Exploring Connections: A Poetic Reflection on Friendship
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Chapter 1: The Unseen Bond
What do you call someone you've never encountered,
Yet who reaches out through social media,
Claiming to know you from your school days?
You search the yearbook from years past,
And find a familiar face with a name beneath it.
He looks recognizable, but there are no notes
Or dreams accompanying his image.
He sends me a friend request—a curious term.
He claims to be a philosopher, a mystic, a writer,
And a philanthropist. Did I get those right?
We occasionally chat online about old classmates,
Spouses, and memories from childhood.
I find myself drawn to him, even without meeting.
He's a published author, while I simply enjoy writing.
I even have the pleasure of conversing with his lovely wife,
Which is truly delightful.
They reside in Toronto, a harmonious couple.
I wish to meet him, as do some former classmates.
Then he shares shocking news: he has cancer.
If anyone can overcome it, it's our friend in Canada.
I admire his writing style and his humor.
Indeed, I like him too. You would call him a friend.
This poem by Bonnie Lieberman encapsulates the essence of unexpected friendships that blossom in the digital age.
Section 1.1: The Essence of Friendship
Bonnie Lieberman is a poet and author of children's books,
As well as a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother.
Her upbringing in a Bronx apartment was filled with childhood joys—
Jumping rope, playing games, and creating imaginary worlds
Inspired by her favorite stories.
As a licensed elementary school teacher and reading specialist,
She is dedicated to nurturing creativity in her students.
Although she cherishes her years in primary education,
Her most fulfilling work has been with adolescents
In a psychiatric hospital.
Currently, she resides in Bergen County, NJ,
With her husband, a child therapist, and their dogs,
Enjoying time with their adult children and grandchildren.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Art of Writing
Section 1.2: The Power of Words
Lewis Harrison from AskLewisTips.com shares his thoughts:
"I find immense joy in writing and reading works from friends and peers.
Much of what is sent my way resonates deeply,
Bypassing intellect and connecting with my quest for meaning,
Rhythm, and emotional depth.
The finest writing, especially poetry, possesses a natural richness
In meter, intonation, and rhythm.
Though closely linked, meter and rhythm differ:
Meter is the structured pattern of verses,
While rhythm is the sound emerging from poetic phrases.
Many talented friends share their creations in private blogs or Facebook posts,
Reaching an audience of fewer than 25.
Hence, I decided to showcase their writings
In various wonderful publications on Medium.com.
With Bonnie's permission, I am thrilled to share her poetry and stories."
Chapter 2: A Voice Across the Distance
In this spoken word piece titled "I Never Meant to Fall Out of Love With You,"
The poet expresses the complexities of relationships and the emotions they evoke.
The video captures the essence of longing, connection, and the bittersweet nature of love.