Poems by Ashley Johnson

Walking away from the light

I sit here in the dark cold shadow, my bones rattle at the awful thought of entering the light. Something so bright and wonderful turns to something gloomy and wicked. The people so full of hatred and spite. Where is the love and friendship we all desire to have? No more good laughs are spread, only tears are shed. Too much blood is spilled, too many people are killed. Your debts will build when your time has come. Don’t run, for he knows, hears, and sees all. He’s the Alpha and the Omega, who is, who was, and who is to come. Ashley Johnson

Ashley Johnson

Men

Where are the good men these days? Outside smoking that haze. Getting lock-up left and right—hope those cheeks are closed-up tight. On the corner selling drugs, maybe stealing antique rugs. In a shelter, broke with no money, scouting for some honey to bang, getting cut-up cause they sang to the cops. Up in the PJ’s smoking them white rocks. Men’s hard-earned pay is easily spent at a hotel. Being a trick getting some head from some white chick on the bed. Living at your Mama’s house at 30 years old, living that easy-life road. Good men are hard to fi nd—a man with a state of mind. Ashley Johnson

Cathy

So isolated from life, a path she chose. Seeks nurturing but doesn’t know how to ask. An ambition to succeed, but a desire to protect. Vulnerable to the world, but compassionate at heart. Though most of humanity is obnoxious, uncivil, and rude, it doesn’t stop her from being sympathetic and caring. Homesick for a world that doesn’t exist. A world full of life and joy, where there’s love and happiness throughout the day. As long as there is hatred and disgust, the world will never subsist. The only advice she provides is, Bless those who persecute you, bless and not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice, mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Don’t be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Ashley Johnson

Love My friend

My friend isn’t special or smart. Isn’t part of any sport of any kind. Not fine or cute. Doesn’t play the flute or any instrument or tune. No time soon do I expect my friend to be rich. My friend doesn’t wish or hope for better things in life. My friend isn’t a human of any kind. For he is at my right hand, and I will not be shaken. My heart is glad and my tongue rejoices. Because he will not abandon me. He has made known to me the paths of life. He will fill me with joy in his presence. Ashley Johnson

When you’re in love, your heart gets a warm feeling inside. The passions of two lovers collide together as one. You’ve won the great desire to experience such affection. To have someone to be your protection. Show your devotion to your other half. It’s simple math, just follow the right path. Your life is in slow motion, but at its own pace. Don’t race, for love takes time. It’s a crime not to love. Love is patient, love is kind. It doesn’t envy, it’s not self-seeking, it’s not proud. It’s not rude, it’s not easily angered. Love doesn’t delight in evil, but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres. Ashley Johnson