Stephanie Lahart Relationship Poems | Relationship Poetry for Her | Troubled Relationship | Relationship Heartbreak | Relationship Problems

A Perfect Love Ruined A Poem by Stephanie Lahart

I gave you way too much credit

Trusted you 100%

Opened up my wounded heart to you

Allowed you to see the real me

My strengths, weaknesses, and flaws.


I saw the best in you

When everybody else had nothing good to say about you

I stood proudly by your side

Built you up

And loved you unconditionally

In spite of everything that was being said.

I believed every word that you spoke

Every plan that you made for us

Every promise that you guaranteed

And every dream that we’d fulfill together

Oh, yes! I believed.

You and I were perfect for one another

Too good to be true

In many people’s eyes

We had a love that was extremely rare

Genuine and solid as a rock.

We accomplished great things together

Built our family from scratch

From nothing

To having it all

Through our hard work

And dedication to us.

Ample money in the bank

Awesome careers

Yearly vacations

Good health

Beautiful children

Our life was envied by many.

And then you ruined it all!

You made a choice to cheat.

Be deceitful.

Compromise our family.

My complete trust in you.

How could you?

I’ve tried over and over to forgive you

But I always fall short

Can’t seem to get past all of your deceitfulness

Your lies. Your lies. Your fucking lies!

I ‘m so hurt!

I’m so damn angry with you!

I’m confused!

I have no understanding!

I want to trust you again, but I just can’t.

Your lies have made me numb to love. I’ll never trust again.

My heart is freezing cold.

I won’t allow it to thaw out.

Never again will I open up my heart.

No way... never!

My heart isn’t willing,

And my mind isn’t either.

Gave you my all just to get fucked in the end.

Love is a gamble... You just never know.

Written by Stephanie Lahart
California Author and Poet  

If you enjoy reading relatable poetry, then you've got to check out my new release on Amazon. MATURE Audience is an absolute must-read for poetry lovers!

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Choices - Teens Matter Most by Stephanie Lahart

This is one of the passages that I wrote in my second book, Teens Matter Most. I have so much love for our teens! That's why it was so very important for me to write this book. Our teens need and deserve proper guidance, love, support, and somebody that's going to tell it like it is without sugar-coating the truth. You do NOT want your children to learn the hard way. Keep it real with them!

We can't keep sitting back and doing nothing to save our teens! We as parents have an obligation to do right by them and give them the tools that they need to do well in life. It's our job to teach them everything that they need to know so that they won't get caught up. It starts at home! We can't afford to be lazy parents. We need to parent like it really matters...Because it does! They need us y'all. It's time to step it up so that they will have a fair chance. Set good examples for them to follow! Trust me, they are watching you more than you think. Be parents that they can be proud of and speak highly of. Set them up to go in the right direction! You'll be glad that you did!

And now I introduce to you: CHOICES ( From my book Teens Matter Most) Available on Amazon.com.

Choices, Choices, Choices. Let’s face it, we all have to make them. If you think about it, everything that we do starts with a choice. Let me give you some quick examples of what I’m talking about.

We make everyday choices about what we’re going to eat, what we’re going to wear, deciding what time we’re going to work-out, what time we’re going to wake up or go to sleep, etc.

Now that I have your attention, I would like to discuss important things that you may have to make decisions about. As teens, you are faced with so many things on a daily basis and it can sometimes be overwhelming, exciting, and scary too.

I want to discuss your friends. Be mindful of the people that you call your friends. If people are truly your friends, they will want to see you do well in life, and they won’t try to put you in a position where you can get into trouble, hurt yourself or others, or completely ruin your life by making a bad decision that will cost you big time!

Choose your friends wisely. Try to pick out people that share your same interests. It would also be wise to hang out with people who have good morals and values. I know that some teens don’t give it any thought, but you should. Be careful of the company that you keep.

I’ll leave you with this to think about regarding friends: Make sure that they TRULY like you and have your best interest at heart. A true friend will be honest with you and bold enough to tell you when you’re wrong. They don’t want to see you go down the wrong path.

These are some things that you should also consider when you’re deciding on friendship: Are they trustworthy, honest, dependable, supportive, selfless, a good listener, respectful of themselves and others? There are so many things to consider. Also, here’s a quick reminder: Genuine friends won’t be jealous of you. Please keep that in mind. I know you’ll make the right choice.

Okay, let’s talk about drugs and alcohol. I’ll try not to get too long-winded on you, but this is an important topic.

We all know that if you’re under the age of 21, you shouldn't be drinking or using drugs. But the fact of the matter is, teens are drinking and using drugs.  I will share this with you: Underage drinking and drug-use is irresponsible and you risk the chance of putting yourself in some compromising positions.

Underage drinking and drug-use can cause the following: Death, addictions, mood changes, getting arrested, getting lower grades in school, poor performance in your extracurricular activities, etc. I want you to think smartly! You can’t afford not to.

Don’t be pressured or fooled into thinking that everybody’s doing it or that it’s the thing to do. That’s not true.  It’s a personal choice and you don’t have to be a part of it. Choices, Choices, Choices! It’s a part of life and I want YOU to make the best ones. You have more important things to worry about, let’s not add more trouble to your plate. Your plate is already full.

Do you, or somebody that you know, like to: shoplift, steal vehicles, burglarize homes, fight, and/or keep up trouble? Let me give you something to REALLY think about.

This kind of behavior will destroy you and your life! Some of you may be saying, “Not me, I've never been caught!” Or some of you may be saying, “It’s cool or fun!” You may think it’s all fun and games now, but what IF…

Could you see yourself in juvenile hall? Or, if you've already been there, done that, do you remember what it was like? I don’t know about you, but I wouldn't want to be locked up being told what to do. They have complete control over you and there’s nothing you can do about it. You have to follow their rules. Period, end of story.

If you continue on the road that you’re going down, you’ll find yourself in jail and/or prison. I want you to imagine being there for a second. I mean REALLY imagine. I don’t know about you, but I’d be scared to death being in those cells with people from all walks of life. If you don’t know, SO many awful things go on behind those walls. I mean awful things! Some people get raped, beat up, and/or killed. You don’t have any privacy either.

 I don’t think you would enjoy taking showers out in the open with total strangers. I don’t think you would enjoy sitting on toilets that everybody else is sitting on. I don’t think you would like the food that they provide you. I don’t think you would enjoy the fact that you have to share a cell with somebody that you don’t even know. I don’t think you would like other inmates taking or stealing your personal belongings.

I don’t want this to happen to you. You don’t want to make a choice that will literally ruin your life. Think about your actions and how it can cost you. Could you imagine standing in front of a Judge and he sentences you to LIFE without parole? Imagine hearing the words: I sentence you to: 10 to LIFE, 15 to LIFE, 25 to LIFE, LIFE without the possibility of parole, or DEATH.

I’m pretty sure shoplifting, stealing vehicles, burglarizing homes, fighting, and starting trouble doesn't seem so fun now. Your life is worth more than that. Think about that the next time you even think to do something that you know isn't right. It’s your life! Make it count for something great! Make something of yourself! 

Written by Stephanie Lahart  (Author & Poet) 

Stephanie Lahart Poems | Poems About a Man of Substance | Poems About a Special Man for Her | Poems About a Phenomenal Man

Eye Candy for The Soul A Poem by Stephanie Lahart 

You’re my kind of eye candy!

A man that can stimulate a woman’s soul

Not because of your good looks, but because

You’re much more than the natural eyes can see

You’re a rare one indeed

Communication is only one of your greatest strengths

A man of your word

Honest

Reliable

And responsible too

What real woman wouldn't admire a man like you?

Respectful, considerate, and very attentive to my needs

Amazing and unique qualities that make you stand out from the rest

Integrity

Faithful

A mature man who’s confident in himself

Oh yes! Self-confidence looks good on you

Knows how to handle business

Not afraid to take risks

Positive, encouraging, and one hell of a motivator

A pleasing personality

Genuine in everything that you do. Yep, that’s totally you!

A great listener!

That’s such a turn on to me

So compassionate and kind

Desirable is an understatement

You’re a breath of fresh air!

Sexy on the inside, a woman’s dream!

Easy to talk to

That’s a beautiful gift with which you've been blessed

Easy to get along with

What a fine gentleman you are

You bring joy to my heart

You’re eye candy to my soul

You’re the kind of man that I’m attracted to

A man that stands out from the rest

Not trying to be like anybody else

You have a strong identity.

Trustworthy. I fully respect that in a man.

Romantic and passionate, too

Not many others can compare to you

There’s absolutely no duplicating you!

You've got that special something

You've got the full package, baby!

Written by Stephanie Lahart
California Author and Poet

Connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. #StephanieLahart 

Marriage, Loneliness, and Cheating by Stephanie Lahart

You’re thinking to yourself: “I didn't sign up for this shit!” Married, but feeling lonely. Married, but thinking about cheating. Married, but dealing with more than your fair share of everyday life situations. In your marriage vows, you promised to love your spouse for better or for worse, but sometimes it’s much easier said than done, right?

All marriages have their challenges, some bigger than others. For some odd reason, when we get married, we think that our lives are going to be this perfect union until reality shows us something different. In the midst of working, going to school, taking care of the kids, trying to please our spouses, and handling all of the responsibilities of home life, things can get extremely overwhelming AND sometimes we feel like we've lost all control. Unfortunately, when we experience pressure that we’re not used to, our attitude, behavior, and the way we think can be all over the place. Our emotions tend to get the best of us.

As humans, we can sometimes be selfish without even realizing that we’re doing it. It’s all about OUR wants and OUR needs. But have you ever stopped to think about what your spouse is going through, too? Although you’re married, you have to remember that you’re both individual people. You both have your own personal challenges and struggles. It’s life! Nobody’s exempt from issues.

Like reading a good fiction, romance novel, cheating takes you to a place where you feel fulfilled, even if it’s temporary. For that period of time you feel free! Free from the realities of the real world. That leads me to what I would like to talk about next.

Loneliness and Cheating in Your Relationship

So you’re feeling lonely, huh? I get it! Your spouse isn't showing you the attention that you desire. Your spouse isn't spending enough time with you. Your spouse doesn't make love to you the way that they used to. Your spouse is SO busy that they miss out on the things that are TRULY important to you. Your spouse just doesn't seem to be interested in you like they used to be. You just don’t feel appreciated, and communication is nonexistent. And when you DO try to talk, it just ends up in a heated argument over the smallest things.

With all of this “stuff” going on in your life, temptation is having its way with you. You’re tempted to do some things that you know aren't right. But what the hell, right? You’re sick of this crap and you need a break from it all.

Let Me Ask You a Question

Have you even tried to communicate your feelings and thoughts to your spouse? Do they know what and how you’re feeling and/or thinking about? Listen, if you don’t communicate what you’re feeling, it’s not fair to your mate. It’s just not! If you want something from your mate, you have the responsibility to do your part. Open your mouth and speak up! You can’t expect your mate to know what’s going on in that mind of yours if you don’t say anything.

No matter how difficult or painful it may be, you have to talk about it. Communication can save a relationship from going down a road of pain, hurt, regret, anger, and betrayal. If you’re feeling lonely, communicate that to your partner. Set aside some quiet time where there won’t be any distractions. Make sure that you have their full attention, keep eye contact, and ensure that they fully understand the feelings that you’re experiencing. Don’t down play what you’re feeling. Your mate needs to know that you need more of them. Whether it is more time, sex, attention, etc… it needs to be brought to the table.

Seeking Comfort Elsewhere Won’t Solve Anything

Don’t get caught up! Temporary pleasure can turn out to be your worst nightmare. Don’t become a victim simply because you want to feel good for the moment. You may find yourself in a situation that you never saw coming. What you thought was temporary, is now YOUR secret. Irresponsible choices can cost you big time!

Think it Through

Could you REALLY live with yourself if you cheated on your partner?

Would it be worth losing the person that you know you love and care about? Would it be worth possibly losing your family? Would it be worth destroying his/her trust in you? Would it be worth having to start all over again with someone who doesn't even compare to your current spouse? Would it be worth it to see those tears in his/her eyes? Would it be worth seeing the pain that you've caused on his/her face? Would it be worth it to destroy everything that you've both built together? Would it be worth it to break their heart over your selfishness and weakness? Would it be worth it to betray the man or woman that you promised to be faithful to? Or furthermore, would you be able to forgive yourself, if you gave your spouse an STD? Always remember this: When you decide to cheat, you’re taking a huge risk. A risk that could turn your life upside down.

Some things just aren't worth it. Think! Think about what your choices could do to you, your partner, and maybe even your family. I encourage you to be mature enough to make the right choices. The wrong choices can literally ruin your life, and to me, ruining your life over a quick fix is just NOT worth it! Not at all.

Written by Stephanie Lahart (Author & Poet) 

Stephanie Lahart Poems | Poems About Being in Love With a Drug Addict | Poems of Hurt and Betrayal | Poems About Unhealthy and Toxic Relationships

Empty Words A Poem by Stephanie Lahart 

Your words were SO captivating

I believed every word that you told me

Sweet

Kind

Loving

All the words that I wanted to hear

But you knew that, didn't you?

You knew I had low self-esteem

You knew I didn't love myself

You knew I was young and naive

You knew I was just looking for love

But instead, I got wrapped up into you

I lost myself in you

I stopped doing all the things that I loved to do

I poured all of my energy into you

Put myself on the back burner

Just to take care of you

Just to be hurt, disappointed, and used like a fool

I listened and held on to your every word

Although I knew they were ALL lies

My heart ached to the core

My tears flowed like a rapid river

And yet I stayed and allowed you to hurt me

Over and over and over again

Yep!

I allowed you to mistreat me

I allowed you to disrespect me

I allowed you to steal MY joy and MY peace

I allowed you to change the course of MY life

Literally almost destroyed MY life

You told me that you loved me

But your actions told a different story

I clearly couldn't compete with your addiction to drugs

No matter how loving I was

No matter how much I supported you

No matter how much I gave more and more of myself to you

Crack cocaine had me beat

My kindness

My love

My loyalty

My faithfulness

My commitment to you just wasn't enough

After years of broken promises and broken dreams

I found the courage and strength to let you go

That was the best thing I could have ever done

I was finally free!

Free from all of your lies

Free from trying to change a grown man

I was finally FREE!

Free from the headaches

Free from all of the hurt and pain

Free from feeling like I wasn't enough

Free from all of the hell that I allowed you to put me through

Free from a man that didn't even love himself

In the midst of trying to save you

I somehow lost myself in you

But thankfully, I was able to push through

And love myself enough to know what I deserved,

Much better than what I was settling for

I’m stronger

I’m wiser

I’m a way better me

I love myself from the inside out

And I fully understand that

You can’t change anybody

I've learned to love myself first

Take care of myself

Be good to myself

Protect myself from people who don’t mean me any good

Be mindful of who I give my heart to

And never ever settle for somebody

Who’s not willing to love you back the way you love them

What a waste of time!

Time that I'll never get back.

Lesson learned.

Lesson learned.

Lesson learned.

No bitterness. No resentments.

But a POWERFUL lesson learned that I’m not willing to repeat.

Written by Stephanie Lahart
California Author and Poet

Connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram... I welcome it! #StephanieLahart 

Is he REALLY worth it? Is she REALLY worth it? A Relationship Article by Stephanie Lahart.

Women, This is For You!

So, you think you've got yourself a real winner, huh? Well, let me give you something to think about. Hold on tight!

Okay ladies, some of you are thinking way too small, and some of you aren't thinking at all.

Any man can buy you gifts, take you out, and spoil you like crazy, BUT…

But none of that compares to a man who truly cherishes you, loves you, respects you, and treats you like a woman of value.

I see so many women playing themselves short. What do I mean by this? Let me explain.

Many women will allow a man to cheat on them, talk crazy to them, stay out all night long, abuse them, and all sorts of other things, but as long as a man is providing them with the material things that they desire, they accept their behavior. Now isn't that something?

A lot of women play the role like they’re running things, but in actuality, they’re playing themselves. I don’t care how you try to paint the picture, if you’re with a man who doesn't fully respect you, you’re losing out, and yes, you’re settling too.

If you can be bought by material things, then there’s something VERY wrong with that picture. Material things shouldn't be that important to you where you’re willing to subject yourself to whatever a man dishes out to you.

Shoes, clothes, purses, trips, dining out, spa days, etc... don’t mean anything if a man is half-ass treating you right. His respect for you as a woman should mean EVERYTHING to you.

A woman who respects and values herself cannot be easily bought or flattered. It takes much more than that. A real woman knows her worth and she won’t settle. A real woman won’t allow material things to sway her. Material things get old after a while. A real woman wants a man with real substance. Material things are just a bonus in her eyes. That’s right, just a bonus! She’s wise enough to know that material things will not and cannot hold a relationship together. If a relationship is based on materialistic things, then what do you REALLY have? 

Think about it ladies! Is your man giving you his VERY best? Remember, I’m not talking about material things. I’m talking about mentally, physically, and emotionally. Does he make you feel secure in your relationship? Does he truly value you as a woman and as a person? Does he respect you when nobody else is around?

There are so many questions you can ask yourself. Do that for yourself! Ask yourself the hard questions. Do you truly matter to him? Do you? Be honest with yourself. It’s time for you to get real with yourself.

Every woman, and I do mean every woman, wants to feel and know that she’s wanted in a relationship. So let me ask you this: Do you feel like you've settled? Did you get lonely? Did you or are you overlooking “what truly is?” Are you with someone that’s not even your type? Are you allowing a man to just have sex with you? Are you playing second? Are you his secret? Does he even claim you?

Women, you've got to wake up! You've got to set standards for yourself. If a man is denying you, hiding you, playing you, etc, you can only blame yourself. You see the play that’s going on. What are you gonna do about it? It’s all up to you. You hold the keys to how a man treats you. You do! Nobody else but you.

You know you deserve better. You know you’re wasting your time. You know he’s no good for you. You know he hasn't quite grown up yet. He’s not the man you desire, but you keep fooling yourself into thinking that you can change him. You know all of these things. He’s shown you over and over what he’s all about.

It’s better to be by yourself and have peace of mind than to be with a man who isn't worth shit! I've got to keep it real with you! I’m not going to steer you wrong. If he’s not giving you what you desire in a man, get rid of his ass. Stop wasting your time.

Do you realize how many men are out there looking for a good woman? Plenty! Trust me! A lot of women think that there aren't any good men left, but that's NOT true. They’re out there. If you truly desire a good man, set yourself free from that headache. You've got to be available. Staying in a dead-end relationship is draining, a waste of time, and it keeps you from clearly seeing what you could have.

Relationships are a blessing when it’s shared with the right person for YOU. Give yourself a chance to be loved and truly happy. Love yourself enough to know that you can do better, and you will get past this. NO MORE SETTLING. No more!

Men, This One is For You!

So, you think you’re REALLY “the man” just because you have a woman on your arm that’s as sexy as they come. She’s got all the right curves in all the right places, she has a beautiful face, and all the men are intrigued by her. She’s simply gorgeous, and that makes you feel proud!

I’m about to open up your mind to a whole new level to hopefully get you to THINK and NOT be so weak when it comes to a woman’s looks. If you’re one of those men that fall for a woman solely on looks, you’re bound to get caught up sooner or later. Trust!

What good is having a fine woman on your arm if you’re always dealing with unnecessary bullshit? Let me break down what I’m talking about.

You’re always going out of your way to please her, but she’s never satisfied. She just wants more and more. Every time you’re out and about with her, she just has to be the center of attention. It’s all about HER. She doesn't fully respect you as her mate or as her man. You always have to keep an eye on her because, deep down, you know her kind. But she looks great, right? I mean what man wouldn't want her? She’s fine!

Yep, that’s right! She loves to spend your money that you've worked so hard for. If you really take a good look at her, you will see that she’s NOT all of that. She’s not! She may have a body that makes heads turn, but so do many other women. What else does she have to offer you or your relationship? What else?

So I’ll ask you these questions: Is she REALLY worth it? If you didn't have what you have, would she even be with you? Don’t fool yourself on this one. Be honest! What good is being with a woman and you know she’s all about the money? What good is it?

 I get it, she’s fine! Okay, AND…

And what else? How could you possibly feel like you're “the man” and you know the truth? You know if you lost all that you have, she’d be gone in a heartbeat. You know this! You know if you don’t give her what she desires, she’ll move on to the next. You know she uses her looks to get what she wants. You know, you KNOW!

You deserve a woman that loves you for YOU. You deserve a woman that’s going to support you, encourage you, be by your side and represent you and your relationship. You deserve a woman who will still love you if you were to take a fall and lose it all. She’ll stick by your side because she truly believes in YOU. You deserve a woman who’s going to be faithful to you and give you all of her love. You deserve a woman who you can trust and confide in. A woman who’s gonna have your back and not be doing foul shit behind your back.

A woman who believes in being faithful to one man. A woman who can make you feel good even on your worst days. She won’t be a thorn in your side, she’ll be your peace, your joy, the reason you smile when things get hard. You need a REAL woman!

She truly represents what a woman should be to her man. She’s confident so she won’t need to seek attention from another man. She’s not a run-around. She’s not easy. She’s not a gold digger. She’s none of those things.

So with all of that being said, MEN, don’t be so easily flattered by a thick ass, pretty face, or a woman who calls herself a bad bitch and/or a diva. If you’re not careful, you’ll get exactly what you asked for. Instead, take the time to get to know the woman you’re going after. Everything that looks good isn't good. Yes, a woman can have the looks and she can appear to be “the one” but, if you’re not careful, you can end up getting a rude awakening. Some women are very vindictive when they can’t get what they want or control you anymore.

I’ll leave you with this: Be careful who you chase after. You could be chasing a BITCH from hell that will suck you dry for every penny that you have. And if you pick a really bad seed, she’ll try to take everything from you, JUST BECAUSE.

Don’t let a thick ass get you caught up. Don’t let a beautiful face get you caught up. Don’t let that be the reason you become bitter after she plays you like her toy, and now you've got the attitude that all women are no good or they’re bitches.

Be mindful of who you choose to spoil. Be mindful of who you choose to spend your hard earned money on. If you pay close attention, you’ll know who’s deserving of what you have to offer. Use common sense. Real Talk! Don’t get caught up. Don’t do it!

- Stephanie Lahart (Author & Poet) 

Homeless People: An Article by Stephanie Lahart

Homeless people! Many people look down on them, so that’s why I wanted to write about it just to give you all some real food-for-thought. Hopefully after reading this passage, you’ll have a change of heart if you’re one of those people who feel like ALL homeless people are lazy, just want a hand out, don’t want to work, etc.

First of all, I want to say that I thank God that I've never been homeless, and I pray that I never will have to face something like that as long as I live.

Why am I writing about this and why do I even care?

As I’m out and about I see homeless people all of the time and instead of looking down on them in disgust, I ask myself, “I wonder what happened to them? What is THEIR story?”

Do you realize that not all homeless people are bad people? They are human! Some people that are out there just had an unfortunate fall in their lives and for whatever reason, they were never able to get back on track.

I’m about to share some examples of what could have happened in their lives. I can’t possibly name them all, but I just want to give you something to think about.

Story #1

That homeless man that you turn your nose up to, did you know that he lost his wife and kids in a car accident? That’s right! A drunk driver ran a stop sign and hit their car from the right side and killed everybody except him.

His family meant everything to him. Yes! He had the nice home, the fancy cars, the booming career, but all of this meant nothing to him anymore because he had nobody to share it with. He’d always been the strong one in the family, but this was just too much for him to bear. He lost it! Literally!

Story #2

That lady that you just looked and shook your head at, did you know that she had a childhood from hell? Yep! She was abused all of her life by the hands of her own father. Her mother knew about it, but she acted as if she didn't see anything.

When this little girl grew up and was old enough to leave the home, she was already damaged in every way possible. So she took to the streets just to get by. Now that’s she’s much older she just walks the streets talking to herself. She’s literally out of her mind. For many years she used drugs just to try to numb the pain, but instead, she got caught up in the street life. She honestly tried SO many times to get it right, but her painful past always got the best of her. She just didn't have the strength, will, or courage to pull through her past.

Story #3

You know that young adult that you see hanging out at the park down the street from your job. As you walk by, you always think to yourself “Why is he always carrying around that baseball and glove in his hands?” Well, did you know that he lost his mother at the tender age of 14, and he and his father have greatly struggled to let her go? This young man has endured a lot in his short life, but his father did the very best that he could. Unfortunately, he lost his father 3 years after his mother passed away from cancer.

This young man was left on his own. He didn't have any close family that he could turn to. His passion has always been playing baseball, although he doesn't play anymore. Carrying his baseball and glove brings him a little peace in his mind. It reminds him of his beautiful parents and how they used to support him. They were his biggest fans!

He’s homeless, but he stays at some nearby shelter when there’s room available. Not only could he have gone pro, but he was a straight A student that took all honors classes. But all of his dreams were shattered when he lost his father. That was the last straw for him. He’s a good kid, but he just doesn't have the drive anymore. He just exists with no motivation or hope for himself.

Story #4

You know that older gentleman that just asked you for something to eat? Although he hasn't shaven in God knows when and he smelled like he hasn't had a shower in days, this man used to be somebody that everybody respected and loved!

You see, he used to be a very successful banker, AND he was an accomplished artist. He not only had a successful career, but he volunteered his time helping at-risk youth in underprivileged neighborhoods. Everybody loved him because he had a big heart, and he truly cared for people.

But one day while he was at work he received a devastating call informing him that his best friend, whom was his grandmother, had just passed away. His grandmother taught him valuable things about life. He was who he was because of her constant love and support. When the love of his life passed away, he was never right since. He started drinking heavily until it took control of his life and consumed him. He lost everything!

Although he was highly educated and extremely articulate, he couldn't keep it together. Who would have ever thought that he’d be going down this road? No one! But life happens, right?

I’m going to bring my examples to a close, but I want you all to remember this: You don’t know a person’s story! It’s not always what it looks like. Be thankful and grateful for what you have and know that YOU are truly blessed!

Homelessness in America is VERY real for many people from ALL walks of life. Try your best to remember that the next time you have an ill thought about them, because they count too! Sometimes things happen to us in life and it can really take a toll on us if we’re not strong enough to handle it. Trust me, it can happen to any one of us.


- Stephanie Lahart (Author & Poet) 

Racist People: An Article by Stephanie Lahart

I wanted to write a passage about racism, so I’m doing just that.

I used to get really angry at people that were racist, but now that I’m older and wiser, my heart actually feels sorry for people like that. Here’s my take on racism.

Back down memory lane...

I can remember back to when I was in high school. I had a lot of friends from all backgrounds. As a matter of fact, my best friend was white. I had Latino friends, African-American friends, Asian friends, White friends, etc. You name it! I had friends from all cultures and I loved it! We didn't see color. We had fun with one another because we all shared some of the same interests. Things like: music, dance, certain classes we took together, family life, and plans on what we were going to do with our futures. And I can’t leave out the fact that there was plenty of laughter, joking, and good times back in the day.

That leads me to what I’m about to discuss.

How could anybody live their life disliking and/or hating a person because of the color of their skin? I just can’t wrap my mind around that. I couldn't imagine living my life hating a particular race JUST BECAUSE. It’s pure ignorance and makes absolutely no sense to me whatsoever.

Now, I can understand if you don’t like a particular person, but the whole race? Really? What could you possibly be getting out of this? Why do you choose to be so mean, evil, and hateful? Is it because you were taught to hate other races? Did you grow up in a racist household? Do you come from a family that feels like they’re more entitled than others? Look, there could be all kinds of reasons WHY, but I would like to challenge you to do something for me.

Open yourself up to new relationships of different races. Learn to give people of other races a fair shot. Don’t be so quick to judge them by the color of their skin. You could be missing out on great relationships! Learn to look at people’s character as opposed to the color of their skin.

Now let me ask you a question: Do you honestly think that everybody in your race has your best interest at heart? Do you think that everybody in your race can do no wrong? When I turn on the news I see all races doing VERY bad things in this world: Rape. Murder. Committing robberies. Burglarizing people’s homes. Watching child porn behind closed doors, although to the public, they're a well-respected person. Molesting children and ruining their lives. Shooting up schools and colleges, etc. And GUESS WHAT? It’s not just ONE race doing these horrible things. It’s ALL races!

I said all of that to make this point. People are people! You’re gonna have your bad apples in every race. So you have no right to point fingers at a particular race. You just don’t! Every race has bad people and there’s no arguing that!

I myself am a fun-loving, giving, outgoing, funny, and all around great person to know. I am true to being myself! I love life! I value life! I enjoy life! And I love people for who THEY are.

I’ll leave you with this: There’s SO much going on in this world. We ALL need one another whether you want to accept it or not. We need more peace, love, and togetherness.

I encourage you to stop being closed-minded. Learn to be kind to others and be a good person. Stop putting all of your negative energy into this world. Look at people in a different light for a change.

I’m sure YOU’RE not perfect yourself. Nobody is. Just like everybody else, you have your own issues that you deal with too. No matter how much money you have, where you live, status, or whatever the case may be. You’re not exempt from anything in this world.

Really take a look at who YOU are as a person and make some positive changes in your life. Move forward and change how you view other people. You’ll be freer as a person. I’m sure of it!

Do you realize how much energy it takes to be mean and hateful? How could anybody be TRULY happy with hate in their hearts? I just don’t see how that’s possible. Let go of negative energy and live life with peace in your heart!

PEACE…There’s nothing like it!

- Stephanie Lahart (Author & Poet) 

Beware of Your So-Called Friends

Don’t be overly shocked when people show you who they REALLY are. Be thankful that their TRUE character has been exposed. Please understand this: Some people talk a good talk, but their real intentions will soon surface to the top. You’re sadly mistaken if you think that everybody’s going to be happy for you. Jealousy and envy are VERY real. I would strongly recommend NOT overlooking what you see, hear, or feel. A lot of times, people show us what they’re all about, but we choose to ignore it.

Don’t waste your time or energy on people who aren't going to be a part of your future. Everybody isn't meant to be a part of your journey. They don’t deserve all of the blessings that you have or are getting ready to receive. Your future doesn't include them. Let people go who just aren't worth it!

Be mindful of the company you keep. Some people smile, joke, and laugh with you, but on the inside, they secretly dislike you because they wish that they were in your shoes. Take note and pay attention. Are your friends REALLY your friends? Food-For-Thought.

- Stephanie Lahart (Author & Poet)