Thoughts to Live By!!!

Despite My Imperfections


I came to understanding
salvation later in life,
after having survived
multitudes of trials and strife.

Being acutely aware I must
fulfill other’s expectations,
after being forsaken
by my closest relations.

Learning one is not accepted
unless they made the grade;
if you wanted to be loved
the price must be paid.

I grew up acutely aware
of my imperfections,
learning early in life to practice
sincere introspection.

I learned to do what was required
or pay the price;
I learned that not everyone
you meet is loving and nice.

I learned just the opposite
of what God wanted me to see,
that His love is perfect
and it’s offered for free.

But having been drawn
to God’s Holy Word,
one day in solitude the most
awesome thing occurred.

My eyes were opened
and discernment was mine,
I could see that God
had loved me all of that time.

He loved me before I was formed
in my Mama’s womb,
and Jesus offered salvation
by going to the tomb.

I learned I had to unlearn
the lessons of my past,
if I was to feel being
unconditionally loved at last.

I learned I had to surrender
trusting God each new day,
asking that He
guide my way.

I learned with God I need
not fear facing rejection,
despite my many mistakes
despite my imperfections!

©July 18, 2007 Barbara Philbrook
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