had to share

my thoughts on friday's tragedy are scattered.  i've cried, been incredibly angry, cried some more, sat with my mouth hung open, wiped more tears, read countless articles, praised our president, disagreed with "we need stricter gun laws" and felt so numb that i've caught myself just staring into space on numerous occasions.  

i came across this poem and actually smiled while reading it.  i think in times of tragedy, it's important to cling to the things that provide you with comfort - God, prayer, family, more prayer.  that's my order. 

maybe you'll feel some comfort, too?

Twas' 11 days before Christmas, around 9:38

                             when 20 beautiful children stormed through heaven's gate

their smiles were contagious, their laughter filled the air

they could hardly believe all the beauty they saw there

they were filled with such joy, they didn't know what to say

they remembered nothing of what had happened earlier that day

"where are we?" asked a little girl, as quiet as a mouse

"this is heaven." declared a small boy. "we're spending Christmas at God's house."

when what to their wondering eyes did appear,

but Jesus, their savior, the children gathered near.

He looked at them and smiled, and they smiled just the same

then He opened His arms and He called them by name

and in that moment was joy, that only heaven can bring 

those children all flew into the arms of their King

and as they lingered in the warmth of His embrace,

one small girl turned and looked at Jesus' face

and as if He could read all the questions she had

He gently whispered to her, "I'll take care of mom and dad."

then He looked down on earth, the world far below

He saw all of the hurt, the sorrow, and woe

then He closed His eyes and He outstretched His hand,
"Let My power and presence re-enter this land!"

"may this country be delivered from the hands of fools"

"I'm taking back my nation. I'm taking back my schools!"

then He and the children stood up without a sound

"come now my children, let me show you around."

excitement filled the space, some skipped and some ran

all displaying enthusiasm that only a small child can

and i heard Him proclaim as He walked out of sight,"

in the midst of this darkness, I AM STILL THE LIGHT."

Written by Cameo Smith, Mt. Wolf, PA