| "Dysart's Roses" 18" x 24" - Pencil on panel Copyright 2004 Dan Stephanian From the Collection of Joseph & Deborah Stephanian, Manassass, VA |
| "To JoJo" These roses came from frustration Just another disappointment in people But when your happy, and positive smile Made me think again, and embrace that frustration For what it made me do, Well, I had to say to you. Each day a rose has to struggle Pushing stubborn leaves aside Just to become something other than a bud Something other than green Something spectacular. Dodging thorns, sidestepping scars On the way to brightness Bobbing and weaving her face to the sun Despite winds that bend the petal Rains that blur its vision When that day comes that the sun beams When that day comes that the bud has transformed And that magnificent blossom out shines the others Pushed its way to the top, petals spread and proud That will be your day. * * * by Dan Stephanian |