Sad Day...

I learned day before yesterday that a longtime friend from High School days that I had been looking for over the past few years died in August... and it has me thinking...
I have been thinking about the many people who have impacted my life over the 40 years I have lived so far. So many have helped to shape the man I am today, and for that, I am grateful. I am richer for having known each one. For some time now, I have been looking for many of them, to tell them just how much they meant and mean to me, and what a difference they made in my life, just through the way they treated me, the things they said and did, and the example they lived. As time passes, more and more of them will have passed on.

I pray that I do not miss another opportunity.

Missy, I would love to be able to tell you how very special and precious you will always be to my heart. During the most awkward and difficult and lonely time in my life, you were a true friend. I looked for you to tell you, but by the time I found your sister, it was too late. I am so sorry for the suffering that marked the end of your life, and for your passing at such a young age. I carry you and your memory in my heart and am richer for having known you. Rest well, dear sister, and I look forward to seeing you again after this life.

J.

Refreshing

Weary from the long days
The difficult days
Dry in my Spirit
Soul on toward empty

Desert days
Walking sometimes aimlessly
Numb, unaware
Sometimes wanting to die

And then I see
before my eyes
A beautiful sight
just in time

An oasis in my desert
flowing with fresh water
Drenching and refreshing
deep within

Stagnant waters
now moving
Stirring and cleansing
washing away

Restarting the springs
of living waters
A wellspring of life
flowing through me

Newfound peace
Extravagant rest
Finding You
or did You find me?

Filling and fulfilling
Invigorating and thrilling
Bringing near dead
back to fully alive

Strength returning
Clarity and wisdom
Exquisite friendship
Abiding love

J/ (c) 2008

Breakthrough!

Slow down
and take a breath
I know it's hard
but try to rest

The gears all spinning
inside your head
Life hasn't dealt you
what you'd expect

Longing for
a simple touch
Sometimes it feels
like way too much

Responsibility owned
Feeling alone
Soul so heavy
it's too much to carry

Pushing through
the hardest part
Resist the urge
to harden your heart

It will not last forever
though it sometimes feels it could
You are not forgotten
it's all working for your good

Standing there
before a wall
And in your mind
it seems so tall

Too tall to climb
you know it's true
The only way
is to push straight through

So break on through
to the other side
You've come too far
to be denied

Push on through
that paper wall
It a facade
and no wall at all

Looks like a wall
Actually a door
And once you open it
You'll see much more

On the other side
you'll find
Freedom, love
and peace of mind

You're expected
so come on in
I'm waiting here
for you, my friend

J/ (C) 2008