My interest is leading teenagers and young adults to Christ. Over the last 4 years friends of mine have lost their teenagers, young adult children all for something they had no control over. My heart goes out to my friends who have lost their children. Some to Devil- And Prasie God some went home to Heaven. I want to tell you a story of a bright young man who had a great future ahead of him. His name was Josh
In Loving Memory of Joshua Dewberry
October 5,1986-June 3, 2007
Zingerbug on imikimi
I first met Josh when he was about 7 years old. He was a typical 7 year old boy. I was his Sunday School Teacher at Christain Fellowship Center. I was also his Childrens Church Teacher. I remember I had to stay on Josh alot to get him to pay attention in both classes. He, like others in the class was at times hard to hold there attention. They were typical kids. I taught Josh about God for a few years until he bacame a teenager. I remember the day he gave his life to God. I was so proud of him as I am all teenagers who decide to live their lives for Jesus. When our church folded and joined in with another church, we went another direction. Josh and his family followed along to the other Church which is now Tree of Life Ministries. I didn't see Josh for a long time. Other then passing on the street or my son coming home after they got passed the age of 18 telling me about them playing basketball alot together. At 19 Josh re-dedicated his life to God again. Prasie God!!!
On the night of June 3rd, 2007 Josh was delivering newspapers to boxes for his dad, they was at a convient store when 3 teenagers approached the van they was driving. They had a few words and as they was driving off shots was fired into the van, one hitting Josh straight through his heart. Josh was in the right place but at the wrong time. He died instantly. Josh was only 20 years old. I can't sit here and say that he still served God because I don't know, I do know he was more into the world then he was into God. I can't sit here and say if Josh is in Heaven or not because I don't know. Only God does. That Sunday morning I got phone call after phone call telling me Josh had been murdered the night before. I fell to my knees and I cried out to Jesus. I asked God why this young mans life was taken from him at such a young age, why these teenagers felt the need that they had to murder someone. Why they felt the need to take someone else's life. The next 3 days was like living as a zombie, I couldn't believe he was really gone. At the funeral there was many teenagers, most sat there the whole time and cried including my son. My son asked me a few days later if I thought Josh was in heaven, I told him I couldn't answer that. I asked him how Josh lived his life the last year, he said he lived for the world, he drank, he partied, he didn't want to be part of the "out" crowd. When my son told me this, I asked him with him living a life like that where did he think he was? My son began to cry.....he said mom don't say that. I think he could tell by my expression what my thoughts was....I don;t know where Josh is today, I just pray he was righ with God..
If there was one thing Josh could tell all his friends and other teenagers today it would be-don't try to be part of the in crowd, live your life for Jesus, Jesus is the only way. I know with all the peer pressure that is placed on teenagers and young adults today they want to "FIT" in. Most will do whatever it takes to fit in. Even if it means, drinking, doing drugs, partying,cussing, killing others, whatever it takes they will do it.
But listen to me, I have been there, God has spared my life so many times as a teenager, as a young adult, he had his hand on me and his purpose was so I can spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ to others, to teenagers, to young adults. I beg of you, you don't have to be a part of the crowd who serves the Devil. There is alot of teenagers and young adults out here who follow God. If you don't know Jesus as your personal Saviour, you need to. You need to get on your knees and beg God of your forgiveness, mean it from the bottom of your heart. Get in a GOOD Bible Based Church. One that teaches what the Bible says. Read your Bible Daily, Pray to God every change you get. If you need someone to talk to email me, I am here for you, The day we was born God had already designated a day for us to die. If your life was taken from you today, would you go to Heaven? Or would you go to Hell? Hell is real. Some don't believe it. Think about it. Make the right decisions in your life today. Become one of the "In crowd for Jesus" with Jesus you can't go wrong.
Justice Finally Served
Teen gets 30 years in deadly shooting
The teenager who killed a man outside of a convenience store in June will spend 30 yearsin prison.
Melvin Walker, 16, was sentenced Friday for his involvement in the murder of 19-year-oldJoshua Dewberry.
Walker was charged with first-degree murder but found guilty of second-degree murder aftera November trial in Danville Circuit Court, Danville Commonwealth’s Attorney William H.Fuller III said Friday.
Walker received 27 years for the second-degree murder charge and three years for the useof a firearm in the commission of a murder.
Danville police arrested Walker shortly after the June 3 shooting.
Police responded to shots fired near North Main and Fagan streets, close to SunriseConvenience Store, at about 12:30 a.m. June 3. Officers found Dewberry in the front seatof a van with a gunshot wound.
The scenario provided by the prosecution began when Newberry and his friend Michael Talleywanted some juice and stopped at the Sunrise.
Three juveniles were standing in front of the convenience store carrying firearms,prosecutors said. Walker was one of the teenagers at the store.
Talley testified that Dewberry yelled from his truck, “You think you are all bad withthose guns, what are you going to do with those guns.â€
Walker ran over to the van and fired his pistol several times, prosecutors said.
Police found eight shell casings near the store after the shooting and there were threebullet holes in the van.
One bullet hit Dewberry in the back and the shell traveled through his left lung’s lowerlobe, entering his aorta then going through the upper right lobe of his lung, according toa report provided by the commonwealth’s attorney.
Dewberry slumped over on Talley and the van hit a building, the report stated.
Dr. Kevin Whaley, the state’s assistant chief medical examiner, testified that Dewberrydied within 5 to 10 minutes after being shot. Talley was trapped under his dead friend forabout 5 minutes, officials said.
An eyewitness told authorities he was pumping gas when the shots were fired. He saw Walkerrun from the scene and was familiar with him because he had known him for years,prosecutors said.
A juvenile resident at W.W. Moore Jr. Juvenile Detention Home testified that Walkeradmitted to the shooting.
While Walker told police he wasn’t at the store at the time of the fatal shooting, thedefendant’s mother identified him being at the store at the time of the shooting becauseshe recognized the green hat he was wearing.
“Even when confronted by his mother telling him she had seen him on the video, thedefendant (Walker) still denied even being at the store,†Senior Commonwealth’s AttorneyMichael J. Newman said.
Walker was already under house arrest for a charge out of Juvenile and Domestic RelationsCourt. His mother testified that she did not know where her son was for days before theshooting.
“Throughout his interview with detectives (the) defendant showed no remorse for hisaction,†Newman said, noting the teenager laughed when confronted about the shooting.
Walker also told officers that they couldn’t prove that he did anything, prosecutors said.
Fuller said he hopes the prison sentence will send a message to young people found guiltyof violent crime. He said the shooting was not related to a robbery or any other seriouscrime.
“There was no motive other than word passing,†Fuller said.
Walker will probably spend his time in a Virginia Department of Corrections juvenilefacility until he turns 21, Fuller said. After that, he will be sent to an adult facility.
He will be on probation for two years once he gets out of prison and must remain on goodbehavior for 20 years, according to the prosecutor.
John 3:16-21
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
In Loving Memory of Dusty Newby
Dusty was another teenager in my Teen Sunday School Class. Dusty drowned at the lake this past summer. His friends tried to save him but it was to late.Dusty will always be remembered by me, his family and his friends.
Sunday Sept 30, 2007. In Loving Memory of Aaron Keonta Younger. Friends and teachers remember Aaron Keonta Younger as a young man who touched a lot of lives. The 16-year-old ninth-grader at Langston Focus School died Sunday after collapsing while he was working at Long John Silver’s, according to Samuel Massie, the school’s principal. Counselors were brought in this week to help students and faculty deal with their grief.“We were told he was pronounced dead before he got to the hospital
In Loving Memory of Ashton Bonds
imikimi - Customize Your World
Ashton Bonds was from Bedford County here in Va. He contacted MRSA from school. He went home to be with our Lord and Savior on Oct 15, 2007. He was 17 yrs old.
CHRISTINA LEE LEMON 14 YEARS OLD WAS IN A AUTOMOBILE WITH PEOPLE WHO HAD BEEN DRINKING AND HER LIFE WAS TAKEN AWAY THAT NIGHT ON JULY 25, 2003.PLEASE DONT EVER DRINK AND DRIVE EVERY 15 MINUTES SOMEBODY'S LIFE IS TAKEN BECAUSE OF THIS AND THAT PERSON WAS A DAUGHTER, MOTHER, SISTER, SON, UNCLE, DAD, GRANDMOTHER, GRANDFATHER, COUSIN AND THAT PERSON MEANT THE WORLD TO SOMEONE! NOW I KNOW THAT TEENAGERS AND YOUNG ADULTS BELIEVE THEY ARE INVISABLE TO THE WORLD AND IT COULD NEVER HAPPEN TO THEM I WAS THAT AGE NOT THAT MANY YEARS AGO AND I WAS THE SAME WAY AND TRUST ME IT CAN AND MAY HAPPEN TO YOU IF YOU TAKE THAT CHANCE! ITS REALLY NOT WORTH IT BECAUSE IT AFFECTS AND HURTS SO MANY PEOPLE DO YOU WANT TO DO THAT TO YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILIES? I HOPE FROM CHRISTINA'S DEATH AND THE LOSE OF SO MANY INNOCENT PEOPLE LIKE HER PEOPLE WILL WAKE UP AND UNDERSTAND THAT ITS REALLY NOT WORTH IT!
Brandon Maurice Conrad
November 13, 1993- January 31, 2008
Brandon Maurice Conrad, 14, of 4157 Whitmell School Road, died suddenly on Wednesday, Jan. 30, 2008, at his residence
He was an eighth grade student at Tunstall Middle School, where he was a member of the Junior Beta Club. He was also in the gifted program and a member of the Tunstall Titans Football "A" Team.
He also enjoyed hunting and fishing, attended Shining Light Baptist Church in the Blairs community, and was a member of Oak Grove Baptist Church in the Keeling community. My heart goes out to this family and our community.
In Loving Memory
Danny James Marshall, 45, went home to be with Jesus
Sept. 21, 1962,-Feb. 9, 2008
Gone but forever in our hearts.
I have known Danny since I was about 16 years old. All of us hung out together. He lived up the
street where we lived at. His sister Lisa and I was good friends. When I first learned that it was Danny who was killed
I couldn't believe it. Someone my age, who I had know most of my life had been taken at such a early age.
Danny you wil always be remember by those of us who knew and loved you. You are in Heaven now. Wrap you arms around my mom and
Dad, telll them how much I love and miss them.
John Paul Seamster
May 24, 1970-May 1, 2008
Forever In Our Heart.
He served on the pastor's council, was an usher and Sunday School teacher at Riveroak Church of God and was a member of God's Pit Crew.
He was well repecte by all. He loved to play basketball with my son. I am sure you are in heaven now with Jesus where you are no longer battling
depression. Your will be greatly missed.
Your Sister in Christ
Nellie
In Loving Memory of all the friends and loved one's that my family has lost over the years
I cry out to all of you teenagers and young adults who don't know Jesus as your personal saviour. You are not promised tomorrow, the next minute, the next hour. My heart cries out to you all who dont know Jesus, who think you need to be in the world. Look how many young teens are dying today!!! I am trying to reach out to you all. Jesus is calling to you, PLEASE ANSWER HIS CALL!!!
A million times I've missed you, a million times I've cried. If love alone could have saved you you never would have died.
To some you are forgotton, to others just part of the past; but to me who loved and lost you, your love will always last. It broke my heart to lose you, you didn't go alone; for my life went with you my precious child the day God called you home, for things on earth didn't matter, but now I feel so alone.
My heart will always be broken, my life will never be whole, until I see you again on God's golden shore.
God's garden must be beautiful for you are there to stay, the rose of love within me will bloom again someday. We might be parted for awhile, our hearts will always be together for one day soon we will hold hands again forever.
Love your Sister in Christ
Nellie
Ashley
May you dance with the angels and sing with the stars sweet angel.
My thoughts, prayers, and love are with you and your family.
Teen to Teen
Do you know who Jesus is?
Jesus is your spiritual lifeguard.
Confused? Well just read on.
You see, God sent His Son,Jesus Christ
into the world to forgive us of our sins,
and to save us from eternal or everlasting torture
in a place called Hell.
In Hell, you are by yourself in total darkness
screaming for your life, because you are being burned alive for all eternity.Remember, eternity lasts forever.
You smell sulfur in Hell,
and hear everyone else’s blood curdling screams.
On top of that,
You remember all the horrible things
that you have ever done...
All the people you have picked on.
These memories
are going to haunt you forever and ever.
It is never going to stop.
And you'll wish that you'd paid attention
to all the people who warned you about Hell.
There is hope though.
The hope is Jesus.
If you want to escape this place called Hell,
Then stay with me.
God sent Jesus Christ to die for our sins.
Jesus was hung on a cross.
He was spit on and mocked.
He was beaten.
A crown of thorns were thrown on His head,
paying for the sins of the world.
He died to save His people
from the burning Hell.
He has a place for His people
A place called Heaven.
In Heaven, there are no tears shed,
No pain and sorrow,
No worries and cares.
A place so beautiful
That it is indescribable.
If you would like to go there when you die,
then confess to God that you are a sinner,
and deserve to go to Hell.
Ask God to forgive you of all your sins.
Then turn from your sins,
and ask God to help you with your journey with Him.
If you believe what I said,
and would like to ask Jesus into your heart,
then pray a prayer like this.
“Dear God, I admit that I am a sinner going to Hell.
I know that I cannot save myself.
I repent (turn away from) of my sins,
and put my faith in the blood you shed for me on the cross, to pay for all my sins.I now accept you as my Savior. Please come into my life. I trust you to take me to Heaven. Thank you for saving me, Amen.â€
Congratulations,
I shall see you in Heaven one day!If you prayed this prayer please email me and let me know so I can help you with your walk with Jesus
Two little hands are resting,
A little heart is still,
A little son you loved is waiting,
For you just over the hill.
Keep all your dreams so close to your heart,
and never give up, when your life's falling apart.
Let your dreams give you strength to carry on,
and help you find the future, you feel has gone.
Build on those dreams that you hold so dearly,
and you'll be able to see, your life more clearly.
These are your tomorrow's you can make today,
and through the darkness, you'll find your way.
Nothing is impossible, as long as you believe;
those felt unreachable are possible to achieve.
Have faith in yourself and trust in God's love;
reach for the stars blessed by Heaven above.
@Nellie
In The Face Of The Giver
There are times when we're hurting...and people disappoint us
because they don't have the right words to say.
They can't even fathom the depth of our problem
or what we struggle with day-after-day.
But these times of disappointment only serve to remind us
that people are simply just what they are.
They are limited in wisdom because they are mortal
and their knowledge is only so far.
The reason for that is really so simple
because it's only God who truly knows all.
And God was meant to be our true source of comfort
and the one who we desperately call.
All those situations where others "don't get it"
are our chances to spiritually grow,
To seek out our solace and wisdom from the Father
for all the details He already knows.
And when we do that, we are not disillusioned
by people and whatever they deliver.
For we have been comforted by the gifts of His heart
as we've looked in the face of the Giver.
© Nellie Burns
God of Your Trouble, God of Your Heart
"Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance."
(Psalm 32:7)
In this day and time, trouble seems to surround us on every side.
If it's not a failing economy, it's a failing business, a failing
marriage, or failing health. Yet, in the midst of seemingly
overwhelming problems, God has promised to deliver us.
If you want God to be God of your trouble, then you must let Him be God in your heart. God honors those who honor Him. If you're facing problems, don't just start kicking and screaming and begging Him to save you from them. Honor Him by going to His Word and doing what He says to do.
Psalm 34 is a good place to start. It says, for example, to seek God (verse 4). As you seek Him, He will deliver you from the things that threaten you.
Secondly, it instructs you to cry out to the Lord. He will save you out of ALL your troubles (verse 6).
Next it tells you to fear the Lord. Verses 11-14 tell you exactly how to do that: Keep from speaking evil and deceit; depart from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.
Remember, if you want God to be God of your trouble, let Him be God of your heart. When you do that, all of heaven will get involved in your deliverance--and your triumph will be guaranteed.
I will lift up my eyes to the hills—
From whence comes my help?
My help comes from the LORD,
Who made heaven and earth. Psalm 121:1-2 NKJV
For in the time of trouble
He shall hide me in His pavilion;
In the secret place of His tabernacle
He shall hide me;
He shall set me high upon a rock.
And now my head shall be lifted up above my enemies all around me;
Therefore I will offer sacrifices of joy in His tabernacle;
I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the LORD. Psalm 27:5-6 NKJV
HE HEARS US
And if we know that he hears us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.
(1 JOHN 5 : 15)
Jesus came to know God intimately by drawing apart to pray in solitude. He had His own revelation; He recognized the Father's voice.
When Jesus walked up to the tomb of Lazarus, He "lifted up his eyes" (John 11:41). Looking at no one but God, He spoke to the Father and said, "I thank thee that thou hast heard me. And I knew that thou hearest me always."
How did Jesus know the Father always heard Him? How did He know He could call a dead man forth from the grave? God told Him. The Bible does not say an audible voice gave Him directions, nor did an angel descend with a message, nor did a prophet appear on the scene to deliver a timely word. Jesus knew what to do because He could hear God for Himself.
How can you hear God? Spend time alone with Him. Talk with Him and listen for His voice. You cannot know Him when you are separated from Him. Come into His presence.
HOLY SPIRIT, TAKE ME INTO THY PRESENCE. MAKE MY DWELLING PLACE YOUR HOLY GROUND. AMEN.
God Bless,
Nellie
Lay your burdens down
At the foot of the cross lay your burdens down.
Come as you are layden with cares and concerns.
Bring all your troubles,your fears and doubts.
No need to feel guilt or shame or be subject to blame.
Come with your wounds,yours scars.come bleeding and bruised.
Come hungry and thirsty,come naked and lowly.
Come pour out your heart till it is naked and empty.
For it was there on that cross that your healing took place.
If we could have been there to see the look on Christs' face.
His eyes full of sorrow,pitty and care.
No words were needed his gaze said it all.
With me on the cross are all your burdens and cares.
Nailed to this wood are your troubles,fears and doubts.
Here on my body are your wounds and your scars.
Your bruises are mine and our blood flows mingled down.
Come eat of my flesh and drink of my blood.
For I will cloth you in Glory and raise you up on High.
@Nellie
Jesus Christ My Lord And Saviour
Life, love, peace, and hope. That's what you gave to me. Life, love, peace, and hope, Your Spirit sets me free. Buried with the Son of God, baptized into His death. Risen through the Spirit, freed from sins of the flesh. God restored His Holy Son and saved Him from decay. Through Him lies ever-lasting life. We're rescued from the grave. How could I not love my Lord, the one who first loved me? His love is perfect, gracious, just and lasts eternally. Rivers cannot quench it, it cannot be washed away. His promise won't be broken, my trust He won't betray. "Let the peace of Christ rule within your heart". We obey this command knowing You will set us apart. Lord, You will give us strength, You will bless us with Your peace. I'm justified through faith, I praise Jesus my release! My soul has found a place to rest. My hope has come from You. My heart soars like an eagle. I find my strength renewed. You vowed that when I hope in You I won't be put to shame. Your name provides the hope, all my days I will procl.. Life is what You gave when You died on the cross. You gave it to all men, You rescued the lost.
New Again-Please Listen You Will Be Truly Blessed
Peace Speaker
It was such a lovely day and the sun was shinning
bright
A gentle breeze was blowin my way, not a storm cloud
in sight
And suddenly without a warming, a storm surrounded my
life
But even in the storm, i can feel the calm, and here..s
the reason why
I know the Peacespeaker, I know Him by my name
I know the Peacespeaker, He controls the winds and
waves
When He says "peace, be still", they have in obey
I..m glad I know the Peacespeaker, yes I know Him by
name
There..s never been another man with the power of this
friend
By simply saying "peace, be still" He can calm the
strongest wind
So now I..ll never sorry when storm clouds come my way
I know that He is near to drive away my fear, and I
can smile and say
Peace, peace, wonderful peace. Coming down from the
Father above
Beautiful Song-Please Listen
The Man Who Walks on Water
Just as Peter on the lake
I set out on a quest
My boat is drifting out to sea
God puts me to the test.
The depth is deep, the width is wide
A storm is setting in
The waves are thrashing all about
I feel a fear within.
A figure looms, within the mist
I tremble in the night
He seems to walk on water
My heart is filled with fright.
Fear not says He, have courage
I do not bring you harm
For it is I who comes to save
There’s no need for alarm.
He bids me walk on water
His flowing robe, I see
But I lose faith as I step out
Upon the angry sea.
My trust is gone, I start to sink
I panic as I go
I cry out Lord, please save me
Strong winds begin to blow.
His staff is there before me
His mighty hand comes out
He plucks me from the churning sea
Why did I ever doubt.
Into the boat, the wind is still
He calms the restless sea
If He will soothe a violent storm
He’ll do the same for thee.
Oh precious child of little faith
You are His son or daughter
Look to the One who calms the sea
The Man who walks on water.
@Nellie
A Long Lonely Road
Do you ever get the feeling
The road you are traveling on
Is a lonely deserted highway
And you feel all alone
Does this road seem more rugged
As each day passes slowly by
And you are not getting anywhere
No matter how hard you try
Do curves becomes more twisted
The hills seem more steep
That you feel such a weakness
You just want to stop and weep
Suddenly you know you must not give up
Pray for someone to travel with you
Along this rough and rugged road
Whose strength will help you through
Now the road seems so much smoother
And all hills are easier to climb
The curves are not too twisted
For someone to unwind
The name of this someone is Jesus
Ask, and He will be your best friend
Give Him your hand to guide you
You will never travel alone again
@Nellie
Hold me Jesus
Take Me Out Of The Dark
Lead Me, Lord
If I Die Before You Wake
Freedom Is Not Free
I watched the flag pass by one day.
It fluttered in the breeze.
A young Marine saluted it,
And then he stood at ease.
I looked at him in uniform
So young, so tall, so proud,
He'd stand out in a crowd.
I thought how many men like him
had fallen through the years.
How many had died on foreign soil?
How many mothers' tears?
How many pilots' planes shot down?
How many died at sea?
How many foxholes were soldiers' graves?
No, freedom is not free.
I heard the sound of Taps one night,
when everything was still
I listened to the bugler play
And felt a sudden chill.
I wondered just how many times
That Taps had meant "Amen"
When a flag had draped a coffin
Of brother or a friend.
I thought of all the children,
Of mothers and the wives,
Of fathers, sons and husbands
with interrupted lives.
I thought about a graveyard
At the bottom of the sea
Of unmarked graves in Arlington...
No, freedom is not free.
Nellie
Where Did My Baby Go?
To My Lovely Daughter- Jessica
Where did my baby go?
It seems like only yesterday
You cooed and played in your crib.
I'm sure it was just last week
I stayed up all night with you
How could it be 22 years
Since you tottered across the room
With your first steps?
Instead of a small voice asking,
"Mom, where are you?"
There is only the sound of memories.
No young voice says,
"I'm glad you're home! Guess what happened at school today?".
Now when I come in the door,
No TV is blasting away
(until I turn it on to drown the silence).
There's no more letting dishes go dirty to play "Barbie's".
They are packed away,
Awaiting a new owner to say "Can we have a doll party today?"
No more leaving beds unmade to play childish games.
My beds and dishes now get done with (out) little interference.
Where did my baby go?
While I wasn't looking
You grew into a beautiful young woman.
Trendy clothes and shoes and boots
Have replaced t-shirts, torn jeans and dirty sneaks.
Dolls and pets have been replaced
By a husband, a grandson and a grandaughter
Where did my baby go?
Nowhere, she's in my heart
And right beside her is
The lovely young woman she's become.
I love you
@Mom
Brandon,
Let me try to describe the gift that you have given to me,
Although, I believe that will be a major undertaking.
Since it is quite difficult to describe in ordinary language.
Your arrival 18 years ago was unmistakably
Marked with anxious trepidation.
The journey you undertook
Was not of a scheduled nature,
But more of a conscious decision.
By far, the finest creative gift was you.
For when you emerged into my world,
I became reborn
With my heart so willing to share its wealth.
There you were, a small wonder; a tiny reflection
Of combined traits which would ultimately be recreated
Into the distinctive person you have become.
I never realized that my heart
Was so willing to share so much love
With a stranger so small and needy.
You didn't arrive with instructions
It was strictly learn as you go.
I remember the first time you crawled
Army style on your belly for the longest time.
You walked with support for those many months
But when it came to taking those first steps,
Long after the cake and ice cream that I
Really didn't want you to eat.
It wasn't until that one day, totally unexpected that
You did it all by yourself.
From then on, it seemed to get a little bit easier
Since you had this great disposition
And that smile that went all the way across.
You had a little sister on the way.
And you became that special big brother
That you turned out to be.
Sharing and loving
Was not something that you had to learn.
Even at that young age,
You became the teacher.
Ever so patient, so caring, so you.
To carry on a family trait that you will certainly pass on.
As you grew, you obtained a wonderful gift of laughter
I offered you the tools to learn and trust and to be a confident person.
You showed me that you can be an independent person.
That day you climbed on to the enormous, yellow school bus for the first time
You looked so small, yet so ready to embark upon a new venture.
It rolled down the street
And so did those tears in my eyes
Not because I was sad but because a new chapter in your life was beginning.
You are an intelligent, sensible, affectionate and sympathetic person,
Who always seems to be there for those whose lives you touch.
You have an extraordinary enthusiasm and passion for learning.
You have the ability to communicate your inner most thoughts,
Where so many your age do not.
I am blessed for that.
Soon, you will be going off on your own in the Navy
Making decisions that you may not be able to pass by me
That will affect your life.
You may fall down
But I know that you will always pick yourself up
And begin again.
I never thought that I would look up to someone your age
But that has become evident.
As you look at us side by side; the bond will not be broken.
The stranger that entered my life not so long ago,
Has certainly been transformed into a young man.
That I am proud to call . . .
My son.
Love Mom
@Nellie
I, Too, Have a Dream
I have a dream that one day I won't hold my breath every time I tell a person that I suffer from bipolar disorder, that I won't feel shameful in confessing my mental illness.
I have a dream that people won't feel the need to applaud me for my courage on writing and speaking publicly about my disease, because the diagnosis of depression and bipolar disorder would be understood no differently than that of diabetes, arthritis, or dementia.
I have a dream that the research into genetics of mood disorders will continue to pinpoint specific genes that may predispose individuals and families to depression and bipolar disorder (like the gene G72/G30, located on chromosome 13q), just as specific genes associated with schizophrenia and obsessive-compulsive disorder have been located and identified.
I have a dream that brain-imaging technology will continue to advance in discovering what, exactly, is going on inside the brain, that a neurological perspective coupled with a biochemical approach to mental illness will develop targeted treatments: new medication and better response to particular medications--that we can cut out that painful trial-and-error process.
I have a dream depressives won't have to risk their jobs in divulging their condition, that employers will respond more empathetically to the country's 7.8 million working depressives, that the general public will be more educated on mental illness so that it doesn't cost this country more than $44 billion each year (like it does now).
I have a dream that families, friends, and co-workers will show kindness to depressives, not reproach them for not being stronger, for not having enough will power and discipline and incentive to get well, for not snapping out of it, for not being grateful enough, for not seeing the cup half full, for not controlling their emotions.
I have a dream that tabloids like "In Touch Weekly" won't lump allegations of Britney Spears' taking antidepressants into the same category as her 24-hour marriage, all-night clubbing, and pantyless photos--that our world might be more sophisticated and informed than that.
I have a dream that people will no longer use the following terms to describe persons with mental illness: fruity, loony, wacky, nutty, cuckoo, loopy, crazy, wacko, gonzo, nutso, batty, bonkers, ditzy, bananas, and crazy.
I have a dream that spiritual leaders might preach compassion to persons with mental illness, not indict them for not praying hard enough, or in the right way, or often enough, and that judgmental new-age thinkers who blame all illness on blocked energy (in chakras one through seven) might be enlightened to understand that fish oil, mindfulness meditation, and acupuncture can't cure everything.
I have a dream that health insurance companies will stop serving Satan, and read a medical report every now and then, where they would learn that depression is a legitimate, organic brain disease, and that those who suffer from it aren't a bunch of weak, pathetic people who can't cope with life's hard knocks.
I dream that one day depression won't destroy so many marriages and families, that better and faster treatment will work in favor of every form of intimacy.
I have a dream that suicide won't take more lives than traffic accidents, lung disease, or AIDS, that together we can do better to reduce the 30,000 suicides that happen annually in the United States, and that communities will lovingly embrace those friends and families of persons who ran out of hope, instead of simply ignoring the tragedy or attaching fault where none should be.
I have a dream that one day depression, bipolar disorder, and all kinds of mental illness will lose their stigma, that I won't have to whisper the word "Zoloft" to the pharmacist at Rite Aid, that people will be able to have loud conversations in coffee shops about how they treat their depression (in addition to the excellent dialogue we have here on "Beyond Blue").
Mostly, I dream about a day when I can wake up and think about coffee first thing in the morning, rather than my mood--is it a serene one, a panicked one, or somewhere in between?--and fretting about whether or not I'm heading toward the black hole of despair. I dream that I'll be able to overcome this diease that I have suffered for over 20 years. That no one else should have to either. But if they do that they not give up hope. Because eventually their tomorrow will be better than their today as mine will be as well.. And then we will be able to dream again too.
To Trust You Is To Believe
Sometimes it seems impossible
To trust in you my Lord
But then again it’s all I have
When my backs against the wall
The pressures forever mounting up
And worsens with little hope
Though I pray and leave it with you
It’s so hard for me to cope
I know, O Lord, you teach us patience
Especially at those times
You want us to trust completely
Though answers are hard to find
And there are times it seems as though
You have stepped back from me
I feel so much alone in my mess
Not knowing you’re watching with love
You never really leave me Lord
Nor forsake me in my need
You only want me to trust you
And in your word believe
You know the circumstances I'm in
And know the struggles I face
The situation when given to you
Can empower my faltering faith
For in your word I'm told to give
To you all my anxieties
And all the worries and fears I have
Praying for the needed victory
For in due course you will come through
To bring the needed relief
And through it all I shall develop
A stronger and deeper belief
But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, establish, strengthen and settle you. -1 Peter 5:10 .
Close your eyes and think of Jesus in agony. Join your sufferings to his in his act of redemption. You are not alone. He is even with you in darkness. Reach out to him...he's there. Let him be your comforter and deliverer!
Beauty from pain...
Mothers Day Dedication To Mom Who Is In Heaven
It’s been 5 years since you’ve been gone. Each day I arise and
seek you still. Never has there been--- nor ever will be--- a mom
more loving, more serene, more giving than you. I see you in the
kitchen standing at the sink  methodically washing each and
every dish. I feel your loving touch. I hear your encouraging words Â
so proud  that sent me off into the world to achieve.
I wonder why I was so lucky to have you as my mom. Some kids
wish that they had a mom like you for even one day. I had a
continuum of loving, nurturing, adoration and wholesome lessons
for living my life because of you.
You taught me that love endures. Although days fade and nights
appear—shadows appear and then vanish again—your love endures as
a generosity of spirit to be shared. You taught me to embrace the
ups and downs of life—and to hold on for the ride--for the downs
of life will always linger to bring lessons of wisdom that over
shadow the storm. You taught me to set my own targets in life—to
seek favor in the eyes of the good Lord and not that of man.
You taught me the legacy of giving self-confidence to the spirits
of others—those less fortunate and hurting. And together—more
beautiful than ever—you taught me the gift of celebrating life
with others—with respect and howling belly laughs.
Because of you, I am whole, restored, and replenished.
Each day—I dedicate to you for the gifts of light, love, and faith
you so freely modeled. And, so now with adoring grace—kisses and
hugs unending—I enjoy my being because you showed me
(every moment) that you cared. Know that I am content because of
the wings of love you gave.
I miss you so much Mom, but I know you aren't suffering anymore.
I know you are in Heaven with Dad. I love & Miss you more then you
will ever know
Love, Your Daughter
Nellie
A (Great)-Grandpa To Me
This year would have been the fourth
that you could gladly say
how you'd become a Great-Grandpa
who's more proud everyday.
Though you've been gone
for only 2 years,
still you're loved just the same.
Now my grandson will be
our legacy
because he also shares your name.
And as he grows
he'll want to know
just how you used to be.
So I'll sob then smile
all the while
that he's upon my knee.
I'll make it clear
how very dear
I hold your memory,
And hide the pain
as I explain
what a great papa you he was to all...
We love and Miss You
Brandon, Jessica, Dakota & DeAnna
@Mom
Jesus Christ & My Parents
IN LOVING MEMORY OF MY MOTHER
Wilsie R. Pierce
Born in Virginia October 27th,1937
Went home to Heaven
Feburary 12, 2003.
IN LOVING MEMORY OF DAD
Bernard H. Pierce
Born in Virginia November 16th,1927
Went home to Heaven
Septemeber 11th, 2004.
Their life was an example to others on how they should be. They was kind,
considerate, and even tempered, loving and was loved by all that knew them.
They are missed very much by their brothers sisters, all their nieces and nephews, all of their grandchildren & great grandchildren, but most of all by their daughters & sons.
I Love & Miss you Mom & Dad
In Loving Memory of Franklin Lee "Fuzzy" Burns
Went home to heaven on April 26-2006 to be with out Lord and Saviour