Be all That You Can. Ode for Living

Audrey's passion for connecting with nature is magnified in her self-help writings and poetry.

I Will Sing While I Can

I will be all that I can be

Going forward with certainty

And if I’m given a lime

I’ll take one step at a time

I will sing while I can.

I will make my own music

I will dance to the sound

I’ll compose my own melody

I don’t care who’s around

I will sing while I can.

Music is my Passion

Forever young, I 'll not act my age

When tomorrow comes, I will turn a new page

I will dangle my toes at the waters edge

And laugh when I want, that is my pledge

I will sing while I can.

I refuse to be pressured to someone’s belief

And I know at times, I’m a comic relief

I am a free spirit, I clear my own path

A positive woman, perhaps a bit daft

I will sing while I can.

I Miss my Little Shih Tzu

And as for my Clancey, he'll always rule

He gets what he wants, he's nobody's fool

Neglected from birth he had a bad start

I brought him home and gave him my heart

He sings while he can.

I’ll be all that I can with each passing day

And nothing, no nothing will get in my way

My wings spreading wide, they lift me up high

I’m doing my best with each breath I sigh

I’ll sing while I can.

I will give thanks with each passing day

For all good things that come my way

For loving children loyal and giving

Sharing their life to make mine worth living

And we sing while we can.

I will rise in the morning and live for that day

No sorrow or troubles to get in my way

With a prayer in my heart I'll fill someone's need

And look for a way to do a good deed

I'll sing while I can.

Through Joy and Through Sorrow, I Still Sing

I will sing while I can before I pass on

I will gather my troubles and make them a song

I will live serving others in all that I do

As Shakespeare once said

“To thine own self be true”

I will sing while I can.

Note ~ My beloved and precious pet, Clancey passed on March 20, 2012. He filled my life for 12 years with unconditional love.

“If you could kick the person in the pants responsible for most of your trouble, you wouldn't sit for a month.”

― Theodore Roosevelt

© 2011 Audrey Hunt

Comments

Suzie from Carson City on November 09, 2019:

LOL! Oh Audrey, I knew you'd come upon it sooner or later.....no problem. I don't have a dog or a hubby either. I DO miss not having a dog! LOL! I replaced them both with Kitty-cats and so far, so good. All I need is a fur baby to love and talk to, cuddle with & fuss over...and I'm a happy girl!

My sister and I both loved Live Musicals. We also saw "Man of La Mancha".....once in Canada and once in Europe. Richard Kiley.....OMG! I thought my heart would pound out of my body.

Love you too, sweet friend!

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on November 09, 2019:

Paula

See my red face? We know why it's bright red, don't we? I can't blame old age on this over-sight even though I'm old. I can't blame this on the dog because I don't have a dog. I can't even pass the blame on to my husband because I don't have one of those either (and don't need one right now.)

But I do need you, my friend, and your comments mean everything to me. You mentioned the musical "Carousel" and I loved knowing that you saw this with your sister. This is one of my favorite musicals and the music is pure genius

Thanks again, dear Paula, and love you just the way you are!

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on November 09, 2019:

Robert

Thanks for your kind response to my poem. So glad you liked it and forgive me for over-looking your comment so long ago. My best to you.

Thelma

My sincere apologies for the delay in responging to your lovely comments. Thank you for reading my poem.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on November 09, 2019:

Paula

OMG! How did this happen? Thank you dearly for bringing this to my attention. Good grief, Charlie Brown! And I know that you, Robert and Thelma know I love you. You're a true and treasured friend and I'll fix this over-sight right now!

Suzie from Carson City on October 15, 2019:

Audrey......Thank Heaven I know you well enough to know that you did not mean to SKIP over Robert, Thelma and me!! Otherwise we'd get a terrible complex!! LOL Good grief!! It's OK....I know you love us!

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on October 09, 2019:

Brenda

Thank you for reading my poem and for your kind comments. I wish you the best.

Chitrangada

It's so nice to see you again. Thank you for returning to read my poem. Your comments are always so inspiring. Thank you dear Chitrangada.

Hari

Thank you for your comments. I appreciate your support and wish you well.

BRENDA ARLEDGE from Washington Court House on October 02, 2019:

I love the power in your words for committment. To never give up...no matter the struggle.

Clancey was a cutie. I loved seeing his picture. I imagine he brought you much joy.

Great write.

Chitrangada Sharan from New Delhi, India on September 28, 2019:

Came back to read your beautiful poem, once more. Truly inspirational and signifies the spirit of life.

'I will sing, while I can--', singing can be therapeutic indeed.

Thank you for sharing. Have a Blessed day.

Hari Prasad S from Bangalore on September 28, 2019:

Beypoems Audrey. Singing creates harmony and hope for all. Kudos.

Suzie from Carson City on September 07, 2019:

Audrey......You beautiful lady, you! You look like a lively teenager in your pics! and Awwww...how precious was "Clancey"-in-doggie-heaven! How we love our fur babies and they LOVE us back 2-fold!

Wonderful Poetry. You must have chosen this song just for me! My favorite all-time Play..."Carousel," saw it live years ago with my sweet (late) sister/best friend......I play the album often. LOVE it. and Love you too, girlfriend! Peace, Paula

Thelma Alberts from Germany and Philippines on January 29, 2018:

Lovely poem Audrey. I love it.

Robert E. Smith on January 26, 2018:

Beautiful Audry

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on January 25, 2018:

Hi Isabella

So nice to see you here and to read your lovely comments. It's music to my ears to know you found my hub positive and empowering. I'm on my way to treat myself to your place!

Audrey

Joan J Bell from Texas on January 25, 2018:

This so awesome! I love the positivity and empowerment of this piece. I'll be sure to keep my eye on hubs you publish from here on out.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on July 27, 2013:

Hi Gypsy - Thanks so much for the vote up and awesome! Keep right on singing and Clancey and I will join you :)

PurvisBobbi44 - Tears welled up in my eyes reading your touching and beautiful words. It means so much that you would mention my dear children and grandchildren Bobbi.

And I, too, am so proud to know you from afar my beautiful friend. ~ Hugs and love ~ Audrey

Barbara Purvis Hunter from Florida on July 27, 2013:

Dear Audrey,

There are no accolades worthy enough for your high honors. You are such a talented lady who shares with us all.

I know your children and grandchildren are proud of you. I am proud to know you from afar.

Bobbi Purvis

Gypsy Rose Lee from Daytona Beach, Florida on July 27, 2013:

Voted up and awesome. This got me singing and more power to adorable Clancey. Passing this on.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on July 26, 2013:

ImKarn23 - Hello my beautiful friend. Boy did you ever nail it...Clancey had me well trained. :)

Yes, life is for living. Don't like to think of the alternative but it's gonna happen so let's not waste a minute. I sure like you! Go on now - live, live and live some more!

carolina muscle - So glad you enjoyed reading about the way I feel. Thanks for being here and the support you give me on my hubs, thank you!

carolina muscle from Charlotte, North Carolina on July 26, 2013:

I enjoyed this read, thanks !!!!

Karen Silverman on July 26, 2013:

I adore your beautiful sense of appreciation for all you have - now!

life is for living - keep on singing, my friend!

I can tell just looking at Clancy that he knows EXACTLY who's boss, and - it ain't YOU! lol

sharing on..

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on April 03, 2012:

Dear Audrey - I thought this title might capture your curiosity :-) I love that you are a writer on hubpages.

Thank you talented lady!

Audrey Howitt from California on April 03, 2012:

Just had to read this one when I saw the title! Keep on singing!!

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on December 31, 2011:

Dear Eddy - I revised this poem to include my Shih Ztu, Clancey. No need to leave another comment and I thank you so much. You are my favorite person on HP!

Saddlerider1 - As I mentioned to Eddy, I just revised my poem to include my true love, Clancey. I so appreciate your touching comments. You are the dearest man. Sending you a warm hug!

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on February 17, 2011:

Carrie, I am praying each day for you. You are always in my thoughts. Time is all most of us have and it is to be used wisely. I tend to procrastinate - I really want to improve on that. May you enjoy a certain type of peace and comfort every minute of every day. Remember how much you are loved!

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on February 16, 2011:

onrea - I am so happy to see you! And...you must claim what is yours, which is a love and excitement for every moment of each day! Thank you, my new friend!

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on February 14, 2011:

richtwf - You are a delight! I am glad you liked my poem.

You just keep dancing on those keys. God bless you, my friend.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on February 11, 2011:

prasetio - All my life, I have been grateful for music. I always try to make beautiful music, whether I sing, perform the piano or teach. Music must be treated with respect. You always make beautiful music when you comment on everyones hub. Thank you for rating and supporting me, dear friend!

carrie450 from Winnipeg, Canada on February 10, 2011:

This poem hit home for me vocalcoach. It's beautiful and encouraging, thank you. Voted Up.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on February 07, 2011:

Support Med...You are absolutely right and make a very good point when you write "We can't stand in our own way, either." Thanks for adding a very strong line. Appreciate your reading, commenting and voting.

Support Med. from Michigan on February 07, 2011:

A wonderful poem. Singing is a great weapon against our mental and emotional pain. To be able to do this: 'I will gather my troubles and make them a song' is a blessing. We can't allow ourselves to stand in our own way, either. Thanks for sharing. voted and rated.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on February 06, 2011:

chspublish - I thank you very much. Time moves so fast before me. I think of those famous words "it might have been" and want to avoid that. You are terrific!

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on February 06, 2011:

Astra - Coming from you, a brilliant poet, I am thrilled with your kind and generous words. I do appreciate your rating very much. I am on my way to read another of your marvelous poems. Thank you Astra.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on February 06, 2011:

James - It always means so much to me when you read one of my hubs and comment. Your kind and expressive words really light up my day. Thank you, dear friend and very gifted writer.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on February 05, 2011:

Doug - You certainly know the true meaning and interpretation of my poem. I am impressed. Thank you for sharing your talents and motivating hubs with all of us as well. Blessings to you Doug...appreciate your support.

Doug Turner Jr. on February 05, 2011:

Keep on singing and being thankful for loved ones. Peace.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on February 03, 2011:

Dear, dear, Denise - Do you know how much these beautiful words mean to me? I am very grateful to you for asking me about my grief for my son Todd. Denise, I am ashamed to say that I cannot bare to think of him. It is so very painful and the only time I shed tears. Yet, his beautiful, handsome face creeps into my mind often. He will always be my baby, my firstborn. I miss him so much...I cannot even begin to describe how much I long to see him...to hear his voice, to watch him with his little ones and experience his pride and joy. This is almost an impossible journey. But for some reason, must take. And as long as I must endure the changes in my life, I will grab onto life and live it on my terms. Thank you, dearest friend, for caring, for your huge capacity for empathy and kindness. I appreciate the rating and thank you for your friendship. Light and Love to you dear Denise.

Denise Handlon from North Carolina on February 02, 2011:

My friend, I think of you often and wonder how you are getting on in your passage of grief for your son. Know that you are in my thoughts through this journey. I love this song of spirit that you proclaim loud and clear for all to hear. You are the beauty of that song. You have the right to belt it out. God bless. Rated it Awesome and beautiful, like the author.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on February 02, 2011:

Dim - Grab on to life and never let go! Like the saying goes, "tomorrow may never come." Is it easy to do this? Not really. But can it be done? Yes! It is a state of mind. And my mind is quite a state! :) Thanks, dear Dim.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on February 02, 2011:

cwarden - ...and I always look forward to your visiting and comments. I love you for your support and for the excellent hubs you write. Peace...

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on February 02, 2011:

Tony - Hello, my friend. Wonderful to see you and enjoyed your comments so much. Perhaps one day, Randy and I will take a trip to your part of the world. What fun that would be. Are you up for a jam session? :)

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on February 01, 2011:

Carrie450 - I am so touched that I could contribute to your day. I think of you often and want you to completely heal. You are loved, Carrie!

James A Watkins from Chicago on February 01, 2011:

"I will dangle my toes at the waters edge"

That alone is worth the price of admission. Thank you for sharing your poetic gifts with us. I enjoyed it very much. :D

Cathy Nerujen from Edge of Reality and Known Space on February 01, 2011:

I really enjoyed this, it flows nicely, and it inspires any one of us who may be stage or mic shy to give singing a try. You are a very wonderful writer. I see music runs in the family too. Glad to rate you up. :)

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on January 30, 2011:

leni - Thank you so much. When we experience health problems, we realize how blessed we are, just to feel good. No time to waste!

saddlerider1 on January 30, 2011:

I love to sing and I believe we all should embrace singing when we can and wherever we can. Your an inspiration to my soul and will think of you when I am down and burst into song with a smile of remembrance on my face. Thank you for sharing this very uplifting poem with us all. Very nice photo of your beloved son busy being creative. Hugs

onrea from Rochester, NY on January 29, 2011:

Very, very inspirational! I will sing while I can! Makes me wanna get out here and enjoy life! Do something!!! Thank you!

prasetio30 from malang-indonesia on January 29, 2011:

This is really beautiful poem. I am glad to know how you combine your passion in music with this poem. Good work, my friend. I wish I can sing together with you. Good work, my friend. I give my vote to you. Cheers....

Prasetio

richtwf on January 29, 2011:

Love this wonderful poem and did a little tap on the keys.

God bless you Audrey and have a wonderful day!

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on January 28, 2011:

hello, hello - I have a challenge for you - :) I offer you a free singing lesson using skype video program. You see, I just happen to believe that you can sing! Ready to go? Thank you hello for your good comments. Joy to you.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on January 28, 2011:

Mentalist acer - Thank you. I am a "free and open mind".

Do I have a conflict here? Please let me know Mentalist acer. I would like to correct this. Again, thank you so much!

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on January 28, 2011:

Micky - thank you, dear friend. And your compliment to my son is very much appreciated...and of course, he takes after his mother. :):)

Eiddwen from Wales on January 28, 2011:

Beautiful words that flowed. Thank you so much for sharing this with us.A beautiful here.

Take care.

chspublish from Ireland on January 28, 2011:

Lovely dance of thoughts and feelings.

Leni Sands from UK on January 27, 2011:

Absolutely beautiful

Dim Flaxenwick from Great Britain on January 27, 2011:

l loved this and it did my melanckoly side so much good. Thank you for this beautiful poem. l hope that soon l can FEEL that way.l´m getting ther slowly and poetry like this is an enormous help. xx

cwarden from USA on January 27, 2011:

Another beautiful poem. I really enjoy visiting your hubs, you always lift me up. Thank you :)

Hello, hello, from London, UK on January 27, 2011:

I love singing but only when nobody is about. I couldn't make anyone listen to my voice, they would suffer so much hahaha. However, I think when you have a song in your heart it helps and when you can sing testobetter.

Tony McGregor from South Africa on January 27, 2011:

I love this poem! I love singing and being myself. So important to dance to the rhythm of life.

Randy looks so cool! One of my best friends is a bassist and so he and Randy would certainly have a lot to talk about, I'm sure.

Thanks for sharing this wonderful Hub.

Love and peace

Tony

carrie450 from Winnipeg, Canada on January 27, 2011:

A wonderful uplifting poem vocalcoach. It's made my day, thanks.

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on January 26, 2011:

drbj - Gee, thanks so much. I am honored to receive such nice comments from you. Peace and love...vocalcoach

drbj and sherry from south Florida on January 26, 2011:

Loved this, Audrey. This poem sings! Really!

Micky Dee on January 26, 2011:

Please sing out! Sing. Let that soul rejoice. And when you get the chance, you've got to dance. This was very pretty and strong. Your son is a delightful looking lad. God bless vocalcoach!

Audrey Hunt (author) from Idyllwild Ca. on January 26, 2011:

breakfastpop - You are very kind and I am so please that you found the spirit and joy in my poem. See you at the table pop! :)

breakfastpop on January 26, 2011:

Love the spirit and joy in this poetry. Voted up and awesome.

Mentalist acer from A Voice in your Mind! on January 26, 2011:

A free spirit usually means a free and open mind.;)