You decorate your living room in colors and furniture
..and I write poetry
You wear tattoos and make up
..and I write poetry
You chew out a set of eyes, nose and a mouth from a piece of cold meat
…and I write poetry
You skip stones out on the lake in the early morning hour
..and I write poetry
You paint pictures
..and I write poetry

You sing songs in the shower, in the car, and in your head
..and I write poetry

Yesterday I had a cold harsh statement spoken to me by a family member. In honesty, the last family member I sought to build a relationship with. “How many people who were hungry, or needed money did any poet ever help?” they said

I was hurt, not because what this person said was true, Because it wasn’t even close to being true…more because

An ungrateful heart for avenues of expression is very damning. I am very sensitive, perhaps in many peoples opinion too sensitive.

But I do know this 

I have raised thousands of dollars for different charities in Ontario
I have given to those in my life when they had no food both food and money
I have been a part of a collective group who brought together a miracle of SHOES for children in Africa
I have taking in the homeless
I have lent my heart and Resources to those seeking their own dreams
I have given over 400 copies of my books away for FREE
I have raised 3 children well as a single mom up until a year ago, plus a friends child, and a sisters child. WITH NO SUPPORT FROM FAMILY OF FRIENDS FINANCIALLY

And…so much more

I do not say this to brag, or for recognition
I say it to the critic, and damn-er of those who do HELP OTHERS

While you critisize me 
I write poetry and live daily acting upon the convictions of my heart to make difference for the better
I just don’t tell the world!
©colleenranney