my best?
Why can't I tell someone how beautiful they are?
And, what's wrong with being a little more silent than the rest?
Before you can answer with your usual replies
Before your cynicism runs free
Let me tell you it doesn't matter
Because I am myself... And, that is all I will ever be
((October 10th,2001))
Danny Speicher
158
My Pretty Prima Donna
My pretty prima donna on stage, all the world to see
Oh, how beautiful you stand upon the hallowed stage
How beautiful you'd be even in the composer's age
But, blessed am I, that beauty is for no one but me
My pretty prima donna sing, angelic voice resound
Oh, how tender the tone, so sweet and pure, peek from your lips
With each lyrical note your passion, from your mouth, doth drip
So soon that heavenly sound within will be world renowned
My pretty prima donna smile; the crowd enjoys your act
Oh, how sweetly laughable is the persona you bring
Whose innocence and edge bring forth with it a witty sting
Soon we'll see grand auditoriums and theatres packed
My pretty prima donna with me, all the world to see
Blessed am I, that prima donna is for no one but me
((October 29th,2007))
Danny Speicher
159
Navigator
I never knew it was quite possible
To have within my mind the quantity
Of thoughts and emotions I have right now
I never knew I could feel so depressed
Yet, only to feel gratitude later
Or fear and hope bound in the same second
The world seems to be spinning faster now
Than I have ever felt it spin before
Lord, I try to find my anchor in You
I have never once felt so blessed and cursed
So cared and strong, lonely yet close to friends
Nor have I been so uncomfortable
Yet, here I stand, looking into the fog
Yearning to see the winding path's next curve
But no sight, to me, is known to its twists
So, now I call for my Navigator
The One who has taken my hand before
For, these woods, I cannot journey alone
((January 11th,2005))
Danny Speicher
160
Near
Tick, tock and with each moment life moves on
On up and above the noise of the past
The hum of past failures... Fanfares of joy
Take a hold of life... Time is fleeting, fast
Today may bring joy or sadness, severe
It may bring with it the sun or the rain
Through it all, may the All-Knowing draw nigh
In great prosperity and in great pain
Dreams, they rush into us and out of us
But, some of these dreams, thank God, they come true
But, when visions don't bring reality
Draw near to me... Help me draw near to You
Oh, while in this world, we will have trouble
Sometimes sadness or anger; loss or fear
But, hallelujah, He's conquered this world
Praise Him! For when we need Him most, He's near!
So, in everything, by diligent prayer
Present your petitions unto His throne
And peace that transcends all understanding
Will let your heart know you're never alone
((April 29th,2007))
Danny Speicher
161
Never Again Come Near
In and out of my sight your figure fades
At your whim, at your will you come and go
No thought to pain I intimately know
And your entrance cuts like a sharpened blade
Like a ghost of romance past you appear
Feign interest in my life for kindness sake
Each word causing this heart of glass to break
Each cadence bringing the memories near
I cannot escape when you call my name
Not turning from the love I promised you
Not breaking the oath that I still hold true
How can I stop dreaming of that sweet frame
I can’t resist you even still, my dear
Please, be kind… Please, never again come near
((February 15th,2010))
Danny Speicher
162
Never Let Me Go
Don't think I don't know we live separate lives
I know the life you lead and all the dreams you dream
I know fitting in love is tougher than it seems
I know that often, too soon, tomorrow, arrives
Priorities are already set in motion
Foremost, you must first pursue a life of your own
Blazing a path, a journey, into the unknown
I still stand... Waiting to give my full devotion
My dear, don't you know that I would give you my all
If I knew that you would give me your all as well
I would walk through fire or rain, heaven or hell
Yes, dear, even through death's dark valley I would crawl
If only I knew that you'd never let me go
How my heart breaks that, right now, you can't let me know
((October 20th,2007))
Danny Speicher
163
Never the Same
In one moment, your hand grasped onto mine
Stars spiraled while nature, herself, kept time
And all seemed so right in the world that night
With your hand in mine, skin so soft, so light
I saw you smile as I reached to you
I felt you relax as we both, now, knew
This chemistry went far beyond mere words
Lines between earth and bliss suddenly blurred
Never the same, I’ll never be the same
Ever since my eyes beheld your sweet frame
While my hand held yours while we drove that night
And your skin so soft, so pale, so light
No, never the same, never be the same
E’er since your touch ignited my heart’s flame
((September 29th,2010))
Danny Speicher
164
New Life
Always press forward
In God's path for you
Always seek His guidance
In the things that you do
Stand firm in your faith
And proudly proclaim
That He is your Rock
And you wear His Name
The storms might strong
And the waves might be high
But, always remember
He is by your side
Remember to stop and enjoy
All the things He has for you
And dream and pray
About what He has planned for you
Don't ever forget
Life is infinitely great
So, go out and live it
Before it's too late
((March 4th,2001))
Danny Speicher
165
New Within
Shackled in bondage and fearing more pain
Not believing freedom would come again
Remembering not to tread where I've been
Hate clothed in love left a permanent stain
Nothing I could do could remove the hurt
Nothing I could do erased memories
Nothing I could do would, my doubt, appease
So, I settled for a love life, inert
I ne'er saw you coming into my life
Didn't know you'd bring healing in your wing
Or, soothe my weary spirit when you sing
But, healing, soothing, you erased my strife
You've taught me to trust and live life again
Dear, I'm so blessed I've been made new within
((August 10th,2010))
Danny Speicher
166
Nights Like These
It is on nights like these I miss her most
Not unlike my missing her every day
Where I toss and turn during each night's fray
But, it's on nights like these, I need her close
It is on nights like these I miss her most
Where the world comes crumbling down on me
And words she used to say are all I need
And, a loving lady, my heart could boast
It is on nights like these I miss her most
Her warm, gentle presence embracing mine
And all healing came when her hand I'd find
When she was by my side, through pain I'd coast
It is on nights like these I miss her most
I suppose not unlike all other days
Where my heart yearns for her nurturing ways
It just seems nights like these, I need her close
Oh, how I wish that tonight she were close
Instead of one of my memory's ghosts
((June 17th,2008))
Danny Speicher
167
No Longer Around
Here's a toast to all whom I love
Thank you for all that you've done
I don't know if I'd had made it to today
If all of those who I can think of were none
The happiness and the laughter
They will always, in my heart, remain
When the sun is shining brightly
Or when the dark clouds begin to rain
I'll remember all the memories
That we have diligently found
And when the sadness starts to come
I'll remember your joyful sounds
Sounds of talking and giggling
Sounds of your voices in my hear
And, I pray that you, too, will remember me
Just in case I am not always near
We've had some wonderful times together
In groups of simply two or many more
Times of love and care, sprinkled with tears
That's all I'm really living for
So, if one day you find me
No longer living here with you
And, you're striving to remember
What it was we used to do
Remember just one thing
To keep me fresh in your hearts
That I have loved you all
To the very end... From the very start
((December 31st,2000))
Danny Speicher
168
Now
Called but waiting in midst of death and doom
Reaching out to the hands who cannot grasp
Watching dead men stepping into their tombs
God, I cry out for my time to be now
Human faces placed on robotic forms
Searching for purpose within the routine
They long to be someone, outside the norm
God, I cry out for my time to be now
They watch me prepare to enter the war
They watch me as I don the medic’s frock
They wonder what all this training is for
God, I cry out for my time to be now
Oh, God, shall I linger and learn to fight?
Am I not ready for the fray right now?
Perhaps now is the time to shine the Light
God, I cry out for my time to be now
Lord, answer me in the still, silent dark
Find me standing steadfast for Your command
Lord, don’t allow my heart to miss the mark
Although I cry for my time to be now
Danny Speicher
169
Now See
Years alone, by myself, have left me cold
Left me broken, bitter and getting old
I used to wonder if my heart could love
And attain the closeness that I dreamed of
Prickly and razor sharp as a knife
My heart had become due to fear and strife
Leaving gashes on those who even tried
To comfort me as I sat and I cried
Then there was you, who’d been broken before
Knowing the pain and, yes, knowing the score
You found me when I was hurt and afraid
And realized the pain that was once laid
Open wounds bleeding is what you now see
Realize the power you have o’er me
I see you crying behind those dry eyes
I see you gazing up into the skies
I know you hurt even when you smile
And I know that love might take a while
I am as patient as a man can be
Someone like you, rarely loves one like me
And, my dear, you should know that I do know
I’d be a fool to ever let you go
But, sometimes I fear you’ll never break free
And your eyes won’t see what I need them to see
Fear that you’ll never love or trust again
Or move your heart back to where it had been
Open eyes crying is how you now see
Please remember I’m not them, I’m me
I could ask you to stop letting hurt reign
I could ask you to bury all your pain
But, I know willpower won’t do much more
Than cocktail ‘brellas do for strong downpours
So, I choose to sit and wait and love you
And pray that your love will someday shine through
Oh, even though those days may not arrive
I’ll be there to help you to reach and strive
For I know at least this much remains true
I do not love you for what you can do
For thoughts you express or things that you say
In fact, I know why I love you this day
An open heart, once blinded, can now see
170
Because you chose to take a chance on me
((September 28th,2010))
Danny Speicher
171
Oh, Corinth
Oh, Corinth, with intellect and knowledge
This flame within me has gone from your door
At times there must be a rekindling
So, that flame might burn brighter than before
Oh, Corinth, my heart burns, within, for you
I am sorry I have failed you thus far
Complacency had taken precedence
Fighting battles of ease... losing the war
Oh, Corinth, I remain in prayer for you
Watching you living, dying, not knowing
The Truth that would set you free if only
You could really see what He was showing
Oh, Corinth, I'll return to you someday
With a heart that loves you, yet even more
With a will that cannot be torn in two
All with the hope that you'll open the door
So, Corinth, keep searching for Love and Truth
Although you may not know how they appear
When you find them someday then you will know
This is Love... Truth... And it's always been near
((April 29th,2007))
Danny Speicher
172
On Nights Like These
A cool crisp breeze wafts the nighttime Spring air
I am taken to a place where you cared
Of our life and love and staying with me
Never once a thought of being set free
A year has passed since I last heard your voice
Dear, I realize that has been my choice
But, how can I hear the voice that used to
Bring affectionate thoughts, thought to be true
Oh, sweetheart, I miss it on nights like these
Where stars sparkle above a cool night's breeze
Or on nights where the grey pallid displays
Or when it rains or snows or, nigh, always
But, especially so, on nights like these
Thoughts of you prosper with unwelcomed ease
And, I wonder if you e'er think of me
How great our lives, together, used to be
About the nights we sat beneath those stars
And looked for Jupiter, Venus and Mars
But, alas, I have my doubts that you do
As another man is now courting you
And what use is it to have thoughts of me
When your life still remains as it should be
So, I suppose I'll sit and think of you
With eyes of green contrasting skies of blue
Even if you ne'er spare a thought for me
Thinking of you in our spot is where I'll be
So, my dear if you're e'er back up this way
You'll know where I'll be most every day
((April 4th,2009))
Danny Speicher
173
Once More Into the Fire
Once more into the fire, my Lord, once more into the fire
Another one calling to be saved, Lord, what shall I do?
Therefore to offer help I go once more into the fire
Once more into the fire, my Lord, once more into the fire
I can't save her with my own two hands, Lord, what shall I do?
To offer her your strong arms, Lord, once more into the fire
Once more into the fire, my Lord, once more into the fire
What of the others who won't call out, Lord, what shall I do?
Pray for them and call to them, Lord, once more into the fire
One last time into the fire, Lord, once more into the fire
I see You reaching now out to me, Lord, what shall I do?
Take your hand to climb out, Lord, nevermore into the fire
((April 6th,2005))
Danny Speicher
174
Once Upon a Dream
Once upon a sunset, red
I took your heart in hand
And on the whitened beach we stood
Upon the pale night sand
And we conversed of days gone by
Of events, together, we'd seen
Your smile, bright, under the stars
As, in my arms, you leaned
Our hearts, united, there under the moon
As we held each other close
And we whispered sweet forevers, too
Vows that no one knows
All of this we shared that night
But, things aren't always as they seem
For life was not an element there
Alas, it was all once upon a dream
((August 30th,2000))
Danny Speicher
175
Once Upon a Time
Last chapter closes this star-crossed saga
Full of laughter and love... heartache and tears
And the comedy becomes tragedy
The shepherd's son walks alone through the years
I do suppose we always knew the truth
A princess never falls for a pauper
Yet, their romance, it seemed so genuine
We hoped, perhaps, love would conquer proper
The King seemed wise from his throne far away
Saying marriage to paupers was unfair
For the princess deserved riches and fame
The pauper could never provide such fare
Oh, how, the pauper, he cried when she left
Remembering the happy days of yore
How he thought for certain her love was real
Thinking of her voice he'd come to adore
But, fairy tales are just fiction at best
And, love didn't win her heart in the end
That love, now, is just once upon a time
Perhaps faded... Perhaps always pretend
((April 17th,2008))
Danny Speicher
176
One Last Goodbye
A million miles down this rocky road
Oh, the smiles that remain in my mind
And, memories, they don't have a hard time
Finding their way into my dream's abode
Eight thousand hours treasured forever
And a lonesome, broken heart on the mend
Love doesn't always come to a happy end
At least it's a journey we endeavored
So, now that we've gone our separate ways
And the 'I love yous' are now history
I want to leave no shroud of mystery
How I loved you, and still love you today
I guess I'll love you forever somehow
Even when God grants love with someone new
There will remain a diff'rent love for you
But, it's time for one last goodbye for now
Until the thought of you no longer brings
Images of wedding days, children's laughs
An intimate love shown on your behalf
Until then, let this hope, in your ear ring:
May God bless you and faithfully keep you
May His countenance upon you bright shine
May His face graciously turn toward thine
And may He grant you peace, lasting and true
'Til I again look into your green eyes
Please accept, with love, this one last goodbye
((May 30th,2008))
Danny Speicher
177
One Perfect Night
Tonight I saw your beautiful smile once more
Tonight I saw your eyes shining bright once again
Tonight I didn't have words to tell what' within
Tonight... I've never had a night like this before
It has been so long since I've felt so heartbroken
It has been longer yet since I've been so in love
And as I looked up at the cloudy skies above
I thought of all the things that were left unspoken
More than anything I dreamed of one perfect night
Where, together, we could sit, holding each other
On a bench or on a dock just one another
Watching the stars drift by in the dusky twilight
Oh, Lord, I pray for this night to come near and soon
My sweetheart and I, snuggling under the moon
((May 17th,2007))
Danny Speicher
178
One Year Ago Last
One year ago last, I last saw your face
Lovely to view, eyes spark'ling just for me
Love blossoming for all the world to see
Oh, how I long to go back to that place
If I'd known I'd never see you again
I would have savored that image much more
I would have shown love deeper than before
Oh, if I had just known it was the end
Images flash across my mind of you
Standing at the door as I drove away
Neither knowing it would be our last day
Oh, if we had just known, what would we do
One year ago last, I last saw your face
Oh, how I long to go back to that place
((March 7th,2009))
Danny Speicher
179
Our First Kiss
A million stars shining all above us
Night air, thick, with hope of what was to come
Venus shining her approval on us
All limbs and heart feeling ever-so numb
What momentous event must bring such fear?
Such, sweet, trembling fear into our hearts?
Oh, too quickly, the moment… It came near
To quickly came our moment to depart
Oh, how memorably awkward it was
Yet how perfectly smooth it came to be
How important was that moment because
It was the first time we kissed… You and me
There is no other moment as sweet as this
As the late night hour of our first kiss
((July 8th,2007))
Danny Speicher
180
Passionate Sunset
The solemn sunset, red with passion
Drops below the level horizon
The red apples in the green orchard
Sway swiftly with the wind
Nature sings her ancient hymn
In the silent stillness of the dusk
In the silent stillness of the dusk
((September 5th,1999))
Danny Speicher
181
Perhaps
My dear, you'd be so proud of me, I think
I rarely think longingly upon you
Wishing the sleep to end and dreams come true
Rarely being at that teary-eyed brink
I suppose they'd all say I'm over you
After all I don't cry for us these days
And once again my lips ring forth God's praise
I suppose their observations are true
I suppose I'm truly over my dream
Of loving only you for forever
And of leaving your side never ever
Perhaps our love wasn't all that it seemed
Perhaps I am over your sudden flight
That is, of course, except nights like tonight
Perhaps it's the near full moon high above
The still night air whispering in my ear
With the stars shining so bright and so clear
Perhaps just Fall reminds me of your love
Where cool breezes blow 'cross this broken road
Gently bringing memories from the north
Of our weekends together and so forth
Perhaps my heart still holds this heavy load
Perhaps you're entirely over me
And, I suppose it's for the best you are
I would never find healing for these scars
Apart we will both, much happier, be
Perhaps, over me, you've always have been
But would one question be, to you, a sin?
Do you e'er think of me on nights like these?
Where the stars we once watched twinkle above
How in those moments we were so in love
All in the midst of this Northwestern breeze
Do you find yourself wondering at all
What might have become of us in the end
If all of our problems we would transcend
Do you e'er miss me? Do you e'er recall?
Perhaps you don't miss me as I miss you
But, if you do and want to honor me
Don't hesitate to be all you can be
And know I'll be proud of you if you do
If you ever think of me and miss me
182
Honor me and be all that you can be
((November 14th,2008))
Danny Speicher
183
Perhapses
Perhaps someday I'll look and I'll find you're no longer there
Perhaps I'll see the departure coming
And I'll hear the final cadence strumming
Perhaps I'll wonder, in silence, if you e'er really cared
Maybe our tomorrows won't look quite as good tomorrow
Maybe promises we easily made
Tomorrow won't be easily obeyed
Maybe the hope we planted will harvest naught but sorrow
But, what if the perhapses and the maybes don't come true
What if this love is as real as it gets
And it doesn't run, but patiently sits
What if the day closes and finds us still happy, not blue?
Well, if it's real and my heart can feel like this forever
Than all the maybes and the perhapses
And the risk of possible collapses
Become worth it for the hope of love that will endeavor
Perhaps one day I'll find myself standing solo once more
Maybe it will be more than I can take
After I put all that I had at stake
But, when love's in play, risk's always worth what might be in store
((June 24th,2010))
Danny Speicher
184
Perpetual Horizons
Sad eyes of memories of days gone by
Thoughts of what could have been and should have been
All the hopes and dreams welling deep within
Wondering what moment set it awry
Still deep within past the tears of defeat
Lies the same ambitions and desire
Lasting through the rain and through the fire
Thinking the life once lived might soon repeat
Having faith deeper than sorrow and pain
That the next chapter in this tale of life
Might hold new plots with less quarrelsome strife
And lessons learned now won't be learned in vain
Ahead perpetual horizons wait
Filled with life greater than my dream of fate
((September 5th,2008))
Danny Speicher
185
Plant These Feet
Oh, God, give me the strength to move forward
Build a man from ashes of this coward
Teach me to stand, 'tho I may want retreat
Lord, steady these hands and, Lord, plant these feet
Hurting deep inside as though cut by steel
Not wanting the pain that God knows I feel
I'd pray for my heart to go numb again
But, I find pain's better than where I've been
Responsibility and sacrifice
Honor and duty and paying the price
Traits that are worthy and noble in deed
Patience and wisdom are traits that I need
The path looks so rugged and overgrown
Lord, clear it out so your path might be shown
((October 4th,2010))
Danny Speicher
186
Protect
I saw her tears
I heard her cries
Who had hurt her
With sorrow in her eyes
That monster had touched her
Who would dare to touch
I felt her pain
I loved her so much
She blamed herself
For things she didn't do
He had made her believe
Lies untrue
I'll protect her
Forever and a day
For her I'd die
For her I will pray
((November 1st,1999))
Danny Speicher
187
Ravaging
What is that all-familiar twinge inside
Still gnawing, gnashing that inner fiber
Constantly looking to pay the piper
The piper within tauntingly resides
What was it that was there so long ago
What painful scar still oozes life this day
What hope is there to ever end this fray
Will tranquility e'er, truly, be known
Why does it scorch, again, this hollowed shell
As if searching for valuable treasure
Seeking to destroy some hint of pleasure
Yet, wiser sought these rich plunders in Hell
Ravaging that which no longer bears meat
Still sucking marrow for something to eat
((February 1st,2009))
Danny Speicher
188
Release Me
Merciful Savior, I beg, release me
From this sackloth mask which, mine eyes, doth shield
Let me see, once again, the harvest field
Merciful Savior, won't you set me free
If darkness must dwell and vision, impede
Then, Lord, bind my mouth by the same dark twill
For what good are my words, arid and still
Without benefit of an optic lead
And if my mouth be bound from oration
Oh, God, as well bound my hands and my feet
For without words how might my hands, then, greet
The children longing to be Your nation
I cry to you, Messiah, show to me
Ways to follow You... How, again, to see
((March 25th,2009))
Danny Speicher
189
Remember Us Laughing
Don't look in my eyes this moment, my dear
You won't see me as I want to be seen
That image of how I have always been
Don't remember me with eyes full of tears
Oh, I know that you have to leave me now
I suppose that I have known for some time
You must take your path and I must take mine
We'll go on without each other somehow
But, if you ever think of me someday
Please don't think of me like I am this day
Instead, remember us laughing, I pray
Not these frail attempts begging you to stay
Remember us laughing at the state fair
With summer breezes tickling your hair
((December 29th,2008))
Danny Speicher
190
Renaissance
Darkened paths lay within shrouded walkways
And guarded hearts and muffled tongues once reigned
Dispassionate eyes hid what once was pain
Solitude and fear were standard those days
The wounded heart pumped forth nothing but tar
A battered soul that had been ripped to shreds
Festered, secretly longing to be fed
Yet, the food it sought seemed ever too far
In a moment in time paths lit brightly
A spark lit up behind those steely eyes
Where tear ducts once dried out, started to cry
A rebirth the heart could not take lightly
Beneath the layers of tar covered life
The heart now pumped hope, a trickle at first
And more and more until it pumped forth bursts
Now passion replaced apathetic strife
A glimpse of an angel sparked that new day
And what once lay dormant and dead inside
Found new life that now sprung anew with pride
And bound forth childlike laughter and play
Fall to Spring, a resurrection of sorts
Sentimental reflection never mocked
And romantic notions no longer blocked
Not letting the past, the future, contort
Welcome to this bright new day’s revival
Where friends gather and love one another
Emotions come like a wayward brother
The goal is now love, not just survival
((June 3rd,2010))
Danny Speicher
191
Renewed Hope
Renewed hope, follow my actions
Oh, hope of God, keep me true
To my vows and my commitments
To follow and obey only You
Hope that softly touches my heart
Once again, work in my life
Help me help others in their hurt
And, with You, ease their strife
Holy Spirit renew that hope
That once lived within me
That once took me to greatness
Let it once again, quietly be
Lord, take me from my sins
And set my eyes upon You
For all things fade away
In the Light that shines so true
Free my heart from the shackles
That so often bind its love
And give it true strength
The only strength that comes from above
((January 23rd,2001))
Danny Speicher
192
Rest Easy
Long and rugged path stretches out for miles ahead
Short strides make the horizon seem neverending
Obstacles just beyond each curve, ever bending
So oft wishing to be home, warm and safe, in bed
Heroes are never made behind shrouds of closed eyes
Nor greatness achieved by simply dreaming at night
Well-beaten paths rarely passionate love ignites
And those who do naught but wait fade away and die
Be immovable, never questioning the stand
Don’t let tears fall, smile and forever be strong
Rest easy in Him and the truth behind His song
Look for answers, but know you might not understand
Love freely; express no remorse in its embrace
Even if it devours and painfully scars
And quickly departs leaving deep, defining scars
Even then, know that true love cannot be replaced
Lady, don’t let tears fall and forever be strong
Rest easy, my dear, and find your peace in His song
((June 27th,2010))
Danny Speicher
193
Right Then... Right There
Anxious awaiting and longing for her
She who makes my days bright and my dreams grand
Silently hoping for things not yet seen
Ah, for now, yearning to just hold her hand
And the time, it creeps by, taunting my heart
Whose beats count down the seconds one by one
To the moment I can see those green eyes
Whose stare makes my very being undone
I've dreamed of when I will see her again
Her embrace meeting mine under the stars
When that time spent waiting will seem worthwhile
And, for a short time, that time will be ours
But, dreams won't do justice to that moment
I doubt my thoughts could ever bring such bliss
So I wait... Ever-dreaming, even still
When we're apart, there's naught better than this
Here's to the time I hold her once again
Running my fingers through her golden hair
With her head nestled into my shoulder
Oh, how I long to be right then... Right there
((July 1st,2007))
Danny Speicher
194
Runaway Heart
I once had a girl, and once she had me
And though her charms were charms in which I'd dreamed
Her infatuation wasn't all it seemed
My happily captured heart, she set free
Ever since I've chased this runaway heart
Hunting answers to patch it's gushing sieve
Seeking out life in life, that I might live
Alone on this earth; from her, far apart
Though I'm nearer this solitary strength
I am still longing for life lived before
My past vices, made her show me the door
Love is a game played, often at arm's length
Perhaps someday, another, I'll draw near
To bring peace to this life of hurt and fear
((October 2nd,2008))
Danny Speicher
195
Seek Love
Simple to do, easy to fabricate
Love for a weekend, gone tomorrow night
Not what was meant to be or what is right
But, too frightening to just sit and wait
For what if the knight in shining armor
Never journeys across the heart's courtyard
And, there left all alone, saddened and scarred
Even 'Good Enough' has someone in store
For what if the princess won't need rescue
And, in her royalty, never glances
At one in need of life's second chances
And, 'Good Enough' has found someone to woo
What's one to seek, 'Good Enough' or love, true
Seek love... Seek a love that's worthy of you
A bird in hand is worth two in the bush
Does this wisdom hold when it comes to love
The one thing in which there's nothing's above
Perhaps best just give love a little push
But, alas the world is full of those who chose
The safety of certainty of a love
In which they, themselves convinced themselves of
That the love they had was the best they'd know
But, unhappy are they who look to find
Their gallant knight kneeling before their feet
Or their princess waiting, champion, to meet
But, to 'Good Enough', instead, are confined
What's one to seek, 'Good Enough' or love, true
Seek love... Seek a love that's worthy of you
Chivalry is not dead, nor is true love
Love that resonates in poems and books
Is alive and hoping you, too, will look
And seek the will of Him that sits above
Respect and honor waits for those who wait
A storybook life isn't out of reach
No matter what this modern world may teach
Seek that true love and have faith in your fate
Seek that love... Imitators, forsake them
Find it and vehemently pursue it
For once together, strife, you'll get through it
Please wait for them and don't mistake them
For one should seek that love... That love... Love, true
196
Seek love... Only the one worthy of you
((February 9th,2009))
Danny Speicher
197
Selah
Feel the air around you
Strengthening your soul
Sense His arms around you
In HIs infinite control
Selah, in your troubles
He's with you 'till the end
Selah, through your happiness
He'll always be your friend
Selah, praise the Lord
In silent moments of prayer
And, Selah, simply be still
And know you're in God's care
((September 27th,2001))
Danny Speicher
198
Self-Made Prison
A wife who loves me and will never leave
A grin that shines out problems of the day
Tender kisses that rise above each fray
These are the kind of hopes I once believed
My kids in my lap as I read them tales
Of heroes and their maidens in distress
Tucking them in with a goodnight caress
Oh, how I prayed that these dreams wouldn't fail
A desk; an office; my name on the door
Successful in my career endeavors
The search for better forever severed
Dreams of personal success, nothing more
Life didn't turn out like I'd envisioned
Sitting alone in my self-made prison
Unwise choice spending an inheritance
On a house built upon a sandy shore
Nightmares now flash of the waves as they tore
The structure from its shaky existence
Trusting mentors as they guided me on
To bondage that would define a decade
If they had known, they'd have told me to stay
Now I'm just an institutional pawn
I gave her my all: my heart, soul and dreams
Laid my future at her feet, believing
All her promises of never leaving
But, her love was less lasting that it seemed
Life didn't turn out like I'd envisioned
Sitting alone in my self-made prison
Oh, Father won't you take this broken heart
Pick up even the smallest shattered piece
Make it new, make it Yours, give me release
Set me on a course, give me a new start
These failures occupy my thoughts by day
And, at night they haunt my every dream
I wake in a sweat; on my lips a scream
I cannot go on living life this way
Lord, heal these sicknesses that oft plague me
They render me useless and make me sleep
And the pain they bring causes me to weep
God, grant me reprieve... Won't You set me free
Life didn't turn out like I'd envisioned
199
Sitting alone in my self-made prison
Lord, in my life, grant me a new vision
Purpose enrapt with Your Great Commission
((February 19th,2010))
Danny Speicher
200
Six Long Months
Six long months without hearing your sweet voice
Excruciatingly long months alone
Wish I could say I wasn't at the phone
Waiting for a call, but I had no choice
Still breaks me to think it's over for good
From you, 'I love you' I won't hear again
I suppose mistrust of fate is my great sin
Oh, I'd move on now, if only I could
Six long months, I still wonder what went wrong
It all came crashing down in one moment
And our love, then, you were so far from it
Alone I sit and write out a sad song
Oh, love of my life, I long for the past
Oh, God of my heart, pleast end this pain fast
((October 6th,2008))
Danny Speicher
201
Sleepless
Sleepless tonight, my mind ponders upon
The happenings that have come and will come
Wondering from where, next, they will come from
Sleepless, in silence, waiting out the dawn
Thoughts of victories won thus far along
And the defeats that left my heart breaking
Hopes for tomorrow don't quell the aching
But, hopes, today, tomorrow will right wrongs
Oh, Lord, calm this beating heart within me
And dim thoughts of joy and sadness for now
Grant peace as much as my heart will allow
Tomorrow wake me to all I can be
Remind me these memories should have taught
To be thankful for what, right now, I've got
((August 30th,2008))
Danny Speicher
202
So Much Life for So Much Death
The leaves fly above my head
As the dog barks down the street
Fall has come like a thief in the night
Stealing life from summer, replacing it with death
The colors are prettiest right before the fall
The wind blows hardest right before the storm
Funny how much life
Can bring so much death
((October 3rd,1999))
Danny Speicher
203
So Often
So often I've wondered and often wonder still
If there is a dream this heart, within, can follow
Without leaving my spirit empty and hollow
And a dream, that I really can, indeed, fulfill
So often I ponder where life is leading me
Yet, more often than not, I feel my wheels spinning
And in life's great race, everyone else is winning
While I'm just waiting for someone to set me free
So often I see glimmering glory ahead
Spark'ling on the horizon like the morning sun
Praying that I reach it before my day is done
Hoping I find purpose before they find me dead
Father, guide me to the dreams You would have for me
And, please, loving Father, come set this captive free
((November 22nd,2009))
Danny Speicher
204
Someone That I Can Hold
The north wind is blowing
Can you hear it call
The chill of winter is here
Causing me to stall
My bones ache from time to time
And hope so often dies
Like the trees outside
Alone my heart still lies
You'll give me my heart's desire
I hear you calmly speak
If I follow your words
Serve you and seek
I've followed you through it all
I've seen the good and bad
I've served your people and I've served You
And always I've been glad
I've sought you at every turn
I've seen your face before
But, where's my heart desire
That I've been longing for
Lonely is the word I use
My heart is freezing cold
I wonder if I will ever find
Someone that I can hold
((December 10th,2000))
Danny Speicher
205
Somewhere Beyond
Somewhere beyond these sunset skies above
Is a place where all this suffering ends
Where there are no enemies, only friends
Each day garnered with warm feelings of love
Somewhere beyond the stars sparkling bright
A community of friends are waiting
Those gone before, now anticipating
The moment when you, too, can see the light
Somewhere beyond fading mortal coils
Are pearly gates and streets paved, bright, with gold
Where not one of us will ever grow old
And, finally, we can cease our toils
Somewhere beyond these sunset skies above
Are days garnered with warm feelings of love
((December 7th,2008))
Danny Speicher
206
Somewhere in the World
Where is my love
I do not know
Life's incomplete
Tossing to and fro
Her eyes are focused
Somewhere in the world
Her voice may be speaking
As her story's unfurled
Someone is probably looking
Upon her sweet, pale face
Yet, she's saving her love for me
With her amazing grace
Maybe I've met her already
Maybe her acquaintance not yet met
But somewhere she sits and waits
For that day we won't forget
((October 2nd,1999))
Danny Speicher
207
Sonnet for a Muse
Oh, my muse, my inspirational muse
Not sprung from the finite Gaia or Zeus
Who, with each word, to my heart, love infuse
And, hence, my hand, poetry, doth produce
Calliope's hearts never beat so swift
Nor Erato inspire love so true
Eutere never gave such lyrical gifts
Nor Thalia, to souls, peace so imbue
My muse, is born of a God far greater
Who inspires her, to inspire me
To live for today, not just for later
And makes my eyes find what I do not see
Oh, my muse, my inspirational muse
Love me always... Imperfections excuse
((October 22nd,2007))
Danny Speicher
208
Sonnet of Her Beauty
Those green eyes; how they sparkle in the light
Soothing each of my worries and each pain
How large they are when gazing at the night
Their beauty, too great for endless refrains
That long, flowing, hair; oh, how soft each strand
How golden it shines from so far away
Like the sun reflecting off of bronze sand
Oh, how I long to caress it each day
That skin; so soft, so fair and very fine
Her touch, like magic, to my restless heart
Her hand fits so perfectly into mine
Oh, how her embrace was warm from the start
Those lips; so soft and so perfectly formed
How sweet are the kisses they bestow
Oh, how my heart, is wonderfully warmed
When from those lips the words “I love you” flow
And, oh, that smile; that perfect smile
How, my heart, it immediately melts
For that grin I’d walk a thousand miles
Making this heart feel like it’s never felt
And, although she may be miles away
This heart beats more for her every day
((July 17th,2007))
Danny Speicher
209
Still Inherit the Dawn
When the cool breeze succeeds the heat of day
And stars freckle the now darkening sky
May these words be the words I know and say
'The darkest nights still inherit the dawn'
When the night sets in all throughout the land
And trepidation of darkness looms nigh
Oh, Lord, may Your wisdom be close at hand
'The darkest nights still inherit the dawn'
When I stagger within the shadows of night
Not knowing any answers to my cries
I will search for answers... Wait for the light
The darkest nights still inherit the dawn
When I feel like giving up on this road
And feel like saying my lonely 'goodbyes'
Still if great is the burden and the load
The darkest nights still inherit the dawn
When all lies upon me... Nothing is right
May I remember Your Word never lies
And, hallelujah, Your grace is in sight
The darkest nights still inherit the dawn
((March 27th,2006))
Danny Speicher
210
Still, Small Voice
While lying alone at night
I dream of days gone by
Of gentle hands guiding me
And my heart begins to cry
The silence of my darkened room
Brings fears of coming days
It prods at all my weaknesses
And on my heart it preys
Where has my childhood gone to
Where are all those who cared
Why am I left all alone in here
So depressed and so scared
But, in my heart I hear a whisper
A still, small voice from inside
A lingering hope of a bright future
Brings my heart close to its side
It's words bring me my comfort
And its words heal my heart
Its words patch my soul
When it's all torn apart
They take me above
All my suffering and pain
And give me perspective
They give me vision once again
Take time to listen closely
And you will hear the voice say
'I love you dearly and don't ever forget...'
'..To trust the Lord, Your God, and enjoy each new day.'
((July 13th,2001))
Danny Speicher
211
Take This Cup from Me
This beaten road is long, rocky and rough
Pitfalls looming 'round every corner
In land where, clearly, I'm the foreigner
Sometimes it's hard to smile through this stuff
But, I see the goal as I've seen for years
Never changing or moving close nor far
Like, upon the horizon, shining stars
Facing every day with stess and fears
Upon my back I still carry with me
Past baggage, that's yet unchecked at the gate
I cling to it as He patiently waits
There is sorrow within no one can see
Oh, Lord, if Your will might graciously be
Won't you please kindly take this cup from me
There are days, these days, when the sky is clear
And not a sound can be heard for miles
When, across my face, I feel a smile
Oh, in those moments, I know You are near
Perhaps You'll choose to take burdens from me
Perhaps You'll give me peace for each new day
So, in You, I might confidently say
That, indeed, the Son has set this man free
But, Lord, if your will might dictate to me
That you would take the chalice from my lips
And, from day to day, guide each of my steps
But, if I must, I'll bear this cup for Thee
But, Lord, if Your will might graciously be
Won't you please kindly take this cup from me
((November 22nd,2008))
Danny Speicher
212
Taylor
When your life started
The next phase of mine began
I never realized how much love I really had
Until you showed me how to love like a child
You've had blonde curls your whole life
Framing your angelic face like fire
You've always been a bit ornery
But, you remain with a heart of gold
Life won't be an easy task
Finances and fame we might lack
But, you've got a heart of a warrior
And the fire of the Spirit within
You are so precious and excellent
I've never seen such life in one child
Some may scorn you unjustly
Some will trust you with their life
Some will alugh at every flaw you posess
Others will respect you for what you stand for
Always remember... I pray that you do
That even after I'm gone
I'll always be with you
You are my life
And truest inspiration
God has plans for your life
Trust fully in Him
With God and family on your side
Your life will be complete
I will cover you from now until forever
By your side, I'll never leave you
((September 5th,1999))
Danny Speicher
213
Tears
Weep softly now, beautiful angel
Take confidence in my heart
Cry, now, into my shoulder dear
But, please don't quickly depart
Let me tell you of my love
How that love is for you
Let me take your hand in mine
And tell you of my heart so true
Weeping 'till your eyes are dry
You've shed your last sad tear
Let me help you with these troubles
Let my faith dissolve your fears
Your life has led to anguish
No one seems to understand
I promise you my help and love
If you'll promise me your hand
I will be there to help you through
In all your worst debates
There to give you a smile
If life's handed you ill fate
So, look in my eyes, now
And shed no lonely tears
I will never, ever, leave your side
My love will always be near
((August 15th,2000))
Danny Speicher
214
Thankful
I am thankful for the colored autumn leaves
And the crisp cool nights and stars all around
When I quietly look to the heavens
I'm thankful for a moment without sound
I am thankful for my family's love
And the familiarity it brings
When I see the smiles of all my friends
I am so grateful for such precious things
I am thankful for God's blessings to me
And the blessings He gives to those He loves
When I think of mankind's fate without Him
It's not hard to praise for gifts from above
But, what strikes me most this thanksgiving day
Isn't the dinner or the memories made
And it isn't our nation's Pilgrim way
It's the fulfillment of years of prayers prayed
When praying someone would come take my hand
And love who God made and who I would be
Whom I could hold and who, with me, would stand
I'm so blessed I found that one who loves me
So, I'm thankful for love this holiday
And the warmth that it has brought to my heart
When I dream how beautiful, sweet she is
I'm thankful some day we'll never depart
((November 22nd,2007))
Danny Speicher
215
The Dream
It wasn't too long ago my heart beat
Sweet melodies and harmonies of love
When that girl was all my mind thought of
And each week I would await when we'd meet
Yet, I find myself now without her charms
Her beautiful face I no longer see
Her arms embrace someone other than me
When I long for nothing more than those arms
The twist of fate is like coming awake
When all I want to do is stay dreaming
Roses still red and the sun still beaming
Unable to perceive what's real, what's fake
If all love occurred once upon a dream
Lord, please bring me to that nocturnal stream
((July 20th,2008))
Danny Speicher
216
The Field Mouse in the Pumpkin
Far, far in the back of the viney patch
Lies a pumpkin without a stem
And, on that pumpkin was a little hatch
For no one knew it but him
And, who was he, but a little field mouse
That ate nothing but seeds
For living inside of a pumpkin
Gave him all the food he would need
(Co-Written by Brooke Considine)
((October 1st,2009))
Danny Speicher
217
The Gathering
Family members, once lost
Now come running to you, found
And those who have gone before
Are once again with you, safe and sound
The souls that touched your life
All gather with congratulatory smile
And those whom you've touched
Thank you for the love all the while
Those companions you've had all along
Stand proud, strong... Holding your hand
And those who reached out so many times
Praise Him for your arrival to the Promised Land
Those who have prayed for you and your cause
Even when they did not know you
Dance to a never-ending beat
That you have stayed so strong, so true
In the throne as the Great I Am
He smiles and laughs in joy
To see the great gathering
Of all His girls and all His boys
((April 2nd,2001))
Danny Speicher
218
The Leaves are Falling
The leaves are falling, once again
As they always seem to do at this time of year
And the chill in the air sweeps through
Bringing thoughts of home and memories ever near
The leaves are falling, once again
How their colors seem so rustic and yet so bright
Childhood memories flood back
Times when it was fun to roast marshmallows at night
The leaves are falling, once again
And hopes of years gone by weigh heavy on the heart
Friends, loved ones and hopeful lovers
Speak in sepia dreams; but now, in life depart
The leaves are falling, once again
How the invigorating, life-giving breeze blows
How it blows life into these lungs
Giving hints of promises that only He knows
The leaves are falling, once again
Once again, they fall on the ground, like years before
Once again His promise is true
Promise to prosper, not harm; peace and love in store
((October 14th,2006))
Danny Speicher
219
The Light is Shining Still
The sky is filled with clouds and rain
The ground trembles with its power
Each bolt of lightning lighting the night sky
Each minute counting down each hour
The fear is there within each heart
And hope flees with each passing thought
It seems that as hard as humanity tried
The struggles for peace were all for naught
In the distance the clouds are broken
The sun shines brightly through
And all the fear you've ever had
Is met by a peace so new
Each dropp of rain now falls as light
In a rainbow of hope and love
And each new bolt of lightning seems so dim
From the sun shining from above
The storm still surrounds your life
But, the light is shining still
Yearning ot reach your broken heart
With a peace that cannot be killed
((September 27th,2001))
Danny Speicher
220
The Prize
Prize beyond this present uphill battle
Shields crash together and sabers rattle
Pain and loneliness present on this field
For, in the end, alone, your blade, you wield
Oft the struggle threatens to overtake
And too often my heart is left to break
I will question the merit of this march
I will fall and bleed, with thirsty lips parched
But, just when I raise my horn to retreat
The goal and prize, my gaze rises to meet
And, again pick up my shield and my sword
And pray, once more, to my Savior and Lord
'Make my feet swift and please make my heart strong,
Let my mind find peace to help me along
May my gaze naught move from the prize ahead
And not rest 'til I reach it or I'm dead.'
Amen
((July 1st,2010))
Danny Speicher
221
The Rain Came Down
I'd waited in darkness, hoping for light
Never knowing just when the dawn would break
Never knowing just how much was at stake
But, I found the truth when day conquered night
Love held a season of sunny bright days
And never let on it wouldn't remain
But, all it took was a cloud filled with rain
And love was naught more than a passing phase
I didn't plan for it to end that way
Nor did I plan for it to end at all
But, as our love turned from Summer to Fall
The rain came down and it washed it away
Again, I sit once more waiting for light
May this breaking dawn quickly break the night
((July 18th,2008))
Danny Speicher
222
The Splinter
The splinter far too deep in my soul
To remove with human hands
It burns and beckons me to suffer
In a way that only that shrapnel can
I watch the world turn from night to day
Unaware of my soul tearing apart
And realize that I am just one of many
Who can't control their broken heart
I wonder where the path will lead next
And I hopefully look forward with naive hope
To a future and a bride, unblemished
And the odds of reality are hard to cope
For I know the world has told these girls
That love is a trophy not readily had
So many have settled for far less than the deserve
So few have shunned those who were bad
And, yet, I hold out hope for the one
Whose dreams still linger and their hearts still yearn
For a life worth living and dreams bigger than they
And a flame of passion, within them, still burns
Oh, the world has told us not to dream... Not to live
Oh, the world is a liar and a manipulator of time
How its seething logic always distorting
When life turns to hopeless from it's prime
Lord, guard the heart of she who is mine
Lord, reassure her that I am searching as well
Lord, comfort her after each fraudulent love
And, Lord, save her from disgrace's disgraced hell
And, if you might hurry in bringing her my way
My heart grows weary and more painful each day
And, if you might guard her from lust's dark fray
Oh, Lord, please quickly, let her hear me say:
I love you
((August 10th,2009))
Danny Speicher
223
The Star
Tonight somewhere there brightly shines a star
Spectators mesmerized by brilliant rays
Will speak of its aura day after day
While sit, I, and dream its beauty afar
I danced in its rays once upon a time
Dreamt of nothing less than what I beheld
Wanted for nothing more than hope upheld
What more could a man want than what was mine
Tonight somewhere there brightly shines a star
I could lament that I'll not see its light
That nothing's there to illuminate night
And only dream of its beauty afar
But, how could I abide in dismay
When, alas, I once basked the star's display
((February 15th,2009))
Danny Speicher
224
The Sun Has Set
The sun has set and the night has come, dear
And though the darkness now blots out the light
And though the dawn be far away from sight
In whispers of the breeze I’ll still be near
How I wish the daylight had shone brighter
And I wish the hours had been longer
And I wish that I could have been stronger
I’d give my all, your load to be lighter
But, the road diverged within the dark woods
You journeyed north, leaving me on my own
You journeyed north, bearing burdens alone
As you go on, please be strong and be good
If e’er you loved me, e’er loved me at all
Believe you’re amazing and follow your call
((January 4th,2011))
Danny Speicher
225
The Valley
At times, pain can overcome joy
There's really nothing to be done
Except to sit through the darkness
And to wait for the rising sun
Although it may very well seem
The horizon might ne'er embrace
The bright rays of a brand new day
And although hope seems out of place
Remember the dawn is coming
Remember that glorious sight
Look to the stars in the darkness
And just picture the morning light
As it rises from east to west
Illuminating each valley
Don't lose hope within the shadows
For joy, will soon, again, rally
Yes, as it brightens every valley
Remember, joy will soon, again, rally
((October 11th,2009))
Danny Speicher
226
The Way, The Truth, The Life
Lord, I come to You now, come to You now
Having been down the road of selfishness
Having been down the road of carelessness
Lord, all I want is to live for You now
How many paths have I tried on my own?
Trying to find You in other places
Places that I knew You would never be
While curling up at night, scared and alone
How many paths are there to you, oh Lord?
How many paths are there to you, my King?
You said, 'I am the Way, the Truth, the Life'
'No man comes to my Father, but through Me'
In this world of broken hearts, broken dreams
It is sometimes tough to follow You, Lord
And the burden of Truth looks so heavy
But, the burden is lighter than it seems
How many paths are there to you, oh Lord?
How many paths are there to you, my King?
You said, 'I am the Way, the Truth, the Life'
'No man comes to my Father, but through Me'
And in our times there are no absolutes
There is no right way and there are no wrongs
But, Your Word, oh Lord, keeps us standing strong
As the world continues seeking the truth...
How many paths are there to you, oh Lord?
How many paths are there to you, my King?
You said, 'I am the Way, the Truth, the Life'
'No man comes to my Father, but through Me'
((March 21st,2004))
Danny Speicher
227
This is Life
I used to wander always wondering
What this life was for and what it would bring
Never knowing and too often hurting
Not yet seeing for whom I was searching
Every day was a mystery looking
For the girl I knew my heart was pining
And, just when I thought the dream was fading
She came in my life, sending me reeling
And, finally I know about true love
Each step I take, in happiness and strife
Has a purpose and joy along the way
And, I can gratefully say, 'This is life'
Now I've met her every day brings singing
And every night brings this endless dreaming
Of life together and church bells ringing
A life of love sets my heart to spinning
Yes, finally I know about true love
Each step I take, in happiness and strive
Has a purpose and joy along the way
And, I can gratefully say, 'This is life'
So, fairy tales are real for those wishing
For knights with burnished armor, bright shining
Or maidens in distress needing saving
Happily ever-afters are waiting
Though the knights may look different in this world
And maidens may be hurt from years of lies
Never stop pursuing dreams of true love
When you find it, it's worth a million tries
Yes, finally I know about true love
Each step I take, in happiness and strive
Has a purpose and joy along the way
And, I can gratefully say, 'This is life'
((Dedicated to Lauren on our five month anniversary))
((October 12th,2007))
Danny Speicher
228
This Road
Long is this road stretching miles ahead
That passage with dark and narrow pathways
Is the journey which I know I've been led
Lord, sometimes I struggle to bring you praise
Don't know where this adventure might lead
I don't know what kind of pain I might face
All I know is that You will meet each need
Yes, You, oh Lord, will grant strength for the race
Already, I can hear Your voice calling
Giving hope where hope was once robbed from me
Father, once again, I feel me falling
Falling in love with Love that sets me free
Lord, I do not know where this road might lead
But, I have always known You meet each need
((December 30th,2009))
Danny Speicher
229
Thoughts on Lisa
I hear you laugh and dream of your smile
Your voice soothes my very roughest of days
In what seems like a million diff'rent ways
Yet, I remain silent all the while
I think of your face innocent and sweet
I imagine your golden hair flowing
And I hope that soon you will be going
To a place where the both of us may meet
I wonder if you've e'er pondered the thought
Of love blossoming between you and I
Or perhaps I do not capture your eye
And maybe, practically, it's all for naught
But, someday soon I might just ask and see
If e'er you'd consider being with me
((November 17th,2009))
Danny Speicher
230
Three Pink Roses
Three pink roses stand pretty, firm and fair
While peppermint fragrances fill the air
This season of miracles may just be
The season that might hold one just for me
Oh, God, please guide each and every move
Lord, take these eyes and, their vision, improve
So much is at stake in these next few days
May my lips always be girded with praise
Whether love reign and forever impart
A partnership between two mortal hearts
Or if love be not in store for me now
May the teardrops not swell under my brow
For life is an adventure, wrought with fear
And dissapointment looms, both far and near
But, may I boldly walk upon Your path
Not looking too far to an aftermath
Three pink roses stand pretty, firm and fair
More graceful than words could possibly share
What lies behind this unexpected gift
Perhaps a new day, coming bright and swift
Lord, I pray, in this humble closing now
That You grant this new beginning somehow
Though I be just a poor man seeking gold
Just once, won't you let me, treasure, behold
For just once is all I ask, for I'll be
Always a steward of the gift giv'n me
Always trusting e'en when I cannot see
For, it was You, who granted me the key
Oh, Lord, guide my steps each and ev'ry day
Please grant me this chance; Oh, Lord, I now pray
((December 7th,2009))
Danny Speicher
231
'Til Sunrise
Oh, for that day when these days won't just end
When the evening will fade to morning's light
And when I can hold you all through the night
Oh, for the day when these days won't just end
Oh, for the night I'll hold you forever
When intimacy rules the hallowed dark
And the light of romance suddenly sparks
Oh, for the night I'll hold you forever
Oh, for the morning I wake to your face
When I look in your eyes and find love, true
And, all of the day think fondly of you
Oh, for the morning I wake to your face
It is so sad to leave those sweet green eyes
Oh, how I long to hold you 'til sunrise
((August 26th,2007))
Danny Speicher
232
Timmy
What an amazing little boy
Who is now in Your grace
You have worked through him
To bring a smile to every face
He touched so many people
When odds seemed stacked so high
May none of us ever forget
How he lived his life
God, you've taken him home now
And, yes, we'll miss his smile
Until, once again, we are united
In just a little while
((March 6th,2001))
Danny Speicher
233
To All the Fallen Heroes
To all the fallen heroes
Who died to save another life
Thank you for your service
Gratitude for your strife
To all the fallen heroes
Who saw the horror in the skies
Thank you for your efforts
God lift our weeping eyes
To all the fallen heroes
Who died side by side
Thank you for your courage
May heaven open wide
To all the fallen heroes
Whose lives are now gone
Thank you for your legacy
Your legacy lives on
(Dedicated to the fallen men and women of the New York/Tri-State Fire Departments,
Police Departments and EMT Services)
((September 15th,2001))
Danny Speicher
234
To Love
Searing is the pain torn deeply, my soul
And often the memories rain fire
As if just the thought of you drew ire
From unknown keepers of my heart's control
There are times I slip into a madness
Wishing I had never found love in you
But, even if that wish were truly true
What would a wish do to heal my sadness
No, even if it were to repair much
That wish would, alas, be very untrue
To love is to always remember you
Love would be void if I forgot your touch
Sadly sit I dreaming us as one
As my thoughts on love are slowly undone
((August 26th,2008))
Danny Speicher
235
To the Most Beautiful Girl That I've Known
To the most beautiful girl that I've known
Whose unconventional charms are so sweet
And whose laugh is the highlight of my day
How I wish I could sweep you off your feet
To the most beautiful girl that I've known
Whose smile brightens my day and warms my heart
And whose energy encapsulates me
Oh, how I miss you when we are apart
To the most beautiful girl that I've known
Who, though I have not known for long at all
Has, somehow made my heart so fond of hers
How very magically I am enthralled
To the most beautiful girl that I've known
I wish I could assemble the right words
To tell you the feelings I have for you
But, dear, if I told you, would it be heard?
To the most beautiful girl that I've known
I am trying to be a better man
For you deserve only the best
Being the best, for you, is in my plans
To the most beautiful girl that I've known
You may never know how I feel for you
I wish I had the courage to tell you
That I've been waiting for a girl like you
((September 27th,2005))
Danny Speicher
236
To You
When the world spins 'round
With it's rushed pace and little time
It is always nice to sit and know
I am yours and you are mine
Sometimes I get caught up
In what the world would have me do
But, with a simple smile or glance
My heart, again, is true to you
I've found what's important
Through all of the rest
It is to find the one you'll love
And learn to love them the best
There is so much I've already learned
It is your heart I'm longing for
And for your heart I'll yearn
You've taken my life from nothing
And built it into a dream come true
And for that I owe you everything
My heart, my dreams, to you
((June 24th,2000))
Danny Speicher
237
Today's the Day
Perhaps today's the day that I break free
Free from the hustle that comes each day
Free from distractions that lead me astray
Perhaps I can be what I'm made to be
Perhaps today's the day I'll choose to move
Move beyond the past into tomorrow
Move with purpose in the way I should go
Perhaps I'll believe I've nothing to prove
Perhaps today's the day I'll find my peace
Peace like a stream flowing fresh to my soul
Peace that brings new meaning and makes me whole
Perhaps that assurance will never cease
Perhaps today's the day I'll hear Your voice
So clearly that my heart will have no choice
If today's the day I'm finally free
May I be free to run and tell the world
With Your banner of love proudly unfurled
For today's the day You have set me free
If today's the day I finally move
May I move boldly toward holy life
Allowing You to guide me through the strife
As I dance for joy for You've made me move
And, if today's the day I find Your peace
May I promote that peace to all I meet
Living in peace and loving those I greet
As I gratefully give others Your peace
If today's the day I will hear Your voice
May I know it and may my heart rejoice
((March 7th,2010))
Danny Speicher
238
Tortured, Tormented and Torn
Oh, soul, so tortured, tormented and torn
Between this great love gained and love forlorn
Irony... How cruel to a lover's heart
Her soul to find, only to be apart
On these days, I wish not to have been born
Oh, soul, so tortured, tormented and torn
With lovers together, faces of glee
Only thoughts of how far she is from me
Aye, all days are not to be joy-laden
Naught are these... I, dreaming of my maiden
Oh, soul, so tortured, tormented and torn
Won't you take from my mind this painful thorn?
Though halt that request if it were to be
By removing pain, she'd be lost to me
I'd make the sacrifice and lonely mourn
Oh, soul, so tortured, tormented and torn
((June 17th,2007))
Danny Speicher
239
Tragic Loss
God bless those on the ground
Who lost a loved one today
God be with those who are not found
And keep their pain away
Lord, watch over us
And guide us far beyond
This tragedy and tragic loss
Of which our enemies are fond
Lord, give our leaders strength today
To lead our nation in Your path
And if war is the path we take
Strengthen soldiers of aftermath
Lord, united, we are one nation
Under You and Your legions
May we never be divided again
By the boundaries of religious regions
May Your power and love
Always and forever prevail
Over the land of the free
Consistently and always and forever without fail
((September 11th,2001))
Danny Speicher
240
Trust in the Lord
The air is dark and heavy
All your life's burdens are here
The road seems long and rocky
And your heart is filled with fear
The horizon fills with darkness
As the storm comes strong ahead
You feel so weak and hopeless
But, you remember what's been said
Trust in the Lord
When you cry, when you sing
Don't beleive your own eyes
For He sees everything
And in all ways give thanks
Thanks for His grace and love
He will lead you through this life
By the spirit, sent from above
You've seen the battles fought
You've seen your friends pass by
Sometimes life seems so pointless
That it's hard to even try
But, God has given you a gift
A gift of salvation and grace
He loves you in your weakness
Just look into His face
Trust in the Lord
When you cry, when you sing
Don't beleive your own eyes
For He sees everything
And in all ways give thanks
Thanks for His grace and love
He will lead you through this life
By the spirit, sent from above
((November 19th,2000))
Danny Speicher
241
Two Futures
I could have never imagined the bliss
When I hear your sweet voice speaking to me
Speaking of how our two futures may be
How phenomenal the wondering is
Whetehr the spark I feel truly exists
And, if, the spark, it lives: to what degree?
Oh, what pain remains, just waiting to see
May this hope of a future, be not remiss
Before, have I endured countless heartache
Ever searching, seeking, my companion
Never finding or seeing her presence
But, despite my heart's desire to break
Split like a somber, shadowy canion
I pray, soon, to me, her face, God presents
((December 12th,2003))
Danny Speicher
242
Under the Surface
Somewhere under the surface there is more
More than meets the eye of this daily grind
More than what average man's eye may see
Is meaning beneath the meaning to find
The earth revolves around and round the sun
We grow older with each revolution
Each day spinning us closer to our end
Each day begging for a resolution
Resolution to hate's infestation
Of this generation's culture of death
Each day spinning us closer to our end
What life will we live while we still have breath?
Somewhere under the surface there is more
More to the sadness, loneliness and hate
More to life, just waiting to be revealed
Perhaps sharing what's below is your fate
Perhaps today's the day love's our response
Perhaps love is what springs forth just below
Perhaps showing love in the midst hate
Will bring about peace like we've never known
((February 28th,2007))
Danny Speicher
243
Unexpected
When it came to love I had had my share
I had felt my heart swell, then torn in two
Leading to those nights crying, feeling blue
Why open myself to so much despair?
Then I saw you, with your smile so bright
With your hair so golden, flowing so long
With a heart for Christ and a voice of song
Could it be that you would bring back the light?
So unexpected was the love you brought
That I will never be the same again
I await for this chapter to begin
Greater is this surprise than what I sought
Three great virtues are given from above
Oh, how sweet, is the greatest of these... Love
((Upon asking the most beautiful girl to be my girlfriend and having her accept))
((May 12th,2007))
Danny Speicher
244
Unexpectedly
Like Juliet to lovesick Romeo
Who did pine after Rosaline so true
Unexpectedly you, my heart, renewed
Oddly, to me, how quickly my heart grows
To a kind of spirit that I hardly know
Oddly, to me, how fast my heart subdued
The moment it first grew so fond of you
Oh, whether to pursue or just lay low?
It isn't like me to fall so swiftly
Typically I fall so slowly in love
Usually I don't fall for one so soon
But, this love, it feels so different to me
As if it might be ordained from above
But, will I pursue... Will I let it pass?
((October 21st,2005))
Danny Speicher
245
Unheard of Love
Fading light glimmering upon a sunset cove
Nobody knows, nobody knows of the shadows
Secrets can hide in the shadows nobody knows
Too painful to speak, too shameful to think of
Shimmering is the last amber hue of the day
All creatures within the cove scurry to find
A shelter and fortress to shield their burdened mind
And they kneel to their knees as they fearfully pray
Prayers of forgiveness ascending far, far above
Words of penitence to a god they do not know
Hope for grace for they, the sinners, on Earth below
All looking in the dusk for this unheard of Love
Oh, moon... Stars... Oh, Creator of heavenly light
Illuminate the shadows... Guide us through the night
((September 23rd,2009))
Danny Speicher
246
United: A Dream of the Future
She is my life
Life eternal
The nectar of my soul
Artisan of my heart
Everything I've ever done
Was done in preparation for her love
Through this aperture of my heart
I see her love shining at me
Standing at the vista of my spirit
Smiling in humble adoration for me
I love her forever, her love I don't deserve
She is the lover of my life
Bone of my bone
Flesh of my flesh
We are one
United
((November 23rd,1999))
Danny Speicher
247
Venus
Venus, you fickle harlot of the night
Shining high and bright in the southern sky
Wistfully catching my averted eye
Reminding me of love lost with wares bright
Venus, you fickle harlot of the night
Tease me with your charms as you did before
As you shone on the one that I adore
Providing her and I dusk's only light
Venus, you fickle harlot of the night
Coming for a time and going again
Just a year ago you watched love begin
Just a year ago, we gazed at your sight
Venus, you fickle harlot of the night
Perhaps your wary ways will shine on me
As once before you did above oak trees
I long to share with another your light
Venus, you fickle harlot of the night
In another love your passion ignite
((May 31st,2008))
Danny Speicher
248
Waking Dreams
Alone I sit and ponder why
These tears are returning
For so long I’ve stayed strong
And, now I sit in ruins again
It isn’t a conscious reminiscence of you
That haunts my heart these days
A series of dreams, waking me from my slumber
Starts every day off with a familiar longing
Six dreams, two groups of three each
Three of fond memories of you and I
Three fictional or factual future
Unfamiliar to my soul when I wake
You and I at your parents’ house
Under a starry Arkansas night sky
A brief pause in conversation
Our first kiss
You and I and a ring upon your finger
A beautiful dinner and a glass of wine
A day full of fun, laughter and memories
You upon a crocodile, your silly face
The last day I saw you, although not vivid in life
Comes rushing back to me clearly in sleep
A small argument and a gentle apology
You waving gently “goodbye” at the door
You, older now, no longer innocent or joyous
No longer with dreams or a song on your lips
Sad and downtrodden, it is you, but not you
I hug you and let you cry on my shoulder
You, in a hospital, wires and tubes
You’re crying and I hold your hand
Helpless, but wanting to help
I sit day and night while you cry
You, in a church, laying silently without breath
Friends and family that I recognize mourning
You, laying still, unfazed by their tears
“Hopelessness, hopelessness, how can I go on? ”
Three come in the first wave
Three come to follow
Sometimes the first play alone
Sometimes the second come quickly thereafter
I sit alone in a place that was ours
Trying to make sense of these images
249
Trying to recollect the ones that I know
Trying to understand the ones I do not
Please, please if you can hear my prayer
Know that I still love you and miss you tonight
Know that I still pray for you when I pray
Please, dear, be careful… Be mindful of your dreams
I can’t bear the sight of those unfamiliar dreams
I’ve never done well when I see you cry
I love you, please don’t forget that I love you
I’m so sorry that I didn’t live up to your hopes
Forgive me
Forgive me
I love you
Please love me
((January 11th,2010))
Danny Speicher
250
Wanting Home
Driving down this sad, darkened highway road
These trips don't get easier on the heart
With all its emotions soon to explode
I guess all I'm really wanting is home
Not a car on the road on this cloudy night
By myself and incredibly alone
My heart cries out to stop this inner fight
I guess all I'm really wanting is home
Where family and friends who gather 'round
Can have conversations without one sound
And the laughter makes the house feel so warm
And memories and stories are the norm
I guess all I'm really wanting is home
The clouds give way to twink'ling stars above
Remind me of her eyes twink'ling at me
And all I can think about is her love
I guess all I'm really wanting is home
Where family and friends who gather 'round
Can have conversations without one sound
And the laughter makes the house feel so warm
And memories and stories are the norm
I guess all I'm really wanting is home
As I round my house, the city lights shine
Shining brightly framing my final destination
And, although my house and city are fine
I guess all I'm really wanting is home
Where family and friends who gather 'round
Can have conversations without one sound
And the laughter makes the house feel so warm
And memories and stories are the norm
I guess all I'm really wanting is home
'Home is where your heart is', they always say
If true I've not been home since I've met her
And I'm anxiously counting down the days
I guess all I'm really wanting is home
((November 11th,2007)
Danny Speicher
251
What a Strange Beauty
What a strange beauty lies before my eyes now
A Savior, broken, bleeding, crying out
I stand watching, in awe, the crimson flow
As the soldiers and crowd yell, scream and shout
What a strange beauty lies before my eyes now
A mother, a disciple, remember
As the images rise and His words grow
His sacrifice now makes all Hell tremble
What a strange beauty lies before my eyes now
This God, this man, prayse for those who hate Him
This God, this man, even now He bestows
His blessings to a thief, full of his sin
What a strange beauty lies before my eyes now
What a perfect sacrifice for mankind
He stretches out HIs arms, to us to show
The weak His strength and His sight to the blind
What a strange beauty lies before my eyes now
((March 7th,2004))
Danny Speicher
252
What Cosmic Force?
What cosmic force makes us to fall in love?
I once knew, I once knew, just what or whom
I think I know the Who that makes love bloom
But, the pain felt makes me question above
What stroke of fancy and moment of chance
Makes us find ourselves in the place and time
To find that one that makes our lives sublime
There must be more than luck to this romance
But, why, oh why, oh Lover in the sky
Would you grant this love and snatch it from me
The only earthly love that's set me free
Who am I to question fate? Who am I?
I'm a man whose heart is broken apart
Waiting for a love that won't soon depart
((July 5th,2008))
Danny Speicher
253
What If I Told You?
What if I told you I still love you, dear?
Not in the nostalgic, 'once upon a time' way
And not the way that some people flippantly say
What if I told you I still love you, dear?
What if I told you I think of you each night?
Of all the times we once spent together, happy
And of all those things we once said and wrote, sappy
What if I told you I think of you each night?
What if you knew each day I prayed for you?
For you to never stop following those big dreams
And for life to never be as hard as it seems
What if you knew each day I prayed for you?
Love, I still love you and miss you dearly
What I wouldn't give to have you near me
Would it ever work if we tried again?
If I was less forceful and more subtly inclined
And you were more focused on our 'ours' than your 'mine'
Would it ever work if we tried again?
Do you e'er think of the love we once had?
Living, loving life as we walked with hand in hand
And growing closer together, making our plans
Do you e'er think of the love we once had?
What if I told you I still love you, dear?
I love you in ways that dry, parched ground loves the rain
And, dear, I love you still, though from me you refrain
What if I told you I still love you, dear?
Oh, love, I love you and miss you dearly
And, oh, how I still dream of you near me
((February 1st,2009))
Danny Speicher
254
What if Today?
What if, today, I told you how I feel?
What if, today, I let you know my heart?
Would I even know how to express it?
And, would I even know how I should start?
What if, today, I told you how I feel?
After this time of hiding, deep, my heart?
Would you listen to all my thoughts on love?
Would you walk away, tearing me apart?
What if, today, I told you how I feel?
Oh, would I, now, even know what to do?
With someone so beautiful, funny, sweet?
Would I even know just how to treat you?
What if, today, I told you how I feel?
The mystery that lies in my heart to be unveiled
And whether 'yes' or 'no' be the answer...
At least, then, inaction might not prevail
What if, today, I told you how I feel?
Ah, but who am I attempting to fool?
I fear love (or, at least, its rejection)
This joke I play on myself is so cruel
So, what if, today, I said how I feel?
Or, let it burn within me forever?
In closing I declare I do love you
Even if, your heart, I don't endeavor
((October 5th,2005))
Danny Speicher
255
What if Tomorrow Never Comes?
Dreaming a dream as a child would dream
Out upon the ocean, out past the stream
I, wishing for nothing more than I had
I, wondering when tomorrow might come
I, pondering just where this dream came from
Of me, on the ocean, just a small lad
Alone with the waves I rocked back and forth
Somehow questioning my heart's true self-worth
An odd question for a child so young
An odd feeling of doubt stirring within
An odd, oppressive, fear came forth therein
A sinister lack of hope filled my lungs
'Alas, it's a dream, ' I heard myself say
Tomorrow will bring a new, brighter day
Even still I remained frightened and numb
Even still I doubted what I had said
Even still I questioned within my head
Oh God, what if tomorrow never comes?
What if the fear inside of me remains?
What if ghosts of past echo their refrain?
Will I descend into madness alone?
Will I die a man forgotten by time?
Will I lose every friend gained in my prime?
How can one conquer fear of the unknown?
Oh, Lord, save me from the fears of my past
Lord, comfort me, for memories come fast
Raise me from this mistrust within my heart
Raise me from the lack of hope I have felt
Raise me from the depression I've been dealt
Lord, for your purpose, please set me apart
((October 29th,2009))
Danny Speicher
256
What If?
What if I told you my heart breaks often
When you're not here with me
What if I told you my eyes cry daily
When your face they can't see
What if I told you every day I pine
To spend some time with you
What if I said I dream of forever
When we are one, not two
What if tomorrow holds suff'ring and pain
Will you still love me then
What if tomorrow your name is in lights
Will you come home again
What if someday all that was true is false
And our passion might wane
Even on that day will you love me still
Or will I be your bane
Me? I know the answers to these questions
And how I would respond
Oh, the mystery of love is joy to me
It is my greatest bond
So, when days grow long many years from now
And years pass by so soon
And when time has taken its toll on us
We'll still gaze at the moon
And we'll remember memories of yore
Things too great to ignore
Our love will become the stories of lore
For you, I'll still adore
((November 16th,2007))
Danny Speicher
257
When Love Never Ceased
A beautiful sunset sets to my west
A subtle rainbow rises from the east
And I dream of love, when love never ceased
Tried, I, to keep it, tried my very best
Alas, the love has gone and has been gone
Far too many weeks, far too many years
Replaced only with doubt and childlike fears
Trust that has been entirely undone
A beautiful rainbow fades to the east
The sunset gives way to a hazy dusk
I am left alone, a man out of luck
And I dream of love, when love never ceased
If only rainbows and sunsets could cheer
A heart that's been hardened so many years
((June 29th,2009))
Danny Speicher
258
Where Have You Gone?
Where have you gone, my Lauren, my Lauren
Where could that girl, so enamored, gone?
Tell me where you have gone, my dear Lauren
So, I might find you and hear that sweet song
Please bring with you the days of childlike love
Where every word said from me to you
And every word said from you to me
Brought with it feelings of passions anew
Lauren, I miss your giggles and your laugh
I miss your light-hearted banter to me
Won't you bring back your silliness again?
Once more, that sweet spirit I wish to see
I love you, dear, and I miss your kind heart
Bring back what drew me to you from the start
((March 11th,2008))
Danny Speicher
259
Whispered in the Night
'I love you's' spoken in daylight are true and sweet
And, the words, they mean nothing less while it's still bright
But, how much more special they are when our lips meet
When those three special words are whispered in the night
Oh, how long love waits for special moments like these
When dreams of forever on such passions take flight
How passionate are moments when our eyes first see
Lips breathlessly seeking words whispered in the night
Melting with each other with each kiss on the ear
Goosebumps just under the skin silently ignite
Never wanting to release that which is so dear
Never forgetting secrets whispered in the night
Oh, how precious are those moments lit by moonlight
When those sweet 'I love you's' are whispered in the night
((August 20th,2007))
Danny Speicher
260
Who Could Be Worthy?
Storms - Dark and frightening, unforgiving
Lightning striking fear in the weary heart
Wind - Loud and boisterous, unwavering
Tearing a wounded soul slowly apart
But, standing there, she took all of this pain
Smiling as she wiped each and every tear
Who could be worthy of a girl like her?
She loves imperfection... calms every fear
And, in the good times, laughing and giggling
Knowing that days like these are hard to find
Taking each moment and savoring it
Treating each person so gentle and kind
Who deserves such a wonderful lady?
She, who takes her life in carefree stride
She, who could outsing a lark in the Spring
Who could be worthy to be by her side?
When all is said and done, she's amazing
She's the girl that every guy would dream of
If only they thought they could stand a chance
If only they thought they could win her love
Out of all the ladies in this old world
She remains the best of them all by far
Her faith and beauty, her heart and passion
Are what keeps me wishing on that bright star
((May 2nd,2007))
Danny Speicher
261
Who You're Meant to Be
It's been a long time since I talked to you
And longer, still since you've listened to me
But, if I could give you some help to be
Who you're meant to be, what you're meant to do
I'd let you know you're beautifully made
That you are witty and intelligent
That since I've met you, you were always meant
To be greater than what you are today
I see that you're heart's been broken again
And I wish I could comfort you, my dear
To simply sit and, again, hold you near
And let you know who you have always been
You're meant for greatness and you are great
Don't stop chasing what's worthy of your fate
((November 16th,2008))
Danny Speicher
262
Will the Sun Really Shine Tomorrow?
Walking those halls together we once walked
Hoping I'll see her face somehow, some way
Longingly looking back at brighter days
Dreaming of all the midnight talks we talked
When I think of her, I think of her love
Trying to hide hurt and pain I now feel
Sometimes I muse if this is really real
But, this nightmare I just can't get out of
Will the dawn break the eastern horizon?
Will tomorrow be bright as yesterday?
Will the sun really shine again today?
Oh, God give me something to gaze upon
Time goes by, each hour more desolate
Every minute slower than the last
Wanting this haunting night to quickly pass
The memories just too hard to forget
Will the dawn break the eastern horizon?
Will tomorrow be bright as yesterday?
Will the sun really shine again today?
Oh, God give me something to gaze upon
Look to the sky, the morning is coming
The light over trees quickly becoming
Brighter and brighter, nature starts humming
From deep within, my pulse begins drumming
Dawn is breaking the eastern horizon
Tomorrow looks brighter than yesterday
The sun finally shines again today
Thanks for this wonderful work You've begun
((May 4th,2008))
Danny Speicher
263
Winds of Change
Oh, God the winds of change, they are blowing
Bringing a revolution to this life
Whether relief or challenge, not knowing
Always of benefit, even in strife
What of the days past of comfort and rest
Whose hours were filled with laughter and joy
To be a child once more: happy, blessed
For the simple things in life to enjoy
Oh, but these winds of change aren’t new to me
I am used to being tossed to and fro
Though these winds don’t always bring harmony
They all bring opportunity to grow
So, let the rain pour down upon my roof
Let the sun beat harshly upon my head
May this wind, no matter the storm, be proof
That you, oh God, are with us where we tread
Danny Speicher
264
Winter Dreams
Winter, the loneliest time of year
Where wind blows agains the pane
Snowflakes fall upon your nose
And you offer your heart in vain
You dream dreams at night of one
Who would love you for who you are
And when the cool night would come
She would gaze with you into the stars
She would catch the snowflakes on her tongue
And smile with her cheeks bright and red
Take a sleigh ride down the main street
And let you gently tuck her into bed
And as you creep out of her room
Into the cool crisp air of night
You would know for certain
That she'd be alright
But, winter is now
And she is nowhere to be found
Yes, this is why Winter is lonely
I sit alone without a sound
((December 10th,2000))
Danny Speicher
265
Winter Memoirs
See the snow falling
See the ground, so white
See the stars glistening
In the cold winter night
Feel the damp air
Feel the wind blow
Feel your heart dropping
Along with the snow
Hear the bells ringing
Hear the trees rustle
Hear the cars pass
Caught in the hustle
Smell the pie baking
Smell the fresh mint
Smell the hot chocolate
Take in its scent
Remember your family
Remember your friends
Remember your loved ones
Before your life ends
Always leave trails
Where you have been
For those who come after
Will remember you then
Don't take for granted
All the joy in your life
For it can quickly be replaced
By heartache and strife
((December 13th,2000))
Danny Speicher
266
Wish You Were Here
It's odd how much one night can change a heart
To move from status quo to missing you
From plotting careers to feeling so blue
Why couldn't we have done this from the start?
Oh, how I wish you were here with me now
Snuggling close to me, I holding you
This dream greater than a dream coming true
Oh, how I wish you were here with me now
In the still of night I think of your eyes
Piercing my soul, as if peering straight through
How's it possible... Me being with you?
I have searched for you on a thousand tries
But, while waiting, God pointed you to me
I to you, may He grant this life to be
((May 13th,2007))
Danny Speicher
267
You are the New Day
You are the new day
When I thought the nighttime would never end
You are the new light
On a horizon I thought would ne'er shine
You are a new hope
When hope was what I couldn't comprehend
You're my new chapter
Though I thought the Author might have resigned
Your heart brings forth peace
I never thought my heart would fully rest
Your heart brings me strength
I wondered if I'd ever stand again
Your heart brings longing
As I restlessly wait, knowing I'm blessed
Your heart brings wonder
As I ponder what may shortly begin
I look to God for guidance on this path
Heaven knows I've failed this journey before
I've seen destruction and I've felt the wrath
So, I kneel and pray His will... nothing more
Your eyes pierce through me
Like you can see my inmost hopes and dreams
Your smile frees me
To walk confidently where'er I tread
Your laugh brings me joy
When I hear it, life's less stressful, it seems
Your words melt my heart
I oft think of all you've whispered and said
I look to God for guidance on this path
Heaven knows I've failed this journey before
I've seen destruction and I've felt the wrath
So, I kneel and pray His will... nothing more
And I wonder what the next step might be
Pray His will becomes crystal clear to me
Please open my eyes, Lord, and let me see
You are my new day, if it's His decree
You are the new day
Bright shining, splendid... Stretching before me
You are the new day
I pray you'll remain until my sunset
You are the new day
Setting my heart on fire... My soul free
You are my new day
And for this, my heart owes you a great debt
I look to God for guidance on this path
268
Heaven knows I've failed this journey before
I've seen destruction and I've felt the wrath
So, I kneel and pray His will... nothing more
I look to God for guidance on my way
Lord give me guidance, upon this new day
((April 19th,2010))
Danny Speicher
269
You Ne'er Leave My Sight
I look on you, I see beauty defined
I hear your laugh and my heart is set free
I can’t fathom what first brought you to me
I surely don’t deserve someone so kind
My eyes find yours, oceans of grey and blue
And a smile draws across your sweet face
It’s no surprise that my heart starts to race
My soul proclaims, “She’s too good to be true”
Sometimes I find it hard to wait for you
Too many miles separate us now
But, when I dream, I am with you somehow
Even when I wake you remain in view
Sunrise to sunset and all through the night
Waking or dreaming, you ne’er leave my sight
((September 13th,2010))
Danny Speicher
270
Young Lovers
Oh, young lovers, young lovers in love
Please tell me where love goes awry
When the sunsets in the sky above
Why does love drift so far, when it seemed so nigh
Making no pretenses of right and wrong
No finger pointing or blame game to be played
No hatred or animosity belong
Only a deep wish that you would have stayed
Young lovers, oh, young lovers who dream
Of a life of love for more than a season
Is that love truly as close as it seems
Is it really good beyond reason?
She promised forever on a star in the sky
Sincerely, as her earrings sparkled in the night
With horses hooves beating as we passed by
The lights of the city... What a beautiful sight
The promise faded, and so soon did she
Nevermore to hold hands or hold close
A voice never to hear again, a face to never again see
A path that she, and she alone, chose
So, young lovers, I ask, again, if you truly know love
For in a moment live can go awry
And you're left praying to God above
Wishing for nothing more for the other to draw nigh
Young lovers, lovers in love... With fear, proceed
For nothing else in life can, so much, cause your heart to bleed
((September 14th,2009))
Danny Speicher
271
Your Encouragement
Far, far away are days of stress free life
Of living a day, a night without strife
Going a day not wanting something more
Down the road I can see some peace coming
In the shadows, there's a certain something
A certain dream that I've been longing for
But, in the here and now, I find my heart
Being filled with this joy, yet torn apart
Yet, there's a certain hope within the core
So, in life, where emotions rise and fall
It makes me smile to have you through it all
With your encouragement when I implore
So, bear with me as my heart sinks at times
Please know even when my joy will not climb
Your precious hand through it all, I adore
For you are my inspiration, my muse
The one that I care for, the one I choose
And, there is no one else I care for more
((May 27th,2007))
Danny Speicher
272
Your Eyes
There's a warm wind blowing from southern skies
Under a December evening's full moon
These silver-lined clouds will drift away soon
For some reason, I'm dreaming of your eyes
It isn't memories of nights like these
Or importance of a date that rings true
I don't know why I'm simply missing you
Oh, Lord, how the thought brings me to my knees
Rarely do I wish you back in my life
Rarely do I miss your hand's gentle touch
I suppose I really don't miss you much
Oh, but when I do, it cuts like a knife
Sweetheart, on nights like these with moonlit skies
For some reason, I still dream of your eyes
((December 13th,2008))
Danny Speicher
273
Your Hand in Mine
I miss the way you wore your hair so fine
Whether straight and silky smooth to the touch
Crinkled, braided, it didn't matter much
But, more than all, I miss your hand in mine
I miss your voice so pure and so refined
Soothing my heart each time it ached inside
From talking nothing to husbands and brides
But, more than that, I miss your hand in mine
I miss your humor, laughing all the time
How naught was too serious for laughter
Being child-like was all we were after
Even still, I miss most your hand in mine
Perhaps I will learn to forget in time
The one thing I miss most... Your hand in mine
((June 23rd,2008))
Danny Speicher
274
Your Smile
Sunset with an orange and violet tone
Soft hues on the horizon for miles
Beauty surrounding, enveloping me
Yet, all I can think of is your smile
Prairie fire sweeps through a rural plain
By it's flame, making sowing worthwhile
Not unlike the fire that we face now
Oh, all I wish to see is your smile
And, when I think about trials we face
And inevitable pain we feel now
I know it's part of joy we'll feel later
And, your smile makes it worth it somehow
An eagle flew high through the clouds above
With grace, freedom and majestic style
Someday we'll be free, too, to fly so high
Until then, I'll think upon your smile
And, when I think about trials we face
And inevitable pain we feel now
I know it's part of joy we'll feel later
And, your smile makes it worth it somehow
A smile that turns a dark day to bright
A smile that brings me sweet dreams at night
A smile that strengthens my heart to fight
A smile that drives me to make everything right
Remember pain now becomes joy later
That's just the deal, dear, that's just the deal
Don't forget true love is irrational
The joy we'll know will ease the pain we feel
And, when I think about trials we face
And inevitable pain we feel now
I know it's part of joy we'll feel later
And, your smile makes it worth it somehow
Your smile just makes it worth it somehow
((April 22nd,2010))
Danny Speicher