What we are given…
From the first breath drawn to final sigh,
Our needs are held in hands on high.
Not fleeting wants nor passing flame,
But life’s true needs—God does sustain.
As infants, cradled, small and new,
Through parents’ care, love carries through.
We learn, we grow, we find our way,
Guided gently day by day.
As children, wonder fills our eyes,
With gifts and truths that make us wise.
Through lessons learned and joy we find,
The shaping of both heart and mind.
As young adults, we claim the reins,
Through freedom’s paths and chosen lanes.
We walk unsure, yet bold and free,
Becoming who we’re meant to be.
As adults, steadied by life’s pace,
We search for calm, for strength, for grace.
In quiet faith, our hearts increase,
And we are given strength—and peace.
From the first breath drawn to final sigh,
We’re never left to wonder why.
For all we need, both great and small,
Is given still, for God knows all.
Norman Van Etten
these days our world seems
to crumble all around us
there's been a time warp
a glitch in the fabric of the universe
shaking the walls of our beliefs
to the depths of our silence
it's the truths that seem
to ring the loudest over yonder
we'll survive and for it will be stronger
no we'll never be the same
blindsided in our vulnerabilities
if nothing else~
we'll never take for granted
the tomorrows of our life
Published in my 24-page photo/anthology book ~THE TIME WE ARE GIVEN~ 2023
AP: Honorable Mention 2021, Honorable Mention 2021
Where is the love?
The hate is always there
Giving signs
Like, "Oh beware"
I have sense
I know there's no care
Just there only to share
Too many signs
Overtaken by guilt
Trying to be all slick
I pray for the hurts
Treated like dirt
I forgive, for I shall live.
No matter what the situation
Time passes by
Leave or stay
The relationships a lie.
I am free
Gone to another phase
Do you believe that I'm in a daze?
Think again, Don't be amazed
On my own
For I will be gone.
Not looking back
untraceable tracks
All of the miserable attacks
Just unknown paybacks
From the past held in
To be mended
Trying to destroy me
Won't work, now I see.
Cannot wait until this journey ends
Running fast from the Lion's den
A new life begins
To better days
Not here to stay
Thanking God I'm on my way.
The Signs are given in so many ways
every day, I must always pray.
Woke up with words to a poem
Fully formed,
Muse was whispering
final line.
As my eyes popped open.
All but a wisp of this knowing
Disappeared in the ether
Before I could slap water on my face.
Almost totally gone,
Before coffee.
I have no doubt
Entire texts
Are given to me
By faeries, elves and muses
As I slumber.
I am feeling
So loved.
Thank you,
Spirit Guides.
Inspired by photo:
The sun rises like a golden medallion
Turning water into a glowing scene
The smooth green hills welcome open space
Where freedom is found on the slopes
To flee, to run, with open arms to warmth
Wonder rises on the horizon
Taken in by the mind, willing to dream
Of all new beginnings, regardless of falling times
In a life that rolls like the hills, rises like the mountains
In a distant view selectively captured
By willingness to welcome new days
As opportunities of hope and transition
Embraced in the time we are given
Heidi Sands
1/5/18
I initiate
I give
All wants and needs
All
Love
Lord
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