Copyright ©2006 Karen Lynn Sterkin
Father’s Day
Give me Shelter!
New Year’s Blue Heaven for 2007
Inheritance
A Plea for Peace
Bay Area Blues
Black Hole
Pride’s Purpose
Offended!
Love Sick
Mug
Donkey Love
Flowers on the Fence
Money
Two Saris
Ruby Raine
Brother Jamie
Grateful for Support
Believe in Your Dreams
Beautiful Brother Muse
Jealousy
Want of a Wife
Come to My Door
Song of the New Energy of Earth
No Agenda
Stay in the Expanded Now
The Child Within
It’s been a wonderful week
But I’m too tired to stay awake
For Her darshan.
Beautiful moon in an azure sky
Hanging over a mountain high
Among the flowering hillsides.
Lovely night follows a beautiful day
Bright California blue sky way
Painted background forms bowers
For the green trees and flowers
That stand out in riotous colors.
Unusual rain pouring down in June
Birds singing in the green trees
Keep perfect rhythm and stay in tune
How many years I’ve spent looking
For my Father’s love and approval.
I sang well this morning at the hall
‘tho The Judge in me was not pleased at all.
He was not pleased on this Father ‘s Day
So I skipped the evening talk in the head
And went to Devi Bhava instead.
Alone at the Puja, I gave Her my despair
And loneliness and resistance
To my daily singing routine.
Because of all the hearts she is the Queen
Her Nazaar can clear the air
Of blockages to abundance and care
That prevent Creative endeavor.
I gave my heavy heart’s tremor
To the one they call Amma – the Divine Mama.
I’ve gone to all the gurus
All they’ve given is the blues
’cause my mother and sister are nuts
Wasted every cent my dad spilt his guts
Then out of cowardice and guilt
Undid everything we’d built
For centuries ‑ what a waste
To slay so many for such poor taste!
Now this Shri Shri wants to buy a home
Give me shelter for his Shanti Om
O Lord can I have some fun
Laugh and sing with no more delay
Manifest what I want today
Sing my songs with musicians and play
Build an art school where I can take birth
To learn to play my songs in mirth
Before Gaia leaves this Earth?
I’m getting older and fatter Falsely accused by a sister, The rest went to his second wife Some say it is our Negative Scenarios Their faces swirl in front of my tear streaming eyes Where’s the joy that comes with family on earth People accuse and blame An inheritance is a gift of Love I am weeping for sins I have never committed; What did I do “wrong” to be accused falsely? I ask the Divine within me I don’t know if false or true It’s not personal, said the Eternal – I’ve not thought about Baba’s folk for years, Till I asked Meher the cause of this commotion I told Him I prefer loneliness to humiliation Your email held as much agony But ah what inspiration for Song If I’d sent it to your mother But now my songs have made me a queen, I am grateful for my past “bad reputation” So forgive this careless one Now just see their war’s clamor, Washing the chopping block Why open a meat shop in a health store They invaded our peaceful, lovely home His car slows to an angry come-on crawl Let’s switch all the hard-working, gentle hearts O God, they’ve blown a black hole in your creation, They wage war whenever God-man They’ve blown a hole in Your creation, O God, they’ve blown a hole in Your creation God gave him an inheritance of $300 million Whatever hopes for World Peace Beloved they’ve blown a hole in Your creation Have we offended You, Master of all Grace? Meher have You left me here alone? Those I sing with and laugh Music or war – all is in Your hand O Saki. If you destroy a sunrise Flowers look beautiful and birds sing well. To dispel doubt, shame, and tears I’m not a nest-building bird. Oh Meher, at every turn, I offend your creatures. 1Sing Sing is a prison in New York State. I am sick for Love of the Friend Sweet evening breeze, whisper to my Beloved Do you still love me? How can I know? 1) Let’em think I’m a mug, 2) Fortune may smile on me awhile 3) I’d rather sleep with a thug, 4) Either way it’s a good disguise 5) In gardens buzzing in full bloom, 6) Fame plugs into soap operas, 7) Enough to eat and free time to sing, You love me braying all night Women in the East make a place for a feast Western women lack this intelligence Started with my mother In fighting for my privacy and border I need a peaceful place; I need beauty and grace God gave her a new home with a lovely garden. Is this all we have to show for the decades What about peace on earth - make others happy? Western women lack common sense. Falsely accused by a sister, The rest went to his second wife Some say it is our Negative Scenarios Their faces swirl in front me Where’s the joy that comes with family on earth People accuse and blame An inheritance is a gift of Love I am weeping for sins I have never committed; What did I do “wrong” to be accused falsely? I ask the Divine within me O Money, you make so many enemies The path narrows to a razor’s edge In a desert you cannot drink gold or coin What’s wealth and prosperity? True abundance is the freedom and talent The discriminating seek refinement and intricacy (delicacy) She stands straight and proud God’s sister Mani2 says “Two saris,” So many shopping malls we have in the West At the well, long ago he tossed a stone and her jug broke The millet and sugar cane fields may hide a cobra They arranged her marriage (later) to that same boy Now he re-routes routers in the Information Age. In this Kali Yuga Age of chaos and strife When I go on Pilgrimage to Meher’s Samadhi4 Dear God, is there still time to import these 2 saris 1 Written for those who’ve come to my country with these 2 saris in their hearts. Ruby Raine, the gem lady, swallowed a blood orange sunrise, When we go a battling like two cubs in the lair, Our separate roles – each with our own dharma for the King. Brother Jamie is so cool, In green still pastures from another time, If more men looked for their “manhood” in this way Nobody ever asked God or offered to support me before In vain attempts I’d cried, before our King. How can one soul ever thank another Once in a while we get lucky and just a few There’ve been some kind enough not to scoff, Today you play your drums while I sing my Peace songs, Tired, rejected back up on the shore, I fell in love and for 17 years I was stuck, obsessed How can one soul ever thank another Those with hard childhoods often play with seduction, “Believe in your dreams,” you cheer others on Spiritual lessons I needed to review, I thought I was just editing a spiritual path book, Beautiful Brother Muse – what a ruse! Life Hafiz’ beautiful muse God gave you great beauty, a beguiling disguise 1) Jealousy’s an old hag sittin’ by the road pointing Chorus: No need for jealousy’s hold 2) If you want to be happy 3) The doctor gives each a unique medicine, 4) Don’t judge another’s behavior; don’t criticize their art, 5) Stop spying and judging each other’s pain, 6) Jealousy’s an old hag sittin’ by the road pointing If you are lonely and need a wife This hypocrisy for a woman or for coin gain Far better a simple life on this earth When a woman loves a man God inspires and ignites love in a woman’s heart, You may earn it from Meher the Fair Watching by the roadway Listen to the Hum of Earth’s New Energy After the Hard Times of Reincarnation Meher the Most Fair made prophecy Of a New Life and the New Humanity. With every thought, word, and act Chorus: Stay in the expanded now Lean not to port nor starward bow. 1) Breathe in and let yourself feel Worry not how your body can heal 2) Do what you want to do Be what you want to be 3) The past is guilt and hate The future fears that suffocate 4) The more you can allow Accept and honor in the Eternal NOW 5) Breathe, feel, attract in the NOW These are the magic tools that will allow 6) Don’t fret about your health or struggle for abundant wealth. 7) You were that star you see Now it’s time to own your Divinity. Chorus: 1) A golden, blue-sky white cloud dusk met A purple pink streaked sunset 2) Don’t put me down I’m not a clown 3) Your days speed by and all you do for fun 4) You treat me like a pet You ignore until you get 5) You invade my sanctuary Then tell me I’m bad
Too blue for yoga or exercise
But still unable to sleep
Where’s the lover who won’t make me weep?
Who’ll feed me love
So I don’t need the food
To fill the emptiness.
Inspired by His Holiness
The Mumbai film singer
Produces her Sufi lyrics.
Why hasn’t he given me these gimmicks?
To produce my songs to Eternity?
’cause I don’t do sadhana
Or work as a slave for a week in Bali
With His Holiness 1008 Shri Shri?
Such is my fate!
I’m always too early or late
But Hafez knows the cure
Surely as sinecure
As he whispers in Karen’s ear
Never fear — true love is here
And your fate is shining
While this Yogi my dear
Still seeks a palace for reclining.
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Inheritance
©March 2002, Karen Lynn Sterkin
Betrayed by a step-mother,
Judged by an aunt
Condemned by a mother
For an inheritance.
Hard-earned by a weak father
Refused to fight for his eldest daughter
So his money went to the ex-wife and younger daughter.
and his youngest sister.
Why? When God’s creation is filled with abundance?
Is there betrayal and battle for a stolen inheritance?
or just bad karma
Others teach about the New Energy
How without an agenda
To find within our own Divinity.
On the long drive to Pt. Reyes.
Words exchanged rattle repeatedly
in my head aching severely.
The sweetness of a baby in human birth?
The innocence of children fighting for attention and self-worth
In such a love-starved family hearth?
Throw around anger’s flame
But why in God’s name
Is there so much hatred, grief, and shame
Over a family’s inheritance?
From God’s eternal treasure trove.
To pass down a gift from heart to heart
Each generation’s legacy to impart
A way to Love for those kept apart.
Feeling I should to an insane asylum be committed.
Weeping for the potential of joy and love missed
Through robbery and false accusation
By a sister and mother’s betrayal kissed.
By a disabled younger sister’s robbery
No one can rob me of my inheritance!
How I can forgive those who falsely accused me
For robbery – for an inheritance.
I want to know the Truth of this circumstance,
So I am not suffering without recompense!A Plea for Peace
©by Karen Lynn Sterkin 31 Jan. 2002
Or if I’ll get another scolding from you.
But these thoughts came in five minutes
While walking by the sea trying to make sense.
It’s not about you or me anymore.
Rather whether or not it’s world peace or war!
But I spent yesterday thinking of you in tears.
No matter what my repentance
None of this made any sense!
While seeking inner peace by His ocean.
I prefer separation to another busy (body) ashram
Yes, I sent the bottle in haste and carelessness
My focus on the music – my next CD and finances.
In ignorance of your new post of prominence.
As a Trustee for Lord Meher’s place,
You must be honored and respected in deference
To the One you serve – and your holy service.
And my reputation for disgrace
Must not dishonor Meher’s holy place.
As the U.S.S. Cole missile tragedy
They threw me out of reoriented sufism
And I’m as shunned in Meher Baba’ism
Just a loose cannon without diplomat sense.
I find in the world’s harangue.
What mysteries of love and freedom
I find -- though I’m feared and shunned by men.
I’m a cat thief and a harlot
I’ll go wherever I find song’s support!
To keep your privacy under cover
And protect you from gossip’s sting
Instead of a scolding that in my heart’s rankling
Like a pot on the stove simmering,
Just a brief, aloof but friendly, “thank you”
That I’d not give any further thought to?
I am a woman of respect and grace
When I refuse to allow myself or others
His name to disgrace.
And not for just a day.
Tho’ they scold and scoff “get off your swing”
They have no idea what’s hidden in this play.
For in this disgrace and loneliness
My songs flourish and God-willing so do my finances!
That Meher’s request for Cholestin
Was not delivered in the Court’s manner.
I begin to see the secret hidden in the outer,
So please for world peace dear brother
Please forgive this careless child of Meher.
Back to Top
Bay Area Blues
©June 2001, Karen Lynn Sterkin
As he turns his back -- Whack!
I wait behind another in line
See dark blue blotches on his sirloin.
Is it safe? May I see another slice?
I want to choose -- What’s the price?
Any nourishment in that man’s meat
When I have to beg for a receipt?
Then poison others with hatred’s roar?
If you don’t want to serve – then just refuse.
At least don’t invite us in for abuse.
Dad says, “You should leave -- keep your self-worth
Don’t stoop and degrade yourself on earth.
How can hatred ever feed or nourish you?
When a woman stoops, God is degraded too.”
Too crowded now, stressed-out they roam.
Ill tempered, bad mannered, demons
The teen gangs cruise with their harems.
My life’s priceless years left wasting
They demand my attention for nothing.
His music booms violence looking for a brawl.
Working moms all day put them in front of TV
So they waste my precious time and hate me!
I’ve missed two long, red lights
Now too late for my appointments.
Move those who in poor countries now dwell
Who honor education, gardens and the arts?
With these despicable people left embroiled
Out of the paradise they’ve now spoiled
Deport (and ship) them all to 3rd world hell!
Back to Top
Black Hole
©Sept. 2001 by Karen Lynn Sterkin
When we’re all One –
how can anyone kill His own Being?
Now where have they gone?
How to comfort them in this Night without Song.
comes rather than yield.
Forced both Krishna and Mohammed
onto the battlefield.
Stubborn men who won’t surrender
Find Love cannot be stormed by violence
Rather than bow at His Lotus feet, sweet innocence
They kill themselves and others in hate.
I am weeping alone –
for terrorists who’ll repent too late.
World Trade is a burial ruin in my nation.
We invited those here for freedom
Like children rivals for a better song
We played, battled, like cubs in a lair,
But not with Jihad Demons of despair.
Why start a holy war for Armageddon
‘Cause no one listens to your Song?
Those who build golden calves and Camelot’s
Dot com with stocks, politics now called patriots
Clamoring for yet another World’s End?
They’ve buried innocents in my nation.
Where we’re all One under Beloved’s Sun
How can anyone kill another in God’s Ocean?
Where have they all gone? – Firefighters – father & son?
Lovers, daughters, of liberty nation.
No comfort in this Night without Song.
And he rains curses and sorrow on everyone!
His Muslim brothers hide their eyes in shame
God-man came again but with a different name.
Each time He’s the same, but with a different name.
Did we lose it with this sacrifice?
Whatever prayers for World Peace
For the New Humanity of God’s Grace
For us whom God-man made His sacrifice.
Is it shattered forever from our dream?
Or is this just the Night before our Souls’ awakening?
We are all One in His creation;
Saint or sinner, loser or winner.
Like tearing a sacred painting in my home
I am weeping I am restless, grieving in sadness
Is every black hole in outer space
Where not even a photon of Light can escape
Where some fiend blew up paradise in such a place?
Now Americans blow up the poorest land of all
Afghanistan refugees starving – what disgrace!
And in every one, I see Your darling Face.
In this nightmare without God-man?
In this madness and sorrow
Where can we find comfort now?
Tho’ once, laughter and rivals for a song,
I hug them now in my heart all day long.
For last week lying dead in my path
I found the sweet white cooing dove
Message of Love from above?
That the time of peace is gone?
The father has no time to teach his son.
My only hope whether in prayer or in bazaar,
Beloved, is that your loving Nazaar
Remains on me - no matter my destiny. O Saki!
Karen weeps “Keep me with You, Meher.”
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Pride’s Purpose
©June 2001 by Karen Lynn Sterkin
Because it’s pride is in your eyes,
You’ll leave this world in darkness
And semi-eternal coldness.
How can anyone sing to God without pride?
It’s impossible without His aside.
To get the skill, the art correctly,
Beauty is very hard to play perfectly!
But most of us work hard as hell
To look pretty and perform that well.
Strengthen faith, empower talent, zap fears,
Takes early childhood playing for years
To tune one’s Song for Love’s ears.
But that’s no reason for disrespect
Or not to take me at my word.
You may hate, fear me or despise
But only a fool destroys a sunrise.
Back to Top
Offended!
©June 2001 by Karen Lynn Sterkin
(Written Sept. 1997)
And this damn sleeplessness has ripped the beauty off my features.
Without a job, no friend, no sleep,
While for the realms of music I weep.
Why is there no peace in my heart?
Why at every turn must a bargain be pledged for learning the art?
The skinny violinist can play her strings all day
And she can study tabla at night.
But I am cursed with worries about money, about men,
About offending your gurus at every turn.
Help me Hafiz and those who tread these pathways to find my place
A small haven of peace where I can learn to play my song and sing my piece.
Oh Beloved Meher, you want to hear me Sing?
Then find me a place in your universe not in prison like Sing Sing1
Spending my precious time earning money worrying
About every problem I have not caused, that makes me sick.
Or find me a home in your creation with a friend where I can make music
And if I have not earned Your Grace to have such a place
Then lay me to rest outside of this world, so I can sing in the next!Love Sick
©June 2001 by Karen Lynn Sterkin
(Written during Bhau Kalchuri’s visit July 1997)
Oh Summer Breeze, full of sweetness
And hope of Youth’s promise
Bring my greetings to His poet Night watchman
Because Karen is ill and cannot come in person.
The cure? One glance under His Eyelashes
To enflame the dying embers now in ashes.
Do you know my illness and the cause?
I am lovesick and heaving with sorrow
And my heart has taken flight to find another
Too restless to pay heed or pause
O Blessed Peace, why have you left me?
Oh you meditators and peace makers
On this path, there is no resting place.
A dog and pony fray at best
To see who sings a better song -- no rest!
Fierce are the rivals at the palace gate.
More than beggars waiting for a plate
Spies and betrayal are the norm,
No comfort or peace of hearth or home
Oh sweet domestic dreams of peace
Harmony in home with a garden — Youth’s promise
What price paid for this Path?
And nothing gained but reprimand
I am shunned at home, in the market,
Betrayed by spies and rivals on the path
Oh You meditators and peacemakers,
Beware the spiritual path!
I am ill and restless for His Face
Even one glance can still my heart from my bed
Quiet the frantic beating, like a sparrow’s fall from Grace.
Ask me for a Song and then give me back my voice!
All is in Your hand, O Saki
But tho I find myself in the Tavern tonight
There is no sight of You Sweetheart
And no peace is my plight!
Back to Top
Mug
©May 2001 by Karen Lynn Sterkin
Quite a useful costume,
Quiet room for a private hug,
And Peace to weave a tune.
Most can’t even hear if I’m singin’ in (out of) tune.
They lack the robust ear an’ disciplined (practiced) passion.
Universal Laws like gravity ‘n karma
Remain the same for every singer’s dharma.
But with fame I’ll have no guile.
Neither Mother Theresa nor Mussolini
Can escape the laws of gravity;
Or cause and effect (even) with fame.
No matter the singer or musician,
Both Sa and Sum remain the same;
Coming to “sum” with the drum,
Reaching in pitch to (every) “Sa.”
Than flattery from hypocrites who hate,
Think they’re pious as a bloody saint.
Harbor ill-will and no fun,
So a girl has to hide in isolation.
Not allow the contamination -- to breed.
I say mug, my sister (Ilona) says “dweeb”
From the Master whose eyes
Inspire Love Songs and bliss.
I won’t let fame rob me of His kiss.
Scents of jasmine an’ rose perfume
Tipsy tots greet me eye to eye,
Puppies, bunnies playing romp by.
Fresh streams of unseen secrets make me giddy, (e’en) in the city
Harming no one (while) -- loving everything.
Enough to eat – (and) free time to sing.
Fries circuits in dramas.
Mind can only hold one thing at a time.
My job’s song-weaving in pretty rhyme.
To entertain the Master of Song – all day long.
I won’t let fame rob me of His hug,
Let’em call me a useless ole mug!
Harming no one – (while) loving everything.
I won’t let fame rob me of His hug,
Let’em call me a useless ole mug!
Back to Top Donkey Love
©June 2001 by Karen Lynn Sterkin
The New Humanity Collection - India Jan. 1999
While the neighbors complain and threaten to throw me out.
In the morning you beat the shit out of me
With hooves and teeth and donkey ears
Judgments and condemnations and rejection
O my love-starved heart just seek company of the quiet
Companions of the Friend
And leave donkey love to donkeys.
Back to TopFlowers on the Fence
©June 2001 by Karen Lynn Sterkin
Not afraid to dance, sing, and celebrate
Honor her beauty -- her art appreciate
Tho’ envy may lie in her breast,
If you love she’ll still give you her best.
To the poor, death comes from poverty
In the East women compete intensely
For education, land, jobs, money.
No street-wise practical common sense.
Controlling, nosey, dominating, joyless
Busybody gossiping, manageress
They make hell out of heaven on earth
For no reason but fear of mirth.
Killed my precious brother.
They told her she’d no talent!
Without recourse to lament
Or self-esteem to despise,
She bought their lies,
And made hell out of paradise.
I won the battle but lost the war
The contractor says it’ll hold no more!
What kind of fence can’t hold flowers?
Robbing me of precious life hours
For songs and rhyme,
Wasting my priceless time!
I need total privacy from this invasive envy
That robs the earth of all glee.
Western women get so huffy
When they’re afraid to be free.
How can God manifest
Love, beauty, and harmony
Among women in the West?
She said she loves her flowers -- hence
Why rob me the healing beauty of my flowers?
For my privacy, joy, and peace --
For some idiot contractor’s useless, senseless fence!
Women fought for equality and freedom?
Was women’s liberation just to enslave another?
This jealous rage over the flowers on my fence!
Did women’s liberation breed this arrogance?
Such self-important officiousness
without any reasoning common sense?
This invasive nosey, busybody gracelessness?
The flowers on my fence have more beauty and intelligence!
Why God can’t I grow flowers (anymore) on my fence!Inheritance
©March 2002 by Karen Lynn Sterkin
Betrayed by a step-mother,
Judged by an aunt
Condemned by a mother
For an inheritance.
Hard-earned by a weak father
Refused to fight for his eldest daughter
So his money went to the ex-wife and younger daughter.
and his youngest sister.
Why? When God’s creation is filled with abundance?
Is there betrayal and battle for a stolen inheritance?
or just bad karma
Others teach about the New Energy
How without an agenda
To find within our own Divinity.
In my tear streaming eyes
On the long drive to Pt. Reyes.
Words exchanged rattle repeatedly
In my head aching severely.
The sweetness of a baby in human birth?
The innocence of children fighting for attention and self-worth
In such a love-starved family hearth?
Throw around anger’s flame
But why in God’s name
Is there so much hatred, grief, and shame
Over a family’s inheritance?
From God’s eternal treasure trove.
To pass down a gift from heart to heart
Each generation’s legacy to impart
A way to Love for those kept apart.
Feeling I should to an insane asylum be committed.
Weeping for the potential of joy and love missed
Through robbery and false accusation
By a sister and mother’s betrayal kissed.
By a disabled younger sister’s robbery
No one can rob me of my inheritance!
How I can forgive those who falsely accused me
For robbery – for an inheritance.
I want to know the Truth of this circumstance,
So I am not suffering without recompense!
Back to TopMoney
©2001 by Karen Lynn Sterkin
(from The New Humanity Collection)
Even before careful consideration
Slay more potential partners than Hercules
Without a second’s deliberation.
Wreak havoc among treasured true allies
Turn brothers into despicable ill-will spies.
Cuts careless hearts that bleed,
For Love thru greed or need.
Electronic banks don’t give bread or wine.
Money’s a concept we all share
For work or service offered at this faire.
Self-esteem measured by how much?
Rather than how well the Singer can touch
Love, beauty and harmony?
to sing one’s best to God – in joy
In whatever form one’s led
By passion, attraction, or glee.
The passionate want rhythm in the dance
True wealth comes from God’s intimacy
O Karen, seek His pleasure only In this Divine Romance.
Back to TopTwo Saris1
©May by 2001 by Karen Lynn Sterkin
(from The New Humanity Collection)
Gleaming like a new fishing rod,
A jug of water on her head,
A child on one svelte hip,
And a village song on her lip.
Looking at her nodding
One’s for work in the fields
The other’s for festivals or a wedding.
But ladies can’t find anything to wear to look their best.
On our daily commutes – do we still sing songs to God?
Water splashing all over her bright gulabi sari
Squealing in protest she loudly scolded the bloke
But secretly in her breast, her heart soared in ecstasy.
But we eat cows in stress, Big Macs watching Oprah,
With less nourishment, more danger and no joy.
She fell in love with when she was only seven.
Then he went to America for his education.
But he came back to fetch her for his wife.
She’d told no one she’d loved him all her life.
And they brought to my country this bit of village life.
With all of our websites and programming language
We still can’t communicate; “we’re all natives here.3”
From heart to heart and eye to eye is SO much faster,
Than the fastest router, huge bandwidth, and a good webmaster.
Does anyone remember computers were going to bring more leisure?
Instead of The Terminator and Darth Vadar’s nightmare?
Where 90% on earth go to bed hungry and scared.
How to let women choose not to have to give birth
Over-population, pollution, keeping helpless animals encaged,
To feed the unwanted children who grow up violent, wildly enraged.
Can we import these “two saris” into our life?
Make technology heart’s hand-maiden
And bring down on earth the Garden of Eden?
I take my old clothes – I’m too tall for a sari
And there’s no closet room for “things” up there.
But I’ve more in common with village women
Gossiping at the well – than my sisters here
Nagging me all the time to go shopping with them.
I hate noise, traffic, shopping, and commotion
My soul longs for the peace of those days by the well
In a bright cotton sari before the blazing sun.
Love’s glance is all I’ve ever known of heaven and hell.
To bring Your Songs of Love and Peace on earth?
2 Mani S. Irani was Avatar Meher Baba’s sister and served Him faithfully all her life. She was also a consummate musician who played several instruments (violin and sitar) and entertained her God-brother and His family.
3 “Natives” by Paul Doran (Bal Music) from The Rankin Family’s Endless Seasons CD.
4 Avatar Meher Baba’s Tomb is 17 kilometers outside of Ahmednagar (near Arangaon Village)
in the state of Maharashtra, India. Ruby Raine
©May 2001 by Karen Lynn Sterkin
And now the sparkles shoot out of her sapphire eyes.
‘though our worst enemy in disguise
My friend Shweta can sympathize
Nothing flips the heart in one’s breast
With so delightful a surprise
As another singer’s “wah wah” to our best.
It’s only in preparation for the greater war “out there.”
My destiny is for world peace and my songs this fate must release
Under the Divine Mother’s protection so I can safely sing.
But only the Queen of Heaven knows what Raine’s songs will bring.
(For Raine Eastman-Gannett)
Back to TopBrother Jamie
©May 2001 by Karen Lynn Sterkin
He’s a singer and Baba’s jewel,
A generous soul loose and easy,
A warm summer day buzzing and hazy.
Brings joy to those in sorrow,
Doesn’t think much about tomorrow.
He serenades the kingsmen when they need some wine.
Never jealous, doesn’t backbite,
Would rather have a beer than drink spite.
We’d have heaven on earth and peace songs all day.
(For Jamie Newell)
Back to TopGrateful for Support
©May 2001 by Karen Lynn Sterkin
In my ambitious dreams and artistic ardour
Before you came into my life
And now you’ve got another wife!
Strenuously fought the battles to sing
My songs of Love and Peace
Til you came and made me the space – a treatise
For my songs in His glorious dream.
For the support to make one’s dream come true?
One can at best be a good mother or a brother.
Help make the impossible dream come true.
But no one every prayed to God to help me pull it off!
In Egypt long ago you also played your drum
As I twirled in singing passion
When I danced my love dance.
Ah my dear what a sweet dream, what a wild romance.
I thought love hopeless and not anymore.
When the Master of Love and Song
Glanced at me sidelong,
And called for (an) another encore.
(For Swapan Chaudhuri)
Back to TopBelieve in Your Dreams
©May 2001 by Karen Lynn Sterkin
With a man who could not have cared less!
Til you showed me “Oh, it’s just a cord”
From my own or his manipulation – oh Lord!
So many years of delusion wasted in vain,
When five minutes with you cut me loose again.
For the support and love not given by a mother?
To avoid releasing the binding cause of deception.
Nobody wants to walk through the pain and fear -
How kind of God to bring wise souls like you here!
And for Mohammed, you move the mountain.
God knows what worlds of ecstasy and desire,
Your good-will and faith encourage and inspire.
I thought I was editing your book,
But the Lord of the Universe sent me to you
For a much closer look.
But Meher Baba sent me for a closer look!
(for Golden Sha in Colorado)
Back to TopBeautiful Brother Muse
©May 2001 by Karen Lynn Sterkin
Your golden beauty and gentle, clever wit
Held me captive for a bit.
Gave me my seafaring legs with oars,
For more arduous chores beyond these shores.
That pretty young girl enchanted him too.
To awaken me to the beauty in my own eyes.
(For Terry Curtis)
Back to TopJealousy
©May 2001 by Karen Lynn Sterkin
The New Humanity Collection - India Dec. 1998
To a bend on the path for our (own) sanskaric unveiling.
Don’t bother to greet this hag,
Poverty of heart’s in her bag
Pay the price; so Meher grants
What you covet in your brother.
If He ups the ante, pay quickly
He’ll give what you envy in another.
(Baba) He gives as much as we can hold.
For the Beloved is most generous
And wants to see us joyous;
at least don’t make others unhappy
The Beloved knows more than we do
who to invite and who’s to stay.
It’s not our job to judge and disobey,
Or make each other sick on the way. (Chorus)
Each disease requires a different prescription. (Instrumental)
If you serve without love and gratitude,
Mind your own business is not your platitude,
Instead of goodwill and gentle care,
Then Maya is your guru, not Meher the Fair. (Chorus)
Enourage and cheer each other in your heart.
Meher gives what your jealousy covets,
When ya pay the price for His gifts. (Chorus)
Stop driving yourself and others insane.
With good-will seek the joy of each other,
Precious wares (found) in heart’s lane,
Find in Meher what you lacked in your mother,
Or sought in your lover in vain. (Chorus)
To a bend on the path for our (own) sanskaric unveiling.
Pay the price; so Meher grants
What you covet in your sister.
For the Beloved is most generous
And wants to see us joyous;
Meher is most generous
And wants to see us ALL joyous!
Back to TopWant of a Wife
©June 2001 by Karen Lynn Sterkin
India Dec. 1998
Tell Meher of your sorrow and don’t hide
Instead of attacking His lovers in (bitter) strife
Humiliating your Lord and those He has called to His side.
Is the business of Maya and her con-men.
You are deluded in serving Meher the Fair
If you humiliate and grieve those He calls here.
A wife, a home, in honesty and mirth
Than hypocrisy and hatred in Meher’s lane
Becoming Maya’s servant, causing grief and pain.
He has nothing to do but honor her love.
When a woman does not love a man,
There is nothing he can do to win her love.
Whether prostitute or nun, laundry woman or queen.
And no man can come between
God’s will awakening
Such a love in her heart.
This gift of a woman’s tender care.
But attack a woman in His home,
And you disgrace the One to whom they’ve come.
And you disgrace the One from whom you come.
Back to TopCome to My Door
©June 2002 by Karen Lynn Sterkin
Outside my doorway (2x)
Waiting by the road there For Beloved Meher
Waiting by the road here For darling Meher
I see You coming in Your White Sadra Flowing
I see You coming in the Road in my longing
Come to my door Come to my door.
Come to my door Come to my door.
Do I call you my Soul? But you are everyone’s Home – ever more Come to my door.
Do I call you my life? But You are eternal – You live for ever
Do I call you my Beloved? But You are Love itself.
Come to my door, come to my door.
On the road, I see You coming; but no more. Come to my door.
In the road I see You waving; in my longing. Come to my door
In a mirage I see You coming; but no more. Come to my door
Beloved Meher Come to my door
Do I call you my Beloved? But you are Love ever more. Love ever more.
On the road I see you coming; but no more. Come to my door
My home is bare only longing lives here
Come darling Meher, Come to my door.
Do I call you my Beloved? But You are love ever more. Love ever more. Come to door
I am restless everyday all the time I have no peace
I am restless Meher no peace -- no peace
I am restless Meher, every moment I have no peace. My heart is calling You
In the road I see You waving my darling
My home is bare only lonving lives there
In this abode only longing, nothing more. Come to my door.
Back to TopSong of the New Energy of Earth
©June 2002 by Karen Lynn Sterkin
Breathe in, breathe IN -- Your own Divinity.
I lived the New Life for the New Humanity I sacrifice eternally.
I came to sow the seed of Love in your hearts The seed of Love in your hearts
Now the seeds are giving birth – to the New Humanity on Earth.
The darling Seeds of Love are giving birth
To play in the New Energy on Earth.
As the Swing of Duality ‑ accelarates alarmingly
To awaken Baba’s seed within – Breathe IN, Breathe IN
Breathe in ‑ your own Divinity. Meher Baba
Now is the time for joy - Involution;
Playing in the Present NOW of Ascension
Ah what a long-awaited celebration!
So, we thought at long last -- we were going Home -- But alas!
Now I see Baba’s come to meet us! But alas! Home’s coming to US!
Instead Meher’s coming to meet us! ‑ Meher Baba
Playing in the Present NOW of Ascension Ah what a long-awaited celebration!
No Agenda
©June 2002 by Karen Lynn Sterkin
Am I changing the Home of All that Is and ever was?
Spirit doesn’t know the outcome and God has no Agenda?
Just a Whim to know Who I am and what is Love.
Releasing and allowing without an Agenda,
Like dancing with a penguin or a giant panda.
New Age folks set such good intentions
For World Peace, Organic Farms, positive affirmations!
Dreams and goals with or without karma
The uniqueness of each soul’s dharma.
How to accept All that Is without goals, judgement or alteration?
Wow! Dreams and goals without an Agenda!
Back to TopStay in the Expanded Now
©2003 by Karen Lynn Sterkin
It’s in the NOW right here Stay in the present without fear.
From all the past life waves Attract the potential that most behaves
The way you want to Be You can choose now to be still and free!
Accept your wholly self You’re the source of your abundant wealth.
Be in the Present NOW Release the past and future fears somehow.
The more will come to you The more your treasured dreams come true.
Your Divinity to come forth Miracles to reflect your own self-worth.
Simply breathe and accept your self In whatever state you find your self.
As you gaze upon a distant star breathe and feel who you really are
It’s in the here and now Stay in the present Expanded Now.
Back to TopThe Child Within
©2003 by Karen Lynn Sterkin
The Child within us all came to me and said, Get out of your head
Be real instead
Don’t grieve me Don’t judge me harshly
Get out of your head Let’s play instead
Poetry in motion, like a lovesick dove Cooing a song all day long.
Let’s have some fun You’re always on the run.
is eat a lot of apple pie.
You’re always on the run Let’s have some fun. (Chorus)
The need for affection Then you demand my attention.
Sell your soul and mine for money Reject my play and make me sad. (Chorus)
6) I am the source of your wealth You don’t need to copy others in stealth.
I can give you riches and fun Just accept Me and don’t run.
Get out of your head Be real instead.
Get out of your head Let’s play instead.