The Invisible Arm: Poems at 97
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Why Kiss?
Why, where, how and when to or avoid a kissThe kissing practice will always be available, never missed It ‘s an emotional reaction, understood without words
To say, “I love you” no nouns or verbs The intensity of the demand controls why, when and where
Except for a peck on the cheek or forehead or a kiss thrown in the air It takes two sets of lips to meet and a similar response and embrace
It’s more than a loving hug, far better when face-to-face It can be for congratulating one for an achievement
A kiss may relieve pain from one living through bereavement At times people use the dramatic kiss like a wrestling match
Not sure if it’s love or an excuse for other scenes being hatched If it’s the brain calling the shots, where and when is easily understood
The heart promotes love, and how to avoid a kiss You can be sure Love triumphs and life will be heavenly bliss
The Invisible Arm
A long time ago, a commentator defined the role of a friend.”A friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out” When you place an arm around a friend’s shoulder to lift his spirits.
It reassures him that someone cares and is there for him. When you’re unable to be present, he can still count on you.
Your arm will remain around the shoulder; his support never ends Now invisible, the same message of love and support, it will send
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About the Book
In his sixth book, ninety-seven year old poet Jess Strauss shares his own experiences, ideas, and reflections on overcoming the challenges that life presents over time.
Communicating the importance of love, caring, and friendship, he encourages us to be active and not rest on the sidelines. Each of us should be a friend to ensure an "Invisible Arm" around another's shoulder for support in hard times when we aren't available. The poems are real, sincere, and thought provoking. Strauss's reference to the many degrees of love, from young to old, family to valued friends, developing new friends or dealing with the loss of loved ones, will cause you to ponder. You will feel his compassion for the poor, his attitude toward war, and concern for nature and the environment. It will stimulate your own buried thoughts on many subjects. How many obstacles did you overcome? It's all in The Invisible Arm: Poems at 97.
About the Author
Jess Strauss lives in Palm City, Florida. Written at age 97, The Invisible Arm: Poems at 97 is his sixth book published since age 85. Now a great grandfather, he continues to write poetry and novel ideas gained in an interesting life. For over fifty years he served as an officer in the Civil Air Patrol, a United States Air Force Auxiliary, and introduced airborne radiological monitoring in light aircraft. He was the New York Wing Commander for over thirteen years. Colonel Strauss flew over one hundred search and rescue missions and received a Citation from the Office of the President of the United States, a special tribute from the Air Force, Distinguished Service Awards, and a key to the City of Rochester. He was the responsible officer for the New York Phase of the International Air Cadet Exchange Program with 26 countries, and served as Liaison Officer for the Air Force Academy. He also was a volunteer Deputy Director of the New York State Office of Civil Defense and served as the chair of the Human Rights Commission of the City of New Rochelle, N. Y. Though he misses his flying days, he continues to write, paint, play golf and enjoy his family.
Publications
To Old To Be Old (2012) Firecracker: Poems at 93 (2010) A Poet Looks at Life (2008) The Adventures of Little Willie & Little Wilma (2002) Poems and Other Thoughts (2002) Thanksgiving is Today; Thanksgiving is Every Day (1985)