Posted: Jul 4, 08 4:00pm

I wrote a poem to celebrate the holiday using a style that comes from old time rhymes befitting a Fourth of July Spirit. However, like everything I choose to do, it has my own particular political and spiritual bent. I hope you find it of interest on the holiday. I wouldn't dare call it poetry any other day of the year!

I BELIEVE

I don't believe in Heaven

And I don't believe in Hell.

I don't believe that I'm the one

For whom they'll toll the bell.

I don't believe in sinners

And I don't believe in saints.

I don't believe in "isms"

And I don't believe in "ain'ts."

I do believe there's purpose

In this silly life we lead.

I do believe there's paths to find,

And sense in what we need.

I do believe in kindness

And that we find inspiration

From the elements around us

And a rhythmic syncopation.

It's with song and dance and music

That we celebrate together.

For with upbeat lives there's peace and joy,

And nothing we can't weather.

So we'll all hold hands and gently sway

To the music that we hear.

Let’s celebrate the life we live

And raise our voice to cheer.

We’ll do it to a fare-thee-well -

To this most perfect end,

That yesterday's worst enemy

Will be tomorrow's friend.