Poetry

Always Have a Dream
(by Amanda Bradley)

Forget about the days when it's been cloudy,
but don't forget your hours in the sun.
Forget about the times you've been defeated,
but don't forget the victories you've won.

Forget about mistakes that you can't change now,
but don't forget the lessons that you learned.
Forget about misfortunes you've encountered,
but don't forget the times your luck has turned.

Forget about the days when you're been lonely,
but don't forget the friendly smiles you've seen.
Forget about the plans that didn't seem to work out right,
but don't forget to always have a dream.

Poetry

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Give Me a New Dream
(by Catherine Marshall)

Father,
Once I had such big dreams,
     so much anticipation of the future.
Now no shimmering horizon beckons me;
     my days are lack-luster.
I see so little of lasting value in the daily round.
     Where is Your plan for my life?

You have told us that without vision, we perish.
     So, Father in Heaven, knowing that I can ask in confidence
           for what is Your expressed will to give me,
I ask you to deposit in my mind and heart that particular dream,
     the special vision You have for my life.

And along with the dream,
     will You give me whatever graces, patience, and stamina
           takes to see the dream through to fruition?
I sense this may involve adventures I have not bargained for,
     but I want to trust You enough
          to follow even if You lead along new paths.

I admit to liking some of my ruts,
     but I know that habit patterns,
         that seem like cozy nests from the inside,
from Your vantage point may be prison cells.

Lord, if you want to break down any prisons of mine
     before I can see the stars and catch the vision,
         then, Lord, begin the process now.Lord,
            if you want to break down any prisons of mine
               before I can see the stars and catch the vision,
                  then, Lord, begin the process now.

In joyous expectation.
Amen.

Sermons We See
(by Edgar Guest)

I�d rather see a sermon
   than hear one, any day;
I�d rather one would walk with me
   than merely tell the way;
The eye�s a better pupil
   and more willing than the ear.

Fine counsel is confusing,
   but example�s always clear,
And the best of all the preachers
   are the men who live their creeds,

For to see good put in action
   is what everybody needs.
I soon can learn to do it
   if you�ll let me see it done;
I can watch your hands in action,
   but your tongue too fast may run.

And the lecture you deliver
   may be very wise and true,
But I�d rather get my lessons
   by observing what you do.

For I might misunderstand you
   and the high advice you give.
But there�s no misunderstanding
   how you act and how you live.