Mom has been going through the basement shelves and office area, clearing things out and getting rid of what we no longer need. In the process, she came across an old book published by our homeschool association with a compilation of writings by local homeschool students. Lo and behold, there I was – in print! I have no recollection of this, but apparently I submitted a couple of my poems for this project. It’s been kind of fun to scan the collection and see other familiar names that contributed their creative efforts.

Those who submitted their poems and stories ranged in age from about seven to twelve, and I was eleven when I wrote these two poems – technically my first published work. I’ve always enjoyed poetry and the art of rhyme. These are rather contrived, I know, but hey, you have to start somewhere!

Jesus is with Me
I once was a person just as plain as can be,
But then I met Jesus, and now I can see.
I want to listen to all His commands,
And then it will be time to take my stand.
I want Him to be with me all of my life,
Through laughter and pain, excitement and strife.

My Lord
God is my protector and my shield
Against enemies in the battlefield.
Though the enemy may cry,
No god of theirs is nigh.
Some of them may flee,
But my Lord is still with me.
In the middle of the field the enemy lay,
But I sat up to pray,
For the battle was not won by a sword,
The battle was won by the Lord!