For my dear friend.

As a girl all she needed was loving care,

All that she wanted was not there,

What she got instead were trivial things,

A car, some money, even a diamond ring.

She grew up surrounded, yet lonely still,

Bullied and broken, her confidence killed.

She ran away in the night, where to stay?

Safety and comfort in the church 'til day,

She grew as a woman always looking to love,

Even in hardship turning to Father above.

Others were blessed, even through her pain,

She learned how to smile and dance in the rain.

But inside her still the darkness gnawed,

Try as she might she felt helpless, flawed.

She struggled and toiled, needing to rest,

Always trying hard, always giving her best.

God broke into her life, told her her worth,

"You'll laugh at days to come and be filled with mirth.

Child your life it isn't a mess,

My darling, my daughter who I long to bless,

I love you my beauty beyond any measure,

Your heart is my prize, I treat it as treasure.

I know how you've suffered, been broken, worn down,

But precious, I'm building you a glorious crown.

I'll pursue you my dear, all the days of your life,

I have your plans, I'll keep you from strife.

Trust in Me love, hear what I say,

You have a fresh start, it is a new day.

Your future has hope, joy and meaning,

I'll shelter you well, you'll come out gleaming.

You'll lead lost ones to me, carry my cross,

Your life is a victory, despite all your loss.

I'm here with you now, as I always will be,

Now keep your eyes on Me, great things you will see."