Poems of Inspiration

Welcome to 2012. This is going to be an exciting and busy year. We are looking forward to the new year and all the promise it holds as we walk with our Lord and Saviour throughout the year.

I pray that everyone will have their best year yet. I thought I would share this new year poem with you.

I WISH YOU JESUS

This shiny bright new year I wish you Faith -
Faith that this world cannot dampen or cool,
Faith in your dreams when the facts overrule,
Faith in the Word, though some folks call you a fool,
I wish you Faith for this coming new year.

This shiny bright new year I wish you Peace -
Peace that the world's cares cannot nullify,
Peace that is unswayed though all goes awry,
Peace that this world cannot beg, steal or buy,
I wish you Peace for this coming new year.

This shiny bright new year I wish you Joy -
Joy that is untouched by earth's trials and fears,
Joy that is constant when sorrow appears,
Joy that is able to smile through its tears,
I wish you Joy for this coming new year.

This shiny bright new year I wish you Love -
Love that is steadfast, a love to abide,
Love that's a refuge in which you can hide,
Love unconditional, unqualified,
I wish you Love for this coming new year.

This shiny bright new year I wish you someone -
One who's the source of all mentioned above,
One who brings Faith on the wings of a dove,
One who's synonymous with Peace, Joy and Love,
I wish you Jesus this coming new year!

For all the promises of God in Him are yea, and in Him Amen, unto the glory of God by us. 2 Corinthians 1:20 KJV

I pray for a successful and happy new year for all our communities, but especially for our children as they learn and prepare for the future and all it holds for them.

I wish you Jesus.

I found this poem recently and feel compelled to share it with you. Perhaps it will help you or someone you know. In times of trial it is sometimes difficult to not worry, to not fret for we are only human after all. However, we need to acknoledge God's faithfulness and almighty power. We need to remind ourselves of His love for us and that He is the author and perfecter of our faith. May you be blessed and uplifted by the words that follow.

TO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED:

I'm too blessed to be stressed,
too anointed to be disappointed
I refuse to be discouraged,
To be sad or to cry.
I refuse to be downhearted
And here's the reason why:

I have a God who is almighty;
Who is sovereign and supreme;
I have a God who loves me,
And I am on His team.

He is all wise and powerful;
Jesus is His Name;
though everything else is changeable,
My God remains the same.

I refuse to be defeated!
My eyes are on my GOD!
He has promised to be with me,
as through this life I trod.

I am looking past my circumstances,
to Heaven's throne above.
My prayers have reached the heart of God.
I am resting in His Love.

I give thanks to Him in everything.
My eyes are on His face.
The battle is His; the victory is mine;
He will help me win the race!

I repeat, "I'M TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!"

It's a great poem, isn't it?

Some people really have the gift of working with words and using that gift to inspire and encourage others.

That brings me to another point - we should all ensure that we use the gifts that the Lord has given each one of us.

Some people sit, some people try;
Some people laugh, some people cry;
Some people will, some people won't;
Some people do, some people don't.

Some people believe, and develop a plan;
Some people doubt, never think that they can;
Some people face hurdles and give it their best;
Some people back down when faced with a test.

Some people complain of their miserable lot;
Some people are thankful for all that they've got;
And when it's all over, when it comes to an end;
Some people lose out, and some people win.

We all have a choice, we all have a say;
We are spectators in life, or we get in and play;
Whichever we choose, how we handle life's game;
The choices are ours, no one else is to blame.

At times i'm so discouraged
with problems of the day
I fail to see the joyful things
that are along the way.

When troubles overwhelm me
It's then my nerves may fray
that's when I need to take the time
To simply sit and pray.

Reflecting on God's many gifts
It makes me so aware
Of all the joy in little things
around me everywhere!

I must try to remember
though problems come my way
not to miss the joyful things
and the beauty of the day.

I thought I would share this poem with you.

ANZAC DAY:

I saw a kid marchin'
With medals on his chest
He marched alongside diggers
Marchin' six abreat
He knew it was ANZAC Day
He marched along with pride
He did his best to keep in step
With the diggers by his side.

And when the march was over
The kid was rather tired
A digger said "Whose medals son?"
To which he replied
"They belong to my Daddy
But he did not come back
He died in New Guinea
On a lonely jungle track."

The kid looked rather sad, then a
Tear came to his eye
The digger said "Don't cry my son
And I will tell you why
Your daddy marched with us today
All the bloomin' way
We diggers know that he was there
It's like that on ANZAC Day."

The kid looked rather puzzled
And didn't understand
But the digger went on talking
And started to wave his hand
"For this great country we live in
There's a price we have to pay
And for this thing called freedom
The diggers had to pay.

For we all love fun and merriment
In this country where we live
The price was some soldiers
Their precious life must give
For you go to school my lad
And worship God at will
Someone had to pay the price
So the diggers paid the bill.

Your daddy died for us my son
For all things good and true
I wonder if you can understand
The things I've said to you."
The kid looked up at the digger
Just for a little while
And with a changed expression
Said with a lovely s mile
"I know my daddy marched here today
This is our ANZAC Day
I know he did, I know he did
All the bloomin' way."

LEST WE FORGET:

Time to celebrate Mother's Day again!

My thoughts go to all Mums who ae raising children alone; to those who are carers for children with a disability; to those whose children have a terminal illness or are fighting cancer or are in hospital. Being a Mum under normal circumstances brings with it times of worry and concern let alone coping in the above circumstances..... However I have no doubt that there are also times of great fun and rejoicing.

In all circumstances though we know that we can trust our ever faithful heavenly Father to guide and strengthen us.

This Poem can be sung to the tune of "Softly and Tenderly Jesus is Calling".

It was written to honour Nancy, a widow, who cared for her grown daughter Karen with a Mother's love and devotion. Karen had the mentality of about a 3 year old. There are some Mothers like Nancy whose close walk with God is the only explanation for their joy in Motherhood. May God richly bless every "Nancy" in this world.

Happy Mother's Day to all our Mums.

SHE'LL GIVE JESUS HER CARES

Sometimes a mother is faced with a burden
that seems too heavy to bear;
But then the Saviour speaks lovingly to her,
"Come, cast on Me all your care."

She knows; She snows His Love;
He understands when there's no one there;
Jesus will give her His courage and comfort--
Yes, she'll give Jesus her cares.

Sometimes a mother is lonely and frightened;
No one to comfort and guide;
Then in the tempest she hears Jesus whisper,
"Peace, child, I'm here by your side".

She knows; She k nows His love;
He understand when there's no one there;
Jesus will give her His courage and comfort --
Yes, she'll give Jesus her cares.

- Connie Faust -

Matthew 11:28-30 NIV Bible:

"Come to Me,
all you who are weary and burdened,
and I will give you rest.
Take My yoke upon you
and learn from Me,
for I am gentle and humble in heart,
and you will find rest for your souls.
For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."

It's wondrous what a hug can do,
A hug can cheer you when you're blue.
A hug can say, "I love you so".
Or, "Gee! I hate to see you go".
A hug is, "Welcome back again!"
And, "Great to see you!" or
"Where've you been?"

A hug can soothe a small child's pain
And bring a rainbow after rain.
The hug! There's just no doubt about it,
We scarcely could survive without it.
A hug delights and warms and charms,
It must be why God gave us arms.

Hugs are great for fathers and mothers,
Sweet for sisters, swell for brothers,
And chances are some favourite aunts.
Love them more than potted plants.

Kittens crave them, puppies love them.
Heads of state are not above them.
A hug can break the language barrier,
And make the dullest day seem merrier.

No need to fret about the store of them.
The more you give, the more there are of them.

So stretch those arms without delay
And give someone a hug today.

On Easter Day the lilies bloom,

Triumphant, risen from their tomb;

Their bulbs have undergone rebirth,

Born from the silence of the earth

Symbolically,. to tell all men

That Christ, the Saviour, lives again.

The angels, pure and white as they,

Have come and rolled the stone away

And with the lifting of the stone,

The shadow of the cross is gone!

When we count our many blessings:
It isn't hard to see
That life's most valued treasures
ARe the treasures that are free.

For it isn't what we own or buy that signifies our wealth.
It's the special gifts that have not price;
Our Family, Friends and Health.

One song can spark a moment
One flower can wake the dream
One tree can start a forest
One bird can herald a spring.

One smile begins a friendship
One hand clasp lifts a soul
One star can guide a ship at sea
One word can frame the goal.

One vote can change a nation
One sunbeam lights a room
One candle wipes out darkness
One laugh will conquer gloom

One step must start a journey
One word must start a prayer
One hope will raise our spirits
One touch can show you care.

One voice can speak with wisdom
One heart can know what's true
One life can make the difference
You see, IT'S UP TO YOU.

Whatever our hands touch
We leave fingerprints!
On walls, on furniture,
On doorknobs, dishes, books.
There's no escape.
As we touch we leave our identity.

Oh God, wherever I go today
Help me leave heartprints!
Heartprints of compassion
of understanding and love.

Heartprints of kindness
And genuine concern.
May my heart touch a lonely neighbour,
Or a runaway daughter,
Or an anxious Mother,
Or perhaps an aged Grandfater.

Lord, send me out today,
To leave heartprints,
And if someone should say,
"I felt your touch"
May that one sense your love
Touching through me.

It's amazing and incredible,
But it's as true as it can be
God loves and understands us all
And that means you and me.

His grace is all-sufficient
For both the young and old,
For the lonely and the timid,
For the brash and for the bold.

His love knows no exceptions,
So never feel excluded,
No matter who or what you are
Your name has been included.

And no matter what you past has been,
Trust God to understand,
And no matter what your problem is
Just place it in His Hand.

For in all of our unloveliness
This great God loves us still,
He loved us since the world began
And what's more, He always will.

GOD LOVES YOU!

A basketball in my hands is worth about $19
A basketball in Michael Jordan's hands is worth about $33 million.

A baseball in my hand is worth about $6
A baseball in Mark McGuire's hands is worth $19 million

It depends on whose hands it's in

Nails in my hands might produce a birdcage
Nails in Jesus Christ's hands will produce salvation for the entire world.

It depends on whose hands it's in

As you see now it depends oon Whose hands it's in
So put your concerns, your worries, your fears, your hopes, your dreams your families and your relationships in God's hand because.....

It depends whose hands it's in.

Wishing you a heavenly day today.

Have you ever met a person
Who fulfilled you deep inside,
Someone whose never failed you
And stands right at your side.

Someone who gives all they have
And brings sunshine all around,
Always smiling and laughing,
Never seeming down.

Have you ever watched a sunset
Across the ocean shore,
And been filled with love and peace,
Never needing more.

Have you ever listened to the wind
Blowing restless through the night,
And heard angel's whispers helping you
To see when you've lost sight?

Have you heard a song that moves you
And sets your soul free,
And makes you forget your anger
And makes you feel happy?

Have you ever given to someone
When you didn't have it to spare,
And feel so worthy inside,
That you didn't have a care?

Heavenly creatures surround you,
So listen closely to what they say,
They'll bring you all of life's riches,
As they guide you along your way!

When tomorrow starts without me,
And I'm not there to see;
If the sun should rise and find your eyes
All filled with tears for me;
I wish so much you wouldn't cry
The way you did today,
While thinking of the many things,
We didn't get to say.

I know how much you love me,
As much as I love you,
And each time that you thing of me,
I know you'll miss me too;
But when tomorrow starts without me,
Please try to understand,
That an angel came and called my name,
And took me by the hand,
And said my place was ready,
In heaven far above,
And that I'd have to leave behind
All those I dearly love.

But as I turned to walk away,
A tear fell from my eye,
For all my life, I'd always thought,
I didn't want to die.
I had so much to live for,
So much yet to do,
It seemed almost impossible,
That I was leaving you.

I thought of all the yesterdays,
The good ones and the bad,
I thought of all the love we shared,
And alll the fun we had.

If I could relive yesterday,
Just even for a while,
I'd say good-bye and kiss you
And maybe see you smile.
But then I fully realised,
That this could never be,
For emptiness and memories,
Would take the place of me.

And when I thought of worldly things,
I might miss come tomorrow,
I thought of you, and when I did,
My heart was filled with sorrow.

But when I walked through heaven's gates,
I felt so much at home.
When God looked down and smiled at me,
From His great golden throne,
He said "This is eternity,
And all I've promised you.
Today for life on earth is past,
But here it starts anew.
I promise no tomorrow,
But today will always last,
And since each day's the same way
There's no longing for the past.

But you have been so faithful,
So trusting and so true.
Thought there were times you did some things,
You knew you shouldn't do.
But you have been forgiven
And now at last you're free.
So won't you take my hand
And share my life with me?"

So when tomorrow starts without me,
Don't think we're far apart,
For every time you think of me,
I'm right here, in your heart.

As I gazed up at the mountains, I was awed by their majesty;
I bowed my head and asked myself, "Why should He care for me?
I am not great like the mountains that tower so high above,
What is there about me that God can find to love?"

"Father, I am not strong like the wind that makes your tall trees sway,
I cannot sing sweetly like your birds; will you love me anyway?
But most of all, I am simply me, and often have cause to fear,
In spite of all my weaknesses, do you promise to be near?"

With eyes closed tight against my tears, I wished He could hear me pray.
Then I felt His Spirit tell me, 'Child, Look up, I have something to say.
You are simply you, the spirit I love, a part of my great plan.
I put you here to learn of life and to return to me again.'

'You are more beatiful to me than the loveliest mountain I made,
And your strength exceeds that of the wind's, so do not be afraid.
I love you not for what you are, but for what I know you will be.
I am always beside you watching you grow, you are very special to me.'

A smile touched my lips m- I knew it was true, my Father had always been there
Giving me comfort and blessings and love and my own special talents to share.
So I do my best to make Him proud. I am not afraid, for you see,
He loves me not for what I am, but for what He knows I will be.

A treasure to be cherised,
A gift from God above;
Is the beauty of a friendship,
Touched by unconditional love.

A love that asks no questions,
Believes in all the best;
Never doubting, ever trusting,
Withstanding any test.

A love that weathers any storm,
And yet that love still stands;
Through the very darkest hour,
It still reaches out a hand.

There in that hand the sweetest gift,
That you can give a friend;
A heart that cares, a love that shares,
That will be there till the end.

A treasure to be cherised,
A gift from God above;
Is waht I shaare with you my friend,
An unconditional love.

I've nothing else to offer,
so it's love to you I'll send.
It's nothing that I borrowed,
and It's nothing that I'd lend.

It has no dollar value
and can't be over used.
It isn't fragile so it will not break,
but often it's abused.

I've given it to others,
but each time it's unique.
Its meaning is always different,
depending on what you seek.
It's something you can store away
to feel when you're in need;
but never is it on display,
its beauty can't be seen.

I'm giving it to you,
no "strings attached",
no "costly warranty".
Because this love that I am sending
has a lifetime guarantee!!

It is better to light just one little candle
Than to stumble in the darl,
Better far that you light just one little candle,
All you need is a tiny spark.
If we'd all say a prayer that the world would be free,
A wonderful dawn of a new day we'd see....
And if everyone lit just one little candle,
What a bright world this would be.

When the day is dark and dreary
And we know not where to go;
Don't let your heart go weary,
Just keep this thought in mind.....

It is better to light just one little candle
Than to stumble in the darl,
Better far that you light just one little candle,
All you need is a tiny spark.
If we'd all say a prayer that the world would be free,
A wonderful dawn of a new day we'd see....
And if everyone lit just one little candle,
What a bright world this would be.

They were looking for a lion,
He came as a Lamb, and they missed Him.

They were looking for a warrior,
He came as a Peacemaker, and they missed Him.

They were looking for a king,
He came as a Servant, and they missed Him.

They were looking for liberation from Rome,
He submitted to the Roman stake, and they missed Him.

They were looking for a fit to their mold,
He was the mold maker, and they missed Him.

More than two thousands years later,
Even his followers still missed Him

But He has found many.
Sundar Singh, Mother Teresa, John Sung, Billy Graham...

Who is He? He still lives.

Remember!

Remember!

Remember!

Remember!

Remember!

The will of God will never take you

Where the grace of God cannot keep you,
the arms of God cannot support you,
the riches of God cannot supply your needs,
the power of God cannot endow you.

The will of God will never take you

Where the spirit of God cannot work through you,
the wisdom of God cannot teach you,
the army of God cannot protect you,
the hands of God cannot mould you.

The will of God will never take you

Where the love of God cannot enfold you,
the mercy of God cannot sustain you,
the peace of God cannot calm your fears,
the authority of God cannot over-rule you.

The will of God will never take you

Where the comfort of God cannot dry your tears,
the Word of God cannot feed you,
the miracles of God cannot be done for you,
the omnipresence of God cannot find you.

Remember!

A strong woman won't let anyone get the best of her......
but a woman of strength gives the best of her to everyone....

A strong woman works out everyday to keep her body in shape....
but a woman of strength kneels in prayer to keep her soul in shape....

A strong woman isn't afraid of anything.....
but a woman of strength shows courage in the midst of her fear.....

A strong woman walks sure footedly.....
but a woman of strength knows God will catch her when she falls.....

A strong woman wears the look of confidence on her face......
but a woman of strength wears grace....

A strong woman has faith that she is strong enough for the journey....
but a woman of strength has faith that it is in the journey that she will become strong!

The strong falters, but strength increases.

The odds are with you if you keep on trying.
You cannot be beaten at anything,
unit you quit....in your own mind.

There is no defeat except from within,
no really insurmountable barrier
save your own inherent weakness of purpose.
There is no failure except in no longer trying.

Consider yourself on a very long journey,
keep to your vision of success,
In the end, you can only fail if you do not try.

Winning isn't everything, but wanting to is.
If you've got the nerve to make it,
You will!

Victory is a road paved with perserverance.

I am with you always,
Never have a fear,
When you feel the most alone,
Remember I am here.

I have cried as you have cried,
Many times before,
I have had a broken heart,
Yes, and so much more.

I have known betrayal,
Of the cruelest kind,
So sweep away the bitterness,
And put it from your mind.

And let us walk together,
Through the twilights glow,
For I have felt as you do now,
Dear child...I know....I know.

I am with you always,
You are not alone,
My love for you is endless,
Because you are my own.

And through your darkest hours,
You will find me near,
Nor will your crosses ever be,
...Too great for you to bear.

I'm with you Always.

"She lives alone", I hear him say.
Who sadly cast a glance my way.
"It must be hard when day is done,
To set the table just for one.

What does she do when twilight falls,
All alone within those walls?
It is a shame she's missing out,
On what the world is all about."

I paused a moment in surprise,
Then turned and gazed into his eyes,
And felt a pang of sympathy,
For those who LOOK but do not SEE.

Within each soul God puts a spark,
Of purest hope that lights the dark,
And in each life however small,
The faith to muddle through it all.

Within each heart he does abide,
However forms and features hide,
The patient strength His hands bestow,
Upon us mortals here below.

Who lives alone should never be
The object of one's sympathy,
For moments worth their weight in gold,
Are often ours to have and hold.

To reach the door and turn the key,
And know He's waiting there for me,
With time for thought and time for prayer,
How light the burdens that I bear.

And though I set a place for one,
He's with me 'til the meal is done,
And evermore and constantly,
I have the Lord for company.

I'm Not Alone!

Even though I clutch my blanket
and growl when the alarm rings,
thank you, Lord, that I can hear....
there are many who are deaf.

Even though I keep my eyes closed
against the morning light as long as possible,
thank you, Lord, that I can see.....
many are blind.

Even though I huddle in my bed
and put off rising,
thank you, Lord, that I have the strength to rise....
there are many who are bedridden.

Even though the first hour of my day is hectic
when socks are lost, toast is burned and tempers
are short, my children are so loud,
thank you, Lord, for my family.....
There are many who are lonely.

Even though our breakfast tables never looks
like the picture in the magazines and
the menu is at time unbalanced,
thank you, Lord, for the food we have...
There are many who are hungry.

Even though the routine
of my job is monotonous,
thank you, Lord, for the opportunity to work...
There are many who have no job.

Even though I grumble
bemoan my fate from day to day,
and wish my circumstances were
not so modest
thank you, Lord, for Life!

In all things give thanks.

People liked him not because
He was rich or known to fame;
He had never won applause
As a star in any game.

He was not a brilliant style,
His was not a forceful way,
But he had a gentle smile
And a kindly word to say.

Never arrogant or proud,
On he went with manner mild;
Never quarrelsome or loud,
Just as simple as a child.

Honest, patient, brave and true:
Thus he lived from day to day,
Doing what he found to do
In a cheerful sort of way.

Wasn't one to boast of gold
Or belittle it with sneers,
Didn't change from hot to cold,
Kept his friends throughout the years

Sort of man you'd like to meet;
Any time or any place
There was always something sweet
And refreshing in his face.

Sort of man you'd like to be;
Balanced well and truly square;
Patient in adversity,
Generous when skies were fair.

Never lied to friend or foe,
Never rash in word or deed,
Quick to come and slow to go,
In a neighbour's time of need.

Never rose to wealth or fame,
Simply lived, and simply died,
But the passing of his name
Left a sorrow, far and wide.

Not for glory he'd attained,
Nor for what he had of pelf,
Were the friends that he had gained,
But for what he was himself.

People liked him.

The park bench was deserted as I sat down to read,
Beneath the long, straggly branches of an old willow tree.
Disillusioned by life with good reason to frown,
For the world was intent on dragging me down.

And if that weren't enought to ruin my day,
A young boy out of breath approached me all tired from play.
He stood right before me with his head tilted down,
And said with great excitment "Look what I found!"

In his hand was a flower, and what a pitiful sight,
With its petals all worn - not enough rain, or too little light.
Wanting him to take his dead flower and go off to play,
I faked a small smile and then shifted away.

But instead of retreating he sat next to my side,
And placed the flower to his nose, and declared with overacted surprise,
"It sure smells pretty and it's beautiful too.
That's why I picked it; here, it's for you."

The weed before me was dying or dead,
Not vibrant of colours, orange, yellow or red.
But I knew I must take it, or he might never leave.
So I reached for the flower and replied, "Just what I need."

But instead of placing the flower in my hand,
He held it mid-air without reason or plan.
It was then that I noticed for the very first time,
That weed-toting boy could not see; he was blind.

I heard my voice quiver; tears shone in the sun
As I thanked him for picking the very best one.
"You're welcome," he smiled, and then ran off to play,
Unaware of the impact he'd had on my day.

I sat there and wondered how he managed to see
A self-pitying woman beneath an old willow tree.
How did he know of my self-indulged plight?
Perhaps from his heart, he'd been blessed with true sight.

Through the eyes of a blind child, at last I could see
The problem was not with the world; the problem was with me.
And for all those times I myself had been blind,
I vowed to see the beauty in life, and appreciate every second that's mine.

And then I held that wilted flower up to my nose
And breathed in the fragrance of a beautiful rose.
And smiled as I watched that young boy, another weed in his hand,
About to change the life of an unsuspecting old man...

So beautiful indeed.

When I look at a patch of dandelions, I see a bunch of weeds that are going to take over my yard.
My kids see flowers for Mum and blowing white fluff you can wish on.

When I look at an old drunk and he smiles at me, I see a smelly, dirty person who probably wants money and i look away.
My kids see someone smiling at them and they smile back.

When I hear music I love, I know I can't carry a tune and don't have much rhythm so I sit self-consciously and listen.
My kids feel the beat and move to it. They sing out the words.

When I feel wind on my face, I brace myself against it. I feel it messing up my hair and pulling me back when I walk.
My kids close their eyes, spread their arms and fly with it, until they fall to the ground laughing.

When I pray, I say Thee and Thou and grant me this, give me that.
My kids say "Hi God! Thanks for my toys and my friends. Please keep the bad dreams away tonight. Sorry, I don't want to go to heaven yet, I would miss my Mummy and Daddy.

When I see a mud puddle, I step around it. I see muddy shoes and dirty carpets.
My kids sit in it. They see dams to build, rivers to cross and worms to play with.

I wonder if we are given children to teach or to learn from?
No wonder God loves the little children.

Enjoy the little things in life, for one day you may look back and realise they were the big things.
Just a reminder about the important things in life.

I wish you mud puddles and dandelions.

It takes strength to be certain,
It takes courage to have doubts.

It takes strength to fit in,
It takes courage to stand out.

It takes strength to share a friend's pain,
It takes courage to feel your own pain.

It takes strength to hide your pain,
It takes courage to show it and deal with it.

It takes strength to stand guard,
It takes courage to let your guard down.

It takes strength to conquer,
It takes courage to surrender.

It takes strength to endure abuses,
It takes courage to stop them.

It takes strength to stand alone,
It takes courage to learn from a friend.

It takes strength to love,
It takes courage to be loved.

It takes strength to survive,
It takes courage to live.

May you find strength and courage in everything you do,
And may your life be filled with friendship and love!

Be strong and courageous.

Come to my window and watch with me
Life holds so much beauty that we can see
God can transform the most common place
Into one of spendor and grace.

Through my window summer moves out slow
Fall takes over with colours that glow
Winter fills the air with snow
Spring brings lovely flowers that grow.

Outside my window are priceless things
Watching the world go by my heart sings
Bright sunbeams flowing into my room
At night we see a big full moon.

Rain falling softly from on high
Ending with a rainbow in the sky
Come to my window and watch today
God will send something special our way.

Come to my window, enjoy with me
God's beauty on this earth.

Never worry about tomorrow, my friend
God will send the rising of the sun,
Do not anguish over past mistakes
That can never be undone.

Never waste a single precious moment
On things that brings sorrow to the heart,
Always use each day to fasion
Into a lovely work of art.

Today comes only once, my friend
Remember it will never return,
Think, and use it wisely while you can
So many important lessons yet to learn.

Never worry enjoy this beautiful day
Forget frustrations, let them slip away
Fill this day with happiness and love
Thank God for all blessings from above.

Living by Faith.

In silence falls the soft white snow
A cold morning wind does blow
Snow covers everything we can see
All around it looks like a winter's fantasy.

We hear our footsteps crunch in the snow
As we walk when everything is still
The crisp cold winter brings a shiver
Making cheeks rosy with winter's chill.

Our pathway is covered leaving no trace
We see only fragile etchings in the snow
While walking we must slow our pace
Stepping outside we move very slow.

All around us it is peaceful and quiet
God has created a wonderland of white
All is such a delight to see
And we thank Him for this winter fantasy.

Only God could create a beautiful winter fantasy.

The key to love is understanding....

The ability to comprehend not only the spoken word
but those unspoken gestures,
the little things that say so much by themselves.

The key to love is forgiveness....

To accept each other's faults and pardon mistakes,
without forgetting but with remembering
what you learn from them.

The key to love is sharing....

Facing your good fortunes as well as the bad,
together; both conquering problems,
forever searching for ways,
to intensify your happiness.

The key to love is giving....

Without thought of return,
but with the hope of just a simple smile,
and by giving in and never giving up.

The key to love is respect....

Realising that you are two separate people,
with different ideas;
that you don't belong to each other,
that you belong with each other,
and share a mutual bond.

The key to love is inside us all....

It takes time and patience to
unlock all the ingredients that will
take you to its threshold;
it is the continual learning process
that demands a lot of work....
but the rewards are more than worth the effort....

And that is the Key to Love.

When I am feeling lonely and perhaps I feel despair,
Let not my ailing heart forget that you hear every prayer...

Remind me that no matter what I do or fail to do,
There is still hope for as long as I have faith in You....

Let not my eyes be blinded by some folly I commit;
But help me to regret my wrong and makes amends for it.

Inspire me to put my fears upon a hidden shelf,
And in the future try not to feel sorry for myself.

Give me the restful sleep I need before another dawn,
And bless me in the morning with "The Courage to Go On".

This is My Prayer

When you light this candle to guide you through the night,
Remember how you guided me to make my future bright,

When you plant this seed and nurture it to grow,
Remember how you nurtured me and how much more I known.

When you see my photo may you always think of me,
Remember YOU - That's what I'll do, you're what I aspire to be.

Happy Teacher's Day

When changes happen in our lives, what really matters is that we try our best to deal with the situation.

If we make an effort towards working things out, then we give ourselves the opportunity to decide our fate and make choices about which way our futures may lead us.

Being happy and content doesn't mean living in a world of perfect harmony; rather, it means that you allow yourself to flow with the music that plays in your life.

Enjoy the different melodies of each unique day, be flexible and easy going; you'll be surprised at how much better you feel when you don't try to control everything.

But also be ready to make choices and follow through on them, because they are the decisions that will influence all aspects of your life.

Always remember that positive thinking allows the songs in your heart to make beautiful sounds for everyone to enjoy.

Welcome change.

When I wake up this morning, I will turn on my sunshine.
Even in the depths of winter and no birds are singing,
I think about the spring that must eventually flow.

Imagine how I could pleasantly surprise another day,
and take the opportunity to call someone and say, "Hi".

I feel the lightness under my feet, I will not let anything spoil my day,
I think of ways to make things better for all around.
How to put everything in its right time and place.

I want to encourage others, looking for the best in them to compliment.
I want to open my heart to people, I acquaint myself of their hopes,
And how I may support them.

At the end of the day, I have touched some lives in my own unique way,
I hope I have made this world a better place.

By making other's day, I discovered I have made my own,
And every day can be as wonderful as I want it to be.

I don't wait for those good days, I turn on my sunshine
to make every day a good day.

So turn on your sunshine.

Through searching:

For many years I have searched for God,
It seemed I could not find
His loving presence, vainly sought,
To give me peace of mind.

Through Action:

I followed blindly, many paths,
That led to grieve and shame,
I tried to ease my conscience, when,
I'd call upon His name.

Through Prayer:

I knelt in chapels, great and small,
And sang sweet hymns of praise,
I begged forgiveness for my sins,
For peace to bless my days.

Helping a Child:

One day I fed a hungry child,
And stilled its frightened cries,
I held it gently in my arms,
And wiped its tear-filled eyes.

Helping An Old Man:

I clothed an elderly man, and gave
Him shelter from the cold,
The trembling smile upon his lips,
Was lovely to behold.

I Have Found It:

My questing heart was filled with joy,
I came to understand,
Each time I helped someone in need,
I touched the Master's hand.

Finding God

Love is what we are born with, Fear is what we learn.
The spiritual journey is the unlearning of fear and prejudices
And the acceptance of love back in our hearts.

Love is the essential reality and our purpose on earth.
To be consciously aware of it, to experience love in ourselves and others,
Is the meaning of life.

Meaning does not lie in things, Meaning lies in us.

Let's Return to Love

If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you;
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,
But make allowances for their doubting too:

If you can wait and not be tired of waiting,
Or, being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or being hated don't give way to hating,
And yet you don't look too good, nor talk too wise;

If you can dream and not make dream your master;
If you can think and not make thoughts your aim,
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
And not treat those two impostors just the same:

If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools;

If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings,
And never breathe a word about your loss;

If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
To serve your turn long after they are gone,
And so hold on when there is nothing in you,
Except the Will which says to them, "Hold on!"

If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with Kings, nor lose the common touch,
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you,
If all men count with you, but none too much;

If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds' worth of distance run,
Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,
And which is more, you'll be a Man, my son!

To such the world belong - Resilience

One hundred years from now
It will not matter,
what kind of car I drove,
what kind of house I lived in,
how much I had in my bank,
nor what my clothes looked like,

One hundred years from now
it will not matter,
what kind of school I attended,
what kind of typewriter I used,
how large or small my church...

But the world may be ....a little better because.....

I was important in the life of a child.

I viewed the world from lofty heights
I've flown just like a dove
I've perched upon the highest crest
On mountain tops above.

I've seen the towering snow-capped peaks
Where eagles dare to fly
I've touched the moon, the universe
I've soared across the sky.

From up above to valleys deep
I've lived so brave and bold
But now I'm slowing down a bit
I know i'm growing old.

Just like to blazing sun that sets
The years have slipped away
I stop beside a peaceful stream
And close my eyes to pray.

No longer do I rise above
The mountain tops on high
But down below, I quietly go
Where sheep and cattle lie.

I stroll across a field of grain
Such beauty spilling over
A prairie filled with grass so green
A meadow full of clover.

I venture to the woodlands
Where a cricket can be heard
The sights and sounds are so profound
The chirping of a bird.

Walking down a faded path
I relish in delight
The countryside has come to life
Like fire flies in the night.

Thinking back on younger years
I always soared up high
I'm living in the valley now
My time on earth is nigh.

In valleys there is blessed peace
I never feel alone
I'll walk in fertile pastures
Till my Saviour calls me home.

Till He Calls Me Home

If we might have a second chance
to live the days once more,
and rectify the mistakes we've made
to even up the score.

If we might have a second chance
to use our knowledge gained,
perhaps we might become at least
as fine as God ordained.

But we can't retrace our steps,
however stands the score,
Tomorrow brings another chance
for us to try once more.

No regrets, keep trying

Do not... undermine your worth by comparing yourself with others,
it is because we are different that each of us is special.

Do not... set your goals by what other people deem important,
only you know what is best for you.

Do not... take for granted the things closest to your heart,
cling to them as you would your life, for without them, life is meaningless.

Do not... let your life slip through your fingers by living in the past nor for the future.
By living your life one day at a time, you live all the days of your life.

Do not... give up when you still have something to give.
Nothing is really over until the moment you stop trying.
It is a fragile thread that binds us to each other.

Do not... be afraid to encounter risks.
It is by taking chances that we learn how to be brave.

Do not... shut love out of your life by saying it is impossible to find.
The quickest way to receive love is to give love;
The fastest way to lose love is to hold it too tightly.

Do not... dismiss your dreams. To be without dreams is to be without hope;
To be without hope is to be without purpose.

Do not... run through life so fast that you forget not only where you have been,
But also where you are going.

Whatever happens do not give up on life.

If you think you are beaten, you are;

If you think you dare not, you don't.

If you like to win, but think you can't, it is almost certain you won't.

If you think you'll lose, then you've lost,
for out in the world we find success begins with a person's will;
It's all a state of mind.

If you think you are outclassed, you are.

You've got to think high to rise,
you've got to be sure of yourself before you can even win the prize.

Life's battles don't always go to the stronger or faster man,
But sooner or later, the person who wins is the person who thinks,
"I Can!"

You Can.

I thought of you today....
But that is nothing new,
I thought of you yesterday
And days before that too.

I think of you in silence
And often speak your name....
But now all I have is memories
And your picture in a frame.

Your memory is a keepsake,
From which I will never part...
God has you in His keeping
I have you in my heart.

You're Always In My Heart.

Every tree you see began as a little seed.

The little tree had many problems, that it thought it could not bear,
But with strength and courage the little tree overcame every problem that came its way.

Finally the little tree became a bit tree,
it looked back and saw what it had done but it did not think it was enough.

As the years pass this tree grew and grew.
It became more than a tree.
It is a home to many animals.
Finally it is happy.

The tree is weaker than you but you have so little faith and courage.
You have not tried. When will you try?

Rejoinder from her Teacher, Ow Yeong Wai Mang, Henry Park Primary School

You started as a seedling, not knowing where to grow.
You're now a sturdy young plant, facing wind and snow.

It may not be the simpliest thing to endure and persist,
But like the wise tree in your poem, you'll survive longer than me.

Learn to count your blessings, ignore simple blows,
with each setback you'll grow stronger,
You're an everlasting rose.

No-one can deprive you of your experiences that you have,
No-one can take away the happiness that you possess.

Rise above the occasion, work hard day by day,
One morning you'll wake up, and find you've become the Wise Big Tree.

Love from Miss Ow Yeong

Yesterday's tears build a river,
washing the soul of its pain,
cleansing the heart and mind,
like a gentle sweet spring rain.

When you feel that you have cried your river
and your throat aches from tears shed
and your mind is exhausted from feelings
or your heart feels as if its dead...

Raise your eyes to the skies and recall
how lovely a full moon can be.
See the stars shining gently on all,
and remember how good friends can be.

Call that friend who you know is there,
waiting to help you through pain,
the one who does not judge, but listens,
So that you may soon find love again!

Always Have Hope!

When you are missing me...

I want you to think of me every morning when the sun rises upon your face.
It's just telling me good morning sleepy head.
It's time to wake up so we can start a new day you and me.

When you are missing me....

I want you to think of me every time you feel a breeze upon your face.
It's just me giving youu butterfly kisses and whispering I love you in your ear.

When you are missing me....

I want you to think of me everytime you feel raindrops upon your face
It's just me sharing my tears with you and saying I'm thinking of you and I miss you too.

When you are missing me....

I want you to think of me every time you look up and see snow flakes.
It's just me sprinkling stardust upon your face from my many adventures into space
and saying I wish you could see this place.

When you are missing me....

I want you to think of me every time you see all the colours in the rainbow.
It's just me saying look what I drew for all of you.

When you are missing me....

I want you to think of me every time you look at the moon and see the face.
It is just me letting you know that I am looking down at you
and saying our day is done and I will see you in our dreams.

When you are missing me....

I want you to think of me every time you see a falling star.
It's just me saying, "Look Mum and Dad, look how far I can fly
and see the trail I leave for you all to see."

When you are missing me.... and you come to see me.

I want you to think of me sleeping and dreaming of you and me
until we are together again.

Love Always,

Me

If you woke up this morning with more health than illness,
you are more blessed than the million who won't survive the week.

If you have never experienced the danger of battle,
the loneliness of imprisonment, the agony of torture or
the pangs of starvation,
you are ahead of 20 million people around the world.

If you attend a church meeting without fear of harassment, arrest, torture or death,
you are more blessed than almost 3 billion people in the world.

If you have food in your refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof over your head,
and a place to sleep, you are richer than 75% of this world.

If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, and spare change in a dish someplace,
you are among the top 8% of the world's wealthy.

If your parents are still married and alive,
you are very rare, especially in the United States.

If you hold up your head with a smile on your face and are truly thankful,
you are blessed because the majority can, but most do not.

If you can hold someone's hand, hug them or even touch them on the shoulder,
you are blessed because you can offer God's healing touch.

If you can read this message,
you are more blessed than over 2 billion people in the world that cannot read anything at all.

You are so blessed in ways you may never even know.

Count your blessings count them one by one.

You are the person who has to decide
whether you'll do it or toss it aside.

You are the person who makes up your mind
whether you'll lead or linger behind -

Whether you'll try for the goal that's afar,
or be contented to stay where you are.

Take it, or leave it. Here's something to do.
Just think it over. It's all up to you!

What do you think? To be known as a shirk,
Known as a good person who's willing to work,

Scorned for a loafer or praised by your boss.
Rich or poor, beggar or thief?

Eager or Earnest or dull through the day.
Honest or crooked? It's you who must say!

You must decide in the face of the test
whether you'll shirk it or give it your best.

You are free to choose.

Every day is a challenge
when you have to learn to overcome
big mountains and mole hills.

Every day is a blessing
when you look at it positively,
to have the chance to try out something new.

Every day is an unknown
of beauty that we've missed out the day before

Every day is a certainty
of the good memories and experiences we had.

Every day is a wonderful day
when we can meet with nice people and do nice things
And when we can be glad WE are the NICE people
when we meet people who are not.

Every day is an opportunity
for you to strive and learn,
that's what life is all about
Every day is a blessing earned.

Making Every Day Count.

In my heart there is no rhyme or song,
As I realise my love for you is gone,
And that it will never return.
Oh how my heart does yearn.

For the days of yesteryear,
When to me you were so dear,
My heart was full of love for you.
I thought it would always be true.

Our vows were broken long ago,
But I hung on because I didn't know
It didn't have to end this way.
I wanted to be with you always.

We've lost so much that will never be,
Because of your indifference to me.
For years my heart you did rend
Your love you would not extend.

Now you are left all alone,
With no way to ever atone.
My love is ashes at your feet,
I turn to go, in defeat.

The wounds will heal in time,
Lives will go on, yours and mine.
My Lord will help me through,
Help me find my way without you.

And Life Goes On!

A story is told about a solider who was finally coming home after having fought in Vietnam. He called his parents from San Francisco.

"Mum, Dad, I'm coming home, but I have a favour to ask. I have a friend I'd like to bring home with me."

"Sure," they replied, "we'd love to meet him."

"There's something you should know," the son continued, "He was hurt pretty badly in the fighting. He stepped on a land mine and lost an arm and a leg. He has nowhere else to go, and I want him to come live with us."

"I'm sorry to hear that, son. Maybe we can help him find somewhere to live."

"Son," said the father, "you don't know what you're asking. Someone with such a handicap would be a terrible burden on us. We have our own lives to live, and we can't let something like this interfere with our lives. I think you should just come home and forget about this guy. He'll find a way to live on his own."

At that point the son hung up the phone.

The parents heard nothing more from him.

A few days later, however, they received a call from the San Francisco Police. Their son had died after falling from a building, they were told. The Police believed it was suicide.

The grief stricken parents flew to San Francisco and were taken to the city morgue to identify the body of their son. They recognised him, but to their horror they also discovered something they didn't know, their son had only one arm and one leg.

The parents in this story are like many of us.

We find it easy to love those who are good-looking or fun to be around, but we don't like people who inconvenience us or make us feel uncomfortable. We would rather stay away from people who aren't as healthy, beautiful, or as smart as we are.

Thankfully, there is someone who won't treat us that way. Someone who loves us with unconditional love that welcomes us into the forever family, regardless of how messed up we are.

Tonight, before you tuck yourself in for the night, say a little prayer that God will give you the strength you need to accept the people as they are, and to help us all to be more understanding of those who are different from us!

Love Is Accepting People As They Come.

If I knew you and you knew me,
If both of us could clearly see,
With an inner sight divine,
The meaning of your heart and mine.

I'm sure that we would suffer less,
And clasp our hands in friendliness,
Our thoughts would pleasantly agree,
If I knew you and you knew me.

If I knew you and you knew me,
As each ones known to be,
We could look each other in the face,
And see therein a truer grace.

Life has so many hidden woes,
So many thorns for every rose,
The why of things our hearts would see,
If I knew you and you knew me.

Strive To Know Each Other Better!

To laugh is to risk appearing the fool.
To weep is to risk being called sentifmental.

To reach out to another is to risk involvement.
To expose feelings is to risk showing your true self.

To place your ideas and your dreams before a crowd is to risk being call naive.
To love is to risk not being loved in return.

To live is to risk dying.
To hope is to risk despair and to try is to risk failure.

But risks must be taken because the greatest risk in life is to risk nothing.
The person who risks nothing,
does nothing,
has nothing,
is nothing,
and becomes nothing.

He may avoid suffering and sorrow,
but he simply cannot learn and feel
and change and grow and love and live.

Chained by things that are certain, he is a slave.
He has forfeited his freedom.

Only the person who risks is truly free.

Every special person who touches our lives
leaves their own unique mark on our heart;
a mark that can never be chiseled away.
even if the years eventually pull us apart.

We can take on their expressions and
such the more we share of ourselves together
It's those little things about another person
that can remain a part of us forever.

People who we have met throughout
our life become a part of the person
Who we are today, we learn and
we grow from the relationships.

Each one touching us, in its own special way.
We laugh about spending too much time together.
When we think we have become like each other.
But it just shows how much we've been touched by the relationship
We have found with another.

Those special people who can touch
our lives are like precious jewels
Amongst life's treasures, they shine on us and leave a lasting impression.
A unique mark on our heart , a gift without a measure:

To My Special Persons!

She could not paint, nor write, nor rhyme
Her footprints on the sands of time,
As some distinguished women do;
Just simple things of life she knew.

Like tucking little folks in bed,
Or soothing someone's aching head.

She was no singer, neither blessed,
with any special loveliness
to win applause or passing fame;
No headlines ever blazed her name.

But, oh, she was a shining light
To all her loved ones, day and night!

Her home, her kingdom, she its queen;
Her reign was faithful, honest clean,
Impartial, loving, just, to each
And every one she sought to teach.

Her name? Of course, no other
In all the world so sweet - just Mother!

Happy Mother's Day!