Poetry | Earth & Ether

The Last Day in February: The Tears that Formed Lake Victoria

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… my heart stopped
for a minute it skipped beats
I held on to the side of the well
head lowered, looking down into darkness
tears flowed freely
I had given so much
my space
my support
my time
he asked for more
he asked for things that he, himself could not give
he required much,
but gave so little
how could I allow this?

unfriendly palpitations
took the breath of me
unkind words
took the rest
leaving me speechless
our conversations dwindled
confusion
control
confinement
avoidance
I forgot who I was
and so did he |

but

i need to hear you praise me
I am Queen
i need you to reciprocate
I am esteemed
i need you to rise to my occasion
for I am the one who brought you light
i need you to ask me,
be a Pisces
if you think that you must have more
then please, dismiss me
i am worth every drop of blood
I am warrior royalty
so, if you’re not willing to fight
goodbye

retrospective:
i think that you are beautiful,
to someone you belong
you are just not tuned to play my song

the spring is coming
making revolutions around far off sunsets
triggering early sunrise
you will find what you are looking for

she is the haram of your harem
could your sin be pretend?

Photo from the Jackie Laryea blog

from The Last Day in February: The Story of Kitara and the Tears that Formed Lake Victoria (unclassified poetry in motion by Shila Iris)

The Nile River Flows Through Me

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He is the River Nile
The soil around him is fer tile
he is steady planting seeds
and watering them with my juices
his trees bear the fruit of me
on the branches I rest majestically
I call out to Pharaoh,
my divine King
when he’s in between
things are Exactly what they seem
His greatness creates streams,
that run through me
becoming rivers
flowing around my canals
and ravines
his Ebony mysteries,
prophetic history
prepares me for storms,
and extremes
When the floods come,
I am safe
surrounded by the aura of his grace
Protected by his Strength
I am goddess queen to this god
he studies the sun, the moon
and the stars
making calculated moves
he lives the truth and
bequeaths it to me
I live in his pyramid
Kushite to Meroë
temple to tomb
downriver to Timbuktu
across the Sahara
honorably,
we stand in our own reflections
wanting less, needing nothing
but the presence of the person in the moment
respect
Long Live the King in Me!

Queen OSiRis

How Stevie Wonder Helped Create Martin Luther King Day

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CLICK ON THE PICTURE TO READ THE ARTICLE PUBLISHED ON CUEPOINT

Stevie Wonder’s song, Happy Birthday, was one of the forces responsible for rallying support to make Martin Luther King Jr’s birthday a national holiday. This is a very important part of history that is sometimes overlooked. Art has often influenced political change. There were many people who fought alongside Martin, including artists, even after his death. I’d like to remember other social activists of that time, and some who came after. When I think of Martin, I think of many names including: EL HAJJ MALIK EL SHABBAZZ MALCOLM X CORETTA SCOTT KING MARTIN DELANEY LORRAINE V HANSBERRY NAT KING COLE CONSTANCE BAKER MOTLEY ROY WILKINS W.E.B. DUBOIS FRANTZ FANON JAMES FORMAN ELIJAH MUHAMMAD RICHARD WRIGHT RAY CHARLES JACKIE ROBINSON HARRY BELAFONTE ASA PHILIP RANDOLPH WHITNEY YOUNG JR JAMES B PARSONS OTIS M SMITH JAMES H MEREDITH KENNETH B CLARK FRED SHUTTLESWORTH MEDGAR W EVERS ROBERT C WEAVER LENA HORNE JAMES BALDWIN EDWARD J DWIGHT JR MUHAMMAD ALI BILL COSBY EDWARD KENNEDY DUKE ELLINGTON KWAME TURE STOKELY CARMICHAEL ARETHA FRANKLIN LANGSTON HUGHES JAMIL ABDULLAH AL AMIN H RAP BROWN THURGOOD MARSHALL GIL SCOTT HERON ELLA FITZGERALD ROBERT NESTA BOB MARLEY and finally, MARCUS GARVEY, who came before this time, but inspired every Black freedom fighter of the 20th Century. The story of this 3rd Monday in January, is very deep. So start digging! The answers can empower you. I am sure you have many other names to add to this list. Ase (Yoruba for, “it is so”)!

“If you are going to speak to the people, you gotta be the people.” –Chuck D

On December 12, 1963, two very important books were published: Why We Can’t Wait, by Dr. King, and The Wretched of the Earth by Frantz Fanon, a Martinique-born psychiatrist. Both books made history. King’s book came about from his Letter from Birmingham Jail, written on April 16, 1963, and Fanon’s book was known as “the Bible of the oppressed.” These are books that every activists or American of African descent should read. They are enlightening and uplifting and help to pave the way. They are relevant to this day, this hour, and this moment.

MESSAGE TO THE MESSENGERS

Lastly, across the world, a lot of us attended MLK programs today. I really hope that we all took the time out to listen to the messages and reflect on our history. I’ve noticed that when I attend events, fewer people are concerned about internalizing the messages and taking notes so that we can create plans and blueprints. It seems that it is more about recording videos and taking pictures/selfies and posting them to social media networks, and less about actively participating in the MOMENT. Listening and engaging is becoming a lost art. I truly heart the idea of clandestine behavior as a method to organizing for change; and I support Gil Scott-Heron’s notion that the REVOLUTION WILL NOT BE TELEVISED. We should try engaging on a different level. That means that we can’t give it all away, by attempting to share every move that we make. Mystery is a lost art as well. We must focus on what’s in our faces. We cannot possibly be performing at our best, holding phones, trying to document ourselves at every event. That job is for videographers and photographers. Let us play our part, by actively listening. No one needs to know that you were there, you know, and that is most important. Let’s think deeply, study, and plan:

There will be no pictures of pigs shooting down
Brothers on the instant replay
There will be no pictures of pigs shooting down
Brothers on the instant replay

There will be no pictures of Whitney Young
Being run out of Harlem on a rail with a brand new process
There will be no slow motion or still life of Roy Wilkins
Strolling through Watts in a red, black and green
Liberation jumpsuit that he had been saving
For just the proper occasion -Gil Scott-Heron

Peace and love,

OSiRis RiSinG

a beautifully Poetic Sunday

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For a long time, I did not desire him
so I buried myself in things
that would keep me away:

“got a good book and got all in it,
tried a little yoga for a minute, but it won’t let go…”
click here

He fought for his right to see me
and I ignored his attempts,
unsure of the necessity to have him in my life:

“I just can’t decide
If it’s you I want
Don’t want to choose between
Having you in my life or losing you for real
’cause I caught feelings…”
click here

As much as I could remember the beauty of him, something still pushed me into another zone. The thought of him being a reflection of my good, and my bad, made me want to be free. I wanted to face another reality:

“We were too much the same, and I didn’t know, who to blame, cause I didn’t want to change; and you weren’t going to change…”
click here

I was much more into my own feelings, tired of compromising, tired of insecurities, just so tired of second-guessing, and needing approval. I wanted to float. I chose to live amongst the clouds. It was time to face myself and see the good parts of me. Not the parts of me buried in monotony. I needed an atmosphere that would allow me to grow:

“Here I am, on a cloud
If you want me take the chance try love out loud
As I drift, through the sky
Shooting cupid’s loving arrow you just might try
So don’t miss me, take your time
You’ve only got one chance, yes…”
click here

So, after listening to my heart, I put myself out there. My search had begun. My spirit no longer wanted to live behind a smokescreen. I wanted to live visibly, and openly. I stumbled, off the block. This newness, this world that I was beginning to see, wasn’t familiar. So, I was afraid, at first, but one day, as I mingled, I saw a butterfly, and the beauty of it was astounding, so I chased it:

“See a butterfly
Up in the sky
I got a story to say
And I’ll tell you why
I’m searchin’

You see my friend
And I need someone
Who feels and needs
The same as I
I’m searchin’ …”
click here, baby

♥ ___________________________ ♥

I am out here, in this world, alone most of the time, but not lonely. I needed to know what it felt like to just be me. So thank you Universe for revealing me to me. That friend that I needed, was simply Shila. Everything outside of me, is just a gift, but never again will I exchange my happiness for anything. I am powerful in this way.

♥ ___________________________ ♥

Let’s listen to each other more. We could avoid so much, if we weren’t afraid of what the other might say. Damn. Can we just talk? We have to be brave, because at the end of the day, our hurt feelings are just not the bigger picture.

Peace and love,

Shila Iris

P.S. I want to shout out GOAPELE. She is a wonderful artist. I have enjoyed pretty much all of her recorded music. I want to make sure you hear this song. It is a reflection of me, and I am sure some of you can relate to every single lyric, just as I. It is amazing how someone else’s art can capture my heart so perfectly.

I find myself writing to this tune. Evolution requires that we face whatever made us hit rock bottom. These “rock bottom recoveries” are what make us and break us. So, this little tune cracked me right open! I had always been somewhat of a poet, writing since I was about 7 years old. Journals and journals full of words and thoughts in metaphors and similes! However, for the past few years, I couldn’t write. I couldn’t figure out why. Had I lost my ability to be poetic? I was stuck in this funk, in a place where I couldn’t arrange my thoughts. I was depressed and frustrated for a very long time. Nonetheless, that is over, and I write all the time! I just needed more life experiences. Sometimes we have to leave our comfort zones to really and truly find ourselves. I am searching. Aren’t we all? If you see me, let’s just have a good time. It’s really about being grown and mature and knowing how to express your love. Not just saying it, but living it. I HAVE NOTHING TO PROVE.

Let’s travel, don’t be afraid. Won’t you be free with me? My final destination, the motherland. That is inside of me.

I believe in love at first sight…

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… if you must harness the sunshine
and hold the air in your hands,
fairy tales and miracles are splendid
If you’re planting seeds and
watering them with the right things,
hopeless romanticism is an experience,
that leads, to growth
But you musn’t be surprised when someone on the other side
of the world flicks the light switch
and the season is over.

Energy is a whirlwind waiting for you to walk in,
it may be fate or coincidence, you spin

I believe in love manifesting itself in bodies from our dreams
Now, are you ready to face reality?

________________ I want to get to know you, and you need to get to know me. That means we can choose to see one another when we can, but don’t feel obligated. Let’s have a free flow mind dance. I believe in liberation. I believe in evolution. If we ever decide to go beyond, let it be because we trust and respect one another and because we arrived, naturally, at a place, where we both want to be. ________________

I am learning so many things about real human emotions. I was taught to put my love in a box, but it’s not how I want to love anyone and it is not how I want anyone to love me. I have discovered that I am not interested in a love filled with forevers and nevers. Anything is possible when you really love someone. I believe in LIONHEART LOVE where we don’t need to pretend or make a show. WE HAVE NOTHING TO PROVE. We are NOT afraid of one another. We know each other well. We accept the flaws and all.

LOVE IS MUTUAL. I feel like the healthiest loving is reciprocal. The Universe has a tendency to align us with the right people when we are righteous and ready. You will know when you arrive at this type of love because it will feel right. It will be more than infatuation or physical stimulation. You will be able to look into each other’s eyes and know. It is a deep experience- to grow with someone and go through trials with them. Love is earned, not something that should be given so freely. Lot’s of people throw it around, but I say, please don’t misuse it!

Growing a real love could take seasons! But don’t be intimidated by this. Have faith, patience, and fun! A REAL love has to stand the test of time. You won’t know how much you love someone until you have to go through things with them. The people that I love are those who stood by me throughout the years. It took 15 years for me to know that I really loved my best friend! 10 years for me to trust my college sisters. Imagine that. We made all types of mistakes, but we still had each other’s backs. I know that it is pure because we never had to cross anyone for our love to manifest. It has always been a good thing.

I don’t want to rush or anticipate it
It’s much more interesting when we just let it be
We connect our personalities and histories,
call it chemistry
Hasty declarations can ruin a good thing
just open your heart to me…
_____________________________

Don’t declare love out of fear. Would you rather have the security of a lie, someone telling you what you want to hear? Or the truth?

I want a beautiful becoming, an awakening, where I don’t know what’s going to happen.

If you’re scared that you’re losing control then yes, say you love me! Do you want to be in a relationship because you’re afraid of losing me or do you want the real thing? Let life happen. Love yourself.

I care for you. I admire you. I want to be around you. I want you. Those are things that I’ll believe, nothing prematurely. It’s only right that I, we, take the time to season our greens, let nature be. Peace. This woman said it best:

“Just because I tell you I love you, don’t mean that I do.”
-Erykah Badu

Listen to every lyric if you desire my tenderness. 🙂

I am so good at being a QueenAquarius!

P.S. Let’s fly to the Bahamas!

I’m smiling today because my heart is warm with desire.

Neolithic Heart

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“I want to see you.

Know your voice.

Recognize you when you
first come ’round the corner.

Sense your scent when I come
into a room you’ve just left…”
-Rumi

——————————————

NEOLITHIC HEARTS

Our spirits speak.

From where you are
to where I am,
I can hear your heart,
beat.
Sometimes over the loudness of my own
I lay down,
defeat.
When I can,
I give in, to the sound of your resounding love.

Like a gong, like a drum,
the pulse penetrates
underneath
my skin,
closest to kin,
I touch the surfaces of your existence,
decoding the braille,
the bumps,
I exhale,
Life is so mystical.
Breathing, I inhale,
the essence.

Languages, unknown
I hear, in my dreams.
ancient mysteries.
In my mind,
I contrive,
I find,
myself succumbing to
the caress of fingers,
of stories,
of memories.
of things,
so true.
Vivid answers,
vivid truths. -shilairis

Karmatic Life Explosions

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Monday morning anxieties,
washed away
visions of forever,
lost.
the comprehension of humanity,
gained.
living contradictions,
fly away.
no judgment of before, or after
new stories, begin

living on the path of the sun
i orbit
my heart beats to
the length and rhythm of day and night

seasons change
shape and speed, rotation leads

the past is gone,
the future, unpredictable,
the moment is now.

the love that I grew for you is 360
energy, recycled,
i don’t know what to do.
but the thought doesn’t make me blue,
my heart goes out to you.

degrees from experience,
and karmatic life explosions
there is no equation,
it’s all in persuasion.
which mountain do you stand on?
outlook and perspective
lost emphasis in translation

did they forget that there is
no Always, no Never
It’s Possibly, Maybe.
promises turn shady

the lava from volcanic eruptions
bring me closer to my Maker,
i am the Creator.
This side of the moon,
life is worth living.
free your mind
and the rest, will follow. -by shilairis

_________________

kar·ma

ˈkärmə/ > informal

destiny or fate, following as effect from cause.

_________________

peace and love,

Queen OSiRis

I am Eclipsing

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“Don’t be satisfied with stories, how things have gone with others. Unfold your own myth.” – Rumi

i am the moon, eclipsing

i was not waiting in darkness for you to bring me light,
my world was already bright
but I am obliged that you have added to my majesties
with simple acts of faith

teacher, no preacher
lover, no hate
brother, no enemy
adventure, no drama
truth, no contradiction

allegiance, no opposition
bravery, no blame
harmony, no aversion
human, as in nature.

that’s what you are.
A mariner.

I am not blinded by your light,

i can see.
i can see my mistakes.
i can see, I am great.

clearly,

you are free.
And you make me,
want to be,

an explorer.

of myself,
of my individual wealth.

thank you for unleashing,
this dreamer inside of me.

i am the moon, eclipsing

spinning on the earths’ axis
my day, my night, is mine.

moth to a flame,
my experience, i claim

rising, OsiRis.
the sun belongs to me,

me, myself, and I,
my holy Trinity.

by shila iris

Today, I am inspired by my dreams of Khem. I feel like I was there. Explore.

Queen OSiRis

Lavender Fields

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“Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing
and rightdoing there is a field.
I’ll meet you there.

When the soul lies down in that grass
the world is too full to talk about.” – Rumi

we lay in this field of lavender and silently stirred our desires. his kisses taste like the sweet smell. nature aroused us. electric fingers touched the surfaces of my femininity. the confidence of his manhood carved out reasons for me to give in, but it was honesty that made me release. he didn’t promise me anything. he made no attempts to win me over. he made no excuses for his past. he loved even those, who he had lost. his mind was mature, aged like sweet wine. his left brain co-mingled with my right brain. he impregnated me with his wisdom. smothered in purple, i was drunk, in the silence of the lavender field. -by Shila Iris

“Stop acting so small. You are the universe in ecstatic motion.” – Rumi

Loving the way I feel. Queen OSiRis, I am RiSinG.

Spinning Baduizm today. “This world is so dramatic.”

Day 5 – KWANZAA AFTER DARK: Baduizm

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“Peace and blessings manifest with
every lesson learned
If your knowledge were your wealth then
it would be well earned” -Erykah Badu

________________________

Today’s Kwanzaa theme is NIA otherwise known as Purpose. When I think of purpose, I think of my Identity, of our identity, and the restoration of the traditional greatness in the Black/Brown family. Our greatness has been repressed because we have been oppressed, but I can feel the blood of my ancestors running through my veins. It feels amazing. I know that I am wonderful, and I know that it means something to have this history inside of me.

Today, my NIA gift to you is Baduizm, an album that helped me to realize my Greatness.

It’s been seventeen years since Erykah Badu released Baduizm. I was 13 at the time, and I remember being mesmerized by her music. I saw the video for On and On and was hooked! Good for me, my mom was into Badu, so she purchased the tape and played it frequently. I was right there by her side, listening to every lyric.

“I can’t believe
That we’re still livin’
Oh, in this crazy, crazy world
That I’m still livin’

With all the problems of the day
How can we go on? Hey
So tired of hearin’ people say
“How can we go on?”

Fantasy people
Make believe people
How can you go on? Yeah
But you’re still livin’ ” – from the song “Drama”

Erykah’s energy seemed to awaken something inside of me. At the time, I couldn’t identify what it was, but it seemed more spiritual than anything. To this day, she is still intoxicating and her lyrics touch my soul. I don’t exactly feel like I am a fan of hers, I feel more of a ethereal kinship to her. I feel the wealth of her knowledge reflected through her music.

As a gift, please enjoy the messages behind the music. Let the baselines take you into the lands and into the hearts of your ancestors. If you can, check out this book on Badu:

Sometimes we get knocked off course. We get lost in love, sick, distracted by technology, confused, hurt, but we have to remember that we are GREAT. We are more than whatever they told us we are! We should look to ourselves to find our history. KNOWing yourself is fulfilling your purpose.

Peace and love,

Queen Shi-La on the throne…

8:30 p.m. 12/30/14

DAY 1 – KWANZAA AFTER DARK: Surah 31:18

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“Let’s take, a long walk, around the park, after dark
Find a spot, for us to spark,
Conversation, verbal elation, stimulation
Share our situations, temptations, education, relaxations
Elevations, maybe we can talk about Surah 31:18”

-Jill Scott

Surah 31:18

“Do not treat men with scorn, nor walk proudly on the earth: God does not love the arrogant and the vainglorious. Rather let your stride be modest and your voice low: the most hideous of voices is braying of the ass.”

_________________________________________

Today’s Kwanzaa theme is UMOJA, otherwise known as Unity. When I think of unifying, I imagine traveling in harmony with someone, or with people who respect me, uplift, and are honest with me. Unifying takes a lot of courage. It is more than holding someone’s hand, it is empowering them and accepting them for who they are. It is respecting the space and the boundaries of others. It is listening with an open heart. It is acknowledging that everyone is human and that we all make mistakes:

“Your background, it ain’t squeaky clean (shit)
Sometimes we all got to swim upstream
You ain’t no saint, we all are sinners
But you put your good foot down, and make your soul a winner,

I respect that, man you’re so phat
And you’re all that, plus SUPREME
Then you’re humble, man I’m numb
Yo’ feeling, I can feel everything that you bring”

-Jill Scott

Today, my Umoja GIFT to you: Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol. 1

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO “A LONG WALK”

Nearly 15 years ago, Jill Scott released this very impressive album, which quickly floated towards the top of the charts, swiftly garnering mass public respect and a positive critical response selling 2 million copies. In its entirety, the album is a beautiful and emotional experience of love. The lyrics are erotic, exotic, and express her deepest feelings. She is remarkably honest and raw, singing and reciting poetry straight from the heart, no chaser. Words and Sounds Vol. 1 is crammed with playful love and sincere desire.

As a gift, let us be reminded of the concept of UNITY. Unity starts inside of you. It is important to be ONE with who you are, then, you can spread that love! Let us UNIFY in TRUTH. Let us not be afraid to tell each other how we really feel. Let us always find power in admitting our mistakes, because to hide behind them is death. Let us not throw away our love in the misunderstandings of a weak heart:

Surah 31:16 – “My son, God will bring all things to light, be they small as a grain of mustard seed, be they hidden inside a rock or in the heavens or the earth. Gracious is God, the Universe, all-knowing.

With that said, I am glad that you are here!

“You’re here, I’m pleased
I really dig your company
Your style, your smile, your peace mentality
Lord, have mercy on me
I was blind, now I can see
What a KING’s supposed to be
Baby I feel Free, come on and go with me”

-Jill Scott

________________________________________

…and in the spirit of Unity, please remember that you can be a honorable woman or man, you just have to be pure and honest to form great relationships. Walk towards those who don’t hide from who they are; unify with those who want to hear the truth.

“…maybe we can talk about Revelation 3:17”

-Jill Scott

You say, ‘I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.

Well, I’m headed out for my long walk, around the park, after dark! Peace and love.

Thank you for reading, baby. I love you too. 8:00 p.m. 12/26/14.

Queen OSiRis

P.S. Remember your roots. Foster good and pure relationships. Let a friend be a friend, let a lover be a lover. Don’t cross lines. Don’t lie.

Umoja principle instructs that each member of the family, and by extension, the community, is constituted by a web of interpersonal relationships. The health and possibilities of the family and community, therefore, is dependent upon the quality of relationship within the family and community.

@shila_iris

Honey is the only food that contains all the substances necessary to sustain life.

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____________________________________________________

“I felt her sting. The pain from this little bee was elephantine. Still I wanted her honey… ”

____________________________________________________

The HONEY bee is the only insect that produces food eaten by the human being. It has many health benefits and comes in a variety of colors and flavors, depending upon the hive of its origin.

Honey is the only food that contains all the substances necessary to sustain life.

IT HAS THERAPEUTIC MEDICINAL NUTRITIONAL & COSMETIC VALUE

Honey is immortal. Archaeologists have found perfectly good pots of it inside of Egyptian tombs. It is the food of royalty, so I’m consuming!

METAPHORICALLY SPEAKING ——— In my travels, I have come across more and more beautiful women who reminded me of honey. Sometimes, I am bold enough to strike up a conversation with these women and I must say, so many of them are interesting. They share the traits of this life-sustaining staple- pure, raw, and everlasting! ———

During childhood, my mother lovingly refered to me as honey. “Honey,” she’d say, “can you go upstairs and bring me my nail polish?” Back then I was quiet and sweet! And I was most definitely a worker bee, the one who she could depend on. With all of my ‘honey love’ and beauty, sometimes I could be rather sluggish. She said, that I didn’t always immediately respond to things, but I did eventually, and when I did, it most definitely was worth the wait! I was thinking and processing. I still do.

If you decide to love honey, you must embrace everything about it.

____________________________________________________

She is honey.

____________________________________________________

HONEY’S NO FLING, SHE LASTS FOREVER. She’s a reflection of my imperfection. SOMETIMES I CANNOT SEE MYSELF.

But looking into her eyes, she REMINDs

ME OF WHO I AM

My arrogance, my inability to see

honey makes it clear to me

____________________________________________________

She is HONEY.

____________________________________________________

I put honey on my wounds, cause she promotes healing

I pursue honey, cause she never goes bad

I rock with the queen bee, her spirit is the largest in the hive

I am in love with the juice she produce

I’m in love with her sting, she’s awakening

I had a lot of girls, but not too many was like her

She was…

____________________________________________________

She is honey.

____________________________________________________

I really adore this girl. She’s always got my back. I need help with work, she’s typing. I need help carrying the weight of the world, she straps it on her back. My car breaks down, she’s driving! I’m hungry, she’s ready to feed me the juices of her existence. Forever helping me, she is the love of my life. I don’t want to lose her. She is me. She is HONEY.

What I Love About You: You are INTOXICATING

…and magnetic..

BOLDLY STYLISH…

and QUEENLIKE…

i ADORE your confidence…

YOU ARE PERFECTION!

WHAT I LOVE ABOUT YOU: your subtle glamour…

I can’t take my eyes off your eyes!

or your arms…

That smile of yours!

I always love your hair!

Your aesthetics are amazing!

You are honey…

… so sticky, and so sweet. I want to touch you.

… in all your erogenous places, and spaces.

You let me in.

… I get greedy, wanting more and more.

You are the hive from which I wish to eat…

your femininity is skin deep.

Wow. I adore you.

I rise!

… to your occasion, your magnificent persuasion!

EnigMATIC!

I LIKE YOUR BRAND OF CUTE.

Can I paint a picture of you?

You are rebellious…

and innocent…

and so willing to explore!

Are you always this bubbly?

I love it!

Did I mention that I love the way the sun looks on your skin?

I love your ability to change.

You definitely changed my game with those lips!

Your simplicity is so sweet.

And your features…

… your body parts were sculpted so carefully.

No matter the case, you command respect…

and you forgive.

I love that you are perceptive.

and you respect my space… you wait.. .

… and I respect yours.

You are hypnotic! Can I drink you?

Creative…

… and gifted

With you, the possibilities are infinite!

YOU INSPIRE ME TO BE ME

You are colorful.

and mysterious…

and heavenly seductive…

You are thrifty!

and daring…

… and you WORK!

You’re innovative.

Sassy.

… bewitching,

yet classy…

You are kind-hearted.

…and you tell me what you want. I listen.

I like how you respond to me.

your majesty… my princess.

Can I be your reflection? Your king, your protection?

Can I wash away the pain?

Can I see you again?

I’ll comb your hair, my love.

If only I can look into your soul. Just one more time.

I want you to let it out.

… let it all go.

.. set yourself free.

… take a picture of your freedom.

… of your honey.

… and send it to me. Or just let me see.

hmmmmm.

I want you.

If not for your body…

for your tenderness.

I pray…

… for you…

I SEE ELEMENTS OF my PERSONALITY IN SO MANY WOMEN.

I SEE THE GOOD, THE BAD, the beautiful, AND THE UGLY- all in which I adore. I like you with your flaws. All I want to do is add to your queendom. Unselfishly, I submit my love to you.

I am HONEY. and so are you.

Peace and love. Exist.

Shila Iris as Kush aka OSiRis RiSinG

Care to Listen. Ohio Players. A Taste of Honey. Boogie oogie oogie. AL GREEN: Simply Beautiful. I’ve Learned to Respect, the Power of Love: Stephanie Mills. “I’m in Love with a Bumblebee” HONEY: ERYKAH BADU.

Care to read. Continue reading →

I am your Soul Sista…

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Sometimes in life, we cannot offer people a commitment, but we can offer them one hell of an experience! All experiences are relevant. We need them to balance us out for what is to come. So don’t be afraid to love. Love right. Not at the risk of hurting someone, but purely, and bravely. I am your soul sista. Let’s have a good time.

I love Bilal in this. The way he touches her at @0:35 & @2:07 is incredible. The movement throughout is lovely especially @3:25. Brings back memories, Bilal! I see you QuestLove!

On an ARTISTIC level this song hit so many hi-hats in my spirit. It’s very poetic.

and 5 more for the road…

EXPERIENCE 1: I just got out of a situation, and I’m not trying to get into anything serious, but we can chill. Know what I mean?

EXPERIENCE 2: There ain’t no denying the strength of this attraction.

EXPERIENCE 3: It feels so right, it can’t be wrong.

EXPERIENCE 4: How can I want you for myself, when I’m already someone’s girl?

EXPERIENCE 5: Money flying everywhere! Every person deserves an experience where there is no penny-pinching. “Spend my money, baby!” Have fun!

Be accountable for all your experiences. Pass no judgement because we all enjoy the excitement of being with someone who understands our needs. Like instruments, sometimes we get out of tune, and we have to find the right tuner. Even if it’s for the moment, we have to be open to the sound of the person whom the Universe sends to show us our reflection. When you look into that person’s eyes, that mirror, you better be ready to face reality because you will see the good, but you most definitely see the bad. All of what you see in that person, is you. We are human beings, we are soundboards for one another. We attract people who are weak like us and strong like us. Find the next person that will tune you. Get your sound right and come back around.

I’m not endorsing this behavior, but it is kind of sexy, right? -John Legend

P.S. Remember to tell the truth about your choices. Don’t cover up a good experience with lies because you are embarrassed or afraid of what people might think. You have to know that we reap what we sow. Karma is that balance we need to wake up. Be private and use discretion, and most importantly be honest with the person with whom you are having the experience with. There is no need to fake or rush anything. Rushed behavior only leads to more hurt and confusion. Take your time and allow things to blossom or allow yourself to live in the moment because time doesn’t wait for any of us. Live the life you desire. Kiss a girl who makes your blood boil. Kiss a man who makes you scream.

From my heart to yours, the lessons I’ve learned. Peace & love.

-Shila Iris

I Love You Too Daddy

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“When you become a parent, your needs no longer are the priority.”

My father looked into my 30 year old eyes. He knew that I had been going through some things. He stared. He couldn’t look away. I could tell that he wanted to save me. I didn’t have to tell him the details because he already knew. He could feel my pain. He hugged me and told his favorite story of me from my childhood. He said, “you don’t know how much I love you. My baby girl! I can’t believe that you are a grown woman.” I gave him a soft smile, in hopes of disguising my pain. I said nothing. My intent was to forgive. I love you too daddy.

This post is to commend the fathers who make their children the #1 priority in their lives.

Indonesia. Borneo rain forest. Dyak manand daughter.

Up until the age of 8, I saw my father mostly everyday. Then I lost him to the world. He abused drugs, he abused women, and he abused himself. I became afraid of him. He chose these things over me. He chose women over me. He chose the streets over me. He did this for years and no one talked about it. The anger festered. By the age of 15, I was completely and utterly disgusted by him. He was no longer mine. I had to become a woman without him. I no longer wanted him around. The rotten life he’d chosen stunk. I could smell him coming miles away. I ran from him. I couldn’t stand his presence. It wasn’t so much that I blamed him for anything, it was just, I’d seen him using drugs and it destroyed my image of him. I didn’t know what to say.

I moved away with no send off from my father. I discovered other men. I indulged. I then began to miss him, but I ignored him. He’s always been a loving man. Even through his chaos, he tried to be a part of my life. My heart was ice cold. I could feel him pulling on the strings of my heart. He felt heavy. It took years, but I finally let go of the anger! It wasn’t him that was heavy, he was only a man. Men aren’t perfect. It was me. It was the anger that I was holding onto that was heavy. I had to learn how to shed the burden of judgment. I had to accept his struggle. I have.

Life feels so much better this way. It hasn’t been easy letting go of the anger, but I have and my father has become my friend. He is my protection. He decided that he wanted to be there for me, to stand up for me and he has. The past seems so far away. Thank you daddy for holding my hand.

This post is to commend the fathers who make their children the #1 priority in their lives. In finding my true self, I discovered that the time in which my father was absent most certainly affected my life. It made me weaker in areas where I should have been strong. It made me susceptible to bullshit. It made me think that it was OK to be a rebound. I wanted that male presence. So I compromised. I allowed myself to be treated like a bad habit. I wasn’t the woman that I needed to be. Now, I get to be that. I get to be stronger. I get to blossom into my Queendom. I have forgiven my father, but most importantly, I have forgiven myself. I can finally move forward with LOVE.

I know that it certainly isn’t easy having children. It takes time, commitment, and patience. No child asks to be born. When you become a parent, your needs no longer are the priority. The needs of the child are most important. In the current state of our society, relationships end and children sway in the wind like leaves. Parents pay their child support and see their children sparingly. Don’t let that be your reality. Give your attention and time to your children. Treat them like fixtures in your life. Set your own emotions aside and spend time daily with them. It will pay off. Peace and love to you daddy.

You are my King.

Shila Iris for AfriKan Essence, Thursday, October 16, 2014, 8:56 a.m.

“Affirmation: Today, I will not dwell on the past or the future. I have no need for either, when I step fully into the present. I will no longer hold onto pain until it becomes anger. I will no longer hold onto to pleasure before it becomes an addiction. I will not anticipate pain or pleasure in the future to relieve anxiety. The present is the home of my being. Past and future are only the dreams of whom I was or what I might become. Today, I will release the past and its burden of wounded dreams.

Pulling From the Universe Inside of ME – Nurturing My Cipher

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I was trying to go it alone, but he said, “I want to assist you through this process.” Before I knew it, I was crying. That is the impact a true friend has. It’s not just rhetoric, it’s responsibility. He wanted to hold my hand. He was pure.

***** The seasons will forever change. We all know it. The leaves have fallen off my trees. The ground beneath my feet is hard and cold. My flowers are hiding until the spring, but I can still feel the green, the roots. My foundation is being set. I’ve never felt this powerful in my life! It feels good. My season has changed and I’ve had to spend a lot of time alone. Spending time with myself, with my own thoughts, not being dependent on another has been empowering! Not jumping from affair to affair has been elevating. Having friends and family around who see the greatness in me, has been nourishing. I am not afraid to be alone anymore or to commit to myself anymore. I’m thinking, if you can’t be alone with you, why would other people want to? I don’t want to attract the same type of energy again and again, so I guess it is time to cleanse!

I record my experiences using poetry. When I talk to people about how great it feels to go through things, no matter how painful, when I tell people my story, they are interested! I’ve been encouraged to always be a griot, a storyteller, and to use the magic of my words to nurse my strength. When I write, I can feel the magic. It’s healing. I am a writer who’s finds the most comfort in telling my own story. My journey through the seasons has been tumultuous. I had been holding on to things that were damaging me. I had read many self-help books that I thought would assist in my healing, only to realize that the healing didn’t start until I let go of the thing that was hurting me most. I had to take time out to learn myself and although I have been alone, many people have come to me, and given me hugs, smiles, kisses, and so much love.

This is my thank you LETTER to the wonderful people in my CIPHER. Some of you are miles away, but when I needed you, somehow you sensed it, and you were right here with me. I am forever grateful. May we journey onward through the seasons. Everything is good until it is not! It’s been a long time coming… read (click on the image below to enlarge)

“his excitement in hearing my voice was attractive. it always had been. it felt real. not rehearsed. it felt right.”

the THANK YOU LETTER… you have to adjust your screens to read.

and although, i don’t need to run to people to save me, i’ve realized that there are people who genuinely want to help. No matter how much I refuse, they feel like they have to. It’s quite amazing. I am grateful. this poem was originally published here, on January 29, with other things in mind. It is still relevant in my journey. it is not a love poem. it is a poem to show my regards for those who really CARE about me. and they have proven this time and time again. i can’t believe how wonderful you are. i deserve u. i miss u.

THANK YOU SO MUCH! Thank you friends, lovers, family, companions, artists- everyone who has experienced me! Everyone who rose to my occasion, everyone who was interested in the truth.

You are so true.

i can see the sun shining on me, through you.

i can see it in the words that you write.

the pictures that you take.

the stories that you create.

your style,

your flow.

i needed honesty.

i needed someone to remind me.

and you were that person.

i want to be like you!

Osiris, I am you.

Horus, I am you.

Isis, I am you.

Maat, I am you.

Zarina Asha, I am you.

Imhotep Famj, I am you.

SunRe, I am you.

Kitara, i am you.

Ike Ejiogu, I am you.

You all are the Papyrus of Ani,

and i am reading you thoroughly.

thank you for the warm kisses.

thank you for SHOWING up.

thank you for not giving up on ME,

and not allowing me to give up on myself.

thank you for not humiliating me or lying.

I thank you for never running away,

and for respecting me enough to let me live through the consequences of my bad decisions. i kept a strong face, but I was crying inside. you all never passed judgment… i am running towards you at a fast pace, I need you most.

My opposing viewpoints earned me lifetime lovers. thank you for taking my heart carefully in your hands and stroking it.

through my experiences, I am wiser.

My feet are touching solid ground because of you.

I am most grateful for those who did not wait for the smoke to clear.

they helped me get to safety.

they gave me the tools, the support I needed to save myself.

No looking back. The new is on the horizon.

i am filling myself up again with REAL things!

thank you so much!

to those who did not compare my journey to their own or anyone’s.

they did not look for opportunities to vent,

they listened.

they allowed me to exist in exclusivity.

they allowed me to be in the lime light.

those who just accepted me for who i am.

those who did not share my pain with the world.

or talk about me in circles as if they had any idea what life has been like for me.

you don’t know me at all.

Thank you to all who allow me to tell my own stories.

thank you to those who did not stump on me.

their insecurities did not force me into a corner.

their insecurities did not force me to lie.

their confidence encouraged me to be free,

to be happy, to be merry,

and not to live my life trying to please people who really don’t love me.

they helped me to see that I cannot be controlled.

i am in control of me.

they helped me to not seek revenge,

but to release the things that bound me.

Friend: “Let it go baby!

LET IT GO BABY!”

i was so blind, but now i see.

you listened to my story. you listened to the truth.

asante sana. nakupenda. lala salama.

I am Shila Iris also known as YoU.

Gotta give up it up to the cReAtor, allAh, JEHovah, mAAt, Jah, RastaFARI…

a song for you.

ERYKAH BADU: THE Healer

Monday, October 13, 2014, 2:34 p.m.

Earth & Ether

Deep then Deeper High then Higher

Category Archives: Poetry

The Last Day in February: The Tears that Formed Lake Victoria

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The Nile River Flows Through Me

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How Stevie Wonder Helped Create Martin Luther King Day

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a beautifully Poetic Sunday

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I believe in love at first sight…

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Neolithic Heart

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Karmatic Life Explosions

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I am Eclipsing

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Lavender Fields

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Day 5 – KWANZAA AFTER DARK: Baduizm

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DAY 1 – KWANZAA AFTER DARK: Surah 31:18

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Honey is the only food that contains all the substances necessary to sustain life.

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I am your Soul Sista…

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I Love You Too Daddy

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Pulling From the Universe Inside of ME – Nurturing My Cipher

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