(Poem) "Dec. 1st: World AIDS Day" by Cyrus Webb

This day should be committed to memory,
A symbol dedicated to it for all to see
So that we never forget what it represents.
It's one of those issues that we all must face,
Ignoring its influence doesn't begin to erase
The number of lives that have been affected or lost in the years since this war began.

So now there is a day to recognize,
To get together not only to socialize but remember that every 30 seconds another name is added to the growing list of casualties.

Yet the war wages on, and we have been drafted to the front lines,
Helping others find a reason to join the cause.
And to do that, we must sound the alarm.

Alarm those around us and beyond how risky behavior can harm them--or worse.
We have to consider the role we play and
How to behave so respect can become just as important as our feelings of regret.

This day has been set so none of us forget that we could be among the number referred to in statistics.
The battle is real. AIDS is real, and I feel that though the message is being spread, it can be said how important repeating it is.

So this poem is my way of doing just that.
By stating the facts, I react to the pandemic with words put to the page.
And I hope that no matter what the age of the reader, it will help them begin to better respond to their role in the battle--fighting to win.


(c)       Cyrus Webb

(Poem) I CAN'T BE STOPPED

The worst thing you can do is count me out.
If you think saying something about me is going to stop me, then you really don't know what I'm about...
and that means you'll underestimate me.

I can understand why you are afraid...and you should be.
Not because I am that powerful, but because of the power within me.

What separates you from me is the passion that drives each day of my life.
I don't focus on the negativity and the strife of the day.
I look for a way to make my next 24 hours better than the ones before it.

You might just want to get ahead, and that's okay---for you.
But to really be successful you have to think about the bigger picture.
Life is about the impact you have on those around you, and what you do to really make a difference.

It's not about how many people know your name
or living the celebrity life that brings you money and fame.
I'm more about another reward.

I want the peace of mind that one finds by using their skills for good...and I do.
If I am to excel and the talents I've been given propel me into the spotlight, then I want to make sure I'm using that opportunity well.

This is not about me.
It's about the endless possibilities that we all can achieve.

So when you think you're doing something to defame me, think again.
I'm no longer a person who needs your praise to get through my day or feel good about myself.
That's why you can't stop me.
Only I can stop me.
And stopping is something I have no intention of doing.
As long as there is breath in my body I will continue to be the best I can.

I can't be stopped.

(c) 2013    C. A. Webb