The Pearl

Shaped by the suffering of the sea;

Caused by the grit that found its way

Into the former comfort of the shell,

The oyster built around to try

To give itself protection.

Until it ground inside with abject pain-

Each hour, every moment, formed inside,

From the excretions of agony,

A lustrous beauty there to hide,

For some most blest discoverer.

So when I find you, I’ll rejoice,

And tell the world of my great love.

And thrilled to find such beauty rare,

I’ll tell the heavens’ stars above,

Of the pearl that I have found.

Mark J. Humber. 

When a Thousand Times

When a thousand times I’ve said I love you,

And meant it from my deepest soul,

And my words have often wooed you,

Are there any other words to say?

When a thousand times I’ve kissed you,

And held you in my arms so tight,

And so tenderly caressed you,

Can I show you any other way?

When a thousand times I’ve seen you,

And marvelled at your beauteous face,

When your glory has enthralled me,

Is there anymore to see?

Yes, a thousand times I’ll tell you!

Of the love my heart sustains,

Oh, a thousand times I’ll hold you!

Yet the passion still remains.

When a thousand times I’ve seen you,

And your beauty turns to age,

For a thousand thousand times I'll love you,

Till I close my life's last page.

Maybe in that other world, I'll find you,

Where life does not dim with time,

When a thousand is no longer,

I'll spend eternity with you.

Mark Humber

Sonnet To An Enlightened Age

In this advanced and modern world of ours,

We find development that pleases most.

The freedom fiercely fought for boldly towers,

O’er ancient principles we once did boast.

The social classes once from birth bestowed,

Are now displaced by opportunity,

That beckons to the boldest on the road,

To recognition in community.

But honour, peace and tolerance we hold,

Are virtues proudly owned by modern man.

Throughout our world, great nations waxing bold,

Are claiming a secure and noble plan.

Why then this war, fear, sorrow all around;

What have we gained that hatred should abound?

Mark J. Humber      8^th October 2006