Simply Story Poetry
By Beverley Joy
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Simply Story PoetryJul 13, 2021
A Mother's Love Sent from afar
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. This poem tells of my emotional journey as a mother when my daughters moved to live overseas.
I reflect on the precious moments with my daughters as young girls and long to be physically close to them, despite the distance. The poem captures my deep love and longing for my daughters while acknowledging the reality of their separation. I hope they will reunite one day and the poem emphasizes the enduring power of love and care. This heartfelt poem speaks of the universal experience of parental love and the challenges of letting go.
When I was a young adult, I took the opportunity to spread my wings and fly away and now the opportunities had presented themselves to my daughters. Who was I to hold them back from exploring the world? I supported their decision, despite my deep desire to keep them close like a mother hen protecting her chicks. They were no longer my chicks to own. Beverley Joy
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and LinkedIn and simplystorypoetry.com. Thank you for listening.
I'm Waiting, Anticipating
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. This poem offers a positive perspective on waiting. It illustrates different facets of waiting by highlighting peaceful acceptance and excitement in finding calm and fresh determination while waiting for life's events to unfold. It conveys hope through reflections on nature and personal connections. I invite you to embrace anticipation as a joyful, dynamic experience, steering clear of sadness, anxiety, or impatience. Beverley Joy.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and LinkedIn and simplystorypoetry.com. Thank you for listening.
Climbing Back to Normal
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. This poem is Part 9 of a series about my journey with disease.
After overcoming spinal surgery and radiation for cancer, I am grateful to be able to resume writing and sharing poetry. Amidst struggles with nausea, pain, and fatigue, I emphasize patience and perseverance to finally return to what was once my normal life following what was such a crazy unsettled, unusual time in my life. While my computer silently awaited my return, I focused on assessing my purpose with patience and resilience. Beverley Joy You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and LinkedIn and simplystorypoetry.com. Thank you for listening.
Zapped
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. This poem is Part 8 of a series about my journey with disease.
During my cancer radiation treatment, I underwent daily hospital visits for radiation targeting cancer cells in my spine. Living with my daughter, I relied on her for care and transportation. Despite physical challenges, I maintained a positive mindset through exercise, reading, and learning from inspirational stories of other people who have overcome illness and trauma throughout their lives. This poem reflects on my determination and gratitude for small progressions during this difficult time in my life. Beverley Joy You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and LinkedIn and simplystorypoetry.com. Thank you for listening.
Roots of Healing
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. This poem is Part 7 of a series about my journey with cancer.
This poem describes my post-surgery experience. Discharged with medication and crutches, I found comfort in a treehouse retreat and shared time there with my daughter, who took care of me. I struggled to accept the restrictions of movement the surgery had left me with. My focus shifted to healing and recuperating, emphasizing the need for patience and endurance. Beverley Joy You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and LinkedIn and simplystorypoetry.com. Thank you for listening.
Rods and Screws
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. The difficulties of surgery and the support received from loved ones during recovery. This poem is Part 6 of a series about my journey with disease.
This poem illustrates the impact of the disease on my life, including strong pain relief medication, physical limitations, and strained relationships. It goes into the cognitive and physical changes following surgery and the support received from loved ones during my recovery. Despite the challenges, the support of loved ones played a crucial role in my journey to recovery. Beverley Joy
The difficulties of surgery and the support received from loved ones during recovery
This poem illustrates the impact of the disease on my life, including strong pain relief medication, physical limitations, and strained relationships. It goes into the cognitive and physical changes following surgery and the support received from loved ones during my recovery. Despite the challenges, the support of loved ones played a crucial role in my journey to recovery. Beverley Joy
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and LinkedIn and simplystorypoetry.com. Thank you for listening.
The Diagnosis
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. Shock and emotional turmoil on receiving a cancer diagnosis. This poem is Part 5 of a series about my journey with Cancer.
This poem delves into my shock and emotional turmoil when I received the diagnosis of spine cancer. I grapple with questions about the extent of the disease and its impact on my life and future. The poem vividly captures the devastation and sense of loss that accompanies such a diagnosis, despite the initial reassurance from the doctor about treatment prospects. Beverley Joy
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and LinkedIn and simplystorypoetry.com.
Waiting
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. The shock and uncertainty of facing a serious medical condition. This poem is Part 4 of a series about my journey with disease.
I had a CAT scan for back pain, leading to a series of urgent medical appointments. A scan reveals a concerning issue, prompting immediate action and hospitalization. I reflected on life as I waited for further tests and results while in the hospital. The poem captures the shock and uncertainty as I faced a serious medical condition and the impact it had on my life and relationships. Beverley Joy
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and LinkedIn and simplystorypoetry.com. Thank you for listening.
Stop and Listen
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. When the pain gets severe, we are forced to stop and listen. This poem is Part 3 of a series about my journey with disease.
This poem is my journey of how, when enduring chronic pain, I was finally forced to visit a medical doctor, revealing a long-neglected condition. My hectic schedule and determination to push through the pain eventually forced me to stop. Despite my reluctance, I realize the severity of my situation.
This poem reflects the struggle to balance a busy, hectic life with the determination to keep going and push through the pain barrier and the need to listen to our bodies and respect the message it is trying to give us. It was only when my pain could not be relieved by natural therapies and over-the-counter pain relief, that I succumbed and went to consult a doctor. Beverley Joy
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and LinkedIn and simplystorypoetry.com. Thank you for listening.
The Friendship of Pain
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. Physical pain is a warning message, telling us to take notice and action. This poem is Part 2 of a series about my journey with disease.
I've always thought of pain as my enemy. I wanted to get rid of it, ignore it. I didn't want it in my life. It was a foreigner, an enemy, not a friend. How could something so annoying be a friend? I'd get relief from natural therapies but I refused to take a holistic balanced approach to my pain. I did not go to a medical doctor to get it investigated, even though one natural therapist wanted me to. I foolishly gritted my teeth and soldiered on.
How I interpret this feature image is the hand touching the face is pain being felt, making its presence known. The beautiful swirling colours are pain being seen as a friend, not an enemy. Beverley Joy
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and LinkedIn and simplystorypoetry.com. Thank you for listening.
Loving differences in each other
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry.
Acceptance and respect for individuality.
This poem emphasises the value of gentleness, understanding, and acceptance. It encourages caring, laughter, and fairness in relationships while acknowledging and respecting differences.
It conveys the power of love through unspoken gestures and genuine connections in this heartfelt piece. Beverley Joy
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and LinkedIn and simplystorypoetry.com. Thank you for listening.
The Attack of Disease
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. Life-threatening illnesses, like cancer and other diseases, change our life course. This poem is Part 1 of a series about my journey with disease. The plans I had laid out for my future were smashed up against a brick wall in 2023. The wall of a disease that has been building slowly within my body, unbeknown to me, for many years. I did not post poems during the months I was in hospital, receiving treatment and recuperating from my battle with a disease.
Many life-changing decisions can be made once disease interrupts our lives. Changes in relationships, career, physical ability, mental health, and faith to name a few. Some existing values and beliefs are strengthened, and some are weakened and fall away and replaced with new ones—some for the better, some for the worse. There are new challenges to face, such as memory pain that arises from the trauma. This is the one that stopped me in my tracks many times throughout my recovery.
I am in awe and praise of the doctors and nurses who have done amazing work to rescue me from the life-threatening claws of disease.
I wrote a series of poems throughout my journey, not to whinge, moan and groan 'Woe is me' but to describe how pain has become, and still is, my friend and my rescuer. Also to share how this experience has strengthened me and taught me well-needed life lessons. This poem is the first of that series. I hope they bring you awareness, encouragement, and connection if you have also experienced a journey with a disease. Beverley Joy
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and LinkedIn and simplystorypoetry.com. Thank you for listening.
Simply Story Poetry - A Top 5 Best Australia Poetry Podcasts
Hi. I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. I am honoured and excited to have been discovered and ranked in the 5 Best Australia Poetry Podcasts by Feedspot.
"I personally give you a high-five and want to thank you for your contribution to this world. This is the most comprehensive list of Top 5 Australia Poetry Podcasts on the internet and I'm honored to have you as part of this!" Anuj Agarwal, Founder of Feedspot.
Following extensive research on Google and podcast search tools, Feedspot discovered and ranked my podcast based on expertise and credibility, content quality and relevance, longevity and consistency and audience engagement in niche categories.
Feedspot curates and ranks exceptional content from Podcasts, Web blogs, YouTube Channels, and News Sites.
So what is Simply Story Poetry? Well, it just so happens I wrote a poem back in 2018 to explain what type of poems I write, which I am sharing again with you now. With over 200 poems, published weekly over 3 years, this award is a welcome encouragement to me.
'May the fragrance of my poetry send you ripples of encouragement.' Beverley Joy. Simply Story Poetry © 2018
I perceive your curiosity
About Simply Story Poetry
As a wordsmith I compose
Verse, thoughts, taglines and poems.
I write poems of two different kinds
The Christian Faith and general life.
I study faith and share what I find
Bible stories and verses I clarify
My general life poems are my reflections
Of nature, life, love and friendship.
My poems may simply entertain
Those who are game to venture and stay
With things I’ve seen, places I’ve been
People I’ve met and life experiences.
I post poems and verses every week
Here at Simply Story Poetry
Or if you prefer to be notified
By email, via the link, subscribe.
With words that describe Who, What and Why
To simply convey in a condensed way
It may be a poem, a jingle or a song
However it may come along.
I play with words, the rhythm and the rhyme
And complex thoughts I simplify
So, come spend some time in these pages of my mind.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and LinkedIn and simplystorypoetry.com. Thank you for your support.
Footprints of a Monkey Mind
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. This poem reflects on the struggle to control a busy mind and the importance of being present in the moment. It emphasizes the impact of memories and worries on our ability to fully engage with the present.
I seek to quiet my "monkey mind", which runs here, there and everywhere with thoughts from the past and worries about the future. I have read 'How to' books which have taught me how to practice mindfulness, to help me embrace peace, abundance, and love in a world with aggression and greed. While my mind is busy remembering or thinking of the future, I am missing the moment right here and now and all the wonder and beauty that exists in the present. Beverley Joy
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and LinkedIn and simplystorypoetry.com. Thank you for listening.
A Golden Thread
On Valentine's Day many lovers, partners and spouses will celebrate their love together. Yet many lovers, partners, and spouses, who are separated by thousands of miles, find comfort in the unbreakable bond of true love. Despite the physical distance, because their love is deep and strong they patiently wait till the day they will be reuniting. Until then, their love will overcome the challenge of distance between them because they believe in the unbreakable bond of true love. Beverley Joy You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and LinkedIn and simplystorypoetry.com. Thank you for listening.
Mask the truth
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. A mask of deception crumbles exposing the truth. I wrote this poem many years ago. It depicts the moment when a friend reveals a truth about themselves that comes as a surprise. But as the relationship is solid, both parties realize that truth deepens the bond of friendship. Pride, guilt, and shame fall away with the grace shown. United in love, they leave the past behind. How wonderful it is when friendships pass through this surface level, throw away the masks and get real with each other. Beverley Joy
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and LinkedIn and simplystorypoetry.com.
Bullied at school
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. The far-reaching effects of being bullied during school years are still evident in the lives of those who I know had, unfortunately, experienced this toxic behaviour.
I wrote this poem decades ago. It is based on a true story which took place before policies around bullying in schools were implemented. It is based on a friend's experience. He was 60 years old when he told me, with vivid clarity, of the continuous bullying that he endured as a young boy. He was beaten on the way to school and at school. He dreaded walking to school in fear the bullies would beat him up. He often hid under a bridge and deliberately missed catching the school bus. Then he would walk the distance to school arriving late to avoid meeting the bullies along the way. He was a gentle-natured happy person.
Some people can heal from these past traumas, but other gentle people struggle to heal from this trauma. With the start of a new school year, let's look out for our children to keep them safe and happy during their school years. Let's stop bullying in schools. Beverley Joy
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and LinkedIn and simplystorypoetry.com. Thank you for listening.
Home Sweet Home
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. I have experienced living in diverse styles of houses and lifestyles in different locations and climates around Australia.
Why? I must have some gipsy in my blood. I'm curious to experience lifestyles that look interesting to me—different modes of transport, daily routines and activities. I may never have experienced different house styles and climates if I had never changed location. I lived in a motorhome for three years while exploring Australia. I've house and pet sat around the Gold Coast, Yeppoon and Brisbane Queensland, with different breeds than I have owned dogs and cats. All of these amazing and interesting experiences have enriched my life.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and LinkedIn and simplystorypoetry.com. Thank you for listening. Enjoy your adventures. Beverley Joy
The Thief
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. The most hurtful part of the theft, besides the breach of trust, was the loss of the sentimental items that were among them.
I originally wrote this poem in 2013 after I had thousands of dollars worth of belongings stolen from me by a male friend who lived in another state, a six-hour flight away from where I lived. I tried my best to get justice, to no avail.
I have twigged the original wording of this poem after I had money stolen from my online bank account by a con woman. For a moment I was angry and I found it hard to accept that there are people who steal from fellow human beings, who have done them no wrong. But then I remember the days when I was a prison chaplain and that the prisons were full of thieves and criminals. If not imprisoned physically, thieves are imprisoned in their selfishness and greed.
What lesson did I learn from these thefts? Be very careful who you trust, be it a friend or an employee of a trusted company. I also learnt how to let go of the disappointment and loss. Beverley Joy.
Time Sings of Memories
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. When we reflect on past events, it can stir up a mixture of thoughts and emotions often linked to a song's melody and lyrics.
A song's melody and lyrics awaken memories for us, both pleasant and disturbing. How we react to those memories can have benefits or disadvantages.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com. Thank you for listening. Beverley Joy.
You're moving on
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. I wrote this poem after both of my young adult daughters moved out of the family home, leaving an empty net. You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com. Thank you for listening. Beverley Joy.
A Lover's Hug
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.
I hope your lover, partner or husband, gives you loving hugs, like no other. Beverley Joy.
Weathered Love
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. The story of Grace continues...Grace and Darren were struggling to keep their marriage together. They could not recover from the financial losses they had experienced a few years earlier. Darren had fallen into a deep depression. Grace didn't want to stay in a marriage that was dead, but neither did she want to leave a ten-year marriage. They kept trying to fix what had broken in their relationship. You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com. I hope your love enjoys fine weather. Beverley Joy
Risk to love again
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. To love or not to fall in love again? Should Grace risk falling in love again? The story of Grace continues...These questions churned over in her mind. It had been two years since her marriage had broken down with Darren. She felt safe being single and on her own. To fall in love again would mean becoming vulnerable. But she wanted more than to feel safe. She wanted to love someone and be loved in return. But was she ready? Was she wise enough to make a good choice this time? This poem explores the decision of whether to fall in love again following the breakdown of a previous relationship.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.
May your decision to risk falling in love again bring you happiness. Thank you for listening. Beverley Joy.
Distant love smashed
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. This poem explores the moment Grace realizes her relationship with Darren must end. The story of Grace continues. Grace is visiting family 4,000 kilometres away from her husband, Darren when she receives news that resulted in her deciding to end her marriage with Darren. They had been happily married for 10 years. They had lived and travelled in their motorhome around Australia for the past 4 years. This poem focuses not on what Darren did, but on her thoughts and emotions as Grace comes to terms with her situation and the decision she must make.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.
My thoughts go out to my listeners who are going through a relationship break-up. Thank you for listening. Beverley Joy.
I'm Moving On
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. I wrote this poem just before we left Brisbane Queensland in the motorhome to travel across to Western Australia. We moved from a large home to a motorhome.
Grace and Darren set off on their journey around Australia in their motorhome. It had been a challenge deciding what to take and what to leave behind. Grace felt a mixture of excitement and anxiety. She could only take a few changes of clothes and only the essentials for every other part of her life. She had accepted the challenge to live a minimalist life and live without all their material possessions, just like the monks had to do. Darren had built them a comfortable motorhome. Beverley Joy.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.
May love travel comfortably with you.
My love boat is moored to you
Early one evening, Darren parked their motorhome beside a small boat harbour to stay for the night. Grace walked down to the pier. The wind was getting stronger. Grace was feeling nervous about sleeping off the beaten track, as she often was. She was afraid someone would come along and bang on the side of their motorhome in the middle of the night or a branch would fall from the tree overhead. Throughout their travels, Darren continued to gently reassure her that they would be safe. Beverley Joy.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.
May love rock you to sleep.
Falling in Love Again
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. Grace and Darren continue to grow in their love for each other. Darren is over the moon in love with her, but Grace steps carefully forward. She still doesn't trust herself enough to relax fully into the circle of love with him. She knows it will take time and there is no rush. She is like a fresh tender stem breaking through the soil, hardened by past hurt, into the sunshine and fresh air of love. Grace is patient, she understands that soon she will blossom into full-bloom love. Beverley Joy
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.
May love blossom into full bloom for you.
Stepping Over into Love
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. As Grace falls in love again she hesitates, feeling a mixture of excitement and fear. She doesn't want to make the same mistake as she did in her first relationship. She wants to ensure that she chooses a partner that is more suited to her values and interests. Grace has learnt life lessons since her first relationship and now those lessons are put to the test. It sounds mechanical compared to the first time she fell in love which had her head spinning and her emotions running out of control. The time was right for her to decide to step over or step away. Beverley Joy
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.
May the steps of love be kind to you.
Let's
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. I wrote this poem on a postcard-perfect day while living in Broome Western Australia, on my journey around Australia in a motorhome. The love story of Grace, titled Wilted No More, continues. Grace and her husband, Darren, have travelled right across the top of Australia to the northwest coast. Both of them feel relaxed having left their troubles way back east in Queensland. They have travelled through small country towns, and desert land, climbed mountains to take in majestic views and walked through lush green valleys along the way. Now, for a few months, they are staying on the coast where the sun sets over the ocean.
Hundreds of tourists come each day, during the dry season, to Cable Beach at sunset to watch nature's breathtaking show. Some choose to sit inside a beachfront restaurant, and others sit on the back of a camel for a sunset ride along the ocean's edge. A select few sail out on a yacht sipping champagne and caviar. Some drive further up the beach in their four-wheel drives, while many others sit on the beach. Late in the afternoons, Grace and Darren would perch on their favourite 'rock,' along the foreshore away from the crowds, sipping cheap wine and snacking on crackers and cheese while they waited for nature's show to begin. They loved their new simplified uncomplicated life in which they were discovering so many unrushed, enjoyable experiences. Beverley Joy.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.
Happy Valentine's Day.
The Journey of True Love
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. Grace had travelled a roller coaster journey of love through the decades of her life. From a teenager to now in her 50s, love and romance had come and gone in and out of her life. Now she chooses to reminisce about the many good times she had while being in love and not dwell on the bad times. Through all her experiences of love, Grace had known true love, and she still holds hope that she will once again find true love, just like her father did at the age of 75. Well, she doesn't want to wait that long! The young woman Grace was, entering her first marriage, now seems like a stranger to her. She has matured and mellowed, wised up, and forgiven both herself and her previous loves.
The journey of love has many facets, like the making of a diamond - it is dug out of the dirt where it was found, then cleansed, cut and refined to finally sparkle in brilliance and shine forth happiness. Beverley Joy.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.May the journey of love be kind to you.
The Poetry of Love
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. I wrote these love verses while writing the draft for the sequel to The Wilted Rose titled Wilted No More, which I have decided not to publish, instead I am sharing the poems and excerpts from the story that relate to the poem. The story begins with Grace, the main character falling in love with her future husband. These verses of love flowed up from my heart during this time of writing the story. I have compared love to different elements of nature and music. Beverley Joy.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.
Open your heart to love another.
Love is Living Art
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. I am continuing through February and Valentine's Day, with the theme of Love.
The experience of falling in love, whether it is young love or falling in love as a mature aged man or woman, there are many similarities. Although I wrote this poem as a mature-aged woman, who was falling in love again, publishing it today took me back to the days when I fell in love as a young woman. The curiosity and excitement of meeting someone, and then over time, getting to know that person intimately. Although at present I am single, I look forward to the day that I fall in love again. A decade after the death of my mother, my dad fell head over heels in love and at 75 years of age, married a beautiful woman, both physically and spiritually, 10 years younger than him! They have enjoyed nearly two decades of loving and caring for each other.
Life is too short to not embrace love in its fullness. It is never too late to fall in love again. Beverley Joy.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.
Melt into the mood of love with me this month.
Steal Away a Moment in Time
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. Those early weeks and months of falling in love are so intense with love-soaked emotions and thoughts that drip into every area of our waking day. A constant drip that catches our attention, drawing us away from our work, our study, and our task at hand. Reminiscing past times that we spent together or dreaming of future times to be spent together. Even as the months roll on and the frequency of these thoughts and emotions slow down, love still longs to steal away and be alone together. Stolen moments quench love's thirst and keep the romance flowing.
Story Excerpt from Wilted No More - Standing out on the balcony admiring their surroundings, he wrapped his arms around Grace and tenderly kissed her. They turned and looked out at the dark expanse of ocean that stretched out before them.
‘Well, I don’t think we could have had a better day,’
Grace commented.
‘I agree. It was perfect.’
They had travelled south to the small seaside village of Fingal Head in northern New South Wales, where they had booked a small cabin in a caravan park for one week. Situated right on the beach, the setting was tranquil and the view magnificent. There was nothing between them and the beach but the sand dunes. The beach was practically empty, and it was easy to imagine that they were on a deserted island. Their mobile phones were out of range, and technology was quiet for a change.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.
Thanks for letting me steal a moment of your time to listen to my poem. Beverley Joy.
Time Will Tell
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. Simply Story Poetry launches into this new year with the theme of LOVE. Ah, that's Amore. The story of Grace continues after she fell in love for the first time at 17 years of age. The last poem that I posted on 2nd December 2022 was about Grace 'Leaving on a Jet Plane' to move from Brisbane in Queensland, down south to Melbourne Victoria to live closer to her boyfriend Alex, leaving all her family dramas far behind her. Now, a year later, she was stepping out into the adult world to build her own life, make her own decisions and learn from her mistakes and benefit from her good decisions and adventures.
The teenage love between Grace and Alex only lasted one year. Grace returned to Brisbane to live close to her family, but not in the family home. She moved into a small unit in a neighbouring suburb with her best friend from high school. Grace went on a blind date with Brian, a friend of a work colleague from her new place of work back in Brisbane. Brian rang her the next day to ask Grace out on their first official date.
This date was old-fashioned and picture-perfect, like in a romantic movie. The guy and the girl are dressed in formal attire. He picks her up in a fancy car and drives her to a five-star restaurant where they eat seafood and drink champagne while chatting and looking out over the river lights of the city from their intimate table-for-two.
Story Excerpt: You can read my poems and the excerpts from the story Wilted No More, which is the sequel story to the book The Wilted Rose, both written by Kate Kelsen at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.
Enjoy this series of poems of love. Beverley Joy.
Saying I'm Too Busy Is A Cover Up
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. 'I am too busy doing what?' I spent most of my adult life helping others until I realized that I was spending too much of my time helping others. How can that be? Isn't helping others a good thing to do? Yes, it is, but not at the expense of being irresponsible and negligent of your own talents, responsibilities and goals in life. So, what was the real reason I was neglecting my own talent and goals? I had to face the fact that I was hiding behind my 'helping' to avoid facing my greatest fear - the fear of rejection and criticism of my poetry. So, I was brave like David and faced my Goliath. Now the fear has been replaced by a love for writing poetry.
I have been posting poetry each week for two years now. I no longer hide behind the excuse of housework and doing things for others in their homes that they were quite capable of doing themselves and preferred me out of the way anyway! "Get a Life Beverley" was the message the winds of life were blowing my way. I still help my family and friends a lot, but now I am busy and have to check how I balance my time with my passion and joy of sharing my poetry. Beverley Joy
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.
Thank you for staying to listen today.
A Scribble In Time
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. Happy New Year to my readers and listeners. Diaries and calendars are on sale now that the new year has burst out of the starting blocks and will soon gain speed. New Year's Resolutions are made this month. By the end of January, a percentage of people will have already broken their well-meaning intentions, a few won't even bother setting any goals for the year, and some will be slow out of the starting blocks and need another month or two before they get started. Others will have set their goals for the year and are competing in the race against time. I wrote this poem reflecting on how we humans run the race against time.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.
I really appreciate you listening to my poem.
Quick, Save The Saviour
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. This poem is about the events that followed the visit of the Wise Men, or Magi, to Joseph, Mary and the child King, Jesus. You can read the story in Matthew chapter 2 verses 13 to 23. The ruler of that region, King Herod, who was known to murder anyone he thought was a threat to his reign as king, was furious that the Magi did not report back to him with the whereabouts of Jesus. So, he orders all infants 2 years of age and younger to be killed in the vicinity of the city of Bethlehem. This story gives us a glimpse into the very early life of Jesus.
The lyrics of the song by Clay Aiken titled Mary, Did You Know, tell the story of the many loving and gracious miracles and wonders that Jesus would grow up to perform during his 3 years of ministry on this earth. I love a scene, in the Youtube video to this song, that I have linked in this poem on my website, showing a young Jesus watching his earthly father, Joseph work at his carpentry, the profession that Jesus would work in once He was old enough.
Listen to the Christmas Story Parts 1-7, which includes Christmas in the Garden of Eden, Part 1, Four Unusual Women, Part 2, 700BC Part 3, Mary Part 4, Mary and Elizabeth Part 5, Joseph Part 6, and The Saviour is Born Part 7, 14th Dec. Also Gifts Fit For a King, the three wise men, and Quick, Save The Saviour, the escape to Egypt.
You can read my poems, listen to songs and videos that I link when they match the theme of the poem, see references to what I read and study to write the content of the poem at Simply Story Poetry on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter and at simplystorypoetry.com and follow me on Instagram.
May you and your family have a blessed time this Christmas. Beverley Joy.
Gifts Fit For A King
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. It is uncertain exactly when the Wise Men, or Magi, visited Jesus, but it certainly wasn't at the same time as when the shepherds visited him, at his birth in the animal stable, as is commonly represented in Christmas scenes and on Christmas Cards. Apparently, it was sometime between a few months and two years after his birth. The Magi followed a star that miraculously guided them to Jesus, the child King. They first presented themselves to King Herod of Judea, in Jerusalem to inform him of their purpose for visiting his kingdom, which was to visit and worship the King of the Jews.
Herod did not know about this 'king of the Jews' and he felt threatened by this news. King Herod called a meeting with the scholars of law and the Jewish religious leaders to inform him of what knowledge they had of this event. They informed the King that the event fulfilled a Jewish prophecy told over 800 years earlier. When the Magi arrived at the house where Joseph, Mary and Jesus the child now lived, they gave gifts commonly given to honour a king, to Jesus - Gold for family wealth and as a symbol of kingship on earth, Frankincense as a precious expensive perfume and a symbol of deity and Myrrh an oil used for anointing and balming, and a symbol of death.
Listen to the Christmas Story Parts 1-7, which includes Christmas in the Garden of Eden, Part 1, Four Unusual Women, Part 2, 700BC Part 3, Mary Part 4, Mary and Elizabeth Part 5, Joseph Part 6, and The Saviour is Born Part 7. Also, Gifts Fit For a King, the three wise men, and Quick, Save The Saviour, the escape to Egypt.
You can read the story behind each poem - what inspired me to write it, why I chose the feature image (which you cannot see well on a podcast image), references to what I read and studied to write the poem's content. I attach links to songs when I find a song that matches the poem's theme.
Read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter and at simplystorypoetry.com and follow me on Instagram.
Thank you for listening. Beverley Joy.
Together For Christmas
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. It's wonderful to enjoy Christmas day all together in one place. But even the best plans can be turned upside down, Christmas Day can present challenges in getting the family together or getting along with everyone who has been invited. We want the day to run smoothly on this special day of the year. Sometimes it does and sometimes it doesn't. That's family life - full of pleasant surprises and challenges.
Over the last few years, Christmas Day has proven messy for many families due to COVID. But we continue with our plans as best we can in the circumstances that we are in at the time. Cause that's what families do.
Why not listen to my other poem about Family Christmas: Far Away For Christmas and my poems about gift-giving: A Hug is Priceless, The Best Gift to Give is You, and A Mirror Reflect What You Can Give.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.
Thank you for listening to my poem. I wish you a wonderful holiday season. Beverley Joy.
Far Away For Christmas
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. Many families and friends are separated at this special time of the year. We just have to enjoy Christmas Day the best way we can when our family cannot get together for Christmas Day.
I chose this Featured Image partly because of what is written on her coffee mug - 'Make today awesome.' To me, this image expresses the message of this poem which is both her longing to be elsewhere and not alone, yet also her acceptance of the situation she currently finds herself in and that she will enjoy the day as best she can.
You can browse through my poetry verses available on print-on-demand gift ideas in my shop at beverleyjoy.redbubble.com.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.
Thank you for listening to my poem. Why not listen to my other poems about gift-giving titled:
The Christmas Story Part 1-7
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. Listen to the Christmas Story Parts 1-7, which includes Christmas in the Garden of Eden, Part 1, Four Unusual Women, Part 2, 700BC Part 3, Mary Part 4, Mary and Elizabeth Part 5, Joseph Part 6, and The Saviour is Born Part 7. Also, Gifts Fit For a King, the three wise men, and Quick, Save The Saviour, the escape to Egypt.
Christmas in the Garden of Eden - The Christmas Story Part 1. This poem is Part 1 of 7 parts to the poetic script that follows the Christmas Story from the very beginning to end. I wrote this Christmas script for a Christmas Service that we held at the local church, that I was attending at the time, in 2019. In between each poem, being recited by various children and adults, we all sang Christmas Carols, including the congregation, relevant to that part of the story. I wrote Part 1, after having studied Genesis chapter 3 verse 15 and learning that the Christmas Story begins in the Garden of Eden. Although God punished Adam, Eve and Satan, in Genesis chapter 3, with His prophecy 'I will cause hostility between you (Satan) and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring. He (Jesus) will strike your head, and you (Satan) will strike His heel,' God gives them hope with the promise of His future Saviour of the world.
In my interpretation of the feature image, that I have chosen for this poem, I see God's hands holding the garden. The smoke and fire rising from the garden depict the destruction of paradise by Adam and Eve's disobedience to God. But there is a glimpse of a city on the opposite side of the fire, which depict God's promised new city and garden. The waterfall depicts the river of life that will run through the new garden. A lion depicts Jesus (Revelations 5:5) and the eagle with its wings spread wide soaring over the garden, reminds me of one of my favourite verses in the Bible. You can read my poem titled Eagle Wings based on Isaiah 40:31a "But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength, they will soar on wings like eagles." You can read the story behind this poem - what inspired me to write it, why I chose the feature image (which you cannot see well on a podcast image), and references to what I read and studied to write the poem's content. I attach links to songs when I find a song that matches the poem's theme. You can read my poems at simplystorypoetry.com You can browse through my poetry verses available on print-on-demand gift ideas in my shop at beverleyjoy.redbubble.com.
You can browse through my poetry verses available on print-on-demand gift ideas in my shop at beverleyjoy.redbubble.com.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.
May you enjoy Christmas with someone you love and receive love in return. Beverley Joy.
The Best Gift to Give is You
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. As we enter into this year's busy time of shopping for just the perfect gifts for our friends and family, remember, as well as giving physical gifts this Christmas, there are many gifts that we can give that are free to give and yet priceless in value. Time is one of those free but valuable gifts we can give. Ah yes, but the saying says 'Money is time.' But is money the only way we can receive 'payment' for how we spend our time? Do we always have to receive 'payment' for our time? Oh, the deep joy and satisfaction that I receive from giving time to my 92-year-old father, now living in a retirement home.
Why not listen to other poems about giving titled A Hug is Priceless, 20th November 2021, and A Gift to Our Family, 22nd June 2021 (which I wrote for my mother-in-law)?
This Featured Image shows the person sharing time. We can waste time with people or we can give the gift of quality time, which requires skill. Quality time is only one of many skills and talents that we can share with others.
You can browse through my poetry verses available on print-on-demand gift ideas in my shop at beverleyjoy.redbubble.com.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.
May you enjoy this Christmas time with someone that you love and receive love in return. Beverley Joy.
The River of Love
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. After Grace returned from her Easter weekend in Melbourne with Alex, she decided to take the bold step forward and left home to live in Melbourne on her 18th birthday. Moving far away from the family home and all its chaos to start fresh, as a young adult, pursuing love and happiness.
Book Excerpt from The Wilted Rose by Kate Kelsen: Inside the aircraft, she followed the narrow aisle along to her seat. More and more people boarded, and as Grace watched the cabin fill up, in her mind’s eye she could still see her parents’ sad faces as she had so happily and boldly waved goodbye... She was being a selfish teenager, she knew, but she was only trying to survive. As the plane climbed higher into the sky, Grace smiled to herself. She was destined for a new city, a new future. The rest of her life awaited her at the other end of this flight.
You can read the poems and book excerpts following Grace's childhood, which I have posted on my blog throughout October and November 2022, at simplystorypoetry.com.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.
Thank you for listening. Beverley Joy
Love Blossoms
Book Excerpt from The Wilted Rose by Kate Kelsen: That coming Easter weekend, instead of bathers and towels, she packed her bag with beanies, scarves, jumpers and jeans. On Thursday evening, Jack drove her to the airport...Grace breathed in deep the freedom she felt. Alex oozed confidence, made her laugh and was exciting to be with. He opened up a whole new world of fun and adventure to her.
You can read the poems and book excerpts following Grace's childhood, which I have posted on my blog throughout October and November 2022, at simplystorypoetry.com.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.
Enjoy. Beverley Joy
The Pattern of The Beatitudes
The First Date
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. Grace was falling in love for the first time. Now seventeen years of age, back in the 1970s. Falling in love for the first time is such a unique experience. Nervous excitement and fear spun around in her mind and body. Feelings that have never been felt like this before in her young life. Thoughts, full of the excitement and fear of what ifs, leading up to her first date.
Book Excerpt from The Wilted Rose by Kate Kelsen - Grace ignored her brothers’ teasing as they travelled back up along the East Coast toward home. She was head over heels in love, and she didn’t care what they thought of it. Gazing out the window, the breathtaking landscape passed by her eyes, but she didn’t take it in. Her mind was elsewhere, replaying every precious moment of the last week over and over in her mind.
You can read the poems and book excerpts following Grace's childhood, which I have posted on my blog throughout October and November 2022, at simplystorypoetry.com.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com. Beverley Joy
Attraction
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. This series of poems follows the love life of Grace, the daughter in the story of The Wilted Rose written by Kate Kelsen and based on the story of my life. Come with me over the next few months as we take a poetic journey of romantic love.
This poem picks up the story of Grace when she was 17 years of age and going on a holiday to a youth camp with her brothers at the end of her first year of full-time work.
It turned out that Grace was the last to discover that the spunky most popular guy at the youth camp was interested in her. "Why would he be interested in me?" she thought to herself. A few guys during her high school years had shown interest in her, but that was nothing out of the ordinary for the average high school girl.
Maybe it was because she had a rich golden tan and was visiting Victoria from the envied sunshine state of Queensland. There was no doubt that Grace was fit and healthy as she had lived an active high school life on the school athletic and sports teams and on weekends her dad would take her and her brothers, and cousins water skiing at Esk and Moogarah Dams. Now she felt self-conscious as the other girls at camp whispered as they looked at her. It was awkward enough being the new kid in town, but now this unsolicited attention. Beverley Joy.
You can read the poems and book excerpts following Grace's childhood, which I have posted on my blog throughout October and November 2022, at simplystorypoetry.com.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.
The Rose
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. This is the first poem in a series following the love life of Grace, the daughter in the story of The Wilted Rose written by Kate Kelsen and based on the story of my life. You can read the poems and book excerpts following Grace's childhood, which I have posted on my blog throughout October 2022, at simplystorypoetry.com. The Wilted Rose book finishes with Grace leaving home at eighteen years of age.
Though the story of The Wilted Rose concludes, the story of Grace's pursuit of true love continues. Though her mother's life wilted in mental illness, Grace's adult life was just beginning. Full of hopes and dreams of love and happiness, just like her mother had decades earlier, Grace was determined to forge a brighter and healthy future for herself than her mother had lived and it starts with moving far away from the strict religion of her youth and her mother.
Buy a Wilted Rose for Christmas! (The Wilted Rose ebook)
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com.
Come with me over the next few months as we take a poetic journey of romantic love. Beverley Joy.
The Door to Wisdom
Hi, I'm Beverley Joy of Simply Story Poetry. What is wisdom? Is it only found in religion? Is it a spiritual or a physical quality? Some wisdom that I have gained has come as an after-effect of experiencing challenges in life. Some wisdom has come from knowledge I have acquired through education, which has prevented me from making foolish decisions and choices. Common sense and good judgement are qualities of wisdom. For me wisdom is knowledge gained through education and good and bad experiences in life and then drawing on that knowledge that is stored in my mind down through my heart and out into loving actions toward myself and others. I believe that just having knowledge stored in your head is not wisdom. Wisdom is knowledge applied into intelligent sound actions. Wisdom must be perused continuously throughout life's journey as we can learn something new every day from everyone and every experience we encounter.
You can read my poems at Simply Story Poetry on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at simplystorypoetry.com and follow me on Instagram.
Thank you for listening to my poem. Beverley Joy.