In the Valley #poetry #reflection
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death your perfect love is casting out fear”
Yes I can read these words
I memorized them as a child
but
until I am in the valley
crawling on my knees
hoping for an oasis
to stem the tide
quench my thirst
I do not understand the full capacity
the strength
of loving arms that pull me up
carry me to the water’s edge
“drink” you say as you cup your hands
the sweetest tasting water caresses my lips
I am filled
I am still in the valley but I have living water to get me through
to remind me I am not alone
you are here when they have all left me to my own
and I am whole in you
****
Today at Faith Barista the prompt is “when your journey leads you downhill … God will make a way” 
I have been sojourning in the valley floor for a year (tomorrow is the anniversary). I wrote a friend telling him “I have nothing but I have everything I could possibly need in Him.”
In one year I have lost everything tangible (other than a few sticks of furniture) no car, no home, a few clothes, my health has failed me and I have been admitted twice to the hospital in one month (no way to pay those bills); the kicker was the tests that came back .I have licked the valley floor and yet I have never known such peace in my life. The water I drink is love; love from God and people I did not know giving me gifts, telling me they would be praying for me, loving me with a smile, clearing a surgery schedule, forgiving my multi hospital visit debt…
I write this not to ask you to feel bad for me please don’t – I am in capable, strong hands and in the best place I could possibly be. What about you? If you lost everything today, could you strain your eyes to see the oasis in the distance? Could you release yourself/ really let go and be caught by capable, loving hands? He is more than sufficient for our every need.
Photograph “Alone” L. Moon copyright 2011
You are inspiration. Thank you for being, friend.
Leslie, I too have wondered about you. As I read I see your heartaches but I also see your strength. As you know I too have went through terrible situations and came out stronger. We both lean on the same God and he is our strength. You and your beautiful poetry will continue to grow and come out on top. Much Love – Neva Changefulstorm
Thanks Neva for the visit
I’m in good hands
Beautifully crafted & heartrending as well. I truly enjoy reading your pieces.
Amazing writing … I loved it !!!
…the tests that came back. I hope you are well, the tests being those you have faced this past year, not tests from the hospital…? No home? No car? I hope a job. I really don’t think I would do so well, faith in God withstanding…
Your poetry is beautiful, if that is any help…
Perhaps small consolation, but I have been through much & will always have an ear for you should you need someone to speak to.
Stay strong, stay positive & remember: Tough times don’t last; tough people do.
There is a warmth in these lines that flow from the heart of the writer…peace be with you my friend.
My prayers will be in earnest as you are a bright shining star!