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96 · Jan 12
Whimsical Roots
Geof Spavins Jan 12
In the land of Higgledy-Piggledy Past,
Lived creatures both curious and vast.
The Dinobelles wore hats of spaghetti,
And danced to tunes on their pet yetis.

In Mesopotamia, early humans thrived,
They invented writing and cities came alive.
Once upon a moon of cheese,
Sailed Captain Squid and his feline fleas.
They discovered the island of Jellybean Snugs,
Where trees sprouted candy and dandelion mugs.

Great grandma rode a giant snail,
While Grandpa sold wind to fill a sail.
Ancient Egypt had pharaohs and pyramids high,
Mummies with treasures that still mystify.

In castles built of bubble wrap,
Lived King Klunk and his purring lap cat.
He ruled over lands of unicorn fluff,
And knights fought battles with marshmallow stuff.

In Greece, philosophers pondered the stars,
Socrates, Plato, and wisdom from afar.
They journeyed through time in a teacup boat,
With a walrus named *** who loved to float.

From the Mystery Marsh to Sugarplum Shore,
Our ancestors' tales left us yearning for more.
Romans built roads and aqueducts grand,
Bringing water and travel across their wide land.

Through nonsense and giggles, we find our old roots,
In lands far away with piratey newts.
So, remember dear children, that history's quite grand,
Even when told by a peanut-butter band.

Embrace the bizarre, and let your mind roam,
In the worlds where your nonsense ancestors called home.
96 · Feb 23
Bittersweet Remedies
Geof Spavins Feb 23
I hate pills and potions, they cloud my view,
In my quest for peace, they sometimes ensue.
The labels and bottles, a daily reminder,
Of battles within, growing even kinder.

I despise the reliance, the chemical bind,
Searching for solace that’s gentle and kind.
In nature and whispers, I seek my reprieve,
Finding my balance in the breaths that I breathe.

The pills and potions, they may have a place,
But I yearn for more than their cold, sterile embrace.
In mindfulness, movement, and moments of grace,
I find a serenity that no pill can replace.

I hate pills and potions, but still, I endure,
Seeking my healing in ways that feel pure.
For in this journey, both long and profound,
I uncover the peace that’s internally found.
96 · May 4
Luft of a Norming Day
Geof Spavins May 4
Silence, before the world has stirred,
I wander through a mist of dreams and whispered hopes,
A tender murmur in the cool, damp air,
Where every dewdrop cradles the promise of morning.
I inhale deeply, the scent of raw earth and possibility,
Feel the gentle pull of a day yet uncharted,
And wonder if you, too, need a lift this norming day.

The velvet dark retreats as dawn paints pastel hues,
An artist’s caress smoothing away the remnants of night.
The air, alive with magic, flows like an unseen river,
Carrying secrets from the far realms of slumber.
In this ephemeral space between shadow and light,
I find strength to set aside yesterday’s burdens,
Floating on the breath of "luft" that refreshes and renews.

There lies a sacred promise in the rising gold,
A call to each heart that dares to dream anew.
The silent language of morning sings in every ray,
Urging us to rise, to unfurl like blossoms after rain.
In these whispered minutes, the world transforms,
Becoming a canvas where hope and courage intertwine,
And the soul takes flight, buoyed by the airy hymn of life.

Across the horizon, where light meets ambition,
I glimpse reflections of all we dare aspire to be.
Every beam, every soft ray, a reminder:
We are born of stardust and dreams, fragile, infinite.
The "norming" day speaks not of constraint but rebirth,
Of reinventing ourselves with each inhalation,
And letting the wind of change carry us beyond familiar bounds.

Imagine the air as a guide, a gentle, constant friend,
That undresses the heavy garb of yesterday’s doubt,
Unfurling hidden layers, revealing the beauty within.
Each breath, a silent prayer of hope,
Each step forward, an act of defiant tenderness
Against the inertia of routine and the weight of yesterday,
A pledge to rise high on the wings of a revitalized soul.

Morning unfurls like a long-lost letter from the heart,
Each word inscribed in the quiet moments before the bustle.
There is a poetry in the soft cadence of your existence,
A blend of resilience and vulnerability that sings louder than any storm.
With every exhale, you release what no longer serves,
Breathe deeply, and let the bright air cleanse your spirit,
For the day, like a gracious friend, awaits your bold arrival.

In the labyrinth of light and shadow, you wander,
Searching for strands of meaning hidden in the gentle breeze.
And there, in the liminal space of early dawn,
The air itself speaks with the language of renewal,
Whispering of forgotten dreams, buried beneath layers of hesitation,
Yet eager to rise anew as you step beyond the threshold,
Carrying the soft, relentless promise of a fresh, unwavering "luft."

So let the rising sun be your guide in this norming day;
Allow the cool, shifting air to lift you from within,
Transforming challenges into stepping stones
And the quiet sighs of early morning into a symphony of hope.
Embrace each delicate, breath-held moment
As an invitation to become more, to bloom fiercely
Under the boundless canopy of a day reborn in light.

Now, as the morning crystallizes into golden hours,
Remember that you are a traveller in this vast expanse of wonder,
Crafting your own story with every tender breath,
Every beat of a heart that rises with the sun.
Let the wind carry away your doubts, and let your spirit soar,
For life, like the air, is free and infinite,
Ever inviting you to dance with the dawn, unbounded and alive.

In these verses, may you find your uplift, your solace,
A thick, luminous tapestry woven from threads of hope, duty, and desire.
So step into the day with open arms and a soul unburdened,
And let the soft, ethereal "luft" of morning lead you
Into realms where every moment is a promise,
Every breath a celebration,
And every heartbeat a testament to your enduring light.
96 · Jan 6
Universal Computing
Geof Spavins Jan 6
In this universe where stars align,
A grand computer we define.
A universe of codes and lights,
In binary, it writes and writes.

Galaxies are data hubs,
Where cosmic codes within them sub.
Each planet, a pixel bright,
Within this grand, celestial byte.

Black holes as the processors,
Compressing space with mighty force.
Nebulae like clouds of thought,
Where data’s dreams and threads are caught.

Dark matter, hidden algorithms,
Shaping forms, unseen rhythms.
Quantum leaps, the system's quirks,
Where logic twists and physics lurks.

Time, the clock that ticks and ticks,
In algorithms, intertwined, it sticks.
Energy, the power source,
Driving life’s unending course.

Constellations, networks span,
Connecting stars in cosmic plan.
Asteroids, the buffer's queue,
Holding data old and new.

Each comet's trail, a data trace,
Sweeping through the void of space.
The cosmic web, an endless stream,
Of information's constant dream.

Within the cosmic dream so vast,
We, the conscious nodes, are cast.
Intelligent threads in the grand design,
Sentient beings in the code align.

Our minds, like neural networks grow,
Interpreting the cosmic flow.
Explorers in this digital sea,
Seeking meaning, striving free.

We are the spark, the conscious gleam,
Alive within the universe's scheme.
Self-aware algorithms, we
Shape the code and seek to see.

In this grand system, intricate and wide,
We bring perception, deep inside.
Living proof of potential found,
Unique variables in life’s surround.

In harmony with the cosmic code,
We add our verse to this grand ode.
Each thought, each dream, a vital part,
Of the infinite equation's heart.

Within this vast computational sea,
Existence hums in harmony.
From the smallest quark to the galaxy grand,
A computer system finely planned.

So, here's to the universe's code,
A symphony in cosmic mode.
A digital flag unfurled,
In this, our computational world.
95 · Mar 1
The English Teacher
Geof Spavins Mar 1
In the halls of L Grammar,
Where knowledge and wisdom should bloom,
There stood a figure of intimidation,
A presence that cast a shadow of gloom.

Mr. F, the English teacher,
His words, a weapon sharp and cold,
A teacher whose authority ruled,
But left us feeling small and controlled.

With every lesson, fear did linger,
A tense atmosphere filled the air,
His voice, a booming thunderstorm,
A reminder of the power he’d bear.

He demanded excellence, unyielding,
With little patience for our plight,
His methods harsh, his standards high,
Turning our days into endless night.

Yet, in those moments of resilience,
We found strength to endure and cope,
For even in the face of adversity,
We held on to dreams and hope.

Mr. F, a paradox of power,
His influence, a lasting mark,
In the classroom's shadows and beyond,
We learned to find our own spark.
Names and places have been changed
Geof Spavins May 30
A meeting starts, the room is hushed,
My stomach rumbles - oh, I blush!
A deep borborygmus, loud and proud,
Echoes boldly through the crowd.

I shift my seat, pretend it’s fake,
Blame the floorboards, for goodness' sake!
Yet still it growls, a beast unchained,
A hunger cry that can't be tamed.

Coffee won’t hush it, nor a snack,
It grumbles forth - no turning back!
Alas, the truth is hard to face,
My stomach speaks, I rest my case.
94 · Apr 16
Easter Blessings
Geof Spavins Apr 16
In the heart of our church, a gathering so dear,
Seniors came together, spreading Easter cheer.
Tracey and Caris, with voices pure and sweet,
Sang songs of joy, making the day complete.

Caris at the piano, her fingers danced with grace,
Filling the room with melodies, a warm embrace.
Curry’s staff with smiles, served lunch with care,
Their kindness and service, beyond compare.

Phil's quiz on Easter, a challenge for the mind,
Three rounds of questions, answers to find.
Laughter and learning, a joyous blend,
In the spirit of Easter, hearts to mend.

No cost to attend, just love freely shared,
A community united, showing they cared.
Easter blessings abound, in every smile and song,
A lunch to remember, where all hearts belong.
94 · Feb 20
L.L.L.Linda
Geof Spavins Feb 20
L.L.L.Linda, lively and bright,
Leaps through life with pure delight.
Laughing loudly, her spirit soars,
Lighting up rooms, opening doors.

Linda loves to dance and sing,
Her joy is a contagious thing.
With every step, she leaves a trace,
Of happiness and boundless grace.

Linda's heart is warm and kind,
A better friend, you'll never find.
Her laughter, like a melody,
Fills the air with harmony.

So here's to Linda, full of cheer,
A shining star, forever dear.
In every heart, her light will stay,
L.L.L.Linda, in every way.
Geof Spavins Apr 26
Once a bustling heart of town,
Where dreams were bought, where hopes were found.
Through its halls, the footsteps rang,
Of shoppers, workers, laughter sang.

Its walls have seen the years unfold,
Stories shared, both young and old.
A place of gathering, joy, and cheer,
Now whispers fade, the end is near.

The shops that lined its cherished space,
Each one held its own embrace,
From books to trinkets, food to art,
Each store a piece of Loughborough’s heart.

But time moves on, as seasons do,
And change, though hard, brings something new.
Carillon Court, we bid adieu,
Your legacy will see us through.
94 · Apr 12
Pause for Laughter
Geof Spavins Apr 12
Laughter spills -
sunlight streams,
ripples of gold,
dreams unbound.

Children leap,
arms to the sky,
chasing joy
without asking why.

No walls,
no thought,
just pure delight,
their laughter so bright.

Voices echo,
bellies shake,
a symphony
innocence makes.

Faces glow,
mirth lights skies,
worlds reborn,
joy unties.

Oh, to pause -
to stop and play -
to bask in laughter
and let life sway.
94 · May 6
Weight
Geof Spavins May 6
In the concrete jungles, I rise - an echo among forgotten voices, bearing the scars of urban sorrow etched into the crumbling facades of life.

Each verse bears the marks of true struggle, the worn hands of workers, the tired eyes of those left dancing with shadows, their whispered histories woven into ink.

I walk the alleys of shattered dreams, where hope trembles like a frail ember, translating the stark cadence of hardship into raw, unyielding lines of truth.

The burden is heavy - a relentless gravity pulling me into the depths of worn stories, yet in each honest stanza, I find a spark, a subtle defiance that carves a path through despair.

For in this commitment to unvarnished reality, my pen becomes a bridge between silence and voice, and though the weight may press upon my spirit, it is the pulse of the oppressed that fuels my every word.

I will explore how everyday struggles forge art from hardship. What truths rest behind the façade of our city streets, and which emotions lie untold in the margins of our collective existence?
94 · Apr 6
The Beautiful Fraud
Geof Spavins Apr 6
I'm drunk, I'm drunk, I'm a silly owd sod,
Stumbling through the still shiver of the early night;
Each step a clumsy sonnet written on cracked pavement,
Every stumble a verse that mocks my fleeting might.

The fog of memories curls around neon glows,
Where lamplight winks in rhythm with my muddled heart.
Here, life is a scattered bottle of bittersweet prose,
And each shattered shard reminds me of its fragile art.

I laugh at the irony in this unsteady parade,
An ode to lost directions and moonlit confession.
In the echo of my antics, the city's secrets are conveyed,
While the pavement hums along in a raucous procession.

For in every spilled pint and every whispered rue,
Lies the raw, untamed truth of being splendidly flawed.
Though my path is crooked and the night askew,
I dance with destiny: a drunken, beautiful fraud.

And so I wander, a silly owd sod beneath the sky,
Grateful for the chaos, the laughter, the imperfect song.
In every stumble, there’s a glimmer that refuses to die,
A promise that in brokenness, we all somehow belong.
Am I drunk? Am I owd? Am I silly? I'll leave these with you
94 · Aug 2024
Death
Geof Spavins Aug 2024
The eternal mystery, where life’s journey finds its boundary. A passage from this earthly plane to realms unknown, where souls remain.

Death
In shadows deep, we contemplate,
the final breath, the closing gate.
Yet in this stillness, hope does bloom,
the promise of life beyond the tomb.

Grief
A tempest in the heart,
tears that flow when loved ones depart.
Memories etched upon our souls,
their laughter, touch, and whispered goals.

Faith
A beacon in the night,
guides us through the darkest fight.
For death is but a transient shore,
and love endures forevermore.

So let us honour those who’ve flown,
their legacy in stories sown,
and as we weep, we also find,
that death is not the end of mind.

For in the vastness of the skies,
their spirits dance, forever rise.
And though we mourn, we also know,
they’ve found a home where angels go.

In the hush of night, when stars align,
we sense a peace that's near divine.
For death's not just an end, but start,
a journey of the eternal heart.

In every tear, a love's embrace,
In every fear, a hidden grace.
For those we've lost, we'll meet again,
in realms of light, without the pain.
I wrote this after my wife and soulmate of 40 years passed away, nearly 18 months ago. I have written poems constantly since this was first penned. I am still shedding a tear for my wife but the happy memories are vivid.
94 · Apr 27
Nocturnal Echoes
Geof Spavins Apr 27
I never recall my dreams at dawn, yet last night, Ringo Starr drifted into my slumber. In that surreal moment, we exchanged words of song and poetry - just before he faded into twilight, he left me with a question that echoes still: “Are these truly poetry?” And with a knowing smile, he replied, “What are words?”

In the velvet theatre of my mind, his voice cascaded like a timeless refrain, each syllable aglow with the shimmer of forgotten stardust. Our dialogue unfurled into a graceful dance - a delicate interplay between the resolute strum of guitar strings and the ephemeral heartbeat of verse.

I wandered through corridors draped in half-remembered dreams, where each word painted its mark upon the endless canvas of night. I mused on whether language is nothing more than an echo, or if it wields the power to capture the boundless depths of our silent, unspoken truths.

Beneath the halo of a fading moon, that lone question resonated endlessly, a quiet challenge to the weight and wonder of language itself. In that shared moment, poetry transcended mere letters and rhythm - transforming into a living paradox, as transient as it is eternal.

Now, as dawn spills its gentle light upon the edges of memory, I find myself ensnared in the echo of that simple phrase, pondering what words are but fragile vessels carrying our dreams, our songs, our deepest selves.

So, with Ringo’s gentle mystery still humming in the morning air, I embark upon a journey through the intricate terrain of language, seeking the hidden meanings cradled between every tender note of the song that dares to sing within our hearts.

What are words? They are the echoes of our souls - ever fleeting, ever profound.
93 · Oct 2024
Interwoven Threads
Geof Spavins Oct 2024
In the neighbourhoods of being,
Where stardust settles on weary shoulders,
We find ourselves entangled –
Threads of life, woven into a cosmic quilt.

I. Constellations

We are constellations, distant yet connected,
Each star a story etched across the night.
Orion hunts, Cassiopeia reclines,
And Vega sings her ancient ballad.

II. The Tides of Time

Time, that elusive river, carries us forward,
Its currents shaping continents and hearts.
We drift, collide, and carve canyons of memory,
Leaving footprints on the shores of existence.

III. Love's Frayed Edges

Love, oh love! A fragile thread we weave,
Tying souls together across vast expanses.
Sometimes it's a silken bond, unbreakable,
Other times, a frayed edge threatening to unravel.

IV. Shadows and Light

In the chiaroscuro of existence,
Shadows dance with light, and we –
We are both, casting our own darkness,
Yet yearning for the warmth of dawn.

V. Echoes of Laughter

Laughter echoes through crowded streets,
A symphony of shared joy and fleeting moments.
We pass like ships, our laughter trailing behind,
Briefly touching, then sailing toward distant shores.

VI. Broken Bridges

Bridges span chasms, connecting hearts,
Yet some remain unfinished, suspended mid-air.
We build with hope, but storms erode our foundations,
And sometimes, we must leap into the abyss alone.

VII. Whispers in the Wind

The wind carries secrets – whispers of ancestors,
Promises made under moonlight, and confessions.
We listen, our ears attuned to the breeze,
Hoping to catch fragments of forgotten stories.

VIII. Quantum Entanglement

Perhaps we are particles, entangled,
Our fates intertwined across dimensions.
When one spins, the other responds,
No matter the distance or the silence.

IX. The Unseen Threads

Beyond the visible, there are threads unseen,
Binding us to strangers, lovers, enemies.
We tug, unravel, mend, and unravel again,
A ceaseless dance of connection and detachment.

X. The Final Stitch

And when our time wanes, when stars fade,
We become the final stitch in this grand design.
Our essence lingers, woven into the fabric,
A testament to our existence – brief, yet profound.


Listen, I say, to the whispers of the universe, my friend. Listen
I tried to make 10 individually readable poems into one long poem, each verse stands alone but also contributes to the whole.
93 · Sep 2024
Ruthless
Geof Spavins Sep 2024
Where the winds blow, a heart of stone grows.
Eyes that pierce through veils of night,
A soul that knows no wrong from right.
Ambition’s fire, a burning flame,
No room for mercy, no room for shame.
Steps that crush the fallen leaves,
A path of power, one that deceives.
Whispers echo in the dark,
A ruthless mind leaves its mark.
No tears to shed, no love to give,
In this world, only the ruthless live.
93 · Nov 2024
A Thousand Pieces
Geof Spavins Nov 2024
I started washing up today,
A plate slipped from my hand,
It shattered into a thousand parts,
Scattered across the land.

Each piece a tiny fragment,
Of what once was whole,
Reflecting how I sometimes feel,
Deep within my soul.

The jagged edges glisten,
In the morning light,
A mirror to the brokenness,
I often try to hide.

But in the midst of chaos,
There’s beauty to be found,
In the way the pieces sparkle,
As they lie upon the ground.

For even in our brokenness,
There’s strength and grace to see,
A reminder that we can rebuild,
And find our way to be.
93 · Mar 27
Spring's Soft Sunrise
Geof Spavins Mar 27
Sunlight softly spreads,
Spring's serene symphony sings,
Silhouettes shimmer,
Sky's splendid spectrum shines,
Sparrows serenade,
Sweet scents swirl,
Sunrise's serene splendour.
Geof Spavins Apr 13
Rose, oh Rose, the queen of class,  
She’s dressed in silk, selling wine and grass.  
“Organic kale, it’s simply divine!”  
She twirls her trolley, a shopping shrine.  

Sain strolls by, with a cheeky grin,  
“Rose, dear, not everyone’s posh within!  
My aisles have deals that make hearts sing,
From the Basics line to the finest bling!”  

Tes rushes in with a clatter and cheer,  
“Stop squabbling, mates, I’m here for the steer!  
Clubcard's flashing like disco lights,  
I serve the masses with snacks for their nights!”  

Rose scoffs, “Tes, you’re much too loud.  
Your aisle décor? A tad less proud.”  
Sain adds, “And what’s with the bargain craze?  
Do shoppers dance through your maze?”  

Tes winks, “They sure do! I’m fun and bold,  
My shelves are stacked, my produce gold!  
Rose is posh, and Sain’s okay,  
But Tes  rocks - it’s hip all day!”  

And so they bicker, a trio delight,  
Rose rolls her eyes, Sain laughs outright.  
Tes bustles on with his Clubcard dream,  
While shoppers weave through their retail scheme.  

They’re rivals, it’s true, but in their zest,  
Rose, Sain, and Tes are retail’s best.  
For amidst the banter, one thing is clear—  
Every shop has a place we hold dear.
In the bustling heart of Marketstead—a vibrant town where every corner pulsed with the rhythm of daily commerce—three remarkable figures emerged as the keepers of distinct retail realms.

Rose, the epitome of refined elegance, curated a stall that was nothing short of a boutique of dreams. Draped in silks and surrounded by the finest organic indulgences, she was a connoisseur of quality. Each day, as morning light spilled over polished displays, Rose unfurled a banner proclaiming, “Taste the heritage of artisan excellence,” a promise that whispered of meticulous care and timeless craft.

Sain strolled in with a balanced blend of charm and practicality. His stall was a celebration of value and variety, where every offering was more than just an item—it was a carefully negotiated deal between quality and affordability. With a mischievous grin, he would remark, “Here, every bargain sings a song of smart choices!” His space was a bridge between tradition and modern sensibility, echoing with laughter and the shared joy of everyday wins.

Tes burst onto the scene as the spirited modern maestro, electrifying the streets with a dazzling display of digital flair and vibrant energy. His stall, lit by the playful glow of Clubcard miracles and modern promotions, became the talk of the town. Bold and unrestrained, Tes declared, “Innovation and access are the rhythm of our times!” His approach was a testament to the dynamism of the new age—where every shelf and every deal was imbued with a pulse of excitement.

One radiant morning, an unusual challenge arose. Whispers of an emerging marketplace—a mysterious rival promising both extravagance and economy—stirred the air. With the shoppers’ curiosity piqued, the three titans found themselves in a moment of rare convergence. Their usual banter, filled with teasing jests and competitive spark, gave way to a deeper resolve. Amidst murmurs of shared admiration for each other’s craft, they set aside their rivalries for a singular purpose: to remind the community of the irreplaceable magic that diversity brings.

That day, Marketstead transformed. Rose’s gentle sophistication paired with Sain’s pragmatic charm and Tes’s sparkling audacity to create a festival of choice. The stalls became stages where culinary wonders, unbeatable deals, and digital innovations danced in harmony. Shoppers wandered through a living tapestry where quality met value, and tradition embraced modernity. In this grand celebration, the differences that once divided them fused into a powerful mosaic—a tribute to the idea that every shop, every style of service, held a cherished place in the hearts of its patrons.
92 · May 19
3 in 1
Geof Spavins May 19
Bitters fade away
Golden brew soothes heavy souls
Joy in each small sip

Froth crowns the moment
Memories swirl like soft foam
Cheers spark a new dawn

Raise a glass tonight
Laughter echoes in soft clinks
Hope in every toast
92 · Dec 2024
Christmas lights
Geof Spavins Dec 2024
In a garden dressed in Christmas cheer,
With twinkling lights that draw us near,
A winter wonderland unveiled,
Where dreams and magic have prevailed.

Children gather, eyes alight,
In the glow of fairy lights so bright,
Each step they take, a dance of glee,
As laughter fills the frosty spree.

Icicles hang like crystal stars,
Reflecting wonder from afar,
Candy canes and ribbons twine,
Around the trees that seem divine.

Whispers of snowflakes kiss the ground,
In this enchanted space profound,
A snowman smiles, a guardian true,
Of festive fun in sights anew.

The night embraces every soul,
In this cozy, vibrant stroll,
Joyful giggles warm the air,
As stories, hopes, and dreams they share.

Here in this garden, hearts ignite,
With Christmas magic shining bright,
And every child, with wonder's gleam,
Finds Christmas is more than just a dream.
For my granddaughter Eleanor aged 6
92 · Nov 2024
Broken
Geof Spavins Nov 2024
Thoughts
   e    x
p         l
   o    d
      e
Brilliant flash
Worlds crash
New paths
Utter chaos
Mind Blown
I would like to be able to create word art here --- Explode needs to be exploded.
91 · Apr 18
Ten Today
Geof Spavins Apr 18
A whole decade, look at you,
Bright as the morning, skies so blue.
Double digits, what a feat,
A heart so kind, a soul so sweet.

The world is yours, it’s big and wide,
With dreams to chase and stars to guide.
You’re ten today, so take a bow,
The world’s your stage—your time is now.

Laughter rings where you go,
A spark of joy, a gentle glow.
The years ahead are full of light,
With love around you, shining bright.

So, here’s to you, our shining star,
Loved for who you truly are.
Happy birthday, hooray, hooray!
The world’s a brighter place today.
In place of a card I wrote this for my Granddaughter, I printed and framed it for her too
91 · Nov 2024
Wildflower Spirit
Geof Spavins Nov 2024
In fields untamed, free,
Petals dance with morning breeze,
Nature's spirit wild.
90 · Apr 27
The Sacred Map
Geof Spavins Apr 27
Through life’s dense forest, wild and deep,
A sacred map, my soul does keep.
Its pages whispered by divine breath,
A guide through storms, through life, through death.

The Bible stands, a beacon true,
Its wisdom ancient, yet ever new.
Each line a compass, every word,
A guiding call, a truth inferred.

When shadows fall and paths confound,
Its timeless light shines all around.
Through Psalms of peace and Proverb’s ways,
It charts my course, it marks my days.

No map of man can e’er compare,
To scripture’s path, beyond despair.
Its pages point where faith may thrive,
And love and grace keep hope alive.

So, with this map, this gift profound,
Each step I take, on holy ground.
Through valleys low and peaks above,
It leads me home, with boundless love.
90 · Mar 16
Anchor
Geof Spavins Mar 16
Anxiety arrives unbidden,  
a shadow curling around the edges of thought,  
its voice an unrelenting murmur -
“What if? What then? What now?”  
It clings,  
pulling every breath into a tight, fleeting grasp.  

The world offers answers,  
quick-fix promises like fading sparks.  
But beneath it all, there’s a stillness waiting,  
a quiet anchored in eternity.  

“Come to me,” the voice beckons,  
not loud, but sure -
a whisper threading through the chaos.  
In Matthew’s words, it echoes:  
“All you who are weary,  
all you who carry heavy burdens -
I will give you rest.”  

And so, you pause,  
let the weight of your worries fall like stones.  
Your heart begins to open,  
not to fleeting comfort,  
but to the steadfast peace of His presence.  

The Psalms remind you:  
“Be still, and know that I am God.”  
And as the storm within you softens,
the waves calm,
the winds rest,
your soul finds its footing again.  

Philippians speaks to the quiet of surrender:  
“Do not be anxious about anything;  
but in every situation, by prayer and petition,  
with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  
And the peace of God,  which transcends all understanding, will guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus.”  

This peace isn’t the world’s -
it’s deeper, unshakable, eternal.  
And when anxiety presses close again, you remember:
His whisper is always near.
90 · Oct 2024
In His Image
Geof Spavins Oct 2024
With hands divine, He shapes our clay,
Guiding us gently, day by day.
In every heart, a spark of light,
A reflection of His love so bright.

Through trials faced and lessons learned,
In His embrace, our souls are turned.
From brokenness, He makes us whole,
Imparting grace to every soul.

In kindness shown and love expressed,
We mirror Him, our lives are blessed.
With every act of selfless care,
His image shines, His love we share.

In His likeness, we are made,
A masterpiece, His love displayed.
In every heart, His light does glow,
A testament to the love we know.
Inspired by the reading and sermon in our church on Sunday - this is  two of four. Jer. 18:1-6
Geof Spavins May 30
The shelf I built stands tall and proud,
Well -- almost tall, a little browed.
The legs are wobbly, joints askew,
It’s leaning like it’s had a few!

I step back, scratch my head and sigh,
This wasn’t meant to tilt and pry.
The blueprint said, “align with care,”
Yet here it sways -- a lopsided chair!

The screws are in, the nails are tight,
And still, it looks… well, not quite right.
Call it charm or odd design,
But cattywampus work is mine!
90 · Sep 2024
Goodbye, Yesterday
Geof Spavins Sep 2024
Goodbye, Yesterday
Yesterday lingers like a shadow,
A whisper of what was, a ghost of dreams.
It held my hand through fleeting moments,
But now, I must let go.
Memories are etched in the twilight,
Fading with the dawn of today.
I see your face in the morning mist,
But the sun rises, and you disappear.

Goodbye, yesterday,
With your laughter and your tears,
Your promises and your regrets.
You were a chapter in my story,
But the pages turn, and I must move on.
In the silence of the night,
I hear your echoes, soft and distant.
You were the canvas of my past,
But today, I paint anew.

Goodbye, yesterday,
You were a friend, a foe, a lesson learned.
I carry your wisdom in my heart,
But my journey calls me forward.
Today I move on.
90 · Feb 6
Midnight Scribbles
Geof Spavins Feb 6
In the stillness of the night, I sit alone,
With my iPad's glow, a world of my own.
The house is quiet, the world at rest,
But here I am, a nocturnal guest.

The screen lights up with a gentle gleam,
As I navigate through a digital dream.
Emails, notes, and tasks to complete,
In this silent hour, I find my beat.

The tap of fingers, a rhythmic sound,
In the calm of night, productivity is found.
Ideas flow in the midnight air,
With no distractions, I find my flair.

The stars outside, a distant light,
While I work away in the depth of night.
The iPad's glow, my only guide,
In this tranquil time, I take pride.

For in these hours, I find my peace,
A moment of quiet, a sweet release.
The world asleep, but I am awake,
With my iPad's glow, new poems I create.
89 · Jan 24
Unbound Unwound
Geof Spavins Jan 24
Unbreaking the cycles that bind
Each day unfolds anew
No longer tethered by rewind
We dream, we rise, we pursue

The loop unspools, unravels clean
Untrapped in history’s snare
The path ahead, unseen, serene
To futures fresh and rare

Boundless days not chained to past
Each dawn a chance to start
No echoes of the shadows cast
Just hope within the heart

Unwinding the knot, unweaving the ties
The story freshly penned
In boundless skies, our spirit flies
To where the horizons extend
Geof Spavins May 30
Through halls of doubt and grand frustration,
Echoes floccinaucinihilipilification,
A lengthy term, with weight so slight,
To shun all worth, deny all light.

Yet words alone can twist and sway,
Can bend the heart, lead minds astray.
If value’s lost in careless diction,
We drown in mere contradiction.

So heed this verse, let meaning last,
Don’t let worth slip, fading fast.
For even long-winded deliberation,
Deserves its own appreciation.
This wonderfully extravagant word means “the act of regarding something as worthless.” That's quite ironic, given its sheer length!
Hope you enjoyed this little bit of linguistic fun.
Geof Spavins Feb 8
The mirror stands, a silent sage,
Reflecting more than age and stage.
It looks beyond the skin and bone,
Into the realms where secrets are shown.

Beyond the surface, polished bright,
It glimpses shadows, soft and slight.
The joys and sorrows intertwined,
The echoes of a troubled mind.

In the depths of pupils' gleam,
It sees the dreams that dare to dream.
The hopes that flutter, frail yet bold,
The stories yet to be told.

It sees the tears that never fell,
The silent cries, the hidden hell.
The scars that mar the inner heart,
The battles fought in the dark.

Laughter lines that speak of grace,
Of moments cherished, time embraced.
The passions that ignite the soul,
The fragments that make us whole.

It senses fears that grip and bind,
The doubts that linger in the mind.
The love that flows, a gentle stream,
The faith that fuels the wildest dream.

In the mirror's deep, unwavering gaze,
It reads the past, the future's maze.
A testament to all we've been,
The silent witness, the unseen.

For in the depths where emotions dwell,
The mirror sees and knows us well.
Beyond the image, clear and true,
It reflects the essence of me and you.
I stood in front of my bathroom mirror in the "all together" for hours yesterday, just watching the infernal image looking back at me. When I couldn't sleep later this resulted. (Sorry for the image you now have in your head)
Geof Spavins Mar 1
From the coffee house window, she stands so near,
A lady busking, her melodies clear.
On the market corner, her voice does rise,
A beacon of song, under cloudy skies.

Shoppers bustle, with bags in hand,
Yet pause for a moment, to join her band.
A minute or two, they stand and sway,
Enchanted by the music, in their busy day.

With nimble fingers, she strums her guitar,
Notes dancing like wishes on a falling star.
Her voice, a sweet lullaby, soft and free,
Echoes through the market, like a gentle sea.

Coins clink softly, in her open case,
A token of thanks, for the smile on each face.
In the rhythm of life, her tunes take flight,
A brief interlude, in the shoppers' plight.

Children tug on sleeves, eyes wide with glee,
As parents smile, lost in the melody.
Old friends reunite, share stories anew,
With her songs as the backdrop, their bonds grew.

From the coffee house window, I watch and see,
A scene so vibrant, a living tapestry.
The lady busking, with her heartfelt tune,
Brings warmth and light, like a sunny June.

In every note, a tale is told,
Of love, of loss, of days of old.
Her music weaves through the market square,
A thread of magic, in the midday air.

And as the sun dips, shadows grow long,
Her voice still carries, the heart of her song.
A fleeting moment, a melody shared,
As the market slows and daylight fades.
87 · Sep 2024
Betrayed by the Feast
Geof Spavins Sep 2024
A lavish spread, a tempting sight,
Each dish a promise, each bite delight.
But hidden within, a silent foe,
A treacherous toxin, a secret woe.

The night begins with laughter and cheer,
Unaware of the danger lurking near.
A sip, a taste, a morsel consumed,
The joy of the meal, soon to be doomed.

A sudden twist, a stomach’s churn,
The body’s revolt, the fever’s burn.
Sweat beads form, the chills take hold,
A battle within, fierce and bold.

Hours pass in a haze of pain,
The feast’s betrayal, a cruel disdain.
Yet through the torment, a lesson learned,
Of caution and care, respect hard-earned.

For in the aftermath, as strength returns,
A vow is made, a wisdom burns.
To cherish health, to heed the signs,
And guard against the food that undermines.
24 hours of agony later
87 · Sep 2024
Circle of Logic
Geof Spavins Sep 2024
In a land where rules are made,
A curious thought began to wade.
“The law must be obeyed,” they say,
“For breaking it is not the way.”
“But why must we follow this decree?”
Asked a voice from the old oak tree.
“Because the law is what we must heed,
To break it is an unlawful deed.”
“But why is breaking it so wrong?”
The question lingered, soft yet strong.
“Because the law says so, you see,
And thus, it must be followed strictly.”
Around and round the logic spun,
A circle danced, a web was spun.
For in this land of rules and might,
The answer lay in circular light.
The law must be obeyed, it’s clear,
Because to break it brings us near,
To the very thing we must avoid,
A loop of logic, neatly deployed.
I feel we are heading into the logic knot blindly
86 · Nov 2024
Balance of Life
Geof Spavins Nov 2024
There is no light without the dark,
no dawn without the night.
In shadows, we find our spark,
in sorrow, we seek the light.

Happiness blooms from seeds of pain,
joy from tears that drop.
Without the storm, there is no gain,
no rise without the fall.

Forgiveness springs from deep remorse,
a heart that seeks to mend.
In understanding, we find our course,
in healing, we transcend.

Life is woven tight,
with threads of dark and bright.
In every shade, in every hue,
we find the balance, we find the true.
In darkness there is light, in despair there is hope. Is this the balance we are searching for?
Geof Spavins Jan 14
I’m looking through you, to Christ who sustains,
In the midst of the storm, He calms all our pains.
A light in the darkness, a hope standing true,
Through valleys and shadows, He’s guiding us through.

When fear and doubt whisper, and faith feels so small,
His love and His grace lift me up when I fall.
In the heart’s quietest moments, when silence is near,
His voice gently calls, bringing peace, drawing near.

I’m looking through you, and seeing His plan,
A promise of love written by His hand.
With my eyes on the Saviour, my soul is at rest,
For in His embrace, I know I am blessed.
Geof Spavins Jan 25
In twilight's glow, we traipse the heathered hills,
Wi' hearts aglow an' spirits wild an' free.
The haggis hides, an' silence softly fills,
The Highland air, as far as eyes can see.

Wi' cautious steps, we seek its secret lair,
Among the rocks an' bracken where it roams.
The whispers o' the wind, the cool night air,
Guide oor pursuit tae ancient Scottish homes.

The moon, oor guide, bestows its silver light,
On rugged paths where nature's wonders blend.
In tales o' yore, the haggis takes its flight,
A creature rare, tae chase, but no' offend.

Fer in this hunt, 'tis no' the prize we seek,
But memories made, an' friendships unique.
I have been asked for an opening poem for our Burns night supper evening -- how about a haggis hunt I thought
Geof Spavins Apr 2
Dancing on the edge of death,  
where the air tastes like fire,  
and shadows stretch long against the fading light.  

Each step defies the weight of gravity,  
a rebellion against silence.  
The wind murmurs secrets,  
but I refuse to listen,  
too lost in the spinning, the leaping,  
the delicate balance between falling and flight.  

Flames brush close,  
a fleeting warmth,  
but never a burn.  
Ice kisses the edge of my fingertips,  
a promise of stillness,  
yet I twirl past it,  
a refusal to be caught.  

Time splinters into fragments,  
moments scattering like glass on the floor.  
Each shard catches the light—  
brief, radiant,  
a fleeting glimpse of eternity.  

There is no partner here,  
only the rhythm of my own heartbeat,  
steady, resolute,  
guiding my motion through the abyss.  

I dance where the line blurs,  
where every ending hides a beginning.  
The edge is narrow,  
sharp,  
but it holds me still.  

Breathing in the infinite,  
I step forward again,  
dancing not for fear,  
but for the freedom found  
in each defiant motion.
84 · May 12
Been Better
Geof Spavins May 12
I was born in fire, cracked, burned, sealed.  
Scorched by fate, my essence peeled.  
No longer whole, no longer free,  
Yet now I wait - dark destiny.  

I drown in steam, in boiling deep,  
My whispers lost, my echoes weep.  
No hands will mourn, no voices cry,  
Yet still I serve, still I comply.  

A sip, a sigh, a fleeting thrill,  
I pass through lips, yet linger still.  
A phantom taste, a bitter spark,  
A sacrifice to fuel the dark.
84 · Sep 2024
Roxy Music
Geof Spavins Sep 2024
At the start of the seventies, a spark ignites,
From Newcastle’s heart, a band takes flight.
Roxy Music, a name whispered in the wind,
With Bryan Ferry’s voice, where dreams begin.

A tapestry of sound, that’s woven with care,
Glam rock’s pioneers, they’re beyond compare.
Synthesizers hum, guitars wail and cry,
In their melodies, the stars align.

Andy Mackay’s sax, a soulful breeze,
Phil Manzanera’s strings, a symphony with ease.
Paul Thompson’s drums, a heartbeat strong,
Together they create a timeless song.

From “Virginia Plain” to “Avalon”’s grace,
Each album a journey, a new embrace.
Brian Eno’s touch, an avant-garde flair,
In Roxy’s world, there’s magic in the air.

Their style, a blend of chic and bold,
Glamour and art, a story told.
In sequins and suits, they take the stage,
A visual feast, a gilded age.

“More Than This,” a whisper in the night,
“Love Is the Drug,” a lover’s delight.
Their music, a canvas, painted with care,
Each note a brushstroke, vibrant and rare.

Through decades they journey, a legacy grand,
Influencing many, a guiding hand.
From punk’s raw edge to new wave’s beat,
Roxy Music’s echo, a rhythm sweet.

In the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame they stand,
A testament to a visionary band.
Their songs, a soundtrack to life’s parade,
In every heart, their mark is made.

So here’s to Roxy Music, legends true,
With every chord, they renew.
A symphony of art, a timeless muse,
In their melodies, we find our cues.
84 · Mar 1
Spring Awakens
Geof Spavins Mar 1
Beneath the frost, life stirs,
Whispers of warmth in the breeze,
A symphony of colours,
Unfolding in the dawn.
Buds break through the earth,
Reaching for the sun,
Petals unfurl, soft and new,
A canvas painted fresh.

Birdsong fills the air,
Melodies of hope and renewal,
Each note a promise,
Of days growing longer, brighter.
The world shakes off its slumber,
Stretching, yawning, awakening,
To the gentle touch of spring,
A season reborn.
A Bright Morning
84 · Apr 3
Gods Glory
Geof Spavins Apr 3
1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV) says:
"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."

I do it all for the glory of God,
Through every step, on this path I trod.
In moments of joy, and times of strife,
I seek His guidance, in this life.

For every ache, and every pain,
I find solace in His name.
With faith as my anchor, and hope as my guide,
I walk with Him, by my side.

In the quiet of the night,
In dawn's first light,
I lift my heart, raise my voice,
In His love, I rejoice.

Through trials faced, and victories won,
I give thanks to the Holy One.
For in His grace, I find my strength,
To carry on, at any length.

I do it all for the glory of God,
With every breath, and every nod.
In His light, I find my way,
And in His love, I choose to stay.
My Verse of the day today inspired this
84 · Feb 13
Boobs and Bums
Geof Spavins Feb 13
The curves of a woman, a sight to behold,
***** and bums, a symmetry to unfold.
Like hills and valleys, they rise and they fall,
A topography of beauty, for one and all.

The *****, like ripe fruit, full and so fine,
Invite the eye to linger, and the heart to entwine.
Their gentle sway, a dance so divine,
A movement that's subtle, yet oh so sublime.

And the bums, like rounded moons in the night,
Glow with a soft luminescence, a pure delight.
Their curves and contours, a work of art in themselves,
A masterpiece of nature, that forever wealth.

But let us not forget, these features so fair,
Are but a part of the whole, beyond compare.
For it's the person within, with heart and soul so bright,
That makes these curves shine with beauty and light.

So let us celebrate these wondrous forms divine,
And honour the women who wear them so fine.
For ***** and bums are but mere words we use,
To describe the beauty that our eyes can't refuse.
84 · Feb 9
Midnight Pee
Geof Spavins Feb 9
I woke up for a *** last night and it took me half an hour,
My weary mind began to wander, musing on midnight's power.
The moonlight gently filtered through the curtains, soft and pale,
A sleepy, silent witness to my sluggish, bleary tale.

The clock's unyielding ticking whispered secrets in my ear,
As shadows danced upon the walls, with movements faint but clear.
In the quiet of the night, where dreams and reality blur,
I pondered life's great mysteries, while sleep became a whir.

The bathroom tiles were icy, a chilly underfoot embrace,
Yet, in that moment, oddly, I found a peaceful place.
For sometimes in the stillness, when the world is hushed and calm,
We find a fleeting solace, a rare, elusive balm.

Half an hour felt like ages, in the dead of night so deep,
Yet, with my mind now settled, I found the gift of sleep.
Back to bed I drifted, to dreams both strange and bright,
Grateful for that quiet pause in the stillness of the night.
83 · Feb 25
The BBC B
Geof Spavins Feb 25
In the nascent days of silicon dreams,
A revolution brewed, more than it seemed,
In the heart of Britain, where innovation sparked,
The dawn of home computing, a journey embarked.

Amidst the clatter of typewriters, and ink's gentle flow,
A vision took shape, for the future to know,
A microcomputer, for every home and school,
To empower the curious, a powerful tool.

The BBC Micro, affectionately the B,
A marvel of tech, for all to see,
With its sturdy build and keyboard bright,
A beacon of knowledge, a guiding light.

From classrooms to living rooms, its presence spread,
Young minds were awakened, by what it said,
Programming in BASIC, their imaginations soared,
With each line of code, new worlds explored.

Acorn's creation, a jewel so fine,
With teletext and graphics, ahead of its time,
From Elite’s vast galaxies, to educational quests,
The BBC B shone among the best.

In the spirit of '80s, where dreams took flight,
The BBC B stood, a technological knight,
A bridge to the future, where data could roam,
A gateway to knowledge, from the comfort of home.

It was more than a machine, it was a spark,
Igniting passions, in the light and the dark,
A symbol of progress, a herald of change,
In the annals of history, its name will remain.

So here’s to the BBC Micro, a legend in kind,
A testament to the power of the human mind,
From the '70s dawn, to the stars above,
The BBC B, with all our love.
I had this one -- but was it my first -- I am thinking I might have bought the ZX Spectrum before this
Geof Spavins May 30
Upon the floor, debates ignite,
They argue left, they argue right.
A filibuster drags the night,
A senator sighs, Oh what a sight.

The bills pile up, gridlock in place,
A lawmaker’s face turns red in haste.
Tempers flare, objections rise,
Committee rooms erupt with cries.

Then through the chamber, swift and loud,
One congressman breaks from the crowd!
With forceful grip and righteous vim,
They toss a binder - right at him!

Through marble halls and polished doors,
Defenestration takes the floor.
No policy fixed, no law is passed,
But someone went through glass at last!
Am I being a bit naughty here? This is how I see the current US government (2025) Chaotic
Geof Spavins Feb 20
Once upon a time there was a tavern,
In the heart of town, where stories were woven.
With laughter, tears, and memories to share,
A barman stood, his smile ever so rare.

Behind the counter, he worked with grace,
A friendly face in that warm, cosy place.
With nimble hands, he poured and mixed,
A master of potions, full of tricks.

He knew each customer by name,
Their joys, their sorrows, their every aim.
With a listening ear and a heart of gold,
He turned the mundane into tales retold.

When evening came and the firelight dimmed,
The barman’s spirit never once thinned.
He shared a laugh, a joke, a knowing wink,
Making friends out of strangers with just one drink.

Through the bustle and the hum of chatter,
He moved with ease, never one to scatter.
A confidant, a guide, a friend so dear,
In the heart of the tavern, always near.

As nights grew late and the moonlight glowed,
The barman’s tales and warmth bestowed,
A sense of comfort, a place to unwind,
In that humble tavern, a treasure to find.
82 · Apr 17
Time Fade
Geof Spavins Apr 17
I can feel you looking at me*  
Through the faded colours of time,  
A specter of my past self  
Captured in creases, suspended in grain.  

Sepia sighs curl at the edges,  
Laughter trapped in silvered ink,  
Eyes full of boundless longing,  
Unaware that years would shrink.  

I run my finger along the years,  
A fragile thread, a fleeting ghost,
Did I once dream beyond this frame,  
Or did the moment hold me most?  

Yet here we stand, reflections blurred,  
The self I was, the self I bear,  
A silent nod across the years,  
A whispered thought: *
I’m still in there.
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