Forbidden Love

When I first met you,

it was like when Romeo and Juliet

first met each other at the ball –

love at first sight.

After realizing we were enemies,

we knew our love wouldn't last long.

I sigh as the days go by.

I sigh as I’m thinking about my Romeo.

If only my parents would allow us to be together,

then my life would be complete,

but life isn't perfect or fair.

When we’re at school,

you, my foolish one, surprise me with these hugs

like when Romeo surprised her under her balcony

as she was staring at the starry night sky.

You say that we are not meant for each other.

I thought you were joking for a second,

but I thought wrong.

You ignored me as I tried to make you smile

or even talk to me.

We both thought that you and I disappeared

from each others’ world.

But in reality, we are still in each others’ hearts.

Don’t forget for me, my Romeo.

Superstorm Sandy

Destructive winds shred thousands of homes.

The homes are now merely dirt and rubble.

Flood waters carry personal belongings

of Danny’s brown teddy bear, Anny’s Barbie doll, Aunt Grace’s Bible,

and the Robinson’s daughter’s six year old birthday photos.

As I was walking toward the destruction, ambulances

were coming into the neighborhood to help the families.

Red Cross members covered some in blankets

and others in sheets, they weren’t so lucky.

A young man called William asked for his wife.

They told him that God had taken her away.

Many more cried for their lost love ones.

Listening to the distant static

voices on the radios,

I hear that organizations and communities

are sending medical aid, water and other resources.

Soon it will be time to rebuild.