Guilt Stone
By Larry Stromberg
The more I sin, the more rock pressure upon my heart
Guilt stone make its presence known
Suffocating my soul
Rolling my spirit
Guilt stone takes pleasure squeezing a life away
This is no excuse for my transgressions
I’m not asking for any pity
Just speaking my remorseful truth
Consequences always remain
Sometimes a lifetime
My advice, get professional and spiritual help
Avoid sin and its lustful temptations
For if not, the Guilt stone would love to take your life away
A rolling crushing demise
Stone Heart
By Larry Stromberg
Your beautiful heart was pure as crystal
Mesmerizing my soul
I was engulfed by a love vacuum
Unconditional vice love
That’s when your heart became demanding
Consumed by controlling factors
You’ve become a Stone heart
Only concerned about your own needs
Your world alone
Your wants, nothing else
Now, you’ve earned your title
A stone ugly selfish heart
Bring the Lifeline
By Larry Stromberg
Wandering in the unknown
Vicious addiction has viced my brain
Where do I turn to in the storm
The hurt is beyond comprehension
Everything good I destroyed
Death is calling my name
Bring the lifeline
I need to grab the line
Pull myself to safe ground
If not, I’ll drown in my misery
My last chance of survival
Bring the lifeline
This time I want to live
Mercy Come to the Rescue
By Larry Stromberg
Violent streets, drug infested society
Oppression and addiction consuming the land
The filthy rich banking it all in for their own greed
Mercy come to the rescue
May the compassionate ones save the land
Care for the hurting souls
Stand against the evil powers and those who worship the gold
Come forth the pure hearts from above
Don’t stop helping those in the need
The war is real
Let grace abound
I’m Free Within
By Larry Stromberg
When I stage plays and get lost in music, I’m free.
I’m free from my past.
Free from my mistakes.
Free from the guilt.
Free from the shame.
Free from my regrets.
I’m free from the loss and the pain.
I’m free within.
I’m free in prison. The cage.
Free to be me.
Free in my creativity.
Free to encourage others.
Free to go on.
Free to forgive others.
Free to go on.
Free to forgive myself, a tall task to endure.
Free to live and to die in peace someday.
I’m free to cry.
Free to smile again.
Free to love myself.
Free to educate myself.
Free to fly and soar.
Free to dream.
If I’m blessed to do what I love, then I’m free.
No matter where I’m at.
I’m free within.
My spirit is free.
I’m free within.
Truly free inside.
I’m free.
By Some
By Larry Stromberg
Born in the hole from the start
Devouring my dreams, swallowing my soul and stealing my childhood
My face smashed in the shit
Some wanted to end my misery from the start with a bullet to the brain
Like being raped as a child over and over again with no one to come for my rescue
Isolated madness with overwhelming agony day and night as mental issues starts to control my brain waves
I’ve known a form of incarceration all of my life
May the ancient trees protect my well being from the storms of life
I’ve become the beast I feared due to my circumstances bestowed upon me
A monster of destruction, I hate myself indeed
I need a new start, a new birth to an unknown planet light years away in a distant dark universe – My remorse, my sorrow and my regret will always remain
This allows me to know that I’m still human
My deeds will follow to the grave and beyond
Where it goes then, only God knows?
I pray for a peaceful season in my life
Someday…somehow…somewhere
I must stop feeling sorry myself
A victim’s mentally doesn’t go no where for the guilty
At least, I was loved by someone
I have that. I had that
Some never had anything
I was loved by some.
On Fire
By Larry Stromberg
Failure has consumed me for decades, fighting for every opportunity
I don’t want to die before my time
A drive pushes my spirit, even amongst the chaos
Zest puts me on fire – Pursue the dream, kill all doubt
Remorseful regret brings me to my knees
A second chance to make existence right
This is the legacy highway I must travel
My soul smiles because redemption has started the flame
A wildfire in my heart
My purpose understood
Hope is alive
Animal
By Larry Stromberg
Hearing her heartbeat moves me to tears
Romance I always longed for
The sensation of her kisses drives me insane
Lust consumes my heart
Her perfume opens my senses into oblivion
Bringing me to my knees
Craving her love
Turns me into the animal that I really am
Caged
By Larry Stromberg
Frozen has the world spins
Caged for all of my sins
Incarceration has consumed my soul
I’m living in the regretful hole
Universal Scars
By Larry Stromberg
Power hungry tyrants bleed the world
Leaving universal scars for centuries to come
Generational trauma that never ends
Pray for the peace to heal our never ending land
The Struggle
By Larry Stromberg
EXT – PRISON YARD – MID- AFTERNOON.
A wide angle of a mid-aged man seated at a table in a prison yard. A large prison fence with barbed razor wire surrounds the prison yard as the mid-aged looks around the whole prison yard. A close-up of the mid-aged with downcast sadden eyes. Prison life has taken its toll on this incarcerated man.
Man: (Heavy emotions) I struggle everyday with mood-swings, emotional and mental health depression. (Beat) I’ve been diagnosed bi-polar. (Beat) Rejection could set me off into oblivion. (Beat) Losing anymore loved ones could push me over the edge. (Pause) When my siblings passed away, I couldn’t take it anymore. (Beat) So, I cut both of my wrists deep.
The mid-aged man lifts up both of his arms to show the scars on his wrists. After a few seconds he lowers both of his arms back down to the table.
Man: It’s a miracle I’m still here on this Earth. I lost so much blood. I should be dead six feet deep. (Beat) The guards, nurses and the doctors saved my life just in the nick of time. (Pause) Now, I’m on proper medication to help me have some kind of control of my mood swings and heavy depression. (Beat) I’m in weekly therapy, institutional programs and I’m leaning heavy on my faith to help me overcome the struggles I face day by day behind the razor wire. (Beat) The struggles everyone faces being in the penitentiary. (Beat) You see, being incarcerated for years makes everything so much worse dealing with my mental health condition.
The mid-aged man starts to become even more emotional. He wipes a few tears dry from his eyes.
Man: (Grieving) I can’t be with my family. I miss them so damn much. (Beat)It’s hard for me to forgive myself for all the pain, agony and the extreme heartache I caused my victim, my victim’s family members, my family and to myself. (Beat) Im’ having trouble forgiving myself. (Beat) That’s my struggle.
(Beat) I guess, it’s a struggle for many others in prison as well. (Beat) Forgiving myself. (Beat) My focus has been my recovery tools that I’ve learned to help me survive and to overcome the hardships I face on a daily basis in this place. (Beat) I’m getting a college education now. I’m working hard to earn my college degree. This gives me a purpose. We all need to have a purpose. It gives our lives value and worth. (Beat) I’m grateful that I still can achieve great things, even being behind bars. (Beat) It’s good to know that I still can have ag r e a t future and I still can help my family and others by doing good positive things. I still can have goals and dreams to leave a good legacy. (Beat) I still can have a second chance in prison and hopefully out in society someday, even in the struggle. (Beat) This gives me hope. (Beat) To me, that’s genuine.
Fade out.
Prison Shell Shock
By Larry Stromberg
Guilty and broken
Freezing trauma
I’ve been locked away for decades
Some say I deserve the chains
A heavy price to pay for my sins
I lost everything I ever loved
Wallowing in the tears of sorrow
Prison Shell Shock
Searching for saving peace
Accountability has consumed my demeanor
Forgiveness is my heart
Never to harm
Sleep takes me away from the chaotic agony
Dreaming for the mercy of second chances
The Divine Team
By Larry Stromberg
Our world is hurting
Chaos is overwhelming
We need a team to save humanity
One team that truly cares about society
Come forth the Divine Team
Earth needs you
We need you
Fight against the injustice
Stop the death of addictions
Drugs are killing our youth
End the gun violence
No more bullets murdering our children
Put a stop to racial profiling
I know you won’t back down!
You won’t give up!
Or give in!
Fight for the truth
Stand up for love
The Divine Team is growing
The recruiting starts now
Please join the team, my friends
The team needs you
The World needs you
The Future is all up to you
The team is awaiting your support
Penitentiary Theater
By Larry Stromberg
Plays are my Psalms sung unto God, someone once told me
Stories staged to bless the condemned
A portrait of deliverance or chaos, freeing the hopeless for just a few short hours
We are all actors behind the razor wire
Moment by moment, one scene at a time
I feel alive portraying these roles
The struggles of the confined
This is where my redemption dwells
A purpose revealed to this mass population
A dedicated legacy defined
Standing ovation
The curtain closes
The Search
By Larry Stromberg
Wandering in the wilderness endlessly
Lost in the horizons
Searching for a home and a purpose
Help me to learn my way in the desert
Tormented by the crazies
Hiding from the cannibals
A rude awaking to the spirit
Seeking refuge at every turn desperately
When all along, the peace was always there within
It’s beyond comprehension to explain
Even amongst the chaos
Center my heart, hold the faith
Dwelling to rest my weary soul in the caves
The fire protected me from the dragons
Liberty found from the stars and beyond
Restful sleep I always longed for
I finally made a home
My heart at rest
The search is over
Since then, it has never left my side
The wolves have become my friends
Failure to Success
By Larry Stromberg
If they is no struggle, there is no progress
Don’t let failure’s heartbreak steal your dreams
Determination will illuminate a way for success
Avoid the doubters
Listen to the successful ones
Dream big, dream large
Endure the struggle
A burning desire is the road to victory
You will succeed
The heart knows the way
Tilted
By Larry Stromberg
At first glance my opinion is already made
This person is an abuser, loser, user and a confuser
Stemming from my life long experiences
My thinking at times seems tilted
Clouded from my abusive past
I’ve been trying to change my judgmental views
Seeing this changing world in a Spiritual sense
By doing so, the clouds are becoming transparent
I’m not waived from the unforgiveness anymore
Finally seeing the truth through the clear looking glass
Humanity understood
Real
By Larry Stromberg
Who am I?
Why am I here?
What is my purpose in this life?
Questions I always ask myself
It’s time to be real
Follow my dreams
Appreciate my loved ones
Enjoy the beauty around me
Try to change the chaos in my world
Help the hurting
Understand my limits
Trust in my creator
Live a life with sincere meaning
Standing on the truth
Flying with courage
Love walking
No more regrets
Just grateful victories
meaningful memories
A life with everlasting meaning
The Happy Addict
A Play by Larry Stromberg
From stage left appears a mid-age man who is dazed and confused. He staggers to center stage and begins to speak to the audience.
Man: I’m a happy guy! (Laughs) Ha.ha.ha.ha.ha.ha.ha. I love being stoned out of my freaking mind! I smoke crack every day of my life! I pop pills! I shoot heroin in my veins like a madman!
{He shows the audience his arms with needle tracks on them.}
Man: I snort cocaine every night! I smoke thirty joints a day! I love getting high as a kite!
{He moves his arms like he’s flying.}
Man: I’m a happy freaking guy! (Laughs) Ha.ha.ha.ha.ha.ha.ha. (He lowers his arms.) I love being drunk as well! Daniels, Southern Comfort and Black Berry Brandy does me justified fine! My liver is shot to hell! I’m still a happy guy! (Crazy laughter) Ha.ha.ha.ha.ha.ha.ha.ha. I’m a sex freak! I love to get it on! I watch pornography all day and night long! I get off ten times a day! (Excited) Internet sex is an awesome thing! I’m the masturbation king! I screw prostitutes every night! I’m a happy freaking guy! {Laughs) Ha.ha.ha.ha.ha.ha.ha.ha. I’m the gambling king! I always bet the house! My wife left me and took the kids! I’m not paying that bitch and those brat ass kids a dime of child support! I lost my house, my job, my car, my wife, my kids, my dogs and my cats! (Smiles wide) I still have my guns! I’m a happy guy! (Laughs again) Ha.ha.ha.ha.ha.ha. ha.ha.ha.ha.ha. I live on the streets! I steal to survive! I killed two people during a carjacking! I got a double life sentence! The judge, District Attorney and my nutass lawyer sold my ass up the freaking river! I’m still a happy guy! (Laughs again) Ha.ha.ha.ha.ha.ha.ha. In prison, I steal to survive. I’m always looking over my shoulder. They may try to kill me. Stab me in the back, huh? (Beat) I eat tons of sugar. I’m diabetic. I’m about to lose my left foot! I’m still a happy guy! (Beat) I eat tons of salt! I’m about to have a stroke! I’m still a happy guy!
(The man starts to break down emotionally. Tears begin to run down his face.}
Man: I’ve never done anything great in my life. My family wants nothing to do with me. My addictions and my selfish ways have destroyed my life. My regret is as deep as the deep blue seas. My legacy is shit. (Beat) I have full blown aides, cancer and Hep-C. (Beat) Don’t follow in my footsteps. I’m not a happy guy. (Paiuse) In fact, I’m already dead. I’m long gone.
{The man wipes the tears from his eyes. He turns away and exits stage left.}
What Happens Now?
By Larry Stromberg
I was wrong many times
For things I’m sincerely remorseful for
Now I live in the regret, the guilt and in the shit
What happens now is only guided by the divine
For my redemption and my survival
The challenge of my journey till the end
Give me the love, peace and the blessings amongst the despair
That gives me a fighting chance
Mr. Box
By Larry Stromberg
A cool cat gliding with soul
Immense wisdom in his demeanor
Loved grooving to a tune
Cherished every family member, never forgetting a name
Incarcerated severely by a condemning system
Never gave up the fight for freedom
Redemption always in his sight
Even with no light on the horizon
Faith and Education his only escape
Diagnosed terminal with the cankerworm
Hospice in an infirmary prison cell
Praying for a compassionate release
47 years in, denied on his deathbed
No mercy for a lifer with remorse in his heart
Death flying Mr. Box away
He left prison in a body bag
He finally made it home
With his ancestors in heaven
Freedom Glow
By Larry Stromberg
It’s evident once seen
Hope shining through every obstacle
It can happen to anyone at anytime
Why doesn’t happen for everyone?
That’s a question for the Great I Am alone
The miracle can still happen for the faithful
A fighting spirit never gives up on hope
Dreams still can come true
Keep on dreaming
The bars can be broken by the strong of heart
When it happens, illuminated brighter than the blazing sun.
Open locked gates, striving free
Victory life awaits
Freedom Glow
Let the world will see your shine
Laser Hope
By Larry Stromberg
Spitting in the wind
Losing site of the real world
Stretch my limbs to the stars
May I fall in love with an alien
Beautiful galaxy romance
Become king of a unknown planet light stars away
Letting go of the bitterness of mankind Earth
Laser Hope
Bring me to my new beginning
A new life world to enjoy
Second Chance Ride
By Larry Stromberg
Twisted-up in the chaos
Incarceration is the new norm
Change my convicted past
My old world left in the ruins
Mars may be a better beginning
A second chance ride
Start it all over again on a new planet of civilization
We need to redeem the universe
Old Head Prisoner
By Larry Stromberg
A foster care child
Educated street hood
A gun violence statistics fool
The system has become home
Life without the chance for parole
Years move fast in the State Penitentiary
Decades fly bye in the cage
Became an Old Head Prisoner
Time stands still for no one
After all these years, finally deciding to take violent prevention
Getting a GED
Hoping Clemency grants freedom
Praying for a lifer reform bill to pass
Another Old Head Prisoner drops dead with each passing day
Please give this Old Head a chance for freedom
If not, the time will come to be bagged in the body bag
Leaving the system and the world behind
Forgiveness is…
By Larry Stromberg
Forgiveness is like pure water
illuminated by the blazing sun
Glaring in the moonlight
There’s nothing hidden in its pureness
Haven harmony
Unforgiveness hides its ugly face in the murky depths
Waiting to strike like a apex predator
A Cankerworm of sickness filled with bitterness
Calm waters bring the Supernatural peace for the hurting soul
Healing tides of choice for the brokenhearted
The ability to forgive and to be forgiven
To the river of redemption that lasts forever and ever…
I am Here, the Lightning of Truth
By Larry Stromberg
Condemned from birth
Abused by the unloving
Mocked and beaten daily
Hidden in the swallows
One horrible meal a day at Sundown
Books my isolated education
My escape from the madness
I learned from the Supernatural
The painful years went by swiftly
Beating after beating
Abused and mocked like a piece of trash
Decades now have past
Still in the dungeon
Trained myself for battle
Till the day came when I stood against my abusers
The Lightning made me brave
Thunder moved my spirit
Courage overcame my fears
I fought them all
Broken their bones in two
Made my escape from the mountain
Moved through the dark woods
Relentless speed
Lightning strikes, Thunder booms as the heavy Cold rain was pounding on my face
Breathing heavy, stopping for nothing
I made it to the small town during the storm
Strangers helped me in the chaos
Still, never trusting a soul
The Justice System condemned the evil ones
My abusers now in the cage for decades and decades to come
For me, years and years of therapy
Carrying the scars or torture
At least, I can stand on my own now
My purpose found
A protector of the abused
I am a defender for truth
Healing from the sickness
I am alive-I stand strong-I am here
I am the Lightning of truth
The Drift
By Larry Stromberg
Sometimes I find myself moving with the circumstances
There’s an aching in the heart during these trials
Maybe, it’s due to all the trauma my soul has endured
Steer my spirit to avoid the drift
That takes complete self control
Surrender me from my selfish ways
Due diligence
Clarity of thought, puts me on solid ground
A safe haven
The secret place I need to dwell
Resting calmly
Reign of the Great Wolf
By Larry Stromberg
My name is not to be known
I am the foe
At every full moon my metamorphosis takes place
Especially this transfiguration on the Winter Solstice
Immerging longer fangs popping from my gums
Razor claws of doom
Splittering hairs from my flesh
I howled at the moon
Chilling the air
Echoing throughout the land
Something I didn’t choose
Despising what I’ve become
I was chosen from beyond
Reign of the Great Wolf
On the Winter Solstice, during the long moon of the night, me and my mate will conceive the next descendant to reign
Ravishing the land insane
Lock your doors, stay indoors
Heed my warning
Now, me and my mate will nurture, teach and protect the young wolf, till he rules the night
Me and my mate will then take our rest with our descendants
My suffering my end – The curse remains
My First Christmas in the Cage (2nd draft)
By Larry Stromberg
It was my first Christmas behind bars
Depression overwhelmed me like a whirlwind
Why did I do this to others, my family and myself?
Hopelessness had its grips on my mind, broken heart and damage soul
Shivering in the remorseful tears
Then, something supernatural came from above
It reminded me that I’m loved
Think of all of your wonderful Christmas memories, child
The thrill of Christmas morning with your baby sister
Having a loving mother and father
The friendship of amazing dogs and cats
Gatherings of family for the festive meal
Grandmother’s homemade chocolate cookies
Helping those in need
It’s the memories that are precious
The greatest of all Christmas gifts
Even with my first Christmas in the cage
Dear 2023
By Larry Stromberg
Your arrival is near
Bring me the prayerful relief from this death by incarceration prison sentence
The odds are against me
My remorse sincere
A pathway is set
Protect my loved ones
Creativity has kept me like a lifeline
Blossom the success
Grab me with the love, 2023
I’ll follow the call
Listen to your still small voice
Walking the year’s days in the wonder
Universal Start-Over
By Larry Stromberg
5:30 A.M. Wake-up/Prayerful warrior
Read the word/Push-up city/I write
Breath in the fresh air
Program attending compliance
Law searcher
Hit the steel, gym rat
Calling friendly voices
Same joker faces
Avoid the abusers and the freaks
Wild ass guards
Dirty showers/Cold meals
CPS Adventures
Kiosk traveler
T.V. Junkie
Bring on the chocolate and the chips
Second chance daydreamer
Ending prayers
Close my eyes, dream on
Tomorrow, start it all over again
Pray Without Ceasing
By Larry Stromberg
Stay in the prayer closet for answered prayers
A kneeling warrior/For protection against evil forces
From our own inner demons
The Spiritual battle is real as the air we breathe
Meditate on soul peace
For dreams to come true/Family health and safety
The things that worry us to death
Never stop praying for peace in this world
Pray without ceasing
Somebody told me they saw a Sasquatch
By Larry Stromberg
Somebody they told me they saw a Sasquatch
They froze in fear out in those woods/The hairy thing stood tall staring them down
My friend pissed their pants
I laughed and said, “Bullshit!”
Till one day I was out in those woods and saw a Sasquatch myself
I pissed my pants too!
The beast walked up to me and started drinking my beer
Ate my burgers/Jammed to rock music
Befriended my German Sheppard
Danced by the fire flames
Man, we partied hearty
So suddenly, the creature disappeared into the forest night
Now, I tell people I saw Sasquatch
They said, “Bullshit!”
You never know who’s telling you the truth?
The Land with No Name
By Larry Stromberg
Deep tranquility, breathing free
Where past trauma doesn’t exist
Neither is the unknown
Forgiveness is a law, at least on the surface
Families stand together, never separating
Friends are true blue, united by love and respect
All skin color is glorious
Every day, every night feels like a beautiful holiday
Animals run free, not devouring each other
Prisons become museums/Restorative Justice is the way
Crystal clear oceans, as far as the eye can see
You can breath underwater!
Mountain skylines
Everyone can fly on their own
Unless, one chooses to soar Pegasus
Stars speak a language everyone understands
Riding a comet is better than a rollercoaster thrill
Rainbows glow in the darkness/Lightning bugs pay the electricity bill
Music teaches the soul
All dreams become reality
This location is better than home
The Land with No Name
A dimension of freedom
It only lives in my dreams
The Inner Being
By Larry Stromberg
Multiple personalities dwelling within
Pushing for constant change
or to stay stagnant
Speaking the urge
Vice gripping the mind
Who speaks the truth?
Good intentions or destructive ways
The inner being – An Almighty God – Bipolar – Diabolical Devil
Drifting in the never-ending maze
Searching for the Light
Bring the love
End the hate
Among the mental health zone
Forgive
By Larry Stromberg
Forgive the offenders
The users, abusers and the losers
Forgive the oppressors
Forgive society
But, never forget
Learn to forgive yourself
For God does forgive, if you believe
Holding unto the pain kills
Let wisdom and experience bring the freedom that’s longer for from within
Becoming Delusional
By Larry Stromberg
Dim the lights, wild one
Scars stay with the physical appearance
Some scars run deep within
Never going away
They just hide
Triggers try to give them new life
Faces become the jokers
Becoming delusional is the new norm
How can you trust anyone, when you can even trust yourself?
The question I ask myself everyday
Take the pill, it will make everything alright
Pharmaceutical lies they want us to believe
Controlling society’s minds/Jumping into the dark waters
The place where demons thrive
Maybe, it’s the trauma that made me this way?
Spontaneous fantasy for the grieving soul
I’ve become delusional at every turn
With every aching breath
Life is never the same
Unstable
Heal the madness, my Creator
Bring me my resurrection.
Robotic Inmate
By Larry Stromberg
Imprisoned childhood it started
Abuse
Abandonment
Anger
The streets
Addiction
Criminal activity
It was only a matter of time before the State Penitentiary called my name
An inmate number
Defiance
Beat downs to break the mind of the offender
There’s a body bag waiting
Controlling institutional movements
Dancing the DOC way
Do this!
Do that, inmate!
Shower time, motherfucker!
Chow time!
Day room!
Yard out!
Do our designed programs!
Lock it up!
Lights on!
Lights out!
Follow the command or end up in the twist
You belong to the State now
You’ve become something they created
A robotic inmate
A slave to the grind
The system is their road map
A money-making machine
You better fight for your freedom
Understand the law
Expand your mind by becoming educated
Learn a new trade
Never stop dreaming for a better tomorrow
Before they break you completely
And take your life away
Utopia
By Larry Stromberg
Drifting the pleasure zone
Soul surfing into dreamland
An ultimate high
My senses rising
The brain soothing
My soul lifting out of my frozen body
Some reach utopias by accomplishments
Others consume substance leading to the grave
What about the sexual cravings that never can be fulfilled?
Riding the madness
There’s spiritual enlightenment lifting for glory
Is it all an illusion?
Deceiving reality or complete truth?
Utopia
A choice either way
It’s your call
Day of Appreciation (Grateful)
By Larry Stromberg
During my decades of incarceration, there are many individuals in my life that have truly been there for me. That’s a miracle that words can’t express. Something I can’t take for granted. Some of these individuals have passed on. But, never forgotten in my heart. Some now are sickly and elderly. That breaks my heart in two. Not being home to help them. Still, these are the people that honestly love me. Beyond measure. Beyond comprehension. My loyal and loving mother and father. My beautiful sister. My wonderful grandmothers, Aunts, Uncles, my niece, true friends and others I met along the way during my decades of incarceration. They all have been a beacon of hope during my darkest days being locked away behind the razor wire, steel bars and concrete walls of the penitentiary. These wonderful loved ones have supported me in times of need. Encouraged me to be strong. They’ve sacrificed for me. Cried for me. Laughed with me. They’ve loved me in despite of the horrible crime I committed that hurt so many that I’m forever remorseful for. My loved ones are a phone call away. A listening ear. A email to view. A beautiful letter or card in the mail. A loving hug from a surprise visit. I’m grateful for the individuals who have stood by my side through it all. Thick and thin. During the calms waters and raging waves. Abased and abound. God bless the people who love us. I’m forever grateful.
Blindsided
By Larry Stromberg
Have you ever been abused, used and confused?
Blindsided that brings you to your knees
It’s a hell of a thing to be betrayed
It may happen to us all in our lives
The key is to forgive, but never forget
There’s the balance
A tool for the freedom for our souls
Lady
By Larry Stromberg
Pop saw you all alone as a lone pup
Shivering outside the Wawa in Upper Darby, PA back in 1985
His eyes met yours, picked you up in his arms and took you home to us
You beautiful black Lab puppy
Dad called you “Lady”
You had a home for life
We loved you, you loved us and protected us from any danger lurking in the shadows
What a loyal friend and family member you were to us all
I miss our long walks during all the seasons of life
I loved rubbing your cold black nose next to mine
It broke my heart when you passed on as an elderly love
I’ll see you running in the Fields of heaven again someday
I know, that day will come
and it will never end-It will go on and on and on…
The Shade
By Larry Stromberg
I fell down in the shade
Looking for peaceful ground
Dreaming of blue skies and smooth clouds
Fantasizing brighter days for me and my loved ones
Widespread peace for the whole world
It’s only a dream that will never be
At least, not in this life-I can only apply this vision in my own personal life
My mind is right
My heart is pure
Always longing for tranquility
That’s why I fall down in the shade
Resting my spirit
Living in the dreamland
The Zombie Medication Line
By Larry Stromberg
I’m Sandy Jones WPVI Channel 6 Action News. I’m just outside the State Penitentiary of Graterford, as there were massive casualties as inmate zombies devoured most of the prison population and the prison staff as well. The blood spilled the prison hallways as half eaten body parts layed on the cement floors of SCI Graterford caked with maggots on this Easter afternoon. Det.James Teller from the Montgomery Police Department stated:”This is the most horrific crime scene I’ve ever seen since I’ve been on the force in my twenty five years of service. The nightmares will remain with me forever. I’m in therapy now”. The locale Coroner stated: ” Eye balls were eaten out of eye sockets. Brains sucked out of people’s skulls. I’ve never seen anything like this in my life.” The United States Government blames the Pharmaceutical Company that supplies the psychological medication to those inmates with mental health issues for providing the wrong medication by mistake to the mental health population. The mentally ill inmates were given by mistake, warfare medication used to turn humans into flesh eating killing machines. The National Guard has exterminated and cremated all the zombie inmates and all the half eaten carcasses that were on the Graterford compound and grounds. The President of the United States sincerely apologizes for this National and horrible tragedy. All the families of the deceased will be reimbursed financially and be provided emotional and professional support for their suffering, loss and pain. The President states: “Let’s put this behind us as soon as possible.” Graterford plans to reopen next week. This is Sandy Jones, WPVI Channel 6 Action News.
Prison World
By Larry Stromberg
Trapped in the bars of my mind
Addiction has feasted on my soul
Obsession controlling my thoughts
A dark cloud hovers over me/Almost demoniac
Held captive as a child by the sickness of abuse
The past suffocates me
My thoughts wrapped around the razor wire
It cuts my spirit
My prefrontal cortex is on lockdown
Welcome to Prison World
I gotta break free, plan my escape
Release myself from the bondage
Riot my emotions
Next stop, Death row, if I don’t break the chains of oppression, addiction and the depression in my mind
Accept rehabilitation and embrace my recovery
Learn to forgive all, including myself
A tall task to endure
Getting an education has given me a purpose
Accountability and responsibility is my motto of truth
A heart of remorse
Therapy days
Atonement lays at my feet
Freedom calls my name
Supporting Silence
By Larry Stromberg
Been to hell and back…and hell again
Pain deep to the core
My mind clouded in depression
Many people tell me they’ve been there
Each one telling me the solution
Do they really know?
All have experienced heartache
There’s no doubting that
We all have to find our own path of healing
I have to find mine
Make the climb out of the pit
A friend is a gift we all need
Standing by our side
Just holding our hand
Supporting silence
Peaceful strength
Cling to it like a magnet
A true friend doesn’t have to say anything
Just there through it all
Tired Eyes
By Larry Stromberg
My eyes are heavy from the stress
I’m falling asleep standing up
Have you ever done that?
Can’t focus on nothing
Tired eyes
Just want to close it down
Sleep for hours and hours and hours…
Maxed-Out
By Larry Stromberg
Life without the possibility of parole
Death by Incarceration
No way out
Unless, granted Clemency
Which is a long shot in the Commonwealth
An innocent claim could set someone free
Could fight through the courts for a new trial
The consequences are real for the guilty
Victim opposition
Who can blame them?
The condemned, the exit is a body bag
Maybe, compassionate release
Death sets the soul free for the chained
Their sentence completed
Maxed-Out
The Eye
By Larry Stromberg
Always watching
Looking deeply
Focusing in
The Eye
Seeking candy
Fantasizing Sight
Visioning a dream
Talley Time
By Larry Stromberg
Help me, Billy!”
“My name isn’t, Billy, Mr.Talley.”
“Help me, Billy!” “I’m fucked up.”
“I’m here for you, my brother.”
“There’s no time like, Talley time.”
“Help me, Billy!” “I got dementia and cancer.” “Help me, Lord!” “Vietnam is calling!” “Help me, Billy!”
“I got you, Mr.Talley.” “I got you.”
Feeding, Mr.Talley
Cleaning up, Mr.Talley.
One week later, Mr.Talley was rushed to the hospital
He died at the old age of 85
50 years of incarceration
From Eastern State Penitentiary
To SCI Graterford
SCI Phoenix
To heaven
I wished I could have helped Mr.Talley more
A CPS and hospice worker can only do so much
I did the best I could
Bullshit
By Larry Stromberg
Franco always talked that bullshit
Conniving the world with smooth words
Conning every lady out of their pants
Selling that crack, enjoying the game
Still talking that bullshit
Stabbing everybody in the back to gain the world
Smoking that trash, killing his brain cells
Gunning those down that crossed his name
Franco loved the flash and the fast life
High out of his damn mind
Screaming out that bullshit
Even when they gunned him down to the ground at the age of 23
I Should Have Listened
By Larry Stromberg
At times, I still hear your sweet voice
All your dreams, goals and ambitions
Those craving needs
Sometimes I would listen intently
Other times, I was consumed with my own agenda
I wouldn’t give a damn
I should have listened
It pushed you away
Now, your gone forever
I’m all alone, caught in the razor wire
I still hear your voice, my love
I’m listening intently now
Even from the other side
God’s Work
By Larry Stromberg
A hurting world needs a hero
People ordained to help the downcast and dying
Bringing hope to this fallen world-Real superheroes are doing God’s work
Feeding the starving
Caring for the broken
Showing love to those at death’s door
Freeing the abused, used and abused
Releasing the oppressed
Hope for the orphans and all widows
This is our reasonable duty
Doing God’s work
CPS- Certified Peer Support Specialist
By Larry Stromberg
One with a mental health background
Now, helping those with the same condition
At times, saving a life on the verge of suicide
Giving a good word to help overcome the urge of addiction
Stopping a major crisis
Or, just being a real friend
A CPS can make a difference
Even among the darkness
I’m grateful to be a CPS
Even in the penitentiary
Just Smile
By Larry Stromberg
There’s many different types of smiles
A joyful smile
The smile of jubilation
A lustful smile
Angry smile of fury
The smile of betrayal
Smile of shame
A guilty smirk
Smiling in the hardship
Proudful smile
There’s nothing like a loving smile
I seen my love ones smiling in the coffin
Smiling in death
It’s best to smile through the journey of life and death
Whatever comes forth- Just smile…just smile
What a Day!
By Larry Stromberg
No one ever knew, Art was sick with the cancer
Even while caring for others on their own deathbed
Deteriorating into the shell of the man he used to be
On the deathbed himself
Granted compassionate release days away from death
A chance to be with his loved ones for his last days on Earth
Seeing the world not behind the barb wire and the concrete walls anymore
Freedom came his way
Skin and bones, leaving broken in a wheelchair
Held by his beautiful family- Remorse deep in his heart
“What a day, Art!” when you finally step into glory
The Magical Forest of Old
By Larry Stromberg
Inhale the Magical Forest of Old. What history does it all hold? it’s stories and tales, they need to be told. This Magical Forest of Old. Me and my faithful friends, (Spartacus and Bandit) entered the dense wilderness on Christmas eve off Kelley Drive back in 1995. We were filled with appreciation and adoration for the Magical Forest of Old. I was dressed for the occasion and the adventure at hand. Hence, we began our travels of the endless trail of gravel, stone and dirt that was covered with a fresh layer of snow. Footprints were visible along the trail from the creatures of the forest. Loud sounds of ice cracking was heard in the distance. We knew we were not alone. Icicles that seemed to be carved from the hand of God hung high above from the monstrous trees of old. These historical trees stood tall. They’re known as the Ancients. It seemed like they were alive and watching us as we passed each one by. Perhaps, they were protecting us, leading us on our destination on this wonderful Christmas eve. I took a deep breath, exhaled and seen my breath in the Winter chill. Then: two travelers passed us bye and said to me with much jubilation, “Merry Christmas to you, Sir!” I responded back with great jubilation, “Merry Christmas to you too, my friends! It is a White Christmas!” Then: they said to me in unison with greater jubilation, “It is indeed, Sir! lt is indeed!” And off they went, drifting, vanishing and disappearing into the Magical Forest of Old. Were these two travelers angels from above, showing me a sign of love? I pondered the thought… A deer moves in the distance. A glimpse of magnificence. In curiosity, my faithful friends want to run and have some fun. But they stay by my side. My loyal and faithful friends. My beautiful dogs. A light snow begins to fall. Snowflakes begins to gently fall on my face. Each snowflake is unique in its own creative design. A bright revelation to behold. Then: I begin to dwell on sweet memories of Christmas past. Beautiful memories of my mother and father. With my brother and two sisters. With my Grandparents, other family members and dear friends. With my wife and child now. With my faithful friends, (Spartacus and Bandit). Tears begin to drop from my eyes in gratitude. I look up upon the heavens above and say, “Thank you, Lord.” and I begin to sing so…so… softly, “Silent Night” to the Magical Forest of Old. I look upon the sun slowly coming down past the monstrous trees of old. The night is falling. Still, the snow had a glow to light our way back homeward. A Winter Wonderland. So, me and my faithful friends begin to travel back homeward. For it’s Christmas Eve! We have our family awaiting us. Hot Coco to drink. Cookies to eat and Christmas presents to wrap. For tomorrow is Christmas day! l say rejoice! Rejoice! So, me and my faithful friends travel back homeward. Maybe, one day we’ll return and travel these endless woods on and on again. So, I embrace the gift I received from the Magical Forest of Old off Kelley Drive back in 1995. The gift of love. That I’ve loved and been loved. Not to feel sorry for myself So, I inhale the Magical Forest of Old. What history does it hold? It’s stories and tales, they need to be told. This Magical Forest of Old. Merry Christmas, Magical Forest. I pray we meet again.
First Christmas in the Cage
By Larry Stromberg
It was my first Christmas behind bars
Depression overwhelmed me like a whirlwind
Why did I do this to others and myself?
Hopelessness had its grips on my mind, heart, and soul like a vice grip
Shivering in the tears
Then: something supernatural came from above
It reminded me that I’m loved
Think of your wonderful Christmas memories
The thrill of Christmas morning with my baby sister
Having a loving mother and father
The friendship of dogs and cats
Gatherings of family for the festive meal
Being married to the beautiful one
Helping those in need- It’s the memories that are precious
The greatest of all Christmas gifts
Even with my first Christmas in the cage
What Happened to Larry Stromberg?
By Larry Stromberg
From the surface it all seemed normal
A friendly, talented young man with a kind heart
Mix breed of Greek/Irish/German bloodline
Who loves his family and animals
A child of God
One never knows the darkness implanted by the trauma of abuse
Till it breaks free like a banshee
What happened to Larry Stromberg?
Never imagined this young man would dwell in the lifelong cage
His victim’s family members may never forgive him
That’s understandable- He’s still trying to forgive himself
At least, God has forgiven him
Mental Health doesn’t discriminate
All of his accomplishments are listed on the internet
Occasionally, you’ll find Larry Stromberg on the theatrical stage at SCI Phoenix
That’s where he comes alive like an innocent child with eyes wide open
Sleepwalking
By Larry Stromberg
Stepping among the shadows
Street moving Unconsciously
Zombie intoxicated eyes
Dancing in the mist
Drifting in the darkness
I’m sleepwalking through life
Because my reality is devastating
Medication has gripped my brain
Camouflaged
My soul is still there
Hidden in the shell
Decompress
By Larry Stromberg
Ease back
Take a deep breath
Find your resting place
The quiet zone
Relax the mind
Let the stress go
Decompress
Regulate the blood
Allow peace to flow
It’s health to the body
Soothing the brain
Life for your soul
Hunger
By Larry Stromberg
Easy way to the divine when things glow bright
Adversity pulls many away into the darkness
Starving for an Angelic encounter
Something beyond the stratosphere
Hunger!
Even between the shades
Demons want to feast on the human soul
Devouring life forces ferociously
Eat the word!- Feed your spirit
The Creator is waiting for you!
Mr. Poet
By Larry Stromberg
Destructive lifestyle almost put him six feet under
An alcoholic at the age of twelve
Drug and sex addict as well
The streets his home
Rehab was a regular address for this dirty dude
An abuser and devious user
One crazy day, picked up a pen and paper while high as a kite
Writing rymms with rhythm illuminated his eyes
His words changed the world- Became a millionaire
Loved being a player with the ladies
Now, he makes love to his poems
Caressing every word
Mr. Poet became a legend
An Icon
Enjoying his influential creative thing
Suddenly, he just died
The world mourned
Don’t be sad
Mr. Poet’s words now live forever
Even in the hereafter
Life Teaches
By Larry Stromberg
From birth to death, everyday is educational
Even when we travel the uncharted waters, there’s knowledge to be learned
Lessons in the unimaginative
Relationships to be experienced
A reason for success or failure
Love to grasp
Happiness to feel
Spiritual understanding for the student
Some things we’ll never comprehend
Moment by moment, walking into the unknown
Unless, you believe in a astrological future
A living classroom, even for the addicted
Life teaches, from the cradle to the grave
A diploma of being- Our professor into the everlasting
Unseen Protector
By Larry Stromberg
Smashed in the head with a baseball bat
Molested as a child, beaten by abusers
Almost drowned in the deep end
Saved my baby sister from the evil bastards
Warned of my predictable sins
Protected in the cage for decades
Losing those I adored
Survived the murderous pandemic
Something kept me safe through the storms of life
An unseen protector assigned to me
A Guardian angel that we all have
Believe it or not, it’s there
Whatever it is, it’s beyond comprehension
I’m just grateful it’s there
Remorseful Prisoner
By Larry Stromberg
I’m called by many names
Murderer- Insane
Guilty
Inmate
I hate all those terms
What I am is a remorseful prisoner
A redemption dreamer
Fantasizer of family restoration
Past traveler
Loser of time
Spiritual Warfare
By Larry Stromberg
The night has fallen once again
Darkness is all around, consuming the land
What hides in the darkness?
What watches us with unseen eyes?
What lurks waiting to destroy us all in the supernatural?
The demons from hell!
They want to infest our minds
Control our actions
Feast on our sins
Thriving to possess and murder all of mankind
All under Satan’s command
Taking souls to the Lake of Fire
I’m scared to death
Chills run up and down my spine
Fear has frozen me
Where is the light in the darkness?
Where is the safety and divine direction?
Where are the angels sent by God to protect us?
It’s the battle in the supernatural for my soul
I’m asking for the Lord’s help in the spiritual war
The blood of Christ has made me more than a conqueror!
I’m the Lord’s warrior!
The word of God is my defense
My faith has kept me alive
It’s the only way in the end, in this war, Known as…Spiritual Warfare
Psychological Shapeshifter
By Larry Stromberg
Ride the lightning of your mind
It’s smooth being a Psychological Shapeshifter
Be who you want to be in any dimension
It doesn’t matter who the hell you are
Shift deep in the psyche to escape a cold reality
It’s smooth being a Psychological Shapeshifter
Kill the past horrors
Ride the lightning of your mind
Save the future with your shift
Rescue a beautiful woman in distress
Make love to her during your shift
It’s smooth being a Psychological Shapeshifter
Be bold as a lion!
Surf a Great White Killer!
Have fame and money beyond comprehension
Your life will never be the same
The world is yours-in your brain!
It’s smooth being a Psychological Shapeshifter
Ride the lightning of your mind
Beautiful Workout
By Larry Stromberg
500 push-up’s in!
The sun beating down on my bald head
With each repetition, the stress is dissolving away
Jumping Jacks has improved my heartrate
Pull-up’s have prolonged my life
I feel like a mighty warrior
at least for one hour out of the day
Freedom in the exercising moment
It’s my beautiful workout
Only God Knows
By Larry Stromberg
Endured a disfunctional/abusive childhood
The odds were never on my side
Committed a crime of insane passion
Sentenced to Death by incarceration
All my dreams ended that day of punishment
Every petition filed denied for relief
Losing those I love
Dying in remorse
Found refuge in Prison theater
Helping the mentally ill, such as myself
Aiding to the sick and dying
The decades have gone bye to fast to comprehend
Will I ever see the sun again beyond these prison walls?
Only God knows
Level 5
By Larry Stromberg
Home of the assaultive ones
A prison within a prison
Darker than the RHU
Even worse than Death Row
Locked down like a caged animal
The shit throwers are there
Lifers who murdered their cellies for a Z code
It’s the last rodeo for the escape artists, cell rapers and guard killers
This is Level 5
Dehumanization is the code there
A cold place that shows no mercy
It’s hell on Earth, even for the one’s with remorse in their hearts
It laughs at Mental Health issues
Level 5 never changes
Doesn’t care
It just sucks the life out of you!
Wildfire
By Larry Stromberg
Blazing fury destroying a dream-A wasteland of emotional rubble
My soul burnt to a crisp
The third degree burns may take a lifetime to heal
Is this the abomination of desolation to my spirit?
The recovery is a mountain to climb
Wildfire- It’s trying to put me six feet deep
I’m fighting to stand on my feet again
The struggle is immense
I hope this inspires someone
Serves some kind of purpose
If not, I failed completely
Mr. Box
By Larry Stromberg
A cool cat gliding with soul
Immense wisdom his demeanor
Loved grooving to a tune
Cherished every family member, never forgetting a name
Incarcerated severely by a condemning system
Never gave up the fight for freedom
Redemption always was his sight
Even with no light in the horizon
Faith and education his only escape-
Diagnosed terminal with the cankerworm
Hospice in an infirmary cell
Praying for compassionate release
47 years in, denied on his death bed
No mercy for a lifer with remorse in his heart
Death flying Mr. Box away- He finally made it home
The Mud
By Larry Stromberg
Ages of shame wearies the soul of a human being
It takes its toll on the health of an individual
I count the days, years and decades living in the mud
I’m fighting to forgive myself- It’s taking me a lifetime
Theme
By Larry Stromberg
Lone highway, walking the steps of life
Existence’s theme…one breath at a time
Knowing that one breath will be the last
Life’s a gift, so is death- Enjoy the blessings, face the struggles
There must be a purpose in it all
You
By Larry Stromberg
I have something to say to you! I’ve been living with this pain for decades! I’ve been holding it in all of my life, never saying a word to anyone. You said to me, “That if I say a word, a cross will burn on my chest! That I would burn in hell forever!” I believed those words. These words have haunted me deep in my psyche. Twisted my soul. You molested me as a child, over and over again! I was frozen in fear when you raped me. I was full of terror when you always said, “I could murder you with ease.” I never said a word. Never told my parents. Just learned to live with the pain. My dark secret. The overwhelming shame, feeling like something was wrong with me. My mind was damaged because of you! You took my innocence from me! I fantasize putting a bullet in your brain! Slicing your throat deep! Breaking every bone in your body! Burning you at the stake! I’ve hated you all of my life. The nightmares wake was me up screaming every night. You did this to me! I can’t trust anybody! Fucking nobody! I never got any help to deal with this hidden horror in my heart, mind and soul. Maybe, that’s why I ended up in the cage for murdering two people. A double life death by incarceration prison sentence. I lost control of myself. A psychotic breakdown. My mind snapped and I killed two good human beings that I loved dearly. I became a monster just like you! I’m forever remorseful for what I did. For taking two lives off Earth in my madness. I can’t blame you for what I did. I’m accountable for my crimes. Are you? Do you think about what you did to me? Maybe, what you did to others? Will you ever take responsibility for your horrendous actions? Or, do you enjoy living with the dark secret? I’m telling others what you did! I have to do this to find peace and healing. I’m trying to find a way to forgive you. I’m trying t forgive myself. It may take me a lifetime to do so…a ruined life…my ruined life.
Single Cell
By Larry Stromberg
I’ve been forced to live in a box with another human being for decades
Celly after celly
Some became some of my best friends in this life
Others, just respected my space, as I did theirs
But for now, I’ve been given a single cell while working hospice during the pandemic at SCI Phoenix
It’s been a time of reflection and deep thought
How can I not think about my life as I see others slowly die before my eyes?
How fast my life has gone bye!
Being by myself, writing has been my focus
Stories I just pushed to the side, have come to life on the page
There’s a reason for my single cell time
Finishing every play, screenplay and poem that I’ve been predestined to accomplish
My season of intense writing
I better hurry up, before they double me up again!
Unconditional
By Larry Stromberg
You’re the essence of divine love
Never gave up on me as I fell from grace
I’m blessed that you unconditionally love me
Forgave me for the past- Made my future bright clear
You’re the true miracle of my life
Shiver
By Larry Stromberg
There’s a presence that lingers around me
It follows me everywhere
Stalking my existence
Watching my every move
Puts shivers down my spine
Has me on high alert
This shadow figure
I’m no longer a skeptic of the supernatural
It’s forced me to believe
Never
By Larry Stromberg
Should have done this!
Should have done that!
Never done the unforgivable
It rolls around in my head as the Earth moves constantly
I don’t have a cold heart
Just a heart of sorrow
I Just Laugh
By Larry Stromberg
I laughed at my Father’s stupid jokes
My Mother’s fancy clothes
My sister yelling at me
My dog’s running in the snow
My cat’s chasing the yarn
My wife’s crazy laugh
I laugh at myself at times
Flashing memories put a smile on my heart
I just laugh )
POC
By Larry Stromberg
Fury rattles the brain schizophrenia.
Psychiatry is a foreign language.
Demons are whispering friends, angels a refuge,
masturbation relieves temporarily.
Isolated for weeks that never end,
the eye in the sky watches every move.
Styrofoam trays come timely as I shed the pounds.
My appearance turns barbaric as I drift into oblivion,
controlled by pharmaceuticals, wrapped naked in a vest.
I scream and the guilt turns insane.
Drowning in vomit, forgotten by those that condemned me,
my soul shivers into madness.
Just another day in the Protective Observation Cell.
By Larry Stromberg
Every turn of life is like the wind
Times of stillness capturing the moment
A calm breeze to soothe the soul
Strong winds moving life from destination to destination
Howling air destroying everything in its path
Here, there, everywhere and then the silence
Life resembles the wind
Roads we all travel with every heartbeat
Changing our lives from day to day
Lost Love
By Larry Stromberg
I did love a woman once
Adoration beyond measure
Now, she’s gone forever
It’s called lost love
Only the memories remain
Will I ever love again?
Guilt pushes that thought away
Age is slowly consuming my life
I’m left to live in the magnificent pain
Everything else is forever changed
Loyal Friends
By Larry Stromberg
I was blessed to have many four-legged furry friends in my youth
Every one of them loved me unconditionally
My dogs and cats brought me so much joy into my life
I think about all my furry friends as I endure this incarceration
All those memories walking, running and resting by my side
I love and miss every one of them
I see their happy faces in my dreams
Dogs and cats have to be in heaven too
Running on the clouds of eternity
That day is coming when I will see them all again in that great reunion
My loving and loyal friends
Prison Mind
By Larry Stromberg
Captive as a child by the sickness of abuse- Incarcerated by tremendous fear
My mind controlled by an unseen force
The demons are truly real- Welcome to the Prison Mind
My thoughts wrapped around the razor wire
I’m lost in the fog that never ends
There is no escape, no freedom at the horizon
The past suffocates me
The images play over and over again in my head
My blood pressure rising to a boiling point
Hypertension pushes for a stroke
Regret wants to take my life
Only falling to my knees relieves the torment
I surrender to a peaceful prayer, that moment of clarity
When I stand back on my feet, the battles rages on!
The reality of my brain
The Magical Forest of Old
By Larry Stromberg
Part 1
Inhale the Magical Forest of Old. What history does it all hold? Its stories need to be told. This Magical Forest of Old.
Me and my faithful friends (Spartacus and Bandit) entered the dense wilderness on Christmas eve off of Kelly Drive back in 1995.
We were filled with appreciation and adoration for the Forest of Old- I was dressed for the occasion and the adventure at hand.
Hence, we began our travels on the endless trail of gravel, stone and dirt that was covered with a fresh thick layer of snow.
Footprints were visible along the trail from the creatures of the forest. Loud sounds of ice cracking was heard in the distance. We knew we were not alone.
Icicles that seemed to be carved from the hand of God hung high above from the monstrous trees of old. These historical trees stood tall. They were known as the Ancients.
It seemed like they were alive and watching us as we passed each one bye. Perhaps, they were protecting us; leading us on our destination on this wonderful Christmas eve.
I took a deep breath. Exhaled and seen my breath in the Winter chill.
Then two travelers passed us bye and they said to me with jubilation, “Merry Christmas to you, sir!”
I responded back with great jubilation, ” Merry Christmas to you too, my friends! It is a White Christmas!”
Then they said to me in unison with greater jubilation, “It is indeed, sir! It is indeed!”
And off they went vanishing, drifting and disappearing into the White Magical Forest of Old. Were they two travelers angels from above showing me a sign of love? ” I pondered the thought.”
A deer moves in the distance. A glimpse of magnificence. In curiosity, my faithful friends want to run and have some fun. But, they stay by my side. My loyal and loving friends. My faithful dogs.
Part 2
A light snow begins to fall. Snowflakes begin to gently fall on my face. Each snowflake is unique in it’s own created design. A bright revelation to behold.
Then I begin to dwell on memories of Christmas past.
Beautiful memories with my Mother and Father, who I adore.
With my brother and my sisters. My amazing siblings.
With my loving Grandparents.
Other family members and dear friends.
With my family now, (my wife and child) and with my faithful friends, (Spartacus and Bandit.) Tears drop from my eyes with gratitude. I finally realized, that I have loved and I have been loved.
This is the gift I received at the Magical Forest of Old on that Christmas eve back in 1995. The gift of love. Not to feel sorry for myself.
I looked up to the heavens above and I say, “Thank you, Lord!” and I begin to sing so softly to the Magical Forest of Old.
I look up upon the monstrous trees of old and I see the sun coming down.
The night is falling. But, the snow had a glow to light our way back homeward for me and my faithful friends.
For it is Christmas eve. We have our family awaiting us. Hot Coco to drink, cookies to eat and Christmas presents to wrap. For tomorrow is Christmas day! Rejoice! I say, “Rejoice!”- So, me and my faithful friends travel back homeward safely.
Maybe, one day we’ll return and travel these endless woods on and on and on.
So, I inhale the Magical Forest of Old. What history does it all hold? It’s stories and tales need to be told. This Magical Forest of Old.
Merry Christmas, Magical Forest.
I pray we meet again.
Disappointment
By Larry Stromberg
Sometimes my hopes reach sky high
I’m floating on cloud nine
Dreams seem to rise up like a Phoenix
Only to come crashing down with destruction
A vast wasteland of ashes left in the ruins
It’s difficult to recover from the emotional distress
Each fall causes more damage to the heart
But, the fighter in me seems to keep pressing on
I’ve been to hell and back and then some
Guided by faith and hope alone
I’ll follow the light in the darkness-
Enlightenment is the pathway to glory
Movie Covid-19 Junkie
By Larry Stromberg
I’ve watched movie after movie during this Covid-19 prison lockdown
I’ve laughed my ass off
Cried like a baby
Fascinated by high adventure
Rode the wild west
Been to space and beyond
Battled monsters and faced pure evil
Living in the drama
Now, I’ve been writing my own screenplays
Maybe, one will be made into a film someday
They say dreams do come true
The Bunyan
By Larry Stromberg
I hate this thing
It’s hideous
Simply grotesque!
A gristly pest!
It’s embarrassing!
It sticks the hell out!
It’s always there!
Smiling at me!
Laughing at me!
Mocking me!
I try to hide this thing!
How the hell did I get this thing?
No bare feet for me!
It’s sock city!
At the beach and the swimming pool
Even in the bedroom
I gotta buy wide shoes!
It’s a pain in the ass!
My freaking Bunyan!
I need to cut you the hell off!
Discipline
By Larry Stromberg
If you got a dream deep in your soul
Strive each day to fulfill it
Discipline yourself to be the best you can be
Don’t let anyone or anything discourage you
The haters will always be there
So will the angels guiding you to never give up
By reaching your goal, your life has so much more meaning
The day you stop dreaming, is the day you die
So, dream!
Discipline yourself and dream big!
Prison World
By Larry Stromberg
Trapped in the bars of my mind
Addiction has feasted on my soul
Obsession controlling my thoughts
Incarcerated within my world
A dark cloud hovers over me
I’m searching for the light
My prefrontal cortex is on lockdown
Welcome to Prison World
I gotta break free, plan my escape
Release myself from the bondage
Riot my emotions
Next step, death row, if I don’t break the chains of oppression
I must look into the eyes of reality
Accept rehabilitation and embrace my recovery
Learn to forgive all, including myself
Accountability and responsibility is my motto of truth
Atonement lays at my fee
Freedom calls my name
The Entry
By Larry Stromberg
There are multiple doors upon me
Which one do I open and enter in?
Curiosity pushing the nerve
An entry with different outcomes
The door of confusion and the unknown
The door of grimace and of death
The door of hope and embracing peace
Which door do I open?
It may decide my future and my fate
A question one must ask themselves
Knowing one door is the entrance of life and the other to the grave
The consequences are real
The joy, shame or pain
I hope we all decide to choose the correct door
History shows what doors chosen from generation from generation
The harmony and horror
Please, chose wisely
Take it from me, one who chose foolishly decades ago
Now, I’m striving for the entry of redemption
Grace is my latitude for evermore
Transparent
Thank you, Johnny
Daylight
By Larry Stromberg
I miss the sunlight
Punishment for my transgressions
This hopeless cell darkens the soul
Dreaming for another day of daylight
Day by day, month after month
The years go bye and the painful decades follow
Only the strong endure, if their lucky
So, I do my push-up’s and pretend to be the warrior I’m not
Long Suffering
By Larry Stromberg
Things beyond my control has backed me against a wall
Caught in the cement
My mind racing without mercy
Where do I go from here?
Patience must be the answer
Take it all one step at a time, breath by breath
Praying that things get better
If not, salvation comes through death
With each weary moment, that seems to be the solution
Melt the pain, given mercy
Some things are deeper than others
It’s impossible to let it go
Life ruined with senseless actions
Bright exposes reality
Illuminated in the blood
Living in the shit
The dark star finds rest
Crash and Burn
By Larry Stromberg
The virus is among us like a demoniac force
Spreading like a fatal wildfire
It could come for you and me
The Apocalypse of our time, crash and burn
Panic, confusion and sorrow throughout the land
Tomorrow may be our last day
Trust the Holy one to defeat the pandemic
The New Normal
By Larry Stromberg
Welcome to the New Normal
Social distancing must be practiced
Life will never be the same again
The reason: Covid-19
A relentless virus in it’s assault
The infection doesn’t discriminate
City streets around the world are deserted
The economy is at a stand still
Thousands and thousands are dying everywhere
What is the future for the human race? The unknown is the answer
Welcome to the New Normal
Distant Fever
By Larry Stromberg
Isolated among the insanity
Trying to keep the darkness away
I have the distant fever
The sickness is consuming the world
Keep me and my loved one’s safe in a secret location
Safe in the bubble- Our prayers answered from the distance
Another Way
By Larry Stromberg
My friend died today
COVID-19 took his last breath away
This man was incarcerated for decades and decades
Hoping for his second chance back into society
A resident filled with tremendous remorse
He went home another way
Zipped into a body bag
Rest in peace, my friend
Invisible Enemy
By Larry Stromberg
Seeking a host to infest
The disease takes it’s toll on the human soul
Suffocating the lungs
Morgues are filled with the dead
Is this the end of the world?
We still remain
But, the virus lives on
Must avoid it at all cost
This is war against the invisible enemy
We must find the cure!
Survivor
By Larry Stromberg
Sexual abused, like many others in this world
I’ve worn the face of shame, with so many to blame
Mental health is my stratosphere, tilted among the normal
An actor who wore many faces, never knowing his own
Murderer of madness with retroactive guilt
Wishing my steps had taken another path
Not the destroyer who left ruins
One who adores family, the living and the dead
Alone in the cage of condemnation
Fanasty of second chance, in life or death
Whatever comes first
VIRUS
By Larry Stromberg
THE VIRUS HAS BITTEN ME IN THE ASS
I CAN’T CONTROL MY BOWELS, IT HURTS LIKE HELL
MY HOUSE SMELLS LIKE A SEWER
PEOPLE ARE DYING EVERYWHERE
PANIC AND CHAOS HAS CONSUMED THE WORLD
IS THIS THE APOCALYPSE, BEGINNING OF SORROWS?
I’M READY TO FIGHT TILL THE BITTER END
COME WHAT MAY, DEATH AND DESTRUCTION
MAY FAITH IS IN THE LORD ALONE
The Inmate
Here For The Ride
By Larry Stromberg
What can I say to God, that hasn’t been said before?
The Great Spirit sees everything
Wisdom all knowing
I’m just a mere mortal with many questions
From heartbreak to jubilation
The more you live, the more you lose
A plan of perfection, destiny designed in advance
Guide me with purpose
Footsteps in reflection
Earth and all universes belong to the Creator
Just like everything else
I’m here for the ride
A rollercoaster it has been
Life to death, death to life
I’m ready for my rest
In You
By Larry Stromberg
Be a blessing, make a difference
Let the world see God living through you
Even the unbeliever will notice this grace
Throw away the coldness of heart, war against evil and the blackness of chase
Hold a dying hand and always touch a tear
Can anyone question that love?
This is how the Lord can be seen
Experienced- In You)(Empty Regret
My choices long ago break me
All the people I hurt- Things I’ve said
What I destroyed
Never to change
They consume my soul
I’ve learned to live in the loss
A sinking heart
It drives me to help the hurting
I must redeem myself someway
That’s my only consultation
Raise a broken vessel by my empty regret
Ruined Kiss
By Larry Stromberg
I still taste her kiss
Like the sweetness of honey
Passionate lips on lips
Devouring love making
Wild appetite
The one I adore
The kiss of a wedding day
Ruined
Happiness consumed dark by sinister addiction
Wicked Warfare
Betrayal becomes tragedy
Gone forever as I taste the bitterness of the cage
Screams
By Larry Stromberg
They torment me in the middle of the night
Punish my mind
Rattle my soul
Bring me to my knees in guilt
My victims’ screams- I still hear their agony
Can’t forgive myself
I never will
Help me, God!
This is something I have to live with
The screams from he lives I took
Why me?
By Larry Stromberg
I didn’t want to be raped as a boy
I didn’t want to be hurt that way
I don’t want these emotional scars for life
I don’t like looking at the world in dark lenses
I don’t want to be afraid anymore
I hate being on the edge of madness
I know I’m not the only one
Millions and millions have endured this horror
Many more will from the demons that control the human mind
But, I still ask myself, “Why me?”
Maybe, we all ask that question?
I guess, life at times isn’t fair at all
I just have to overcome
And survive and the hurting world the best that I can
Dead Faces
By Larry Stromberg
These faces flash across my mind
Those I’ve known quickly or in length of time
They told me stories of incarceration
Tired eyes and broken bones
Sickness eating the flesh away
Wanting a friend in the closeness of death
Hands reaching for some comfort
Dead faces in the end
Looking directly into my eyes
Dolls eyes, so still, as the silence takes over
It’s life changing to experience
How can I not question immortality?
These dead faces were my friends
My family
What matters most are friendships along the way
Love
Those we’ve known quickly or in length of time
After all, we’ll all be dead faces in the end
But love never dies
Desensitized
By Larry Stromberg
They broke me! Raped me! Made me into the monster I am
Empathy doesn’t exist to me
Compassion is gone from my mind
Love has disappeared
Killers don’t feel
Only eliminate
I feel nothing
Show no mercy
I am desensitized
I’m lying to myself
I long for love
Weep deep into the night
Want to be forgiven
Maybe, I’m already dead inside
Maze
By Larry Stromberg
Fatal choices put me here
Guilty without mercy
Abandoned among the condemned
This maze has me confused
I’m lost in the darkness
Death at every turn
It’s impossible to find a way out
Blockage stops my freedom
Which move takes me to the light
Is this my fate?
I have to endure
Unless a miracle guides me to redemption
Pizza Maker
By Larry Stromberg
The greatest man I’ve ever known was a simple man
A Honest man who loved his wife and children
A provider who respected his Mother and Father
Protected his brothers and sister
Helped anyone in need
Loved walking his dogs in the rain
Prayed on his knees deep in the night
A silly prankster
Told crazy jokes with a belly laugh
This man was my Father, the pizza maker
How I stood in awe as a boy as my Father threw the pizza dough high in the air at the pizza shop
All in slow motion as time stood still
Till he caught the dough with ease with a beautiful smile on his face. Dad knew I was watching
He knew he was my hero
I miss our conversations about movies and baseball
I long to look into his bright blue eyes once again
I remember how it broke my heart to see him cry when Grandmother and Grandfather died
Yes, he had his imperfections, as we all do
It didn’t matter to me, his son
Dad could do no wrong in my eyes
I can’t wait to see him again someday in the land that never ends
I dream about that never ending day- But, for now, this is the man I strive to be like
My Father, Larry, Sr, the pizza maker
Mother Warrior
By Larry Stromberg
The strongest person I’ve ever known is my Mother
A Greek Goddess who sings like an angel
Emotionally and sexually abused as a little girl by a twisted step mother and demented step brothers
Her Father dragged to death by river currents
Then abandoned to the streets by hateful soul
On her own as a child with nowhere to go
Never knowing her Mother’s love correctly
Worked on her own to survive
Met a pizza maker, fell in love and then married at the age of 18
Kept her vow to God to stay pure for the love of her life, my Father
She bore four children, loving them all equally with a pure heart
Two died as infants
Devastating for a Mother to endure
Protected the other two with the fight
Defended her husband and children with fury of a warrior
Would not back down to any foe
She recorded a album
Faced heavy trials and tribulations beyond comprehension
Still fighting the good fight of faith
Always praying to the Holy One for guidance, comfort and hope for a better tomorow
My Mother faced the passing of her Father, Mother, Husband and Daughter with heavy tears
Deep sorrow and loss
Her Son incarcerated with a Death by incarceration sentence
Raised her Granddaughter on her own
Proud of the young lady she has become
Never stopped living her own song
My Mother Warrior never stopped loving me, even when the world condemned me
Yes, she made her mistakes in life, as we all have
Rivers of regrets
My Mother and Father are my best friends in this life
I adore my Warrior Mother
I’ll love her throughout all eternity
She can do no wrong in my eyes
She’s a child of the Most High
She’s been there for me even when I fell from grace
Unwavering love is God’s love
A Mother’s love
I’m thankful for my Warrior Mother, Diane
A gift from the heavens above
Rhythm
By Larry Stromberg
All of life must have a rhythm
Heartbeats pounding, Stars exploding, Whales singing and Children laughing
Like a favorite song to drift away while being Comfortably Numb
Do we fly away with the Song of Angels to eternity when our time is complete?
Reaching the Empire!
Does Hell have a song of agony?
The Torment of a Holy Diver!
Or, do we all become Comatose with the Sound of Silence?
What is the real song of Vengeance?
The Sweetness of Love?
Maybe, it’s the rhythm that sets us all free
Makes us all feel alive- Even for just one short moment
God’s Timing
By Larry Stromberg
I’ve learned that nothing happens unless it’s sifted through the hands of God
The Good and the Bad
I can’t explain why
This is a mystery indeed
I can only trust in God’s timing
It’s perfect indeed
Whatever comes, there’s a reason that will be unfolded
Then I’ll be understood as pure Gold
Socket Man
By Larry Stromberg
A simple trash man by trade
Bullied because of his name
Lenny Whanger never got layed
A loser who never got payed
Always drunk, smelling like a skunk
Wanting his world to end, screaming, “Why me?!”
He stuck his rocket in a socket
It was way out of pocket
Lite up like a Christmas tree
Thousands of Volts zipping through his body!
Roaring Raging thunder!
Transforming amazing
Power beyond measure, flashing quickness
A New Superhero, Socket Man is born
Taking down criminals with a jolt
His motto, ” Good deeds with lightning speed!”
Superman and Spiderman are nothing compared to him
Wonder Women loves his electric slide
Socket Man isn’t a virgin anymore
Streaking across the night protecting all of mankind
When the Weary Rest
By Larry Stromberg
There’s a point in life when living becomes a burden
When the weary long for their final resting place
The breathing years have taken it’s toll on the human soul
The trials and tribulations are to much and it’s time to just fly away
Be thankful for the love moments embedded into the human psyche
Our lives designed with a purpose
We may not understand the sphere of reason
Why we are here for only a season
The time will arrive to travel to our everlasting destination
Where we will experience the archway of true prospective
So, I ask myself, when will my soul take flight?
When will I find my home sweet home that’s pure?
I’m Grateful
By Larry Stromberg
I’m grateful for those who have stood by my side all these years, decades, being incarcerated
Grateful for dear family and friends for being there for me through it all
Some loved ones have passed into the next life, others are still here
These are the people who truly love me
There are many who were my friends out in society who have walked away, never to be seen again
They disappeared into the stratosphere
It is said, “The ones who stand by your side, no matter what, are the ones who truly care for you. The ones who vanish are the ones who never cared for you.”
Be grateful for the ones who do care
This is a gift from the creator
Blessings from the heavens above
This is what love is all about
Even if only one person was there for you, you are blessed
I’m grateful
Thankful
I’m forever grateful
Mom and Dad
By Larry Stromberg
Michelle and I were always under a watchful eye
Especially, after Shawn and Diane died
Our brother and sister taken from this world
Mom and Dad blessed us with the best they could afford
We were loved. Happy as children should be
It wasn’t their fault we were ravished by the dark souls
Madness beyond our parent’s control
Mom and Dad made sure their little ones were never touched again
They protected us even more with the fight
Christmas time was dazzling at our home
I always say, “To look at Christmas through the eyes of a child.
The wonder and magic of it all.
They were more than just my parents. They were my true friends
How time has a way of parting waves
It’s a shame we are apart nowadays
Only memories captured deep in my mind
My love stored throughout time
Frozen Time
Me and my brother didn’t want to be abused by the dark souls
Chaotic Recovery
Angelic
By Larry Stromberg
There are beings protecting this world
Seen and Unseen angels from above
Celestials on glorious missions ordained by Father Divine
They are everywhere guarding you and me
Open your senses to understand why
Demonic
By Larry Stromberg
There are beings destroying the world
Seen and Unseen demons from below
Evil spirits on murderous missions ordered by the father of lies
They are everywhere oppressing you and me
Open your senses to understand why
Incarcerated Death
By Larry Stromberg
Anchored in dung
Drowning in excruciating regret
Bed Ridden
Riddled with a malignant tumor to the brain
Gang Green
Decubitus ulcer spread so damn wide
Locked in a systematic box
Controlled by a massive financial key
Will the others get a chance to be free?
Sometimes goodbye is a second chance
This is the existence of the condemned
Demise
By Larry Stromberg
Death isn’t far behind
A line we all must cross
Do you pay it any thought?
You’d be lying if you didn’t
Its alive in our conscience
I think of my Demise
An appointed occasion- How, where and when?
Leave a good legacy
Accept the fate
The angel of death is coming
There is no escape
Our final ride to the other side
Way beyond
Unseen
By Larry Stromberg
Days fly bye with lighting speed
Nights vanish into darkness
The world spins into another tomorrow
I stand in the middle of nowhere
People come and go with a heartless “Hello”
Alone in my make believe wonderland
Invisible to the naked eye
To be honest, I like it that way
Unseen
Dark before dawn
Angels fall to my side
Let the creativity flow
Use my blood to do so
Praying on my knees makes me feel free
I’m tired at looking at all these medicated zombies
Ghosts from my past haunt me
Maybe, I’m really insane
I’m acquainted with all suffering
My melodramatic theory
No awaking serendipity sightseeing
Silhouette the fire
Let me be finally seen in the flames
Crossing the Bridge
By Larry Stromberg
I have a broken mind
Mental health holds me captive
Limits horizons
Psychological quicksand pulling me under
Suffocating setbacks
I cannot banish myself
Warriors battle on
Crossing the bridge
Determined to overcome this struggle
For sometimes my pen flows swiftly
Slices through the darkness
It is the challenge I endure
I Wait
By Larry Stromberg
Where are you?
Where did you go?
When are you coming back, my friend?
Is this the end?
So, I wait.
Anticipating your presence.
For decades.
Years. I seek you for weeks.
I wait in the days.
Living in a haze.
Lost in a maze.
During the Chance of seasons.
Summer heat.
Falls of leaves.
The Winter chill and the Spring.
These bars I’m behind are a menace.
Condemned by a life long sentence.
I long for your presence.
Hope come back.
I don’t want this to be the end. So, I just wait.
The Happy Addict
By Larry Stromberg
My Dream For You
By Larry Stromberg
To my younger self
What a miracle it would be
If you could hear me
Don’t listen to the sound of madness
It’s the pathway of regret
The abuse is not your fault
Don’t let the trauma define you
Focus on the voice of peace
I know you can hear it’s tone of reason
A lifetime of harmony’s way
This is what I always wanted for you
You deserve it, my friend
We all do
Penitentiary Theater
By Larry Stromberg
Plays are my Psalms sung unto, God, someone once told me
Stories staged to bless the condemned
A portrait of deliverance or chaos, freeing the hopeless for just a few hours
We are all actors behind the razor wire
Moment by moment, one scene at a time
I feel alive portraying these roles
The struggles of the confined
This is where my redemption dwells
A revealed purpose to this mass population
Dedicated legacy defined
Castaway Kitten
By Larry Stromberg
Tossed away by abusive hands
There you were shivering on that freezing December night
Standing small on the cold cement by the K-Mart front doors
Helpless, starving with no where to call home
Our eyes met, there we would become friends in an instant
No more would you be a kitten castaway
I picked you up into my arms and brought you to your new home with me for a lifetime
A safe environment for a kitten like you to roam
Mr.T would be the name given to a striped Kittie such as you
Oh, how I adored you all the days and years we would spend together
I’m so glad I found you on that cold winter night
The day you died broke my heart in two
I believe animals are in heaven- It has to be true
I didn’t save you all those years ago, you saved me
My true friend forever
Broken Star
Life Behind The Razor
Prison Man
By Larry Stromberg
Created by a secret society
Chosen for a violent act
Captured from his dwelling
Stripped and tortured,
misappropriated on a cold steel slab
The mirco chip planted to regulate the mission
A mind prisoned by their total control
Experiment completed
Prison Man
Now a futuristic assassin
Recruited by this powerful organization
Now robotic
Their vision of domination
A greater goal will be achieved
More prison men
Women
Children
The New World Order’s mission
Prison World
Sojourner
By Larry Stromberg
Some call me friend.
Others call me their enemy.
I’ve loved.
Been loved.
Betrayed.
Hated by society.
Filled with remorse.
Creative.
Hidden from the world.
Abuse took my innocence away.
Encouragement has illuminated me to greater heights.
I’ve saved lives.
Taken others from this existence.
Dreamer.
Engulfed in hopelessness.
Great achievements.
Dreadful actions.
Risen above.
Fallen hard.
Perfect sane mind.
Mentally crazy I’ll.
I’ve worn every mask there is.
In the end, I’m a sojourner.
All of us are.
Here for a short time.
Then gone forever.
To a promised beyond land.
I am the blind King
By Larry Stromberg
Born without sight.
Natural to me.
I know no light.
Whispering voices and the braille teach me my path.
Blind victory is sweet to my senses.
I’ve arrived to rule the world.
You will see me.
Bow at my feet.
Fear my blind fury.
Blind’s Eye
By Larry Stromberg
Have you ever chose to deny a truth, while looking at it right in the eye?
Believing an illusion.
Agreeing with delusion.
Living with a lie.
Overwhelmed by fear?
That’s a Blind’s eye.
Like stealing from a friend.
Not stopping the molestation.
Laughing with an abusive husband.
Hiding the addiction.
Agreeing with a corrupt system.
Mocking the homeless.
Heartless to the fatherless.
Killing God’s creation.
Let the starving enter their graves.
Loving a wife who’s adulterous ways wants to drive you completely insane.
It’s all atrocious.
Maybe, in the end it’s all a spiritual issue to overcome.
That may open our eyes wide to face the truth, for what it really is.
It did for me.
Touched
By Larry Stromberg
Born into a world of chaos
Experiencing death and abuse at every turn- No fault of mine own
I became touched- This darkness followed me all of my life
Doing some things I forever regret
Living with destruction and decay
I long to see a grandeur day
Though, I struggle to continue on
I realize there may be something greater beyond the oblivion
Let the curse become the gift
May the gift help others overcome the curse
This is why I am touched
The One From End
By Larry Stromberg
Once I had a friend from the planet known as End.
A traveler from a galaxy millions of light years away. A strange foreign creature at first glance. Earthlings only saw a deranged looking foe.
Fear overwhelmed the human race with hate and indifference glancing at the one from End.
My alien companion was sent from the ruler of End to teach true love for all on Earth to know.
My friend preached on the importance of acceptance and against all racism,
standing there bold and proud being a citizen from the place of End.
The bitter mob mocked at the my friend and screamed out, “Death to the freak from End!”
They attacked, tortured and murdered the great from End.
Ripping the sent one from limb to limb.
A gruesome sight to see. I mourned without end.
Then: from the lifeless corpse came bright powerful lights of glory.
The mob screamed in terror.
The awesome one from End rose from the dead!
A enlightened purple light of royalty illuminated the whole Earth with a loving glow.
All fell to their knees with shame.
If one disobeyed the Great One’s command to love: His wrath they would know.
Then: in a flash he zoomed away, back to the home of End.
Our planet changed for the better for some time, the hate on Earth returned once again.
I await my Great friend’s return.
To finally bring all hate to it’s final end.
Frozen
By Larry Stromberg
My mind is not the same with continual rambling, rumbling and running of empty thoughts.
No rational reason impending, it feels like I’m going totally insane.
Living a life with lost directions, this world has changed.
I’ve changed.
What the hell is happening to me?
Thoughts frosted with no meaning.
Faces with no names.
Bent and distorted laughter filled with madness roaring in my head.
Sorry if I don’t remember you.
I don’t even know my own identity.
Stay the hell away from me!
Please don’t hurt me!
Fear has touched my ravished soul.
Where’s my Mother?
If only I could remember her face, her loving touch, hear her voice on the phone.
Will that help me make it back home?
Somebody please help me!
The ages of endless voids has brutalized my mental being.
Slowly fading away.
A traumatized dream or an exquisite nightmare?
This is the reality of one living with Alzheimer’s disease.
I’m even forgetting that I’m dying.
Maybe, that’s a good thing.
Holy Time
By Larry Stromberg
I met God in the deepness of the night.
No, I didn’t die and come back to life.
What a conversation we had.
I’ve been totally sworn not to disclose the dialogue between me and the Lord.
I can say that the King loves driving a Ford.
Making Holy judgement swinging a mighty sword.
Another thing the Great I Am explained to me is to trust in thee.
Then we both had a cup of Holy Water tea.
Man, I had to pee!
The Infinite One took of laughing, saying to me,
“Fall in love with Mercy, for Mercy first loved you.”
What a Holy time. I fell asleep.
Silenced
By Larry Stromberg
Nobody told me.
A dark secret.
My love didn’t tell me.
Broke my heart.
Revealed after you were terminated through a tube and thrown away like a piece of human waste. They murdered you!
If known, my stand for your life would have been taken.
You were never given a chance. Neither was I.
So many damn lies.
Our voices silenced.
What a joy it would have been to be your loving father.
Cherishing and adoring you.
Raising you, teaching and protecting you from every storm life brings.
Cheering you on through kindergarten, high school blaze
and those crazy college days with arms wide open.
Envisioning walking you down the church aisle hand in hand on your wedding day.
Beautiful birth of your children, the Grandfather I could have been.
Proud of the person you are. Taken away. I’m sorry for it all.
Why am I in so much torment about this all these decades ago?
I believe you would want me to go on. Honor you with my life.
Are you watching me from another dimension? Is your soul mature?
Will we hold each other in that different world someday?
Embracing soul to soul. I dream about that moment.
Dream deep. At least I still have that. A dream.
Reflections
By Larry Stromburg
Reflections on the cold steel, my image is revealed.
Complexity, diversity, adversity, hoping for mercy.
They say, ” The eyes are the window to the soul.”
I finally see myself for who I am.
Not what others may think of me.
Nor, what may think of myself.
For what I am.
Someone who is forever remorseful for what he’s done.
Someone who can’t the past. Even though I try to do so in my mind over and over again.
Someone who wants to help others from making the same horrible mistakes.
Someone who now wants to leave a good legacy when his time is over here on earth.
I’m sincerely okay with that.
The reflection is known.
Don’t Tell
By Larry Stromburg
Don’t Tell- Don’t whisper a word. Let it never be heard, as the rain was pouring down heavy. The thunder booming. Lighting flashing. The wind blowing strong with fury.
Don’t Tell- They said,
if you tell a cross will burn on your chest and you’ll end up in the depths of hell.
Don’t Tell- I was full of fear, don’t you hear? They did things to me over and over again.
Don’t Tell- I feared it would happen again. The night terrors haunted me with relentless force.
Like a never ending flaming torch.
Don’t tell.
Don’t whisper a word.
Let it never be heard.
“My truth broke the silence”
I had to Tell- Right is right. Harm is harm. The creator wants me to be free, so I could live on.
I had to Tell- I don’t have to live again in this hell. I’m not living in fear, do you hear?
I had to Tell- I found the peace and freedom in my soul.There is a way to be truly whole. The truth.
I had to Tell- Cloked in the light, to make the rest of my life truly shine bright..
I had to tell.
I had to tell.
I had to tell.
Can’t Breathe
By Larry Stromburg
CAN’T BREATHE
IT’S A HELL OF A THING WHEN YOU CAN’T BREATHE ANYMORE.
THIS IS HOW GRANDFATHER MUST HAVE FELT ON THE DAY HE WENT UNDER
THE DELAWARE RIVER.
I NEVER MET THE MAN. HE DIED BEFORE I WAS BORN. MOTHER TOLD ME
HIS STORY. IT FEELS LIKE I’VE KNOWN THIS MAN ALL OF MY LIFE.
HIS VESSEL CAPSIZED AND DEADLY CURRENTS DRAGGED HIM DOWN. WHEN
THEY PULLED HIS BLOATED CORSPE WITH ONLY HIS BOXERS ON THREE DAYS
LATER, IT WAS EVIDENT, GRANDPOP FOUGHT FOR EVERY BREATHE.
TRAINING METHODS FROM THE U.S. NAVY, USING CLOTHING AS LIFE
SAVING FLOTATION DEVICES.
TO NO AVAIL, THE CURRENTS WE’RE TO POWERFUL.
HE DIDN’T BREATHE ANYMORE.
MAYBE, BEING INCARCERATED WITH A LIFE SENTENCE IS ALMOST THE
SAME THING.
TRYING TO SURVIVE. HOPING TO STAY ALIVE.
DREAMING OF A SECOND CHANCE.
FIGHTING FOR EVERY BREATHE.
ANXIETY
PANIC
CONFUSION
DROWNING, BUT STILL CONSCIOUS.
RIDING THE CURRENTS, TILL YOU CAN’T breathe anymore…
My Siblings’ Death
By Larry Stromberg
I remember their smiles from the crib.
Shawn and Diane.
They smiled at me.
Laughed at me.
Looked at me with wonder.
The big brother I was.
But, still a child myself.
I comforted them during tears.
Reliving their fears.
A joy to me.
Then they were gone.
Vanished.
Never seen again.
How could it be comprehended?
Where did they go?
Where was my brother and sister?
Confusion to a child like myself.
Flying blind with nowhere to hide.
Seeking. Searching. This wasn’t hide and seek.
To no avail. Only questions.
Who can measure the depths of sadness?
The grief of sudden loss.
Death and sickness took them away.
Two bright shinny balloons in the wind.
Disappearing into the sun.
Never to return.
An empty crib.
The laughter was gone.
Silence remained.
I miss their smiles.
Baby faces and big brown eyes.
Why did they have to go away?
It doesn’t seem fair.
There was no answers for me.
Just tears with all of my fears.
Time has passed.
I’ve grown into a man.
Wondering who Shawn and Diane would have been.
An empty hole in my soul.
I miss them. I’ll never forget them. I love them.
Now, they live in my dreams.
That’s where I see them.
Smiling. Laughing.
The wonder of it all.
They live in my heart.
In memory. In photos.
They live inside.
Collision
Endure [A Short Play]
By Larry Stromberg
[An older man enters the stage – from stage left – and slowly walks over to center stage. He stops and looks at the audience with weary eyes. He slowly begins to speak.]
Older Man:
This is a true story. (Pause) It was Christmas, 1973. (Beat) I met Joey when I was seven years old, during a difficult time in my childhood. I was being sexually abused over and over again by three individuals. It was finally over. But the pain was still there. I guess, in some way, it will always be there. The pain. (Pause) Joey was seven years old himself and was diagnosed with leukemia. He only had weeks to live. (Pause) Well, we played for hours like children do; and an angel was going to fly him to heaven very soon. He was gonna be with Jesus. (Pause) When it was time for me to go, he thanked me for being his friend and gave me his best and favorite toy he got for Christmas that year. It was a G.I. Joe action figure. I still have that G.I. Joe action figure at home to this very day. (Pause) Joey’s last words to me were: “To endure, my friend.” (Beat) “Endure.”
[The older man begins to sing softly.]
Older man (singing):
Endure. Endure. Endure. You can make it through.
Endure. Endure. Endure. The sun will shine for you.
Endure. Endure. Endure. Love will bring you through.
Endure. Endure. Endure. Your angel will guide you through.
Endure. Endure. Endure. (Beat) Endure. Endure. Endure.
You can make it through. You can make it through. You-can-make-it-through…
[The older man stops singing.]
Older man:
Joey died a few weeks later. It’s amazing how you can meet an individual just once and that encounter will change you for a lifetime. (Pause) Joey’s last words to “endure” have been a stronghold of strength and faith with each trial and tribulation that I have faced in my life. I’ve endured being incarcerated with deep sincere remorse. Incarcerated for decades now. I’ve endured. I guess we all have endured in some way. We’ve endured. We can endure through it all. (Pause) So, I’ll leave you with Joey’s last words to me on that Christmas of 1973: “Endure, my friends.” (Beat) “Endure.”
[The older man backs away and exits stage left.]
The end.
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Unknown
September 22, 2020 at 12:58 pmAwesomeness Brother Larry! I will get to see you soon hopefully.
Unknown
September 15, 2020 at 2:56 amYour poems are am inspirational in my life ..i love everyone..maybe one day you can write a poem of my life ..thanks ..your awesome!!!
Diane Stromberg
April 17, 2020 at 12:42 amSimply awesome
Unknown
December 5, 2019 at 5:33 pmI just lovd all of your poems ..they touched my heart ..maybe we can meet one day n you can do a poem of my life n my losses ..🖤
~ Anna
November 20, 2019 at 4:19 amIncredible. Love you, cousin.
Diane Stromberg
June 20, 2019 at 6:02 pmI love you son. Your writing is simply amazing God is with you
Unknown
April 18, 2019 at 8:23 pmYour pomes are incredible… You are a wonderful and talented man..l Love you Larry… I miss you my brother…
Unknown
March 13, 2019 at 7:30 pmYour poems were incredible that touched me to the core of my heart you are a very gifted and wonderful man I am proud to call you my brother I'm sorry that you are suffering so much
Diane Stromberg
February 19, 2019 at 3:14 pmMy Son Larry..who is blessed by God has written… Plays screenplays poems. The poem siblings was written about my two children that died.
Diane Stromberg
February 17, 2019 at 8:21 pmMy Son Larry is a gift from heaven..he has suffered greatly because of his crime and still suffering. However.. God has blessed him with many talents. Writing poetry is one of them. And God has blessed me with having a son like Larry.