GD (Greg) Shaffer is a writer of poetry and short stories who, via Iowa and Colorado, now resides in Ajijic. From his childhood memories of growing up on a small farm in Iowa, to his diverse life experiences, to his fascination with life, death and the natural world, his poems and stories connect to the reader through relatable, thought-provoking topics and his often-whimsical style.
Farscape
purple and white
hard and cold
stands against
bloodied sky
once proud and honored
now ashamed
reflects division
right and left
blue and red
good and evil
them and us
once pink
now darkness only
and hatred
spread as rancid mayonnaise
on burnt toast
coerced jealousy
and blindness
lemmings follow one by one
doomed to repeat
when history forgotten
or abandoned
or forbidden
farscape of purple and white
once desired
coveted even
to progress and grow
60 years
of building
and healing
and caring
dispatched
into a weighted mist
for me
I will say goodbye
Lightly Whisper
how do i say to you
what needs to be said
thoughts and emotions
deep as water
and hard as stone
do i scream with anger and frustration
or cry with sadness
as the feelings pour
like water over the falls
and crash against
the rocks of my life
or do i whisper the words
to hold your gaze
to keep you near as i
lay bare my soul to you
the words gently caressing you
as my emotions soar
and drift
until all is said
and heard
Where Lies the Sun – 100 Word Poem
dim and darkened sky
cold and unforgiving
place of depth and never ending
unseen and forgotten
to those on the other side
refuge safe
from prying eyes and minds
where self can be
and be about
what truly is
the trueness of the soul
shadows comfort anguished brain
pushed and prodded
by those uncaring or thoughtless
violated by the mundanity
and déjà vu of life
sand carved line
crossed and moved
countless times
now carved in granite
shall not be traversed again
darkness
soothing and soft
safe from life’s demands
this harbor of calm i seek
where lies the sun
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After he retired and moved to Sedona, Arizona, he taught literature at Yavapai College in Clarkdale, Arizona.
He and professional artist Bev Kephart bought a small motor home in 2003, sold most of their possessions, and traveled the U. S. for seven years. After visiting Mexico several times, they settled in the village of Ajijic, joining the ex-pat artist and writing communities.
Mel’s writing has been published online and in print in The United Kingdom, The United States, Mexico, New Zealand, and Australia. He is the author of three novels, a book of short stories, and several books of poetry. He and his wife now make their home in the village of San Nicholas de Ibarra.
- Poetry Niche – February 2026 - January 31, 2026
- Poetry Niche – December 2025 - November 30, 2025
- Poetry Niche – November 2025 - October 30, 2025
