Peter Todd, Poet

Peter's Masonic Poetry

2007-01-22T07:26:00.000-08:00

Peter Todd, Poet

2007-01-22T03:44:00.000-08:00

Cat of Nine Tails

2006-05-09T13:20:00.000-07:00

Cat of Nine Tails
By Peter A. Todd petertoddpoet.com

With open eyes and endless thoughts
I reflect upon the pain in my back
Asking myself why my mind was wrought
Of the whippings for which I did not ask
Each time I felt the stinging pain
I would think of my mother I did not know
Of the loving kindness of my sister
Who in my dreams protected me from each blow
I asked myself back in younger days
Why was I taken away with such haste?
Then I recalled as my loved ones would say
I was lying in my own waste
So dear Lord the sands of time has past
And the scars of my body have healed
Looking back those fifty years passed
The answers of my crying heart have been revealed

Mothers Touch

2006-05-08T10:19:00.000-07:00

Mother’s Touch
By Peter A. Todd 05/08/2006

A mother’s touch is her grace and smile
Or the tender kiss at each embrace
A mother’s touch is in her cooking style
Teaching her children not to waste
The faith in her God she passed on
Her hand encircling ours as we grew
The cloths she washed that we wore
The wisdom we have now by all she knew
A mother’s touch is like the brush of angel wings
Combined by the light of Heaven’s glow
We reflect as we loved how she would sing
As our torn clothing from playing she would sew
To those Mother’s of yesterday’s and tomorrows
We give you all the honor and praise
For the precious time God gave us to borrow
We wish you all a Happy Mothers Day

Words of the Vision

2006-03-24T07:18:00.000-08:00

Words of the Vision of the Soul
7/5/2003

Poetry must and always be of the soul
A rendering of love of the writer’s heart
It should contain a vision of time yet to unfold
The emotions of its meaning from the start
Poetry is as ancient as from the Psalms of David
Such a faithful and God fearing man
The description of what is within the inner beauty
Of loved ones we embrace and cherish dear
Or the vision a mountain and morning clearing
It is the very existence of our inner tears
Of words to be treasured through the sands of time
A vision for the blind of pleasures to unfold
Expressions of love in our thoughts hard to find
Poetry more precious than the world and all its gold
It’s the echo of ones heart to the impaired of hearing
The comforting of mind in sadness cast
The reflection of the soul and ones awakening nearing
It’s etched in silver within the souls reflection matched

Worlds Treasures

2006-03-24T07:15:00.000-08:00

World’s Treasure’s

It is said that the most held value
Is the world’s precious diamonds and gold.
Yet we need not far to travel
For within our mists greater treasures unfold
A mother’s love is truly precious
They watch over us through all the days and nights
In times of life’s fears she’s courageous
A mother is to our youth a guiding light
So treasure this there special day
By giving them your thanks for there undying love
Show them how you love them in a special way
For this love should be a reflection of God above
Mother’s they may be single or wed for years beyond measure
They even could be miles away, or live down the street
They are the greatest of all the world’s treasures
Who have molded and shaped our lives complete
A very Happy Mothers Day to each and every one
May the blessing of God be with them this and everyday
That all their trials and goals be won
“ Mother’s “World’s Treasure’s in each and everyway.

Happy Mother’s Day

Peter A. Todd 5/03/01

Nightmare or Truth

2006-03-21T19:49:00.000-08:00

Nightmare or Truth
By Peter A. Todd 3/21/2003

It was a cold winters night and all was still
I can see it clearly but it seems to be a dream
I’m out with the guys with good time to kill
In my head are deafening screams
I volunteered to drive as I only drank a few
Or in truth could it have been three
Who’s counting were just out for a good time
If only these sounds in my head would leave me
It’s beginning to get real hazy and cold
The streets seem to be turning to ice
But I am a good driver in full control
I’m known as a friend to be trusted and bright
I believe we left the last bar nine or ten
Who really cares were just out for fun
This were having with my drinks I begin to blend
Oh! My God what’s that blurred figure before me
It’s a mother and child crossing the street
Please help me I’m so dizzy I can’t see
To even put on the brake with my feet
But it’s to late they are gone from sight
Dam! All I can hear is their deathly screams
Who do they think they are out at this time of the night?
Maybe this is just a foolish bad dream
Well things are quite now my friends are back with me
But tell me Lord why from their lips are there no sounds
I now lay at peace with these flowers circling free
As they lower my casket into the ground
Wait! in the corner above my grave
I see a young father staring at me
Why does he look with such hatred in his eyes
I was just out with guys for a good time I’ve craved
IS THIS WHAT LIES AHEAD IN HELL FOR ALL ETERNITY

Window of Life

2006-03-21T19:48:00.000-08:00

Window of Life

With eyes fixed through window wide
I take in Nature’s rare sites
Birds chirping side by side
Upon each mornings new sunlight
The calming of the changing seas
As the tides smoothes out the sand
Reminding us that we are free
To abide on this our God given land
As the evening comes to its end
The waters take on a great change
For unto the human eye Heaven glows
Beyond the stars and the moons range
To blanket us with God’s protective sky
As we rest from our daily deeds
Within God’s blessings to abide
As in him we must always believe

Gloucester

2006-02-20T15:21:00.000-08:00

Gloucester

I take my stroll by the oceans sand
Amazed by how the tide smoothes the shore
Taking pictures of the Man at the Wheel
Paying a quarter for the harbor to explore
Catching my breath as I admire such sites
As the Lighthouse beyond Ten Pound Island
Or the majesty of Hammond’s castle at night
Or our golden beaches to bask on
The oceans wave pounding the back shore
With the mists of the sea spraying each passerby
The Universalist Church with its historical steeple
As its glowing beacon guides ships through foggy skies
The fishing boats and Lobster boats tied to each dock
Making ready their nets and traps for the next trip out
Dogtown Common with all its trails and historic rocks
Stagefort Park and its happy families of cries and shouts
The Joan of Ark statue and Roger’s memorial stone
All the murals inside City Hall
The name of Lost Fishermen , loved ones own
This my friends is the city my memory recalls

The Fisherman

2006-02-20T15:20:00.000-08:00

The Fisherman

Watching over our boats night and day
With his hands at the ships wheel
A statue of Faith for the fishermen of today
With eyes fixed like glistened steel
Many a seasons storms have passed by
Since he was dedicated on our shore
Through raging storms and sunlit skies
The Fisherman has done his chore
Our sands of time have taken its toll
From the great statue of our seas
Like the many stories of Noah often told
Our Fisherman sets the spirit within us free
The words that are etched below his feet
So true to the fishermen in many ways
When the sands of time are stilled we’ll meet
Those we have lost from the oceans grave

Alligator

2006-02-20T15:16:00.000-08:00

Alligator

As I look upon the ocean view
One thought comes to my mind
Of the loss of the Alligator and her crew
The answers to questions to find
I can remember Captain Carlo, a gentle man
A teacher of the Fishing Craft
He was always ready to give others a helping hand
To those who were to shy to ask
We question the acts of God and his way
Although he must have had cause to take
The crew of the Alligator to eternity stay
Until the Day of Judgment to awake
For now dear lord I pray this night
To comfort those, these men left behind
Help them in their voyage to find your great light
The answers we seek in you to find

Fathers Day Salutati

2006-02-20T15:15:00.000-08:00

Fathers Day Salutation
By Peter A. Todd 6/10/2003

When we think of Fathers we remember the Faith
That they had in all their conquered deeds
We reflect upon the blisters on their hands
From the way they labored for each child to feed
A Father is to each child a firm foundation
That has given them guidance along life’s trail
Truly a gift of our Lord of all creation
The Captain of our Life's Schooner sailed
We also remember each hard lessen in life
That they taught us how to defend
Guiding us to a choice that was right
So that the challenge would come to an end
On this day we wish to impart to all of you
Our greatest wish for a Happy Father’s Day
We thank you for each day in Christ renewed
It is their Love that has guided our way

Festive Reasoning

2006-02-20T15:12:00.000-08:00

Festive Reasoning

Now that the Festive Season is here
Let us strive to do what is right
When we go out for a night’s cheer
Let us not give our loved ones anguished fright
To drink and drive is a deadly deed
For which there is no excuse
It only fills the empty graves
Of which the sober have no use
To hurt and maim is a horrific sin
To be answered on Judgment Day
So if you’re having beer, wine or gin
Let a sober friend guide your way
It may not be death if drunk you drive
But it could be a lifetime of pain
These words with you I hope will always remain

Circle within the Sq

2006-02-20T15:08:00.000-08:00

Circle within the Square
By Peter A.Todd

In reflection to General Warren’s fame
A man and Brother and leader who cared
On what Freemasonry became.
And of what knowledge he gave to share

Through the reflection of the hourglass
We have chosen to follow his lead
In the thoughts and actions of this class
Masonic heritage has planted the seed.

In making this journey upon this level of time
We will strive to fill the Lodge chairs
With men of new visions clearly depicted
Our foundation of Faith will always be there.

In the journey that many will chase
Faith, hope and charity are cast
To help our Brothers in life’s load
They will have the heritage of General Warren,
And all Master Masons of our past.

My Souls inner passi

2006-02-14T16:59:00.000-08:00

My Souls inner passion

As I reach into my heart in search of mind
To pass on to you the love from my soul
My Darling Barbara through my heart is defined
You are the passion that abides in my soul
Our Love has conquered many mountains
Of life’s struggles and problems as they unfold
My dearest our union of Faith has been like a fountain
That enriches all the greatest of love to hold
On this Special Valentine’s Day
I embrace your love as if it were just new
My beautiful wife I just want in witness of God to say
How much I in our journey truly love you
It is my prayer this day that God will impart
All the greatest of Life’s treasures to you due
My darling in our sands of time you abide in my heart
As my inner passion gives my undying love to you

Happy Valentine’s Day

Peter xxx 000(image placeholder)

Valentines Greetings

2006-02-14T16:55:00.000-08:00

Valentine’s Greetings
By Peter A. Todd 02/14/2005

Expressions of love can be of many ways
Such as a card or a box of scrumptious candy
Most are sweet, yet others can be tart
Valentine’s gifted from Friends and Family
It is a time of ones expressions of the heart
To be passed on to all those we love and greet
Such as a big hug to that Special person to impart
Or the re-union of lost love to meet
Love is a gathering of the Souls emotions
It is built in the hearts waiting to be released
Those feelings of ones unbroken devotion
That will never be lost or cease
We on this day look back in the pages of time
Remembering those who shared their love
For no other treasure can be more defined
Than the precious gift of our parents love

Happy Valentine’s Day to all

In Birthday m

2006-01-05T17:50:00.000-08:00

       In Birthday memory of
       Ida Marie Putaansuu
     Poetry by Peter Todd
     In Birthday memory of “ Ida Marie Putaansuu “

Fifty-One years ago “Mom” clasped Jesus hand
To be gathered into Heaven’s renewal of life
Through earthly times of troubled sands
In my faith she abides within the great light
My book of teaching reaches my soul
To share with God what I could not see
For now as my years of wisdom starts to unfold
Of the pains of false love she is eternally free
In my heart she flies with the angels of God
Watching over our family through days and nights
Her embodiment is of the rainbow above the sod
That helps to make the load in my heart light
I leave this spent moment of my heart
In homage to all those families members of God’s promised land
Their gifts of love and the wisdom to impart
Will abide through the changing of the Hourglass sands
Poetry is the Vision of the Soul through the spirit of one’s soul

Colors United

2006-01-05T17:46:00.000-08:00

       Colors United Martin’s Dream
        By Peter Todd


We search for colors to see
Such as the ocean’s and the hue of Liberty
There is still one outstanding color
That represents life and humans such as we
That of the color of blood Jesus shed
On that dark day that represents inhumanity
We see the color of purple its stature grand
Within the color Yellow of earths sand
Brown, Black, Red and Tan in Martin’s dream
United skins of colors of our Creator’s land
You see Martin dream is God’s reality
For all of his children bleed the same as he
Our Savior died on Faith’s Calvary’s tree
Lift up your voices high and pray to the Lord
Martin’s dream in truth reveals
Hatred of indifference is of the Devil’s sword
Poetry is the Vision of the Soul through the spirit of one’s soul

Inner Door

2006-01-05T17:41:00.000-08:00

Inner Door
Poetry by Peter Todd

The sands of time stopped on that tearful day
When my mother was freed from her imprisoned room
In my search of her being words of the unfaithful to say
That her life was of just a pitiful doom
Little did they know of this Special Mom, God’s treasure?
This lady with a heart that would melt like gold
A loving Soul by today’s standards beyond any measure
Of the true meaning of a mothers love to unfold
Trapped in a body filled with sickness and pain
Treated like a Leprosy or a invading germ
Many a days homeless through sunshine and rain
With trusting heart and a soul that burned
Jesus heard her cry to enter the inner door
As she begged her Savior to let her to be saved
From her earthly world of hate in her prison room explored
Now part of my heart and soul her life to me gave

Poetry is the Vision of the Soul through the spirit of one’s heart

Shredded but Whole

2006-01-05T17:38:00.000-08:00

Shredded but Whole

Poetry by Peter Todd

In skies of blue I waiver near waters edge
All torn and cruelly tattered
My staff broken and splintered
The symbol of my honorable duty shuddered
I was spit on and lowly cursed
With words of hatred even by the young
Stepped on and kicked just like a ball
By teenagers out for a night of fun
They will not stop me I will fly even more
For I am the flag of freedom and glory
Through many treacherous land I have soured
The red blood of my stripes and each soldiers story
Just as the field of blue at oceans near
My white representing our countries faith
The stars of all our great states
Under God’s and below Heavens Golden Gates
Poetry is the Vision of the Soul through the spirit of one’s soul

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2006-01-03T09:58:00.000-08:00

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Continuing to Look Back ~ Gloucester Depot
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Continuing to Look Back ~ Gloucester City Hall
Memories from Peter Todd

I am going to attempt to take you on a City Hall tour. Let us begin our journey from the top.

Of course we have the City Hall Bell. While its date I am not sure of, but I do know it was a gift of Samuel Sawyer. I had the honor during my time as Custodian of City Hall to ring the bell. I requested permission from Mayor Bruce Tobey to be able to ring the bell at noon every day. I even figured out a way of stringing a rope all the way to the landing next to the Mayors office. I had the sad honor of ringing the bell thirty three times as Freddy Kyrouz's funeral procession left the Saint Ann's Church and reached City Hall on the Dale Avenue side.

Traveling back to the tower and below the bell we have the four faces of the City Hall clock, which in these days is run by a small electric motor sitting on a large cast iron stand. One day I decided to see what was underneath this black stand, gifted again by Samuel Sawyer. I used three gallons of ammonia, along with degreaser and cold water. To my amazement this once black four-legged stand became a beautiful green painted stand with gold etchings. These etchings represented the four seasons of the year, one on each leg. It was also my distinct pleasure to climb up the tower several times.

One year when my granddaughter Ashley was small, she noticed that the Christmas lights were out in the round windows at the top. To make her happy we both ventured to climb to the top to fix the lights - mind you, the wind was blowing a gale and the tower was swaying - but this did not deter us from our mission.

Moving down the stairs we come into the inner or upper sanctum of the Fred Kyrouz Auditorium. I remember each time I had to change a bulb it took one hundred turns of the crank for the globe to touch the hall floor. It would take about one hour to clean and change and put back each fixture.

Speaking of fixtures, there was one time when a man came in to fix the clock above the rear of the Chamber. He told me not to worry, that it was run by a small motor just like the one in the Tower. We proceeded to climb to ladders, one on each side of the clock. Much to our surprise we found after unbolting the face, that it was made of solid marble, which accidentally dropped in our hands, just by our fingertips . Since this face weighed so much it was not long we were both in pain trying to hold it up from falling. The man and I began to holler for help, and eventually our hollering turned into screaming, but soon the DPW crew saved us. What a relief.

So now to end this I must bring up one point of my history in City Hall. A couple years back there was a picture of a Marble Directory in the Times which was found, however it was found only after I saw this black slab in back of the City Hall Boiler. Upon cleaning it with ammonia, degreaser and scolding hot water, the reality of this directory was in full view, upon which I was able to slide this slab from the back of the furnace, to the entrance of the boiler room door, thus the picture in the paper.

That's it for now, but I still have more to come.

Posted December 31, 2004 11:25 AM

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2006-01-03T09:57:00.000-08:00

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Continuing to Look Back ~ Gloucester City Hall
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Continuing to Look Back ~ Railroad Avenue
Memories from Peter Todd

Well here we are again tracing back on the imprints of my pages of time. With all the work going on and around the Gloucester Depot I have to add my thoughts.

First the new building does not look anything like the former Gloucester Depot. The original was set back further with the rear of the building abutting the paved walkway that is there now. The taxi cabs that you now see crowding out the cars that want to go into Shaw's parking lot ,which was once a railroad freight yard. Trains would almost be in the back yard of the people that lived on Maplewood Avenue. Taxi cabs back then parked backed in to abut the paved walkway of the depot. Passengers would park their cars up against the fenced in area behind the Depot Cafe as well as where the new Condo now stands.

Gloucester Auto bus would make their stop along the back of Babe Whalen's gas station.The Texaco Station is located there now. Where Sheep's Auto parts is once stood a Stud Dealership . I'm not sure but I believe Elliott Parsons and one of the Carr brothers ran it.

Of course we also had the infamous Station Lunch, greatest meals around at that time. Where all the tearing up is going on across the tracks was Neuse's Lumber Yard. The most memorable for me was working my Shoe Shine Stand at the Depot. I also remember my Dad as he would go to mug up at Station Lunch when he worked as a track man for the Boston & Maine Railroad.

Where Ryan's Car Wash stands once stood Welch's Jenny Station. Up the street was the Harbor Cafe, which is now the Rendezvous, and in my youth, next to that was The Clam Shell, which if I remember right was later Aleve Radio & Television Repair. Yankee Taxi was around the corner of Washington Street & Railroad Ave, and Dora Dickson had her one cab , which was always parked on the corner of Mrs. Sloan's house on the corner of Commonwealth Ave.

Back then there were very little traffic jams. Taxi cabs were parked in easy to access areas without impeding the public or drivers. Gives Gas Station was on the corner of Exchange Street and Nelson's Candy was on the opposite.

So I guess that's about it for now . A little bit of my past imprints in the book of time. In closing it is my feeling that the city should adopt some of the parking requirements that these Taxi companies adhered to .

Posted May 13, 2005 09:06 AM

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2006-01-03T09:56:00.000-08:00

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Continuing to Look Back ~ Traversing Pleasant & Main Streets
Memories from Peter Todd

At this time we see the corner of Main & Pleasant as a total emptying of store fronts. This corner in years past was one of the busiest in Gloucester. In my time it was Sterlings Drugstore. It was managed by Jerry & Gordon Wiener. To this day I can remember Mrs. Johnson cutting me a big piece of squash pie, with a heaping spoonful of Sealtest chocolate ice cream. I can recall how in my youth the counter was so large. The people who worked at the Drugstore were very kind to the children of the area.

In walking around the corner upward on Pleasant St. there was Gloucester Camera and Photo, which later became a part of my Masonic Journey in the pages of time. Where the Artist Galleries are now located was the Western Union, managed by Mr. & Mrs. Howard Costa. I can also envision where Browns Mall is. The William G.Brown Department Store. Who could ever imagine that there would be so many condominiums within that building.

I remember the most, the little restaurant in the department store. Contrary to popular belief it was located beneath the spot where the Savory Skillet is located now. I can even now hear in my mind the sounds of the sales papers being routed through the air tubes that were located all over the store. In going out of the building on the Pleasant Street side I can also remember Santa's Village, located between the Salvation Army and Browns Department Store.

In particular in recalling the Salvation Army, when we were small we would go there to be given shoes to wear, and clothing to keep us warm . I can also remember each Christmas party at the Elks on Pleasant Street when we were treated to a Christmas Party with all the fixings, including Winter and Rain coats and hats gifted from Mighty Mac.

Woolworth's was located on the corner of Pleasant & Mains Street heading down toward where Dunkin Donuts is. Where the Police Station now is located there used to be Gorin's, which later became Almys Department store. The Police Station was located on Duncan St., next to the Fishermen's Institute, which by the way I and my family had the honor of cleaning before they tore it down. You see the agreement was we were only to clean up to the second floor as they were going to tear out the third, however as we finished the second floor some of the fishermen proceeded to lug their things from the third floor down to the second. So it was decided the building had to go.

Well that's it for now , I will try to shake the brain for more interesting imprints of my youth and teenage years.

Posted July 11, 2005 05:38 AM

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2006-01-03T09:54:00.000-08:00

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Continuing to Look Back ~ Traversing Pleasant & Main Streets
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Continuing to Look Back ~ Gloucester Taxis
Memories from Peter Todd

In this issue, rather than traveling from corner to corner, we will attempt to seek out the in-between taxis of today and of yesterday.

Well let us begin our journey by hailing a ride from the newest company of these days. A&K Lighthouse Taxi. Andy & Kathleen Pastagal�s clean and well-maintained cabs. The meter is on; the windshield is clean and clear, so let us begin. The year is 1953. Instead of coming home from the state in a state officer's car, we arrive in a Lighthouse Taxi. On crossing the railroad tracks we pass Gove�s Gulf Station, which was next to Reilly Pontiac & Cadillac. Our new home is going to be above the Stewart Family at 124 Washington St. The first taxi we come too belongs to Dora Nickerson. It is a 1947 Plymouth four door sedan. Dora waves to us as we continue our journey.

Across from the Harbor Caf� and in back of Dave Spittle�s Coffee Shop is the Gloucester Depot. Backed into the walkway are at least eight checker or Chevy cabs. Their trunks and doors open, awaiting the passengers that are about to embark off the train. Sadly I can also recall the other end of the Depot, where the steel wheeled wagons would also await the brave soldiers bodies killed in action, each casket covered with the flag of their country that they died for. I can also recall Mayor Beatrice Corliss meeting the family members.

Upon continuing our journey and with the meter clicking we go to the West end of Main Street. There is our next taxi company, owned and operated by the Morando Family. These two were Chevy and Checker cabs. Joe always demanded clean cabs and honest drivers. He also maintained each vehicle to the best degree of standards.

Traveling around to Rogers Street and at its end was Thurston�s Motors and Taxi, across from The Anchor Caf�. On the easterly part of Main Street there was Turk Souza�s Taxi, whose office sat in the basement next to Horatio's. On top of Union Hill was Brown�s Livery and Taxi. And at one time at the bottom of Mount Vernon St. was Central Taxi, and another was Hubby Mitchell�s Taxi. Our last one was Rosie�s Taxi, owned and operated by Clarence Rose, which later became Madruga�s Taxi and Livery and later Sunrise Transportation. I remember when it was Rosie�s mostly because you had to climb a number of steps to get into the office. In later years Clarence became more interested in junking. Across from Rosie�s Taxi was Captain Bills Seafood, which moved to the lower west end, a couple doors down from Fat Walla�s and just about where the Blackburn Tavern is located, and on that corner in a little shop was Randazza Brothers Shoe Shine Stand.

Well returning back to our taxi because the meter is clicking away we are at the end of our journey. However, I did forget to mention Yankee Taxi owned and operated by Matt Amaral. There are many more Taxiss of Cape Ann Past such as Horton�s Taxi of Rockport or Pete�s Taxi of Ipswich, most have one thing in common, or at least in the past, they were well maintained, clean, and the drivers were kind and receptive to their passengers. In closing I am not going to recommend on what Taxi to take, let your eye be the first judge, then let your mind be the second. Gloucester now has one new Taxi, and one not so new. One company I have to mention is Atlantic Taxi. Then it was owned by the Lane Family who tried to keep up with the traditions of a well grounded service , and they should be honored for doing so, just as Mr. Lagallo in true wisdom should follow that tradition. They are managed by hard working individuals. It is my belief that these taxis should be inspected at least quarterly and by the looks of some of our public transportation I begin to question on just who is responsible for seeing that the safety of each passenger is taken into full consideration.

That�s it for now; our journey is at its end. The driver was both kind and receptive. Our cab was clean and its yellow hue certainly captures a vision of our taxis and their historic past. These writings are in honor of Clarence Rose, Hubby Michell, Ralph Brown, Joe Morando, Dora Nickerson , Olie Anderson , The Hildonons, The Thurstons and all past owners and drivers.

Posted September 7, 2005 06:34 AM

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Upon the Shoulders o

2006-01-02T14:40:00.001-08:00

Upon the Shoulders of Faith
By Noble & Brother Peter A. Todd 02/27/2004

Standing proud with outstretched arms
He reaches out to provide for the girls and boys
Telling them to have no fear of any harm
As he gives them each a special toy
Comforting them of the pain in their bodies
As they settle them into the Shriner’s vans seat
Carrying them into the Shriner Hospital lobby
With their nurses and doctors to greet
This is the pride and reward that Shriner’s live
To give new hope to every patient they see
It is the challenge for every Shriner to give
Each a complete and successful recovery
The road of recovery must be fast
It is made smoother by the Transportation Fund
It could be a Van, Airplane , Train or Jet Flight cast
That performs this journey of angels begun

Tree of Light

2006-01-02T14:40:00.000-08:00

Tree of Light
Illumination of Faith

Embraced in spirit of Christmas Holidays of the past
We think of those who are now in the presence of God
Who’s love and protection in our childhood was cast
While they guided our ways along earths sod
This Tree of Light is the illumination of our Faith
The very emblem on which a family grows
Its branches spreading and reaching to embrace
Each of our hearts and souls
Each bulb that is lit represents undying love
For the blessings of each person who received
That of which is now showered from Heaven above
This is the gift of our Faith to always believe
As this Tree of Light illuminates the Holiday Season
May its afterglow always remain in your hearts
In this spirit we will pass on the treasure of pleasing
The gift of Life we should always impart

The Words of life

2006-01-02T14:39:00.000-08:00

The Words of life
Gift to North Shore Bible Church

On this beautiful and wonderful day
We celebrate our second step beyond
The road of Faith and praises to say
In prayer and thoughtful psalms
For the bible is our teacher
In All our journeys in life
It’s the true words and provider
That guides our Christian life
We give you Jesus the praise and glory
For the gift of our salvation you gave
For we know in those biblical stories
It is through you we are saved
We also give praise this new day
For our new meeting place we’ve been blessed
We know that is was through the prayers we say
We are gifted with our New Church a touch of your caress

The Train depot

2006-01-02T14:38:00.000-08:00

The Train depot

Looking at my memories of the past
Gloucester’s Train Depot comes to my mind
Of the many friendships to last
Some today so hard to find
The Shoe Shine stand I worked each day
With customers of the city and Hollywood fame
Such as Mayor Corliss with words of wisdom to say
Arthur Godfrey, Roger W. Babson just two by name
The Ticket man, Roger Edwards a true friend
Bunny at the Newspaper Stand with the candy he gave
Sophie Tucker who once in a while dropped by to lend
A few words of encouragement to save
The trains they come, and then pass me by
With passengers from all life works of life
But the greatest of these were of my prayers to God on high
That in childhood was cut from me like a knife
My dear mother returned it was not a dream
That I lived through the first ten years of my youth
The crying has ended and so has the screams
At last at this depot I have learned the truth

The Passing of The G

2006-01-02T14:37:00.000-08:00

The Passing of The Gavel
By Peter A. Todd

We give you the praise Dear God
For the history we were privileged to witness this night
Of the many Friends and Brethren of these Lodges
That these obligations of Mason’s unite
We also give you thanks as each gavel is passed on
To the leaders of Freemasonry of tomorrow
That will in faith make us known and strong
Even in times of troubles and its sorrows
To house Fraternalism at its best
Brother’s who in time of need that were always there
To meet each challenge and new quests
Dear God we pray for the victims of September 11th
Whom some were brother Mason’s
We know they now abide in your Heaven
The promise gained from the Great Architects creations

The Promise

2006-01-02T14:36:00.000-08:00

The Promise

In the presence of loved ones and friends
We gather to commit our beloved
For in our faith we know his spirit ascends
To be re-united with brothers father and mother
We also in our faith know the bonds will never be broken
For it is the promise of Jesus we will receive a new life
These are the words of bible repeatedly spoken
This is the journey that starts within the heavens bright
For unto the sod we commit his earthly remains
As is instructed in the great book divine
Through our faith we know a new body in Christ he’s gained
In God’s great Heaven where there is no darkness or time

In Christian Faith

Peter

The Inner Soul of Po

2006-01-02T14:30:00.001-08:00

The Inner Soul of Poetry
By Peter A. Todd 4/03/03

Words are but simple thoughts
Unless they are born of the heart and soul
Of money Poetry can’t be bought
It’s the inner being of my existence unfold
They can be short like the shutting off light
Or be like a pebble rippling in stream
Describing our fears of the night
Or the passing on of a wonderful dream
It’s the finality of a loving touch
As two lovers walk along the golden sand
Or the walking trails in woodland rough
Joined in grace by the touch of God’s hand
Poetry is like the whispering winds
That cleanses the path of life
It’s free of any violence or sins
It’s the reflection of Heavens light
So my inner being is the reality of faith
That my heritage passed into my soul
Truly the words of the heart are of God’s grace
It’s the reflection of our Savior to soon unfold

The Fisherman

2006-01-02T14:30:00.000-08:00

The Closet

2006-01-02T14:29:00.001-08:00

The Closet

This dream I dream is from the past
Of my punishment of doing wrong
From the years of my youth in darkness cast
Those many lonely hours long
In my prison I could hear my heart beat
Even through the tears I so often shed
My pounding at the door to be released
My fingers scraped to a bloody red
Then listening to the yelling and screaming
From those people who were supposed to give me love
Yet! through their greed they gave me bad dreams
Like being buried under their feet above
Please let me out of this cold dark gave
That I have been forced to stay in for hours
I’ll do as you say and work my way
For I now know I am your slave under your power.

Thanksgiving Greetin

2006-01-02T14:29:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving Greetings

It is the day for loved ones to gather far or near
To celebrate for all that life has gave
To be with the our family we love so dear
A treasured time in our memories to save
The helping to prepare for the Thanksgiving meal
By setting the dishes in their proper places
Old friendships sought and new ones revealed
This is one of the days true embraces
Family and friends with their heads bowed in prayer
Giving thanks for this wonderful day
Wishing them a safe journeys home to all who shared
In the happiness had in our memories to stay
For at the time this day does end
There’s a wonderful scene for all eyes to see
That of the children with prayers to send
On what they would like their Christmas to be

Fiesta

2006-01-02T14:28:00.000-08:00

Fiesta
Reunion of Faith

The smell of food cooking and filling the air
Sounds of laughter from the children’s glee
The babies in their carriages with eye’s a’ glare
A time for families to fill the need
Of sharing their faith during this celebration in time
Of “Saint Peter” The great fisherman of the sea
Families once more reunited in embrace to find
Memories of what years ago used to be
Fiesta is and always will be a time of Faith
That the Fishermen and their boats are blessed
So that the nets will bring a bountiful great
From beneath the seas created by God’s caress
In these moments of Faith we must join in hand
In singing of Praise to this great guardian of the sea
Who for year upon year is celebrated in Grand?
For the richness we have in Life’s Victory’s

Shriners

2006-01-02T14:27:00.001-08:00

Shriner’s
By Wor.Peter A. Todd

With outstretched arms and open hand
They reach out to heal burned or crippled youth
Freemason’s who serve throughout the land
Men of dedication with the needs of others at its roots
Children have no fear of these great men
Who wear these funny red hats.
They know that the wounds will soon mend
For it is the greatest of hospitals they are at
A staff of medical profession of the best
To take care of every want or need
Medical equipment that perform great tests
Nurses that care for each child to feed
For every dollar of donations received
Constant research and healing is done everyday
So that the pain and suffering is relieved
For these children to return to their normal play

Secrets

2006-01-02T14:27:00.000-08:00

Secrets

Words whispered in silence
Motions timelessly made
Walking in various circled dimensions
History’s parchment revered and gave
The redness in the eyes searching in vain
Wanting the cries to end that never perish
To be gathered in my soul and waned
Secrets never ending words that quickly flash
Before my mind and open ears
Visions of my Heritage of years past
By nights dreamed horrified and feared
Now walking upon my level of time
Encircled by passions and desires
Drenched with those secrets of mind
That within my heart and soul inquires
For now I need not to ask
The secrets have been revealed
In glory I absorb nourish and bask
In these promises of life sealed

Scenes

2006-01-02T14:26:00.001-08:00

Scenes

As I awake with the morning sun
One cannot help to view with awe
The wonderful gift received of one
That only my heart and soul saw
Such as the bright blue sky
Amid the puffy clouds of white
The green grass in fields wide
To my eyes a wondrous sight
The vastness of our lakes and streams
On stretches of Golden shores
Fresh flowers blown in the breeze
This beauty given by God to explore
Time will come and it soon will be
I will see the most treasured sight
He resides in Heaven so peaceful and free
Among loved ones lost now within his hallowed light

Rockports Back Beach

2006-01-02T14:26:00.000-08:00

Rockport’s Back Beach
By Peter A. Todd 7/7/2003

Hidden along the winding streets
Is Rockport’s gift from God
The golden sands of its back beach
A tourist’s journey of a beautiful pilchard
The boats in view of small and bigger crafts
The swimmers both young and mature
What greater gift from God’s could one ask
Than the beauty of magnificent rapture
The washing of the sands by the incoming tide
Erasing the imprints of adults and youth
Replaced by the seas new creature to abide
Within the beauty of earth and the sands of times roots
Beauty is truly in the eyes of the beholder
This is why the tourists return each year
The artists stoke even enrich it more bolder
Through the caress of the brush it’s visions clear

Remembrance

2006-01-02T14:25:00.001-08:00

Remembrance

At this time we reflect upon the past
In memory of many thoughts and deeds
Of those who have given Love that will last
Until this mortal earth we leave
For time is but a brittle thread in space
That we are given by our Creator to share
With all God’s creatures of God’s will and grace
And this earthly body to wear
Our memories are cast in our hearts
Of a year in time raged with pain
The thoughts of their courage will never part
It will be with us in our journey of life to remain
Upon placing these flowers at the graves
Give thanks to the Lord for their love
The heroism of both soldiers and citizens who gave
Abide with our Creator in his many Mansions above

Reflections of the H

2006-01-02T14:25:00.000-08:00

Reflections of the Hourglass of Time
By Peter A. Todd

At the peak of May natures flowers grow
From the showers of God’s rain
In our minds past memories flow
Of the Love from time past gained
We think of all fighting of the women and men
Who fought and died over foreign land and sea
A reflection of the Hourglass never to end
For these brave that gave their lives for our Liberty
We also reflect upon the sands of time
Of memories of those who now abide with God
They live in the hearts of those left behind
To continue their heritage on earths sod
The Sand of the Hourglass quickly flow
Telling us that time is more precious than gold
It’s a mirrored reflection that won’t let you go
Until the blessing of God’s eternal peace unfolds

Rainbows Quest

2006-01-02T14:24:00.000-08:00

Rainbow’s Quest
By Peter A. Todd 1/12/2003

The Journey of a Rainbow Girl is guided by Faith
In the Lessons through its Bow
It is one of Hope and challenges great
Of the wisdom of young ladies of the past to know
Each step you have taken has been a reflection of your love
That you have chosen with others to share
It will be a journey that has been guided by God above
For the kindness of your thoughtful care
Now dressed in the purity of your snow white gown
“Young Lady “ you stand where many have stood before
Who were proud to wear the Worthy Advisors crown
But none could have more pride than your Family you adore
Look well to the East and hold your head high
For you represent the future of those you now will lead
Under the Seven Colors of the Rainbow high
From Rainbow Girls of the past, who have planted its seed.

Questions

2006-01-02T14:23:00.000-08:00

Question’s

We question in prayer why it was to be
That such a horrific act took place
Were we not as Americans born free
A country that has held glory and honor great
Who is to blame for the taking of live,s
Is it the ignorance of many demonic minds
That caused the loss of families husbands and wives
From a so called religious sect gone blind
America must always stand ready
To face each of life’s rugged roads
We must hold to our Faith’s strong and steady
For the burden to carry is a heavy load
Yes! We can be proud of our Old Glory
But! The gift of our creator must never be denied
This is our heritage from times story
United as we are Victory is nigh

Past Present Future

2006-01-02T14:22:00.001-08:00

Past Present Future

Thoughts of mind for my fellow being
Inspirations of my life worthwhile seeing
Faith in my God from body and soul
Combined together with Heavens glow
The love of my wife and family within
Denying of all earthly sins
Love that is bonded in the promise of God
As we tread our tasks on his earthly sod
Sharing with nature and its beauty of view
The scent of Heaven combined with earthly dew
These are the gifts we are able to share
Under God’s watchful eye and tender care
The age I soon am , the youth of my heart
These feelings in my soul I want never to part
The Temple of my being in inner soul
The beauty of age as before me it unfolds
For we are not to question what is to be
We must live our life to the fullest for thee
When my time comes that I will at last see God’s face
May he accept my soul as my eternal home I will embrace

Nightmare or Truth

2006-01-02T14:22:00.000-08:00

Nightmare or Reality

2006-01-02T14:21:00.001-08:00

Nightmare or Reality

I sit and stare through window wide
Asking myself why this is happening to me?
Have my Mom and Dad really died?
Why won’t they let me free?
I miss the last home I was in
Why was I shoved out the door?
When can I have a lasting friend?
Why can’t I have my own cat or dog to adore?
The crying and screaming are scaring me
Why it’s the reflection of my own tears I see
If only the lady would take my hand
To go to another home would be so grand
I guess I’ll go back to sleep
To return to my peaceful dreams deep
Resting again in my mothers arms
As she keeps me away from all these fears and harm

Night Fright

2006-01-02T14:21:00.000-08:00

Night Fright
2/27/88

I look back as if it were just yesterday
For that night will never be erased from my mind
The vehicle that was headed straight for us
As if its driver had just become blind
It smashed into us with tremendous impact
So much it tore and imbedded our skin
To the metal of the dashboard in fact
Of our vehicle we were heading to home in
But that was the least of our sorrows
As I now tried to now burst open the doors
In my mind I asked will there be a tomorrow?
For the family I so loved and adored
My wife her face now covered with blood and glass
Who in their right mind could do such a sin?
The answers were not far to be found in fact
From the condition the other driver was in
The driver had no concern for my family maimed
All that he wanted was the bottle within
To escape the trouble that he was now in
So ! You might say to yourself ,What do I care?
Such an event could never happen to me
My Friends you should always be aware
What is around the next corner or beyond the next tree
The DRUNKEN DRIVER has no BRAINS
It has been consumed by all they drank
So if you go out I hope you will refrain
You will have your loved ones thanks
It does not matter the time of year
Or whether it be day or night
Even if your home is far or near
You must keep your mind of clear sight
Have a safe and prosperous New Year
Not a time of unwanted pain and fright

Mother Temp

2006-01-02T14:20:00.000-08:00

Mother Temp

As I wander through my mind of memories
One special lady comes to my mind
This kind lady that the word love defines
Who in my growing years was so kind to me
She has taken me from home to home
Through my childhood in life to roam
Wiping away my face to dry my tears
Freeing me of all doubts and fears
Standing tall watching all
Of God’s children so tender and small
A thankless duty but never to ask
Favors for her any of her life long tasks
Numberless families she did aide
A gift of her God she was gave
Dear Lady of my young life
I thank you for the protection from all strife

Dedicated to Mrs. Lennihan

Lost Souls

2006-01-02T14:19:00.001-08:00

Lost Souls

The streets are filled with young lost souls
Who fill their bodies with drugs
Teens that will not see their years of gold
Only the grave they themselves have dug
A senseless waste of mankind
Yet ! It is true if they are taught right
Of the curse of drugs they would not be blind
We would not hear their screams in the night
Drugs can be found in many forms
Of which cocaine is the worst
It can take the life of a newborn
Truly it is of the demons curse
The most deadly of them all
Is the needle that feeds the vein
For it may be the Teen or child
That this sin against God fries the brain

Little Child

2006-01-02T14:19:00.000-08:00

Little Child

Little child walk with me
Let me show you a gift from God
It is ours since times birth
Heave’s skies and Earths green sod
Please take my hand walk with by my side
Through God’s wonders we will stride
Look to the mountains so high above
Behold all the colors of the rainbows love
Miles of beaches of golden sand
With the mighty ocean abiding its hand
The sprinkling of rain helping flowers grow
Stretched afar on our earth below
The churches some small, others large with steeples
In my prayers to be filled with many people
My child this is your gift from God above
Treasure this knowledge this is my message of true love

Kent Circles Celebra

2006-01-02T14:18:00.001-08:00

Kent Circle’s Celebration

Santa’s parade has now reached its destination
So that we may gather together in praise and song
To Celebrate the Kent Circle’s Illumination
As so many have in years long gone
This tree represents the gathering of Faith
In all of Gloucester’s families renewed
For this is the time for children that’s great
A time for dreamed fancy’s to come true
Let us lift our voices to our starlit sky
To sing the praises of Christmas and all its joys
For truly we celebrate the birth of Jesus nigh
In the love we have for all our girls and boys
From Nova Scotia to our cities shore
We are united in the illumination of our trees light
In vision of what together our future has in store
By this combined celebration of a true family night.

Inner Answers

2006-01-02T14:18:00.000-08:00

Inner Answers

You seek the answers of man
His being and inner soul
You know not of his plans
As time before you unfolds
The answer is in all you see
That lies in the path of light
Believe in him to be spirit free
It will teach you what is right
For before you are many things
That your God has given you
It makes one want to praise and sing
Of all the blessings that have come true
My child life is the very air we breath
The natural sight before your eyes
These facts of life exist if you believe
In the promise of Jesus and his Heaven’s high

Heritages Honor Roll

2006-01-02T14:17:00.000-08:00

Heritage’s Honor Roll

Our city can be proud this day of praise
As we celebrate its heritage etched in stone
For their names are not forgotten of the oceans grave
To Gloucester’s youth this will now become known
How fitting it is that these tablets set at our shore
Surround our fisherman of Gloucester’s fame
For all those who come to honor and explore
Their heritage at birth from each of their names
We can vision the fishermen as they cast their nets
In the vast seas of waters that are far from tame
By this memorial we will never forget
For they are now immortalized in historic fame
Be proud of what you witness this day of Gods rest
For these fishermen did not die in vain
We give thanks to God in Jesus name
Those we honor today were Gloucester’s best

Dog Town

2006-01-02T14:16:00.000-08:00

Dog Town

As I stroll along its wooded path
I view with amazement at Dog Town’s reflections
Of how all Mother Natures leaves amass
Its various and beautiful colors blended to perfection
God’s great creatures dashing around
Making ready for a long winters sleep
Birds up and flying southward bound
Those left behind building nests to keep
You can feel the history of Dog Town in the air
As you view each cellar and heart nature’s sounds
We must take heed to treat it with great care
Of all God’s wonderful creature’s abound
So as the first snow begins to fall
Take a last look at Dog Towns open space
Appreciate the winters cleansing in whiteness all
That God has given us to embrace

Gloucester

2006-01-02T14:15:00.001-08:00

Friendship

2006-01-02T14:15:00.000-08:00

“Friendship”
By Peter A. Todd 02/19/2004

Shared times of happiness and concerns
Secrets that each would never tell others
New lessons in life’s path for each to learn
Treating each other like a sister or brother
Knowing that borrowed items will come back
Or a timely call to check on their welfare
Keeping each other on the right track
A relationship filled with love and care
Soul mates through trials and tribulations
Asking for protection of each other in prayer
For true friends are the gift of our Father of creation
On this Level of time in trouble to be there
Letting any mistakes of the day die with the past
Treasuring time before the sands of the new tide
For before you know it the scythe is cast
And Friendships are lost in the blink of an eye

Freedoms Voices

2006-01-02T14:14:00.000-08:00

Freedoms Voices
By Peter A. Todd 7/3/03

Listen if you will as the parade begins
To the voices of children in cheerful song
It’s in honor in anthem of our flag they sing
Of this our free country in which they belong
Marching through the streets in dignity and pride
Demonstrating the feelings they so eagerly want to share
For the celebration of the Independence in each heart to abide
For all our beloved Gloucester in witness to bare
We honor the men and women who fought up to this day
Who have died here on land and overseas?
For this parade of Freedom’s Voices
Is to thank both the living and our heritage for our Liberty
Floats of Freedom, Religion and song
Expressing each of their challenges in full view
Winding through people who’ve gathered in throngs
To see this Parade of Independence and hear its voices of
Freedom too.

Foundation of life

2006-01-02T14:13:00.001-08:00

Foundation of life

A house to me is many things
One is the Foundation of life
To all inside it will bring
Warmth from the fireside bright
There are rooms of many colors
Painted to the desires of each
A family of many sisters and brothers
That through dedication they will teach
The lessons of life that each offspring needs
When they leave the shelter of their home
To carry on with each of their chosen deeds
Such as building a home of their own
A home is a special treasure
That through time all should share
A good time of happiness and pleasures
In this our foundation of love and care

Footbridge of Life

2006-01-02T14:13:00.000-08:00

Footbridge of Life

The oceans tide is a reflection of life
As our night are turned into days
Young people with their hands clung tight
Searching their hearts for the words to say
Children running and playing along the beach
Building Sand Castles of their dreams
The elders crossing the bridge at days peak
Mirrored by the evenings moonlight gleam
The ocean reaching into the shadowed sands
Erasing the footprints along its way
Nights glistening moon a mirror of God’s hand
The Footbridge crosses the sands of time
That we in our hearts must not ignore
We must treasure life for all that it holds
For its in its passing we gain Heaven’s shore

First to Lead First

2006-01-02T14:12:00.001-08:00

First to Lead, First in Peace
By Peter A Todd 2/12/2004

We pay homage to a great and Patriotic man
Who first led our Nation into peace
A man and brother guided by God’s plan
That all pain and suffering be relieved
True to his word he guided our nation
Into one of the greatest foundations of Liberty
Never forgetting his Father of creation
And his love of Mount Vernon and his family
Never to be erased, this man of Faiths creed
For he shall live in our hearts and minds
George Washington was the First President
That created our countries Freedoms now defined
A Master of our craft equal on the Level of time
To all who were gifted to share in his deeds
Within our Circle of Brothers today we find
His reflection in the Master of each Lodge who Lead

Fiesta

2006-01-02T14:12:00.000-08:00

Easter Reflections

2006-01-02T14:09:00.001-08:00

Easter Reflections

In hopes of the day embodied with God’s embrace
Of a sky filled with variations of blue
Tiny clouds of white gently puffed
The vision of my soul to come true
The echo of the church bells filling the air
The seekers of light entering in
Ladies dressed as if they were in Vanity Fair
Families listening to the words of God within
Children after church running about in play
Searching for the brightly colored eggs
Loved ones embracing the reflection of the day
That Jesus arose from the dead
How fitting it is that we celebrate with our youth
In combination of reality and dreams
Was it not he that said ‘Let the children draw near”
This is what to me Easter Day means
Sharing together with our children this day
A time that will give them the real meaning of life
In the words of the bible and in our heart to stay
That he is the way to the promised new life

Easter Greetings

2006-01-02T14:09:00.000-08:00

Easter Greetings

Easter Sunday once again comes our way
A time of children at laughter and play
As they search on their knees for Easter Eggs
Large and small, pink blue and reds
Dressing up neat and clean
With colors that make their eyes gleam
Girls in there pretty pink dresses
Boys trying to look smart and impressive
It is also a day for all Christian’s to take heed
From every Nation and every creed
It is time to give thanks to our Almighty God
For our Lord Jesus who once walked earth’s sod
On this day he arose from the grave
His blood he shed that we may be saved
He is with his Father in Heaven above
Where our Creator blesses us with his divine love

Happy Easter

Peter A. Todd

Easter Greetings

2006-01-02T14:08:00.000-08:00

Easter Greetings
By Peter A. Todd

We reflect upon three days in time
Our Lord and Savior lay
Within the tomb the Bible defines
Where the rock was rolled away
Jesus gave up his earthly life
With all our sins to bare
So that we may in Faith see the Light
Of the promise he gave all to share
We give you the Praise and Glory dear God
For all the gifts in life given to care
Such as the children that now search your sod
For all the Easter eggs and candy to share
Let the Church bells ring in chorus high
As we praise thee for the sacrifice Jesus made
That within his path we will have everlasting life
Through turning to Jesus we are saved

Faces in my Youth

2006-01-01T10:24:00.000-08:00

Face’s in my Youth

Searching my mind of youthful days past
Brings many face’s from my pages of time
Mayor Beatrice Corliss her impression cast
Pierce N Hodgkins a councilor, and leader defined
Freddy Kyrouz a man of compassion and care
Or Nick at the Pool Room keeping kids of the streets
Gordon and Jerry at Sterling’s with prices fair
Their Aunt, a true treasure in my mind to keep
Big Jake the Policeman. My guardian at night
Jack Cronin my true street dad
Reverend Forrest Clark my guiding light
These were my friends that I was privileged to have
Now through age my life is at center
We again have a lady that is running for the chair
It is my hope that she will inherit the wisdom of my mentors
By being a leader of Compassion and care.

Peter A. Todd 2/3/01

Dog Town

2006-01-01T10:23:00.000-08:00

Helping Hands Reachi

2006-01-01T10:22:00.000-08:00

Helping Hands Reaching Hearts
By Peter A. Todd 8/10/2003

With your hands you demonstrated care
For the safety of all the children you met
In this challenge the Love in hearts was shared
For this each child’s parent or guardian has no regret
The trust could be seen in each child’s eyes
As you gently held their hands and tended to the chore
Of giving them words of the wise
In their memories to treasure and store
In these days of shadows and veils of tears
It is hard for children to be aware
Through your devotion you have taken away fear
Replacing it by your loving hands of care
My precious God has truly blessed these days
By sending to the children people like you
Through this journey in our sands of time I pray
That all your challenges for a better life come true

Heritages Honor Roll

2006-01-01T10:21:00.001-08:00

Lost Souls

2006-01-01T10:21:00.000-08:00

Mother Temp

2006-01-01T10:20:00.000-08:00

Nana

2006-01-01T10:19:00.000-08:00

Nana

I see the twinkle in her eyes
Like the starry-decked canopy of nights sky
A smile always upon her face
Never a moment of doubt to trace
Giving her love to us all
Never letting any weariness fall
Holding strong to her convictions
To any of life’s untimely predictions
Caring for all through passing years
Casting out all doubts and fears
Guiding and teaching all that was right
Forever keeping us within her sight
“Nana” this day may be just of one
But for us it has just begun
We love you and thank you
For these moments in our minds view

Happy Grandparents Day

Past Present Future

2006-01-01T10:18:00.001-08:00

Patriots Day Greetin

2006-01-01T10:18:00.000-08:00

Patriot’s Day Greeting
By Peter A. Todd 4/10/02

At this time we reflect upon memories past
Of loved ones ascended to Heaven above
Bringing to our eyes hidden tears cast
From the fond memory of those they loved
But’ Like the tears the rain must fall
That the flowers will begin to grow
Above earth’s clouds is viewed rainbow tall
With its colors fresh upon the sunlight’s glow
A day to remember the many women and men
Who fought and sacrificed to keep us free
A time to seek out old friends
To salute with pride those soldiers who died for liberty
As the day is darkened and the Sun sets west
May we take heed to a timeless dream
That for every woman and man we’ll do our best
To end the echo’s of terror and its deathly screams

Pictures

2006-01-01T10:17:00.000-08:00

Pictures

With clouded mind I look upon
These beautiful pictures in my room
I search my heart for names long gone
Reflecting upon the whiteness of the moon
The mother I grew to know the other of my seed
Both of them by the grace of God I loved
The aching in my heart of their love I need
Through them I renew my Faith in God above
So many pictures of my passing life
Such as the children of my bloods seed
The Heaven blessed picture of my wife
She is the right hand of my every conquered deed
Pictures of sister’s brothers, nephews and nieces
My granddaughter I love to pieces
These are the miracles of God given graces
I will never loose them of my possession
While I traverse my path under God’s watchful eyes

Questions

2006-01-01T10:16:00.001-08:00

Tears of Hope

2006-01-01T10:16:00.000-08:00

Tears of Hope

I cry for the children who reach out in vain
For words of endearment they once had gained
For were they not little precious bundles of joy
Now it seems in their presence they annoy
Mothers and Fathers drifting apart
From the solemn vows they pledged of the heart
Slaps and curses have replaced the caress
From the daily routine of creative stress
We cry for the love to return to these souls
So the future of these children they can nurture and mold
So they can reach out to the enrichment of life
To have pride in themselves and a path that is right
I pray dear lord that you wipe away the tears
Of these adults and children who have lived in fear
Let the power of your love abide in these hearts
In this new journey free of violence they now embark

The Closet

2006-01-01T10:15:00.000-08:00

The Fisherman

2006-01-01T10:14:00.001-08:00

The Inner Soul of Po

2006-01-01T10:14:00.000-08:00

Upon the Shoulders o

2006-01-01T10:13:00.000-08:00

Secrets

2006-01-01T10:11:00.000-08:00

Night Fright

2006-01-01T09:09:00.000-08:00

Nightmare or Truth

2006-01-01T09:08:00.001-08:00

My Cross to wear My

2006-01-01T09:08:00.000-08:00

“My Cross to wear My Faith I share”
By Peter A. Todd 09/02/03

Proudly we wave old glory in view
Showing our support for the women and men
Who have chosen to fight for freedom renewed
In the challenge of the cry for this war to end
There is another emblem we all should wear
That of the Cross on which Jesus died
Did he not die with our own sins to bare
That we may be given life on his sod to abide
In Praise of Jesus wear the cross of Faith
That all God’s children should share
It represents all in Jesus name so great
His guiding Love and tender care
Within the believer’s soul a vision lives
That reaches the heart of all that beats
It is through our Cross of Faith we give
The promise in Jesus name for all sins to defeat

The Stone Mason

2006-01-01T09:06:00.000-08:00

The Stone Mason

The stone mason works with natural stone
As he chips away at each and every part
In his craft he never stands alone
For his work is considered a piece of art
His hands may be rough and fingers tips torn
Yet he shapes and molds stone like a clump of clay
His cloth’s may be shattered and long worn
But his work is of God’s guidance today
In years past stone mason’s worked the quarry’s
So they could for their family provide
In those days there were families that worried
For through the rocky mist many of the craft have died
So when you look upon the statue with awe
Remember, it was made by men of the craft
Who were dedicated to what they built and all you saw
Let the heritage of the Stone Mason be in your memory cast

The Promise

2006-01-01T09:05:00.000-08:00

Within the rooms

2006-01-01T09:03:00.000-08:00

Within the rooms

Within the rooms so dark and bare
You can hear the cries of hurt and shame
Of the beaten children who have come not to care
For the parents they chose not to blame
The swearing and screaming of those they’ve loved
Yet far from the time of birth entered
These children were once gifts of God above
The being of our existence centered
The echo off the walls, the pain of the strap
As each stroke of the whip hits their backs
A forced slap across each child’s face
Must this be these children’s horrid fate?
The cries of battered children echoes our Nation
It is born of ignorance and greed
The sin of all sins against God’s creation
Broken Families with wound of the heart and souls that bleed
The way to put an end to a battered life
Is to turn to Jesus the soul of mans seed
To once again be a Family Circle in Faiths light
This should be the quest for every race and creed

Ages and Time

2005-12-31T09:55:00.000-08:00

Ages and Time

With humbled heart I held his hand
As he talked of ages long past
It was like walking through drifting sand
Of which his level of time was cast
The lessons he conveyed were of three
That of Faith Charity and love
But of all these three he did decree
The greatest of them all was charity
It is in our hearts that Faith should abide
With the hope of love in our dreams
To live out our life with beloved at our side
Under the eyes of God and his heaven’s gleam
So as you see your years pass on by
Remember Age is but a question of the mind
For Jesus will be at our sides
Through Faith in prayer Eternity one will find
These are the lessons a Mason taught to me
In our travels upon the Level and Square
This is the reflection of his love of family

The Promised Journey

2005-12-31T08:59:00.000-08:00

The Promised Journey
By Peter A. Todd

Our Brother has lived by the level and square
By the way he shared his devotion and love
In times of life’s trials he was there
Guided by his belief of Heaven above
The Master’s carpet that he has tread
In his journey within the three lights
Has been followed by many brethren he once led
Without fear from the darkness of the night
We his brothers now gather at this time
To pay homage to this Master of many crafts
Truly of the promise of God he was not blind
That at the call, all eternal happiness is cast
The Grand Architect will receive him at the Gate
To reward him for all the deeds he’s done
For this my sister and brothers is our fate
After all our challenges are won.

Whispers in the Winds

2005-12-30T05:01:00.000-08:00

Vision if you will an eagle in flight

As the sun rises in the East

Or the reflection of our Flag

Flying freely at dawns light

Such a treasure for this soul of mine to feast

The young sparrow landing on its perch

A reflection of God’s great love

The winter wind bending the forest clear

With the seeds of life growing in faith

Whispers silent Whispers

My heart yearns to bear

The need of my soulful being

My mind wants and cares

Foundation of Life

2005-12-29T18:33:00.000-08:00

A house to me is many things

One is the Foundation of life

To all inside it will bring

Warmth from the fireside bright

There are rooms of many colors

Painted to the desires of each

A family of many sisters and brothers

That through dedication they will teach

The lessons of life that each offspring needs

When they leave the shelter of their home

To carry on with each of their chosen deeds

Such as building a home of their own

A home is a special treasure

That through time all should share

A good time of happiness and pleasures

In this our foundation of love and care

Nightmare or Reality

2005-12-29T16:45:00.000-08:00

I sit and stare through window wide

Asking myself why this is happening to me?

Have my Mom and Dad really died?

Why won’t they let me free?

I miss the last home I was in

Why was I shoved out the door?

When can I have a lasting friend?

Why can’t I have my own cat or dog to adore?

The crying and screaming are scaring me

Why it’s the reflection of my own tears I see

If only the lady would take my hand

To go to another home would be so grand

I guess I’ll go back to sleep

To return to my peaceful dreams deep

Resting again in my mothers arms

As she keeps me away from all these fears and harm

In The Blink of an Eye

2005-12-29T16:00:00.000-08:00

In the blink of an eye Salvation is received

By confessing with ones tongue

This is the promise Henry lived and believed

A new everlasting life in Jesus won

Through breathless pain to Jesus he cried

Bless my Family and friends

For he knew his prayers would not be denied

That upon their hearts truth would descend

His message was given and well received

For it is a testimony of those gathered here

That in the promise of an everlasting life

There is only the greatest of happiness to revere

Henry’s Legacy can be shared by these simple thoughts

Believe in yourself and to others be true

For earthly life is lost in the blink of an eye

Give yourself to Jesus and a new Life Eternal

Will not be denied

Traversing

2005-11-02T19:51:00.000-08:00

With the silence of broken heart.
Questioning what will be of my tomorow?
Will my friendships from me depart?
Dear God will it be a day of sorrow?
Alone I am left to ponder my past.
It seems I am doing this more each day.
Where has my memories been cast?
What can my confessions now say?
I seem to have reversed my age and mind.
Traversing along my twisted trails.
My eyes growing dimmer now shut and blind.
I pray to you dear Savior on my body frail.
Bring to me the promise of your Son.
Let me reach out for his guiding hand.
For the answer to my quest is of only one.
To be given through you Eternal life Grand.

Drunken Reality

2005-11-02T19:32:00.000-08:00

By Peter A. Todd 2/27/1988

It was the evening of New Years and all through my home
You could hear a pin drop as my son answered the phone
It’s the police my son said as he passed it to his mothers hand
Soon Dad will be home, won’t that be grand
For they had been up all night, waiting for me to come home
I was just out with the guy’s getting stoned
How was I to know they would be of anguished fright
As they sat with their dreaded fears all through the night
They came to the Hospital to see for themselves
It seems because of an accident I was not in good health
I was in a coma, having bad dreams
Oh! Dear God if you would just take away the screams
The ringing in my ears as if time had no end
A deathly message to my mind it sends
Why didn’t I listen to my family I loved
Then maybe I would not hear these screams from above
I was only out with the guys to have a good time
Its not my fault I didn’t see that double line
We only had a few drinks or was it more?
My minds so mixed up my head is so sore
Why is it my friends and family seem to be laughing at me
Yet the tears in their eyes I can so plainly see
This is no time to laugh, I am in pain
It seems to be me their all putting to blame
The room is getting darker I can just about see
Why is it this morbid cold air now surrounds me
Open this door can’t you see I am not dead
Its just a slight pain I now have in my head
Why won’t they listen to my cries and pleads
If only my heart would beat instead of bleed
At last they have come to set me free
Why are they putting these fancy cloths on me?
The time is passing so fast I can just about see
Why are my loved ones now crying over me?
All I can hear are their screams and their cries
One would think that I had just died
Its morning now I must of fell asleep
Why is this bed they gave me so soft and so deep
At last the pain is gone and I lay here alone
Beneath my self dug grave and scriptured stone
Forgive me God I was just out with the guys
If I had not had those drinks I would still be alive
I should have listened to my children when they said
PLEASE DADDY! DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE OR SOON YOU’LL BE DEAD

Parental Loss

2005-11-02T16:06:00.000-08:00

From Gloucester Daily Times

Monday, October 31, 2005

To the editor:

It is with heavy heart that I attempt to pass on my thoughts to those families who have lost loved ones, particularly youth; fathers and mothers searching for the answers to why such a sad loss could come into their journey of raising children.

We bring them into our circle through a bond of love. We dry their tears when they cry. We bandage their wounds that come from rough-housing and play. We join with them in all their celebrations in their achievements. We also pray to our loving savior to keep them safe when they are away from us.

Parents do have the gift to embrace their children, but sadly they cannot totally control the detours of cruelty in this world through the rush of the media world and the peer pressures of mistaken friendships or even love.

Life can be so unpredictable. We try to reach out to our young, but the race of the clock has turned them away.

Is foolishness to blame? I do not know, but I do feel that there is a need to be able to bring to our young a better way of communicating. We see on nationwide television foolish acts, just so that promoters can make big bucks. The boob tube has put in the mind of many children and, yes, even adults, that we are invincible; we are not.

So, I guess what I'm trying to say is that I pray to God that these loving parents do not put all the guilt on themselves. To the children, teenagers or first-time parents, look to your mothers, fathers, aunts and uncles. They need and want to share their love and, more importantly, their wisdom with you.

I am proud to say that I am the proud uncle of more than 100 nieces and nephews and cousins. I am the only Todd with no children, but proud to be a stepfather. Most important, in my thoughts, the proper uncle. That title makes me the happiest person alive.

As a child, I was raised as a state ward, through no fault of my parents or family. I was in numberless homes, whipped in my last one, but I survived.

Had I been a child of today or teenager, I even question the outcome.

So, in closing, I urge the young people to seek out the advice that will lead them to a better life. Your grandparents, fathers and mothers have been through it all. Seek their wisdom and embrace their love.

Pete Todd

Gloucester

City Hall Poem & Talk

2005-11-01T19:34:00.000-08:00

In this great hall we've pledged allegiance to our flag
Once prayed openly , and these in silent prayer
Searching in quiet thoughts of what we now have
From years past and challenged days
Surrounded by mirrored images of our past
On this day we begin a new page in the book of time
Celebrating the rebirth of this Majestic Lady
Standing in awe of the great rebuilding we find
United in a circle where citizen's have stood before
That the ravages of age could not tear away
From the Keystones above its windows and doors
We celebrate with the greatest of pride this day
Citizen's we not only celebrate the rebirth of a building
We also begin the work for new and challenges in view
It is the people who seek the rebirth of their beloved Gloucester
That begining today will put their trust in all its leaders
Elected to serve our city with all its pride renewed

Reflections of Gloucester City Hall

2005-10-25T16:54:00.000-07:00

I first started working at City Hall about 1989 , after a short bout with the D.P.W. I was the only City Hall employee that had his own time clock . There are many funny events in my journey of City Hall . My first lovable character and old boss was the short but giant of a man Fred J. Kyrouz . I remember when I got to old to shine shoes in the bars I was forced to look for a real job . First I sat down in front of Nicks Sho Shine Parlor and Pool Room . I remember being chased away by a man with a pool stick. My next challenge was Freddies . I shined shoes in front of his shop for almost a week until it became Friday. Whereupon Freddy came out of the shop took me by the ear and said . Any boy that has guts enough for what you did , your hired . Upon entering City Hall he again became my unofficial boss and you could not gett any better.
My next great friend of the Majestic Lady was Louis Palleli. He was indeed a card as was his secretary Ginny . Between him and I we had a secret paper going on . It was called the Pooper Scooper. It was read by all but as in Mission Impossible was vanquished upon the last reading.
Our Grand Lady held many treasures most visable , but hidden . One such hidden treasure was the murals gathering dust under the Fred J. Kyrouz Chamber Stage, which once house the A.F.D.C.Aid For Dependent Children
So I guess we will venture up the Dale Ave Stairway up into the Tower. Starting at the top where the round windows are, in looking out them you could see almost accross to Boston. I remember when my granddaughter was about five years old and she noticed that the Christmas lights were out and we went up there to fix them as the wind roared and blew at the tower.
On our descent we came into the warmth of the inside of the Tower clock , once run by balaces , now run by a small motor, which sits on a once dirty and blackened iron table . After I cleaned it with amonia and degreaser it turned out to be a beautiful green with gold etchings or painting . They represented on each leg a paiting of each season of the year.
When Bruce Tobey became Mayor it became my duty to make sure that either The Halloween Face was right , or that The Christas colors or faces were always lit.
Below the open area surrounding the bell that was gifted to the city by Samuel Sawyer Above the City Hall Chambers during my time at City Hall was the last remnents of The Fisherman's Istitute of which I and my family will go down in history as the last people to have cleaned it before it was torn down
The lights in the Fred J. Kyrouz Auditorium are changed by the Hand crank above the chamber ceiling . It takes one hundred turns for those light to reach the floor or about one hour to change each bulb
One of my happiest moments was the night I changed the positions of Mayor Leo Alpers and Mayor Dick Silvas pictures . It used to be Leo would look down at Dick , and I made it the oppisit , of which Mrs Silva was very happy about.
The clock which is overhead the door as you enter the hall was once in need to be fixed . The man came to fix it and I assisted him in romoving the face of it . He told me not to worry as the face was only tin . Upon removing the last screw it dropped and we mirracuosly caught it . It turned out that it was solid marble. After screaming for some time , The D.P.W came to our rescue. Well I will leave you in susspence for now

Peter alias Huck Finn

Heritages Re-Birth

2005-09-15T17:21:00.000-07:00

We have pledged our allegiance to our flag
Stood in silent moment of praise
Reflecting in quiet thoughts of what we now have
From the years past and its challenging days
Surrounded by memories of the past
Tonight we begin a new journey to travel
Made possible by workers devoted to that task
To give a rebirth of City Hall at the sound of the gavel
Standing in a circle where citizen's once stood before
That the ravages of age could not tear it away
From the ketstones above the windows and doors
We proudly celebrate this victory today
Behold! The Balcony of Honorable Mayor's past
Who served our city throughout its years
To the elected officials the challenge is now cast
To continue to serve this city they hold dear
We not only celebrate the rebirth of a building
But a begining of new challenges in view
It is the citizen's and the voters of Gloucester
That this night invests its trust in all of you

His Touch

2005-09-07T15:55:00.000-07:00

With humble heart I search afar
For the miraculous touch of God
I reach our to each shining star
As I live my life upon his sod
I seek his touch to heal the hurt
That children suffer from sickened minds
Or the embrace of the aging bodies
With no comfort from loved ones to find
I seek his touch for a renewal of life
To return me to the victorious helm
That once more he will heal my wife
From the challenges that seem so overwelmed
It is the touch of God I humbly seek
To erase forever the suffering and pain
From the prayers of the family to the child of the street
Let not their cries of hurt be in vain
I seek his touch on the women and men
Who chose to fight for the freedom of others
I seek his touch for the terror of flooding to ascend
That loved ones will be re-united with each other

Peter Todd, Poet

Peter's Masonic Poetry

Peter Todd, Poet

Cat of Nine Tails

Mothers Touch

Words of the Vision

Worlds Treasures

Nightmare or Truth

Window of Life

Gloucester

The Fisherman

Alligator

Fathers Day Salutati

Festive Reasoning

Circle within the Sq

My Souls inner passi

Valentines Greetings

In Birthday m

Colors United

Inner Door

Shredded but Whole

Emailing: 000590.htm

Continuing to Look Back ~ Gloucester City HallMemories from Peter Todd

Emailing: 000651.htm

Continuing to Look Back ~ Railroad AvenueMemories from Peter Todd

Emailing: 000696.htm

Continuing to Look Back ~ Traversing Pleasant & Main StreetsMemories from Peter Todd

Emailing: 000749.htm

Continuing to Look Back ~ Gloucester TaxisMemories from Peter Todd

Upon the Shoulders o

Tree of Light

The Words of life

The Train depot

The Passing of The G

The Promise

The Inner Soul of Po

The Fisherman

The Closet

Thanksgiving Greetin

Fiesta

Shriners

Secrets

Scenes

Rockports Back Beach

Remembrance

Reflections of the H

Rainbows Quest

Questions

Past Present Future

Nightmare or Truth

Nightmare or Reality

Night Fright

Mother Temp

Lost Souls

Little Child

Kent Circles Celebra

Inner Answers

Heritages Honor Roll

Dog Town

Gloucester

Friendship

Freedoms Voices

Foundation of life

Footbridge of Life

First to Lead First

Fiesta

Easter Reflections

Easter Greetings

Easter Greetings

Faces in my Youth

Dog Town

Helping Hands Reachi

Heritages Honor Roll

Lost Souls

Mother Temp

Nana

Past Present Future

Patriots Day Greetin

Pictures

Questions

Continuing to Look Back ~ Gloucester City Hall
Memories from Peter Todd

Continuing to Look Back ~ Railroad Avenue
Memories from Peter Todd

Continuing to Look Back ~ Traversing Pleasant & Main Streets
Memories from Peter Todd

Continuing to Look Back ~ Gloucester Taxis
Memories from Peter Todd