Nov PAD Day 12 -- forget what they say

TRUE METTLE
By The Great Oz

You think you lack courage,
kind sir, but
I suspect you've got more
than you realize.

Many have possessed less gumption
than you, but
their chests are decorated nonetheless.
Forget what they

say about mettle, what heroes
wear over their
hearts doesn't matter as much
as what's inside.

Carry on Tuesday -- Do you remember what we promised when we met...?

THE SQUEAKY WHEEL

You walked into my life
and I was paralyzed.
Truly.

You walked across the way
and loosened me up.
Thankful.

We promised to move forward
and journey.
Together.

Nov PAD Day 6 - Looking for ...

LOOKING FOR THE EMERALD CITY

I've been told that this is the way
to all that I've been looking for;
that the answers to all my questions
can be found at the end of this road.

I've been told that if I just keep
the course I'll find my heart's desires:
a heart, some smarts, a little courage,
or the way that leads home.

Although, I've also been told that
the journey is the answer and the
questions all lead to more heart, smarts,
and courage. I've always been home.

And so we skip on.

Nov PAD Day 5 - metamorphosis

Inspired by Miss Ruby a week or so ago, I think I'm going to try to focus the rest of my Nov PAD Chapbook Challenge entries on the characters from the Wizard of Oz. Just for fun.

BEHIND THE CURTAIN

I never intended to become
the man who
hid behind a green curtain,

an all-powerful ruler and sage
whose magic lay
in fancy smoke and mirrors.

I never intended to deceive
the people who
wanted to believe in me,

but to give them something,
anything at all,
to put their faith into.

Poetic Asides - cascade poem/We Write Poems - Wizard of Oz

MISS RUBY

If you're going to walk down golden roads
you should definitely do it in style.
Thank god you found me.

That gingham smock did nothing
for you, honey. You need some pizzazz
if you're going to walk down golden roads.

But you've got the right idea with
the little lapdog. When accessorizing with canines,
you should definitely do it in style.

Still, a pair of dazzling heels is what
you really need to turn heads in the Emerald City.
Thank god you found me.