You shine with grace and radiance
going far beyond your dark struggles;
as a light reaching out to those around
you lifting their hearts along the way.
Truly, I cannot know your unique pain,
it is yours to bear within you;
yet I know that you are not alone,
many are those who have gone before.
Their love and sorrowed sacrifice
lived in struggle from day to day
simply to be there for their families
and for you who read this now.
Hear this prayer that is being offered
from the view of ones who know;
life is best when lived out loud
when shouting above the roaring doubt.
Weary hands lift one more time
and eyes will gaze out with hope
for your sisters stand on your side
to embrace you for who you are.
This Cancer’s hold is nothing
compared to the love that is shared
with flowing tears and tenderness
to carry you for one more day.
So hold fast to those who love you
and give often your bright smiles of love;
you are such a precious being
and your light gives hope to us all.
~r.
All rights reserved,
© 2007 R. Braley
(astralshepherd)
permission to copy for personal use only
non-personal use is forbidden
Author notes
This is a journey
not a destination,
it is best walked out
with those who love you.
you have permission to reprint this for personal use only
A contest entry
- Words of Encouragement by Riftkin.
525 points, ended September 19, 2007, 11 entries
Gold trophy winner
• next poem in this contest, remove from contest
Let me know what YOU think
Comments
1 - 12 of 12
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this is quite beautifully end delicately
conveyed and such a message of hope... very lovely and touching, in a gentle and tender way...
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Once again Richard you reach out,
from your own darkness you bring so much light,
so much love,
so much compassion
so much of the wonderful, tender soul that you are
love to you xx
Lisa xx
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I can see why this poem was crowned with gold ...
and how we all need to hear your words ... No illness in this life can diminish our true core -- the Love of Him inside us! Our earthly lives are temporary, but eternal the Smile of Love.
Every time I read your work, I am left with a feeling of serenity and peace. Thank you, Richard, for your divine presence on this Website.
Love
Myra
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You have walked in the shoes of death himself; it is so apparent in your words. It is much easier to draw words of strength and hope when someone has been there. Simply beautiful. Congrats on your gold, too. Hugs, ♥ Belle
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thank you for permission and these wonderful words.
Riftkin -
This was a bookmark long before it held ink. Amazing flow and better for the dazzling light it rides within. But then, that radiance fell from a beacon-heart that has few peers. Thank you for this. The reading was a journey in itself.
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This poem will give me lots of inspiration to keep holding on and have faith when my troubles are so deep. Thank you so much for sharing it. Well written.
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Lovely poetry with a wonderful message of love, strength, and compassion. I loved every word of this, best of luck in the contest!
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Reading your poetry is always a humbling experience. Your words ring so true in aspects of our life, not just those facing cancer. The word Cancer can be replaced with so many words; ie grief, heartache, sickness, etc. I love this write and I am thankful for your permission to use it, because I will.
Cheryl
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SO filled with hope and humble words...
So very lovely this is...
Excellent poetry!
Lynda
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It is has been a while since I have ventured into your world.... for fear I may find just what I have..... the road is tough to travel through illness, no one knows it better than you.... we walk with head held high, careful not to trip on pebbles which as we walk become boulders that block our paths..... I myself am at the crossroads with no direction, just another round of chemo to keep me alive..... I am lost in a world of darkness.... of which I can not find my way..... but as always you bring such beauty to something so devastating.... I'm sorry I have been a stranger dear one..... your beauty oozes from your words, powerfully and strongly...... *hugs*
Karen
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Any words to describe what I felt when reading this would be inadequate. Beatiful, wonderful, and so incredibly powerful. I'm blown away by this poem. Everything about it is amazing
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