'and appreciate life to its full extend'
`Extend should be extent. :]

A great write about life all wrapped into one. I think you've definatly said a lot of words here that many of us should read and follow. I thought the main focus of the poem was going to be this black dress, because thats how you started the poem but then I realized it wasnt just about that and you branched out to talk about different topics of life. A poem full of truth, and you put your own unique personal touch on this one with your black dress. Well done.

I love this its unpredictable so dark towards the way of death.
"There are those who might say
it is easy to smile
when Lady Luck is riding
besides you always."
I found this also fascinating because it doesnt always come down to this but its flooded with irony.
Well done 5/5

Very beautiful. Clothes say alot about a person, as in, ways we express ourselves. It's a very interesting topic. It kind of reminds me of the song "Man In Black", by Johnny Cash.

Good write,

mandy :)

First off Ingrid, I would like to say that I loved the different format this was written in, not the usual but different.

"In the far corner of my closet
my black dress awaits me patiently,"

I loved this opening lines, describing so much in such few words. I never would have thought of a piece of clothing waiting for you patiently, that was very unique and added a person like personality to this black dress. Very eye-catching, keep it up.

"never worn- for I despise this dismal color.
No, I much prefer the cheerful ones:
red, orange, green, turquoise
in soft and silky fabrics
upon my grateful skin."

I wasn't at all expecting this, well-expressed feelings about this dress. I loved your wording, "dismal" and "grateful skin" I haven't heard before and you used them so well. I love cheerful colors too, they add so much joy to your day!

"It reflects my temperament,
for I have a joy for life
displayed abundantly."

Very well-worded, and this is how many probably feel, but you explain yourself so very well, it just amazes the reader and interests them.

"There are those who might say
it is easy to smile
when Lady Luck is riding
besides you always."

"Lady Luck" I have not heard before, this was quite unique, each line is so surprising and breathtaking, not at all the usual expected writes that people might read. And you make a very good point too, such wise words you have woven together, good job Ingrid.

"The ignorant ones...
For they do not know
one only learns to truly
be happy with all one's being
and appreciate life to its full extent
after having touched upon
the darkest corners
of our existence."

So true, these lines especially touched me. You speak such truth and thank you for showing and spreading that truth to the readers all around.

"I have my cross,
just don't flaunt it,
for we all have one
and blessed are those,
who know,
the true lesson of life
is to accept all
and be grateful still,"

I loved how you said "and blessed are those", it reminded me of the Beatitudes from the bible.

"for life does not owe us anything.
If ever this feeling should leave me,
that has been with me from day one
[waking up on Christmas morning]"

Loved the example given, your creativity shines so brightly here.

"Then
I will wear my black dress
and join the ones I love so dearly,
awaiting me
on the other side."

A flawless ending, very powerful and striking. This just left me speechless it was so meaningful and deep. You really made the reader think, and that's what I loved about this piece. Just amazing, keep it up!

5/5 from me, keep writing..

~MaryAnne

This was not quite what I was expecting when I started to read based on the title. Powerful words for a life lesson, one we all should heed. Well done.

Live life to the fullest, enjoy each day in color. Smiles are medicine, laughter is longevity. This poem reflected that attitude . Keep smiling.

A very poignant poem written with feeling and with an understanding of life's reality that only one who has been there done that can begin to understand.
I hate black to I find it morbid I want my friends to wear bright and cheerful clothes at my funeral though I do as tradition dictates I always wear a black tie with my light coloured suit and and day glow pink shirt ha! ha!
Excellent poem Ray S 5/5

A very poignant poem written with feeling and with an understanding of life's reality that only one who has been there done that can begin to understand.
I hate black to I find it morbid I want my friends to wear bright and cheerful clothes at my funeral though I do as tradition dictates I always wear a black tie with my light coloured suit and and day glow pink shirt ha! ha!
Excellent poem Ray S 5/5

There is so much emotions wrapped up in this unique sad piece.Black is a standard color, but always have a sombre look in any circumstances.
Your words are inspiring and it touches the heart.I'm very sad to hear about your friend and will keep her in my prayers.
Take care my friend.
Paul...

Another Superlative Write, Kudos Ingrid!!!

Very inspiring words in the form of a beautiful verse.
An enjoyable read indeed.
Paul...

I love all of your poetry.
the ones i read anyways.
:))
this poem in by far my favorite though.
I dont know why, it just is.
dont stop writing, you have some real potential.

And it would be greatly appriciated if you could comment and rate one of my poems.
thanks love!

-jesss.
Btw:: Im putting you in my favorites ;)

Wonderful Poem Ingrid, Enjoyed!!!

Really emotional one..
wonderful poem Ingrid!

I missed this poem Ingrid, so glad I found it!
So descriptive, I could see this dress in my minds eye. Never think about wearing it though. You are one of lifes very special people.

Lovely, powerful piece Ingrid with such a strong message: we all have problems, but don't waste our lives flaunting them - live in the moment and know how lucky you are. As Peter says, you leave that dress well alone - especially if it's see-through.....you wanton woman!
All the very best
Ben

Hello Ingrid,

I can't believe that I have never read this poem before. I guess, like the black dress, I had missed it, hidden in the deep recesses of your back catalogue.

Black dresses for a young spirit like you is usually thought as a "going out" dress. A little black number to paint the town red. Black, a colour of clothing that is forgiving. A household favourite of many a lady.

Here this black dress takes a back seat, whilst other dresses take center stage. The red one perhaps being my favourite - a dress to impress the opposite sex - for sex?? Lol

But, like your temperament, the colourful dresses show off vibrancy and a joy of the world and what it has to offer and what you have to offer it. Why would a dress that looks like a shadow be a preferred choice on a sunny day when the soft wind is blowing and there is much to smile about? Well, it wouldn't, it would remain in storage for the right time. A time when the North wind picks up and delivers a welcome passage, for this would be the time when a good life comes to its end. No regrets, a life well lived.

Ingrid, thank you for sharing this beautiful piece of wisdom.

Take care my dear,

((Hugs)) xx