ManusDei

Over a year ago, word reached us of a dog that was often seen wandering near a relative's home. The poor thing was all by himself, scared of people, and wasn't getting along very well with other dogs. We just couldn't leave him there, so we took him in, gave him a bath and have been spoiling him ever since. We called him Shakes because of the way he shivered during the trip home, and this little rascal has really grown on us. My sister considers him her little baby, and he's turned into quite the mommy's boy. He still has a bit of an independent streak, however, and likes going out for walks by himself so he can hang out with his friends and

Beyond the ragged cliffs of isolation, Past the winding trails of memory, And the chilling grey mists of sorrow, Nestled between the jagged peaks Of paranoia and pride, black as night, Stands an old fortress of cold stone. Its walls are of a maddening height, Its moat is deep as the dark seas, Its gate is massive and eerie, Its towers scrape the clouds Nobody knows what lurks inside, And all the windows are covered up. Unadorned, it eerily stands, Indifferent to sun, rain or snow. Cold sentinel, it watches on, Silently guarding something inside. Nobody knows how long it's been there. Nobody knows it even exists. This is the

Once, in a dark night like so many others, a young man stared at the dark sky. With a sigh and a groan, he clenched his fist, and growled to the heavens above. "Why o God why? Tell me why... Why do good people suffer and die, while the evil laugh and grow fat? Don't you care about us? Why o God why? Tell me why... Why do torrents of innocent blood flow, by the hand of wicked men who utter your name? Don't you care about us? You say we have free will, and thus that our fate is in our hands, but all I see is helpless people being kicked around like dogs! You say it's our choices that cause us pain, but what I see more often than not, is th

On a plateau overlooking a lush green valley, a lone tree stood defiantly, its long branches covered with leaves providing a pleasant shade on hot days. The sun was setting, marking the end of a peaceful day. The sky was ablaze in shades of red and orange, and not a single cloud was in sight. Alone, staring into the sunset, a young woman was sitting under the tree. She had an air of otherworldly elegance and grace, with perfect features, long, smooth purple hair and deep eyes that could melt ice. She was wearing a long, elaborate blue dress and her long heeled shoes were lying next to her. Suddenly, there was a rustling sound, and she looke

You have been a loyal friend. You have put up with my rants. You refused to give up on me. I will not forget all that. You are one of the few I call a friend, One of the few I still trust. I care for you, as you care for me. I would protect you with my life. Much may happen as time goes by, But I will never forget you, Just as I hope you will not forget me. A bond has been forged. Now, my friend, I must go, But as always I'll be back. I will keep you in my memory, And my heart will be at peace.

You say I'm too negative, emo even, You say I only see the bad side, You say I'm too bitter and grumpy. Hearing you talk, I'm just hopeless. But there's more to me than that, Even if you fail or refuse to see it. There's a good reason why I act this way, Regardless of what you may say. There is a missing piece in my heart, A hollow place that bleeds and hurts. There is something I still lack, And I search for it endlessly. My search has taken me far, And made me experience much. I may be tired, and somewhat sore, But I'm better than I used to be. My search goes on, without end in sight, And I often have to keep going alone.

Stepping away from the madness of life, I open the window and rest my eyes, Lost in thoughts, my gaze wanders, Through the endless clear blue skies. The calls of distant birds reach my tired ears, And the offensive sounds of the city fade away. Suddenly I find myself craving freedom, Like a caged bird, I want to fly away. How I long to be like a bird, And to soar among the clouds. My heart aches as I gaze Upon the endless clear blue skies. Beautiful birds, with your gentle chirping, You have no idea of the treasure you possess. Who wouldn't trade everything for your freedom? Who wouldn't want to fly by your side? High above me