Grace and Solitude

When times make me wary, where do I seek strength to carry
me through? I pray the chaos, loss, and grief won’t tarry
till all are bereft, with nothing of our “normal” left. 
God of Grace, please let not our rock of hope be cleft.

When typical closeness isn’t safe, I know loud verboseness
against restrictions won’t banish the moroseness
or ease the burden many experience worldwide.
God’s Word says “PRAY.” I do, each day, that He’ll stem the tide.

When life becomes surreal, what, besides prayer, helps me feel
peaceful—when the world is not on an even keel?
loved--when I can’t be with friends and family?
free—when my tiny corner of the world is all I see?

wind chime music, stately trees, a southerly breeze;
frequent newsy phone chats and drive-by waves that appease;
knowing He’ll “never leave me,”* though pestilence may rage.
assurance that someday His healing hand will turn this page


Deuteronomy 31:8 The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; 
he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."

Date posted: April 23, 2020
Grace and Solitude Poetry Contest        placed 4th
Sponsor: John Hamilton
Copyright © | Year Posted 2020

Poem

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Poteet Avatar
May 10, 2020 at 6:06 PM
I sense your strong faith and reliance on God, Janice. He is our solid rock in surreal times and a sure healer. An encouraging piece; I like your emphasis on PRAY.
Canerdy Avatar
May 13, 2020 at 2:51 PM
Reason, thank you so much. Janice
Hamilton Avatar
May 9, 2020 at 5:03 PM
Very nice Janice, congrats on a nice placement!
Canerdy Avatar
May 13, 2020 at 2:52 PM
John, thanks a million for sponsoring and for placing my poem! :-) Janice
Laurie Avatar
April 24, 2020 at 7:42 PM
Hello Janice … we need a lot of support at this time when it appears humanity is helpless in the fight, but a guiding hand make sure this war is won - thank you Janice - Lindsay
Canerdy Avatar
April 24, 2020 at 8:28 PM
Thanks so much, Lindsay. Janice
Kauffman Avatar
April 24, 2020 at 4:51 PM
Your poem gives such a sense of God's presence in a wonderfully gentle way, Janice. Beautiful imagery of the wind chime and the breeze. good luck in the contest.
Canerdy Avatar
April 24, 2020 at 6:00 PM
Thanks so much, Sam! Janice
Pandit Avatar
April 24, 2020 at 6:41 AM
Truly serene poem--in words of grace and prayer. A comforting write for difficult times. All the best, Janice.
Canerdy Avatar
April 24, 2020 at 6:01 PM
Thanks so much, Vijay. Janice
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