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This writing was accepted for publication in the 108 page perfect-bound ISSN# / ISBN# issue/book... “Ancient Colors” Down in the Dirt, v148 (the August 2017 Issue)  You can also order this 6"x9" issue as a paperback book:  |
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Order this writing in the issue book Random Thoughts the Down in the Dirt July-Dec. 2016 collection book |
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get the 418 page May-August 2017 Down in the Dirt issue anthology 6" x 9" ISBN# paperback book:
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Order this Janet Kuypers writing from her most recent poetry book series: (pheromemes) 2015-2017 poems Order this 6" x 9" ISBN# book today of select poems written mid-2015 - mid-2017 during her first years living in Austin, TX
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Janet Kuypers 7/15/16 Step on a crack, break your momma’s back. Step on a land mine, blow up your infantry. Step on an IED, blow up your military-grade Hum V, not because you were at war but because you were sent there to try to keep the peace. ‘Cause if you’re not in a standing army you can always improvise and make explosive devices to destroy an enemy that’s only trying to keep the peace. We’ve all taken that step before, to lend a hand, to help a blind man cross a street, to help a mentally disabled teen learn to swim across the shallow end of the pool, to open a door for someone with their hands full, to take some of the weight from someone who has too much to carry. We’ve all taken that step before, and when we stepped into a war we didn’t know that we were in every generous move could be our last. That’s what we get for kindness. That’s what we get for trying to lend a hand. That’s what we get for seeing those cracks in the road and trying to help others struggle through this maze of life. Step on a crack, break your momma’s back. But be careful — that crack could open into a gorge and swallow you whole, as that deepening crack dines on your hopes and dreams. So remember, step lightly. Check around you, check above and below, ‘cause it’s a slippery slope when you trade kindness for security. You’ve stomped through life, you’ve gotten ahead. Just remember when to step lightly, and be prepared with both that welcoming hand and that big stick. Be ready for every disaster — and you’re ready at every glorious moment — at every single step. |
