June 2025 was Filled with Joy

June culminated with nominations, a few online performances, several poems published and 20 spoken word tracks in conjunction with Legendary Ink. Here are my updates.

Verse-Virtual
My poem, Take Your Flowers, was published by Verse-Virtual.

Pulse Poetry Magazine
The June issue of Pulse Poetry Magazine is out! Toyer Fahie is on pages 5 and 6. I’m on page 10 with My Love for BVI Culture and page 22 with Our Treasure. Find Nelly Vee on pages 11, 19 and 23. There’s some great work by Klassy Poet, Tiffany Mariie, Lisa Lipps Davis and other talented poets.

Whispers of Spring's Serenade
My poem, Fruit on the Vines, was selected for the Whispers of Spring's Serenade. 

Micromance Magazine
My short story, The One-Year Wait, was published by Micromance Magazine. I’d love to hear you feedback on this story. 

Virgin Islands Artist Feature - Scrouge

My featured artist for June was Scrouge. Click here for the article.

2nd Place Poem Dedicated to Toyer Fahie

Please read my second place poem in the IPC Poetry Contest (tied with Henry Jones) about my fellow Virgin Islands poet, Toyer Fahie. 

Nominations

1. National Spoken Word Awards: I’ve been nominated for the National Spoken Word Awards for Best International Artist. Please vote for me: https://shout.com/s/iXedCkDb/i/2313049
2. The Virgin Islands Icon Awards: I was nominated for The Vrgin Islands Icon Award in the category of Writing and Publishing.

I am very grateful for the nominations and votes.

The Writer's Block Poetry Collective
On May 30, 2025, I performed during the The Writer's Block Poetry Collective presents... Mz.KIR's online open mic part 3. I performed Blood Rose and The Receipt for Making Me. 

June 6, 2025 Readings

• Calling All Poets Series: The phenomenal featured poets were Holly Iglesias, Dr. Michael Anthony Ingram and Arthur Russell. I shared Rent and Afraid of My Shadow. View the reading here: https://youtu.be/7n4PYHZBSvs?si=aI8V0zH0mawyJsce
• Live with Mz.KIR podcast: I particpated in the Live with Mz.KIR podcast and shared Arrest and Oversexualized. View the session here: https://youtu.be/XtF9aqitaz0?si=_gCOBHnJCOrgpPHK

Orenaug Mountain Poetry Journal Readings

• I performed People I've Met Along the Way at the June 2025 Poetry Reading and Roundtable online reading on June 7, 2025. 
• I shared my poem, Deny, at the June 8, 2025 reading which was held to showcase the work of the poets in the Lost Love anthology. This poem was written in October 2024 for the Worcesteshire Lit Fringe Promptober Challenge and is dedicated to my mother who passed on October 1, 2018.

Keeping the Flame Magazine
My poem, Filtration, was published in the Keeping in the Flame Magazine.

Otherwise Engaged A Literature and Arts Journal
I have three poems, Images, Pure and Peace and Revival, published in Otherwise Engaged A Literature and Arts Journal Volume 15. 

Lit eZine Vol 8
My poem, Floating Ghosts, was published in Lit eZine Vol 8.

Let's Po-et
On Saturday, June 28, 2025, I joined Nita Chase and her amazing team, Nuri and Stephanue and shared Collaboration State of Mind and Vibes. 

June Video Uploads

I have been sharing weekly reel on my social media pages. Here are some that are shared on YouTube.

• Fears: https://youtube.com/shorts/7TW4R1Ch6sA
• For Real: https://youtube.com/shorts/IevY26kUR44
• My Delight: https://youtube.com/shorts/Q-xg7w6UmRA
• Not for the Weak: https://youtube.com/shorts/U95QC2Ff7Ak

Spoken Word Collaborations with Legendary Ink

We continue to prepare some sumptious dishes in the literary kitchen. Take a listen!

1. Oh My God: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/oh-my-god-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
2. Jezebels: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/jezebels-part-2-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
3. Got 2 Be There: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/got-2-be-there-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
4. Blood Rose: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/blood-rose-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
5. Afraid of My Shadow: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/afraid-of-my-shadow-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
6. Perfect Stranger: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/perfect-stranger-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
7. Lay Your Body Down: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/lay-your-body-down-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
8. I Gambled on Love: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/i-gambled-on-love-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
9. A House is Not a Home: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/a-house-is-not-a-home-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
10. You Belong to Me: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/you-belong-to-me-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
11. Time Waits for No One: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/time-waits-for-no-one-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
12. I Cannot Function: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/i-cannot-function-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
13. The Beautiful Sunset: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/the-beautiful-sunset-la-rabsatt-vocals
14. Love Sounds: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/love-sounds-la-rabsatt-vocals
15. Cold: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/cold-part-2-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
16. Love Crimes: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/love-crimes-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
17. Vibes: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/vibes-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
18. Dust and Echoes: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/dust-echoes-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
19. Save Her: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/save-her-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
20. Web of Desire: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/web-of-desire-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
21. Light Pulse: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/light-pulse-la-rabastt-c-double34-music-vocals

New Poem: Tight Curls

if these strands tangle
it will take too much time
to clear the mane
one knot is enough
to cause catastrophe
leaving uneven tresses
in this frustrating process
that’s not for the
faint of heart
or the ones with
softer texture
to manage
it takes care and patience
to lovingly handle
every lock with care
so that each wisp
stays in place
even when the tightest curl
tends to unfurl
at its own beckoning
it’s beautiful to see
a full mane
tamed or untamed
suited to the wearer

© Linette Rabsatt 6-29-2025

July should be more exciting with my participation in an event in St. Thomas, The Virgin Islands Icon Awards on July 6 and more work published.

May 2025 - 50 Spoken Word Tracks, Anthologies and more

The Beautiful Virgin Islands (BVI)

Pulse Poetry Magazine
The May 2025 Edition of Pulse Poetry Magazine marked our one year anniversary. My poems, A Lit Candle and Literal Fire can be found on pages 10 and 11. Nelly Vee's poems are on pages 12-14.

Calling All Poets Series
The May 2, 2025 edition of Calling All Poets Series had feature readers Jared Harel, Nancy Shih-Knodel, and Kathy Welda.

VOICES UNBOUND (An International Anthology of Poetry)
My poem, I am a Butterfly, was selected for Voices Unbound.

Ode to Chocolate Anthology
My poem, Chocolate, was selected for the Ode to Chocolate Anthology. You can grab the Kindle or paperback version. Thanks to Tim Saunders for publishing my work.

Interview with West Indian Women Network
I was interviewed by the West Indian Women Network along with the first place winner of the
Tell Yuh Story Competition, Carlana Neverson. I placed second with my story, A Paltry Poultry Tale.

Caribbean Poetry Magazine
My poem, Carifesta X from 2008, was published by Caribbean Poetry Magazine.

Virgin Islands Artist Feature
May's featured artist was Lion Dre, a talented artist from St. Croix. He has shared his upcoming projects, inspiration and insights with me. He has new music on the way so please subscribe to his pages.

Like Naked Truths Anthology

Roses in Bloom, originally published by Micromance Magazine, has been published in the Like Naked Taunts anthology.

Cultivating Voices Poetry Wild Card Open Mic
On May 18, 2025, I shared the virtual stage with several talented poets at the Cultivating Voice Poetry Wild Card Open Mic. I'm on from 53:20 sharing two pieces, Velvet and If I Wrote You a Song.

Lost Love Anthology
My Poem, Deny, written in honor of my mother, was published in the Lost Love anthology compiled by Orenaug Mountain Publishing.

IPC Poetry Contest
I tied for second in the IPC Poetry Contest! The better news is that my entries were about two amazing poets, our very own talented Toyer Fahie, and Mike Jurkovic, Poet Laureate and part of the Calling All Poets Series team.

The Writer's Block Poetry Collective
On May 30, 2025, I was live on The Writer's Block Poetry Collective along with some other awesome poets including North Philly's Finest, Maya Da Bee, Ladycrucible MistressofMayhem, Heavenly Harmonies and Miriam Buttlerfly Hall.

Legendary Ink Spoken Word Collaborations

This month was amazing! I can't believe that we churned out 50 tracks. Thank you to Mario Franklin and Clarence Ferguson, Jr. for believing in me.

1. Take and Never Give: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/take-and-never-give-part-1-la-rabsatt-vocals
2. Stranger Moon: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/stranger-moon-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
3. Leave Me Alone: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/leave-me-alone-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
4. I'm Sorry: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/im-so-sorry-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
5. Shackled: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/shackled-part-1-l-a-rabsatt-c
6. My Calling: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/my-calling-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
7. Enigma: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/enigma-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
8. I Breathe You In: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/i-breathe-you-in-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
9. Hearts of Fire: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/hearts-of-fire-part-1-la-rabsatt-vocals
10. Your Heart Spoke My Name: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/your-heart-spoke-my-name-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
11. More Love: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/more-love-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
12. Serpent: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/serpent-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
13. Love Me: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/love-me-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
14. Dangerous Game: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/a-dangerous-game-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
15. Here Comes the Boom: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/here-comes-the-boom-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
16. Fake News: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/fake-news-part-2-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
17. Deep Inside: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/deep-inside-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
18. I'm No Devil: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/im-no-devil-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
19. Love Jones: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/love-jones-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
20. Kiss of Death: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/kiss-of-death-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
21. Fallen Sky: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/fallen-sky-la-rabsatt-vocals
22. Hearts of Fire: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/hearts-of-fire-remix-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
23. Death of Chivalry: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/death-of-chivalry-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
24. Sex Appeal: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/sex-appeal-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
25. Galaxy: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/galaxy-part-1-l-a-rabsatt-c
26. Here We Go Again: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/here-we-go-again-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
27. Oversexualized: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/oversexualized-part-1-l-a
28. Shattered: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/shattered-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
29. Watch Out for Witchcraft: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/watch-out-for-witchcraft-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
30. Half Crazy: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/half-crazy-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
31. Solid Gold: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/solid-gold-episode-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
32. Pray 4 Me: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/pray-4-me-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
33. Victim in the Mirror: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/victim-in-the-mirror-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
34. La Isla Bonita: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/la-isla-bonita-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
35. If I Wrote You a Song: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/if-i-wrote-you-a-song-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
36. Joined Together: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/joined-together-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
37. Calm and Collected: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/calm-and-collected-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
    
38. Raised by Wolves: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/raised-by-wolves-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
39. Single Flower: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/single-flower-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
40. Unearthly Love: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/unearthly-love-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
41. Clouds: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/clouds-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
42. Love Track: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/love-track-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
43. What You Bring to the Table: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/what-do-you-bring-to-the-table-la-rabsatt-vocals
44. Quiet Sorrow: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/quiet-sorrow-shattered-remix-la-rabsatt-vocals
45. Chained to Foolery: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/chained-to-foolery-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
46. Fragile: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/fragile-la-rabsatt-vocals
47. Fairweather Friend: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/fairweather-friend-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
48. Alone Together: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/alone-together-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
49. All Money Ain't Good Money: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/all-money-aint-good-money-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
50. Still Hurting: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/still-hurting-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals

New Poem: Housing Woes

singing toilet
hisses with no swishes

pop, drop, pop
the kitchen faucet murmurs

while the bathroom faucet
drips, drips, drips

clogged bathtub
holding all the hair in

it must be indoor weather season
my house has its own tornado of issues

© Linette Rabsatt 5-30-2025

Creative Waves Performance on May 31, 2025

Please visit the JR O'Neal Botanical Gardens between 4:00 to 7:00 pm and support this event. There will be lots of performances including poetry. Poets will have a station by the fountain where we will share poems. Toyer Fahie and I will share perform on the main stage around 6:15 pm.

April 2025 - New Collaborations and Content

April is National Poetry Month (US). It was an interesting month. I had quite a few rejections from publishers. However, as my granny would have said - when one door closes, another opens. I linked with two extraordinary poets and I am enjoying creating spoken word recordings. Also, I participated in a poetry challenge in Papi's Poetry Corner MVP which required poets to post a video daily. I was inspired and started sharing daily poetry reels on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.

Here's my April report.

Everscribe Magazine
My poem, Needing Someone, has been published in Issue No. 7, Littera Novus, of Everscribe Magazine. It’s on page 58. https://everscribemag.com/issue-7

Pulse Poetry Magazine
The April 2025 issue of Pulse Poetry Magazine features I Owe a Poem on page 5 and Fears on pages 11 and 12. Other Virgin Islands poets include Akin Chinnery of page 4, Toyer Fahie on page 17 and Nelly Vee on pages 24, 25 and 26.

Calling All Poets Series
April 4, 2025: The April 4 edition of Calling All Poets Series online reading had feature performances by Janet Kaplan and Ethan Sirotko. I shared hollow grave and a lit candle during the open mic.

The Fertile Brains
April 6, 2025: I shared Healthy Choices - Healthy Community at this reading.

Cultivating Voices Live Poetry
April 6, 2025: The features were Pam Muller, Rachael Stanley and Damien Donnelly. I shared Some Memories Fade during the open mic section.

Micromance Magazine Poetry Month Feature
Micromance Magazine featured me for National Poetry Month. Hear my story, insights and words of encouragement to writers. There’s also a new poem inspired by an ekphrastic prompt from Allie Poetry.

Artist Feature
Ramon G: Shout out to Ramon G for sharing his knowledge, insights and words of wisdom with me! 
I-Bari: Shout out to I-Bari for agreeing to be interviewed and sharing his personal insights.

Tell Yuh Story - 2nd Place
I placed 2nd in the West Indian Woman Network’s Tell Yuh Story competition held on March 20, 2025. My story, A Paltry Poultry Tale, is about the chickens that visit my yard. Let me know what you think of the story!

St. Petersburg Library System
St. Petersburg Library System shared my poem, Bookshelf for National Poetry Month and National Library Week.

Silence is Consent
Three of my poems were selected for this anthology, Time to Act, Still Buzzing and Accept the Exception.

The Zest of Lemon
My poem, Drive, was selected for The Zest of Lemon anthology.

Pour Your Heart Out Open Mic
I performed at the Pour Your Heart Out Open Mic on April 24, 2025 along Kevin Grant, Emanual Cole and other awesome poets. I shared Have You Heard.

Let's Po-et

I shared the virtual stage with the talented Nita Chase on her show, Let's Po-et on April 26, 2025. Of course, Stephanie Piper and Nuri Desvigne brought their usual positive energy to the stage.

Sense and Sensibility
One of my haikus was selected for the Sense and Sensibility Haiku Journal.

Legendary Ink Recordings
I collaborated with Mario Franklin and Clarence Ferguson Jr on some poetry tracks. I love that we are not in the same part of the world but have been able to meld our voices to create these collaborative peices.

1. Maybe Tomorrow: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/maybe-tomorrow-the-infamous-strategy-la-rabsatt-vocals
2. Love Birds: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/love-birds-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
3. Hollow Grave: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/hollow-grave-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music
4. Fallen: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/fallen-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
5. Wolf and Moon: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/wolf-and-moon-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
6. Share My Love: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/share-my-love-part-1-c-double34-music-la-rabsatt-vocals
7. Guilty: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/guilty-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
8. The World is Yours: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/the-world-is-yours-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
9. You Can't Buy My Love: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/you-cant-buy-my-love-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
10. Lionesses Uncaged, Volume 3, On The Loose Cypher Intro: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/lionesses-uncaged-volume-3-on-the-loose-cypher-intro-presented-by-c-double34-music-98134-bpm
11. I Wish It Would Rain: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/i-wish-it-would-rain-legendary-ink-vocals
12. Since I Lost My Baby: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/since-i-lost-my-baby-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
13. Slither: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/slither-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
14. Idle Hands: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/idle-hands-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
15. You're Beautiful: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/youre-beautiful-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
16. Someone to Love: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/someone-to-love-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
17. Heating Up: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/heating-up-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
18. Broken Glass: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/broken-glass-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
19. Stop Disrespecting Yourself for Likes: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/stop-disrespecting-yourself-for-likes-part-1-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
20. Harmonizing Ecstasy: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/harmonizing-ecstasy-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
21. Love No More: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/love-no-more-la-rabsatt-vocals
22. Let Me Stay on Your Mind: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/let-me-stay-on-your-mind-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
23. Voices in My Head: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/the-voices-in-my-head-la-rabsatt-vocals
24. Love's A Gamble: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/loves-a-gamble-la-rabsatt-c-double34-music-vocals
25. Do What I Gotta Do: https://soundcloud.com/clarencefergusonjr/do-what-i-gotta-do-l-a-rabsatt

New Poem

This poem was inspired by a prompt from Allie Poetry on Facebook.

Take Your Flowers

this orange carnation

is just a gift

a metaphor

of the fixation

that I’ve had on you

an abnormal cliché

for me just to say

that you are unique

and all the critiques

don’t measure up

they’re just jealous

but I think you’re luscious

and just what I need

in my life

let me be your wife

and love you

intensely

not just for one day

but forever

© Linette Rabsatt 4-30-2025

I hope to continue inspiring the world with my words!

December and Year-end Review - Invest in What Grows You

My personal mantra is "Invest in what grows you."

My mom would have made 69 today. May she continue to rest in peace. I know she would be proud of my accomplishments.

My beautiful mom

I am very happy with my journey in 2024. I was interviewed four times and performed at numerous online and local readings and events. Also, I started a WhatsApp Channel. 

In addition to having a poem published in the CAPS 25th Anniversary Anthology, I have had the following published in 18 journals and magazines in 2024:

• two short stories, 
• three photos, and
• 39 poems.

Please visit my Facebook Page, Linette Inspire VI. 

I would like to say special thanks to my family, and other local writers, Toyer Fahie, Nikiesha McMaster, Jerome Joseph, Akin Chinnery, Anika Christopher, Dr. Dierdra Wheatley, Justin Hodge, and April Glasgow. 

Of course, this 2024 journey would not have been successful without these international poets and writers, who I have never seen in person: Nelly Vee of KVI Network Creations, Pawcram of the Louisiana Lyricists Louge, Ashley Edge of Poetic Edge Publishers, Papi Woodyard of Papi's Poetry Corner, Priscilla Ramcharan of the West Indian Women Network, Ashanti Taylor-Alexander of Pulse Poetry Magazine, Lisa Lipps, Nita Chase of Let's Poet, Blaq Ice, Mike Jurkovic of Calling All Poets Series, Kevin George of Tropical Literature Creatives, Sandy Yannone and Don Krieger of Cultivating Voices Live Poetry, Mark Fishbein of The Poetry Academy, Dr. Michael Anthony Ingram of Quintessential Listening Poetry Online Radio, Kysha Blyden of Pulse of the Caribbean, She Barz, G. Lynn Brown of Micromance Magazine, Faye Roberts of Allographic, Write Reasons, William Douglas, Clive Oseman of Ooh Beehive, Barbara Leonhard of Feed the Holy, Patricia Carragon of Brownstone Poets, Walden Quinn Caesar, Allie Poetry, Hiram Larew of Poetry X Hunger, and many others.

Here are my December updates.

Pulse Poetry Magazine - December Issue
You can find my two pieces, My Holiday Wish and What I Have to Give, on pages 4 and 5 and Toyer Fahie's poems on pages 21 and 22 in Pulse Poetry Magazine.

Feed the Holy
My poem, Obstacle Course, was published by Feed The Holy on December 6, 2024. I do not usually write long pieces, but I wanted this piece to evoke our challenges and offer a word of encouragement.

Brownstone Poets
I shared my poem, Strong Woman, in the Brownstone Poets' live reading on December 7, 2024. I am on from 2:24:03 to 2:25:40.

Verse-Virtual
My poem, Anniversary, was published by Verse-Virtual in their December issue. I wrote this poem based on a photo prompt (ekphrastic) of colored chairs overlooking the ocean. 

Walden’s Poetry & Reviews
Walden’s Poetry & Reviews featured four of my poems on December 11, 2024: Gracious, Vivid Pictures, The Password, and Yellow Eyes.

Shortlisted for The Cupid Prize
My poem, Roses in Bloom, and very short story, Sweet Nothing, both published by Micromance Magazine, have been long-listed for The Cupid Prize.

Thank you to Micromance Magazine!

Ultramarine Literary Review
My poem, A Walk Inside, was published by the Ultramarine Literary Review on December 11, 2024. It is one of the older pieces I had tucked away in the archives.

Cultivating Voices Holiday Poetry Open House
I shared my piece, Another Year at the Cultivating Voices Holiday Poetry Open House online on December 15, 2024. It was great fun listening to the variety of work shared. I read from 00:36:10, but please listen to all the poets.

Calling All Poets Series Live Reading
I performed three pieces during this reading on December 19, 2024: Pack Mentality, Dark Snowman, and Another Year. I perform from 1:25:33 until 1:29:34, but I encourage you to listen to the entire reading. The CAPS family is talented and supportive.

Orenaug Mountain Poetry Journal
Writing My Story was published in the Orenaug Mountain Poetry Journal. It is a piece that I worked hard on and submitted to several places before it found its home.

The MockingOwl Roost
The MockingOwl Roost published The Christmas Debate. It is a piece where Pineapple Tart of course shines.

Sweet on YouTube
I wrote Sweet on October 30, 2024. I wrote this piece for the Promptober challenge hosted by Worcestershire Litfest & Fringe. Of course, the pineapple in the video is from my garden.
Important Reminder: Pineapple is the best tart filling!

Plenty Talent Feature
Please check my feature on Plenty Talent for winning the Read Yuh Ting TOO competition on October 24, 2024. I am still in awe! The competition was fierce. I am always proud to represent the Virgin Islands.

Office of the Premier's Christmas Poetry Video
Toyer Fahie, Nikiesha McMaster, and I shared Christmas poems for the Office of the Premier to spread holiday cheer. I shared my poem, My Holiday Wish.

Local Talent Featured

I featured two local talents:

1. December 26, 2024: Meet Celeb, CEO of Press Da Button
2. December 29, 2024: Meet the Mastermind Behind Don G Productions

December Let's Poet

I performed two pieces, Another Year and Who Is She, during Let's Poet hosted by Nita Chase.

December 30/31 Publications

• Spillwords: Indecision 
• Sense and Sensibility: Haiku 
• DoubleSpeak Magazine: 
• Poetry: One with Words, A Journey of Thoughts, Actions, Deny, Creative Fuel, and Built
• Photographs: HelpingHand, Pink Lightning, and Hand in the Sky

New Poem

Yellow

girl:

what does a yellow rose symbolize

because, based on my research

this relationship must have met its demise

there I was planning for commitment

being together until old age

a testimony for love and contentment

instead, you delivered yellow flowers

meant for friends and acquaintances

we all know red is for lovers

so what I am left to do

but run away burned and assuming

that my love is no more for you

boy:

this yellow rose is meant for love

I trust you and need you

our love is a perfectly fitted glove

I can’t live in peace when you’re not there

my poor heart is now broken

this stress will make me lose my hair

you need to listen to my pleas for you

you are my one and only

you know me best and what I’ve been through

this yellow rose - a symbol of forever

you’re my friend, lover, helping hand

your presence makes my life better

© Linette Rabsatt 12/22/2024

Coming soon!

POEM: Clerical Sense

one's preferences are either rational or irrational

although turbulence is neither defined as partial nor impartial

but you see that pretense is always intentional

and if I'm on defense, it means things have gotten critical

because an offense is usually described as something 'criminal'

while lenience could be viewed as an action that is non-committal

yet our differences encourage constant rebuttal

I know that reverence does not mean that you are spiritual

and using incense could never mean you believe you are magical

same way, having a license is not only what qualifies a professional

because competence is developed from doing practicals

we know that diligence may not put you on a pedestal

and common sense is not always available and perpetual

but having excellence means that your thinking is tactical

so your intense words should be for things that are unusual

go build your patience by reading something historical

because losing your conscience is indescribably brutal

never resort to violence because things become crucial

since indifference could be a strategy for survival

and severance is always an option, but so is reprieval

© Linette Rabsatt

POEM: Intensify

ɪɴᴛᴇɴꜱɪꜰʏ

Emotions ɪɴᴛᴇɴꜱɪꜰʏ
as I search for a sense of satisfaction
in a topsy-turvy life filled with distractions
yet my heart calls me to diversify
my intent and decisions
to become more productive and intentional
not that everything has to be transactional
or by allowing my actions to be irrational
but I can't keep investing in other's progress
when I know I should be vested in my success
through continuous learning and growth
and surrounding myself with like beings
who don't judge people by what they are seeing
but look forward to conscious and upright living

© 𝕷𝖎𝖓𝖊𝖙𝖙𝖊 𝕽𝖆𝖇𝖘𝖆𝖙𝖙 12/15/2024

Poem: Love Above the Label

Love above the label

Love above the label

is more than what you

see in shows on cable

it's more than what you've

read in the fables

love itself is just

unstable

and I am incapable of 

using labels to define anyone

there are times

when we are all unstable

when we feel like

jumping off the table

and that's okay

because love should

be the connection 

that tight-knit cable

that serves to disable

judgmental actions

criticisms and sanctions

we are all different

yet we are the same

all insane but some

are just more contained

so don't call anyone

by a defined label

else you'll be liable for libel

don't let anyone
classify you
because of your stance or style
because in time
you will be defiled
stand in your strength
and love above the label

© Linette Rabsatt

POEM: Seeing the Similarities

Light and dark

Contrasts with similarities

Open the passage to clarity

But without the vagueness of insanity

Or the vengeance of vanity

Because I’ve shifted focus

on building my capacity

while watching the earth in its entirety

because I can’t tune the opacity

and you never forgave my senility

My naivety and lack of sincerity

Development is risky

And with no vision, the ground is shaky

Do you see how the bird’s feathers are silky?

It is easy to sit in the contrast

When you don’t see the similarities

© Linette Rabsatt

Poem: The Weeds

We often ask ourselves why 

About many things

Like how birds learn to sing 

Or how weeds take over a garden 

Instead we need to watch

The numerous happenings 

And the way nature keeps thriving 

How it replenishes and accommodates

And how the circle of life is displayed 

Look at how simply flora and fauna 

Coexist to provide our basic needs

Even though we act more like the weeds

and take over all the spaces

Choking all other beings

If we watch the simplicity 

Teamwork, survival and diligence 

We can mirror the behaviors 

To make the world a better place 

POEM: What I've Faced

I've been pinched
pricked and pummeled
but I feel great
With the kicks, knocks

and knuckles
I still stand strong
I've returned fire
fists and frustration
but I'm still ready
still waiting
still debating
and concentrating on
my next move
cause I can't cease
stop nor halt
until my destination
is right ahead

ribbon

Blog, oh Blog - I have not Forsaken You

I know I have not written in my blog for while. I am now writing for Suite 101 and I love it because it keeps me busy. My blog in recent posts has more become the poetry generator. I will admit that several more poems have been written since the last post here on Blogger.

Poetry seems easier for me to write. I play with words and it comes. I guess it's second nature now - maybe more first. It's like my singing - I do not sing as much as I used to and I think my voice has deteriorated but the more I write - the easier it is to share my poems.

These are my thoughts tonight (while listening to some Kirk Franklin, Donnie McClurkin, Marvia Providence):

spirit
alive
passion
be free
smile
unhinged
in one look
it's me
feeling
so special
being
a new me
surrounded
by nature
this love
how it captures
with joy
it enlivens
with peace
it strengthens
YES
it's indirect
and YES
it protects
never rejects
shows respect
and in fact
I know know
that this
is the
only
love
that
I need
because
it comes
from
heaven

© ribbon 2010