Poems by John Peter Read

I've washed my hands of religion
rather than let it brainwash me.
I'm no longer a prisoner being held captive
by those bars of lies and deceit.

Religions build walls to divide us
holding God hostage is their way
Preaching the only way to heaven
is too believe in everything they say.

But I'm no longer a prisoner of religion
my mind has been set free.
I believe in goodness and spiritual love
and that God resides in me.

As life unravels, be brave and bold,
Never criticise, neither grudges hold.
Live in harmony, with your fellow man,
Following nature, as our lord planned.

Always listen, far more than you speak,
Avoid all rumours, for it's truth that you seek.
When others criticise, and do you wrong,
It's forgiveness itself, that makes you strong.

Possessions are worthless, it's your inner self,
Family and loved ones, are your true wealth.
Let go of the past, and what else is to come,
Live for the moment, before it has gone.

As we journey, along life's twisting road,
They'll be many things, we cannot control.
Stick to your path, do not go astray,
Every obstacle you encounter, becomes the way.

Positive thinking, no negative thoughts,
The more you listen, the more your taught.
A Stoic person, is one  of a kind,
Gentle at heart, yet strong in mind.

I want no flowers when I die
No one too mourn me
no one to cry.
I wish no sadness, at my demise
just a smile and a loving memory
Is all I ask.

For the people I love
who meant the world to me
are now no longer here.
All that's left is an emptiness
filled with memories
I hold so dear.

Eventually the day will dawn
when I will breathe my last.
On a journey to another world
to be reunited with those I love.

To rest in peace in heaven
far from all life's pain
leaving just my memory
to comfort those who still remain.