A daily six word challenge appears on the message board of this website. Those who choose to participate incorporate the words in either a poem or a story. jay, specimen, quit, opposite, pocket, Columbus



The young girl from Columbus, Ohio sat in front of the mirror in the small apartment she shared with her older sister, Beth. She smiled as she placed the gold heart shaped locket under the collar of her "jay blue" dress. She was a specimen of youth and exuberance. The pocket of her dress contained a small card with a tiny gold cross on it.

"I carry a cross in my pocket, a simple reminder to me of the fact that I'm a Christian no matter where I may be. This little cross is not magic, nor is it a good luck charm. It isn't meant to protect me from every physical harm. I'ts not for identification for all the world to see. It's simply an understanding between my Savior and me. When I put my hand in my pocket to bring out a coin or key, the cross is there to remind me of the price he paid for me. It reminds me to be thankful for my blessings day by day, and to strive to serve Him better in all that I do and say.

It's also a daily reminder of the peace and comfort I share with all who know my Master and give themselves to His care. So I carry a cross in my pocket reminding no one but me that Jesus Christ is Lord of my life if only I'll let Him be."

Everyday was a challenge for her as she leaned forward in her wheel chair to pick up the small black Bible from her nightstand and place it in the opposite pocket of her dress. Marie did not quit because things were not easy for her, but she took each day as an opportunity to do her personal best. The wheel chair van waited outside on the street for her to board. Soon she was inside and on her way to her job at the local guidance center where she helped physically challenged children to be all they could be. "Courage is fear that has said its prayers."