Louisiana Sunshine (NIcholas O'neal Wilcox-Baton Rouge, LA)

Yesterday I needed you, where were you? Why must you always hide?
I know you’re there. Concealed behind your blanket of vast clouded skies.
Last night I lay my heavy head down, praying to wake to your colorful ecstasy.
This morning I woke to feeling your partial presence.
But still not seeing your genuine splendor.
Let me see you! Let me love you…
Just as I turn to leave, I feel your absolute warmth.
A warm hug. A fiery and passionate kiss on my neck.
You’ve stepped out and made yourself known to us, I knew you would do it!
I stroll outside to see the joys you’ve brought every soul in this city.
Immeasurable joy. Illuminated love.
You have done it, you have made everyone’s day.
You have now gone to sleep before the rest of us, and the next day has come in a heartbeat.
Darkness. Wetness. Humidity. Fog.
But still, the voices are ringing about the day of perfection you gave us previously.
We don’t harvest resentment; we still adore you equally as much.
You still have your fame, no need to be shy, friend.
I lay my head down now, optimistic that you’ll soon return to my side. To illuminate my future

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Ash Wednesday (Brian Falcon - New Orleans, LA)

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