Alan A. Malizia

We are all influenced by the world around us. That which isnear and that which seems to be at a distance. These influences impact us physically, emotionally and spiritually. When any of these areas are affected in an extreme way it gets our attention. Our way of thinking, our direction, and relationships may be altered in keeping with our conscience. When we seek and attainthe approval of our conscience we are at peace.

The selection of poems and reflections in this book are born of personal experience or observation.When I attended literature classes in college the subject of poetry was sometimes frustrating. Frustration broughtabout bytrying to unearth what purpose the poet had in mind. In our class discussions I discovered each member of the group had a unique interpretation ofhis/her own. In the end the professor would reveal the idea the poet had intended.I believe apoets purpose is successfully served whenthe reader is motivated enoughto draw something personally meaningful from the work; even though that which is drawn may not be the essence of the work.

It is my hope thatthose who read this book and earnestly reflectwill findworthwhilemeaning unique to themselves.