REFLECTION WITH EMOTION is a compilation of poems and short stories written for special events, celebrations, or just for fun. Occasionally, a friend would ask me to write a short story or a poem in remembrance of a loved one or to honor the service and sacrifice a family member or friend made while serving our country. Some of the poems and short stories were written based on news articles in the local newspaper or from an event seen on television. My turbulent childhood provided me with the inspiration for many of the poems, as did my everyday experiences.