River Michaels

Welcome to River Michael's Poetry Blog

River Michaels was inspired to write and publish her poetry after the death of her mother in September 2001. River’s first book is titled, "A River of Rain - Book of Poetry," published in the summer of 2008. A River of Rain is a heartfelt, emotional journey in search of hope and resolution to deal with the grief of losing her mother.

In the summer of 2009, River followed up with her next book, "A River of Peace - Book of Poetry." A River of Peace takes the reader through the journey of a bittersweet ending to a long-term relationship, with a hopeful longing to find true love in the end.

Currently, River is writing her third poetry book titled, “A River of Hope – Book of Poetry,” coming in the Autumn of 2012. A River of Hope promises to deliver the joys of finding true love and acknowledges that true love does exist.

There is nothing more powerful than the power of love. Light will always come after the dark. River’s poetry books are an ongoing series of seven poetry books that are written in parallel with her life.

“You can never be more than you were born to be…” – Melissa Etheridge

Please feel free to browse the blog to learn more about River Michaels, read her latest poems before they publish, read excerpts from inspired readers, and information on how to purchase copies from the publisher, Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble.com, or to order via PayPal to receive personalized autographed copies from the author.

Thursday, March 15, 2012

The Joy of Being

With every rise and fall of the daily tide,

A soul comes to life when another dies…

There are times in life when spirits change,

What once was familiar is suddenly strange…

When the waters are still and running deep,

The winds of change begin to creep…

Knowing it’s better to leave it alone,

We skip a rock from a stack of stones…

The seeds of life have an unwritten script,

Spreading unruly vines if you are not equipped…

There are times in life when you reach a plateau,

And the fruits of your labor are all aglow…

But you’ll never know what lies ahead,

If you bury your feet in the sands of dread…

There are times in life when it’s your turn to go,

If you pause or stall you’ll disrupt the flow…

Thoughts create action to conquer the day,

Be careful what you think as its guide the way…

There is a balance of gratitude that I seek to find,

The joy of being without yours or mine…

River Michaels

March 15, 2012

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Heart Flowers

There is a light in my eyes once again,

As I walk through life with my best friend…

Little flowers are bursting from my heart,

Painting our love into a work of art…

This love I’ve found has made me whole,

Like a summer breeze that soothes my soul…

When I’m driving home I can’t wait to play,

I’m anxious to see you at the end of the day…

The roads I traveled that led to pain,

Have been washed away like beads of rain…

The yellow brick road has led me to you,

Like a rainbow of love without the blue…

Our fresh red rose is in full bloom,

There is no smell like your perfume…

You take my breath with those green eyes,

And fill my belly with butterflies…

Each day I awaken with so much joy,

Like Christmas morning with a brand new toy…

You are as refreshing as a morning shower,

I am sending you my Heart Flowers…

River Michaels

January 25, 2012

Monday, September 12, 2011

What I Know For Sure... Part Deux

1. That it is so much better to notice what is right about a person rather than what is wrong.

2. That if you make a mistake, ask “Will anyone remember this in 100 years?” if not, move on and forgive yourself.

3. That fear can drive a person to do the unthinkable.

4. That you just never know what is going on another’s life. Be kind…

5. That sometimes it is best to say nothing at all…

6. That I do not need to be “validated” to be right.

7. That handmade gifts are far more valuable than any store bought item.

8. That you should always mail a Thank You card when “thanks” are in order.

9. That what happens in the dark will always come to light.

10. That life has no guaranteed entitlements so be grateful for what you do have.

River Michaels

September 12, 2011

What I Know For Sure...

1. That storms will never last – even if you want them to, the rain will fade.

2. That time heals all non-fatal wounds.

3. That no one is attracted to weakness.

4. That lashing out to the unattainable person you love will only drive them farther away.

5. That you cannot make someone love you.

6. That what you think about expands into reality. So choose your thoughts carefully.

7. That you are responsible for your own happiness and no one else.

8. That you are in control of how you choose to react to a situation.

9. That life can be good and true love does exist.

10. That for every ending there is always a beginning.

11. That if you show love to your pets they will always love you back.

12. That if you give the world the best you have, the best will come back to you.

13. That if you have a choice to be right or to be kind, choose kindness.

14. That love lives in the energy of sincere intentions.

River Michaels

August 30, 2011

Monday, April 18, 2011

Painted By You

The annual calendar hangs on the wall,

And the days like rain they seem to fall…

When the month is over and we turn the page,

We must find gratitude in another day…

These sheets of paper with dates in a block,

Are like hands of time spinning on a clock…

The numbers in a box are precious time,

May we age with grace like sweet red wine…

We can thumb our way through pages of time,

Not knowing the day when the bells will chime…

But when the dates collide with a dash between,

The movie is written and cast on the screen…

May a rainbow of color echo your love,

With a beautiful song for the lonesome dove…

May a butterfly land in the palm of your hand,

As a sign of the Spirit, so mighty and grand…

When the heavenly clouds are in your view,

May you see the beauty in the shades of blue…

God’s light twinkles in the morning dew,

The colors of life were Painted By You…

River Michaels

April 18, 2011

Sunday, March 27, 2011

Leaving Traces...

Looking back on life and the choices I’ve made,

There were so many roles that I’ve played…

What seemed so important at the time,

Was nothing more than part of the rhyme…

There are no points for playing by the rules,

There are too many willing to make you the fool…

When there’s nothing to do and you have no control,

Let’s see who plays and whose hand will fold…

What I am leaving behind are mere memories,

Of people that I've loved and who are loving me…

There are no answers on the written page,

Only wisdom and patience as we age…

Some will fight to live another day,

And some will choose death when they pray…

There is no bell to ring at the end of your life,

Just the measure of grace in your pain and strife…

Will there be someone in the mirror when you drive away?

Or a lonesome road that fades to grey…

When you are looking back on all of the faces,

Know that each living day you are Leaving Traces…

River Michaels

March 27, 2011

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Bamboo Debris

It is March 11th, two thousand and eleven,

So many in Japan are now in heaven…

I close my eyes and listen for souls,

So many have lost their hand to hold…

The earth was shaken in a natural way,

As we watch in awe with nothing to say…

There are cars, boats, trucks and trains,

Painting the picture of so much pain…

The power of water as it rushes in,

Erasing generations of family and kin…

With nothing left but sticks and stone,

And nowhere to go without a home…

Mother and child are torn apart,

She is crying out and pounding her heart…

The steps to their home somehow remain,

They lead to sorrow and overwhelming pain…

The old and the wise keep a steady pace,

They are true survivors of this human race…

They pray to God that the dead are free,

Carving chopsticks out of Bamboo Debris…

River Michaels

March 15, 2011

This poem is dedicated to all of the people in Japan and to the resilience of the human spirit. My heart, thoughts, and prayers are with the people of Japan. May God bless them and ease their pain.

Monday, February 14, 2011

No Regrets and No Remorse

It feels bittersweet when I think of you…

I can see those eyes they are electric blue…

There is a full moon rabbit in the evening sky,

Just believe in faith and never ask why…

When you close your hands and begin to pray,

You gather your strength to seize the day…

When the road of life makes a sharp turn,

May you fight the fire and accept the burn…

If darkness comes and knocks on your door,

May the power of love rise from the floor…

May you always be held with loving arms,

And never lose your magical charm…

When I close my eyes, I can see your face,

Your lightning spirit has left a trace…

Your dragonfly wings will fly again,

Higher and farther than you’ve ever been…

The reflection of God shines in your eyes,

When you tie your shoes and look to the sky…

There you go, walking your course,

With no regrets and no remorse…

River Michaels

February 14, 2011

This poem is dedicated to my friend, Brenda Daugherty, who is battling brain cancer. Brenda is the "Red Velvet Dragonfly" from my first book, "A River of Rain - Book of Poetry," in 2008.

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

AVAILABLE NOW! "A RIVER OF PEACE - BOOK OF POETRY"

Award-winning poet, River Michaels is a master of heartfelt expressions in “A River of Peace – Book of Poetry,” (116 pp., paperback $14.95, hard back $24.95), a collection of 50 poems of love, loss, inspiration, and triumph over adversity. "A River of Peace - Book of Poetry," is her second book in the collection of a seven book series that is ongoing.

River Michaels is back with “A River of Peace – Book of Poetry,” the much anticipated follow-up to “A River of Rain – Book of Poetry,” that won critical acclaim from inspired readers across the globe! The rhythm and weight of her words will envelope themselves around your soul. If you are looking for that perfect gift to share with someone you love, or perhaps someone that is in the throes of trying to overcome the loss of a loved one, or if you’re simply looking for inspiration, then “A River of Peace – Book of Poetry,” is the gift for you. As with any writing, one is affected by what directly relates to one’s life, and there is no doubt that this book with strike a chord in your heart.

Order your Autographed Copy today directly from the author by clicking on the order button on the right hand column. Or visit the Official Author website:
http://www.outskirtspress.com/aRiverOfPeace

Inspired Readers...

“Wow! River’s words brought tears to my eyes. I am amazed by her open- heartedness, truly blessed.”
- Cathy Jo Robison, Taos, New Mexico

“River, your book is awesome! You are so talented with words. God gave you a gift and I hope you keep using it.”
- Ada Darnell, Houston, Texas

“River's poetry is written from the depths of her soul and easily transferred to another's soul with each word. A truly gifted poet with an amazing talent.”
- Tammy Breghenti, Artist, San Diego, California

“River, you are a true master of your art. Your poetry inspires, encourages and provokes a deeper meaning to my thoughts on life. Thank you for sharing your craft and gift.”
- Leslie S. Post, Littleton, Colorado

“River is a passionate believer in life. In reading her writing, I feel that she can see things in us that we sometimes cannot see in ourselves.”
- Mary Hart, Deer Park, Texas

“River, you have the gift of "expression" for what many of us feel but can't put into words. God bless you for giving your gift and earned talent.”
- Sandra Day-Price, Riviera, Texas

“River is talented beyond words! Her poetry can stir emotions that only great poets and writers can do.”
- Jennifer Lynn Perrill, League City, Texas

"Hello River! Your book is exquisite, a lot of soul put into your writings! I enjoy reading your poems because I am interconnected with some of the people of who you express your poetry. And I must say, you are definitely talented in the organization of words, keep it up!"
- Paula Speck, Houston, Texas

"Dear River, Thank you for the very moving volume of poetry, A River of Rain. It was lovely for me to receive the signed book and be allowed to share your talent and depth of soul. From Leslie (Wilson), and now from your poems, I realize the sadness (and joy) you have known. The little blips of joy are like small fireflies in an abyss of sadness. Thanks for the book and your friendship to my daughter."
- Patricia Weldon-Wilson, Huntsville, Alabama

"River, Thank you very much for the signed book. One of a kind! Your poetry is beautiful and truly expresses your unique experiences throughout your life. It is also a wonderful tribute to your mom, family and friends. I am looking forward to many more publications, maybe a country song, and seeing you soon. Wishing you all the best! Sincerely, your friend - Amy a.k.a. "Dawa"
- Amy Anderson, Laytonsville, Maryland

"Dear River, I just received your book of poetry and I'm so impressed. Your perspective and sensitivity is obvious as one embraces each page. I thank you for including the picture of Kathy (Griffin) and myself. "Deep Dark Eyes" is such an accurate statement about Kathy. Again, I thank you."
- Fondly, Mary F. Hamby, Houston, Texas

"Hi River!...What can I say, Your poetry is beautiful, intense, touching, pure! I have read through it twice already and look forward to going back to it again and again. You have the gift of "expression" for what many of us feel but can't put into words. God bless you for giving us the benefits of your gift and earned talent. You have brought so much honor to your mother. I don't know if Candy's (my mom) humor changed in the decades she spent in the East (Maryland), but my Candy would have chuckled and said "She got me into the Library of Congress!"
- Much love, Sandy Day-Price, Riviera, Texas

"Hey River... Well I got the book today. I have finished about 1/3 of the poems, after reading "Brave Little Soldier" first. I like the way it is done with the inspiration for the poems on the opposite page. That sets the stage for each one. I also like the pictures you have chosen. I think my favorite is the on page 13 with the Corona beer bottle. (That is second after Pats picture I must say) Good job!! I will keep this book for the rest of my days and pass it on when I have gone. Thank You so very much for the book, but most of all for putting us in there. I am glad we have been a part of your life, and you part of ours. You are one of a kind. (I mean that in a good way). Thank You again for the book. I will treasure it forever!!"
- David DelCastillo, Columbia, Missouri

"Hi River....I have a story for you.....I have a sister, Carol whose only child Vince, was murdered 13 years ago. Four years ago her precious husband Vic died of cancer. They were childhood sweethearts and grew up in the 1950's. They were married for over 40 years. She now lives alone. As much as we try we can never understand the pain that she has gone through. Losing a child, no matter how old has to be the most painful thing on this earth. And to be murdered, to be taken away on purpose is so senseless. The reason I am telling you this is because last night I called her and told her of the poem that you wrote, "A Rainbow of Tears," about Dawn and Jacob, I read it to her over the phone. When I got to the part about "The angry mother whose son is dead, Her drops would roll in raging red" she started to cry. I could barely get through the rest of the poem. We cried together and she said "that is exactly how I feel". Her life will go on but inside she is raging. She asked me if I could write down the poem and send it to her so she could read it again......You gave her the words that expressed how she feels. I think that says it all about your book. Thank-you for writing it...."
- Barbara Smith, Dayton, Texas