POET, as educator, artist, advocate... What Be

what be the purpose of words to share

but to know of one's heart expressing care

what be the purpose of banner and praise

but to bring celebration to our gift of days

what be the purpose to guide and teach

but to know that beauty and truth are within our reach

what be the purpose to know of time, space and measure

but to account for life's perceived treasure

what be the purpose to know of vistas so very far

but to know that we too hold the light of a star

what be the purpose to know of history and time's story

but to understand the ever present quest for power and glory 

what be the purpose of drama and stage

but to act out the calling of soul, time and age
what be the purpose of music, dance and a song to sing
but to know the pulsing our hearts do bring

what be the purpose to draw, paint, sculpt, to hold a vision divine

but to  revere and mark in splendor a life yours, a life mine 

what be the purpose of holding accord of word and deed

but to live the honor of our days as a blessed creed.

Rose Marie Raccioppi

Poet Laureate

Orangetown, New York

The Inspiration of the Poet, Oil on canvas, 1629-1630, Musée du Louvre, Nicolas Poussin, 1594 - 1665.