but don't worry, be

Labor Day

but don't worry, be
happy. There's
always a silver
lining in every dark
cloud. Trust in
the American
Dream in
a country where
anyone can become
President. Remember
that we live
in a society
unburdened by
class. Trust that
progress is the driving
engine of our
time and that
your representatives
have your best
interests at heart.
Don't forget that when
God closes a
door, he always
opens a window. In spite
of everything, still
believe that people
are good at heart.
And always
remember that
murder will out.

L. Steve Schmersal, Labor Day, 2014

I loved you for

I loved you for the
Length of time
It takes to burn a
Cigarette, as one
Does, in the mouth.

A cigarette does not
Burn for long, it
Seems, but in the
Eternity of loving, it
Can last for a forever:

A tiny fire, and a smoke,
A glow, and a breath;
A heat, not hot
Enough to warm, yet
Red enough to burn.

L. Steve Schmersal, I loved you for, 2014