An open heart, my soul laid bare,
My words fell like feathers…Did they hear, did they care?
Did they love me enough to feel my pain?
Did they know me at all, did I speak in vain?
Do they see the results of a simple wrong deed?
From a small thoughtless action has sprouted this weed.
As it grows and increases it chokes out my joy.
In a plant that is fruitful, it seeks to destroy;
As doubt settles in, mistrust takes hold,
Darkness increases, the world becomes cold.
My heart breaks with sorrow as I feel the great void;
Where love should abound, now doubt is employed…
The separation of those who should be
Brothers and sisters strengthened in unity.

“My child, I feel the hurt you bear,
I know your pain, and yes, I care.
They pierce your heart as they pierced My side;
In that dark, sad hour, my child, I cried…
“Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.”
I carried that burden, I bore it for you.

“Child, come unto Me, repent, I forgive…
So you must forgive them and truly believe.
Know in your heart that its all for the best;
I am your true friend and I stand the test.
I stood in your place, My blood was shed;
You have My forgiveness, your sin I forget.”

“I love you more than man can tell;
Know My love as you know I dwell…
In a hurting heart I continue to shine;
I bring you hope and joy divine.
I will never leave, nor will I forsake;
Trust in Me alone and the promise I make.”

“I am the true vine,
I am the bread;
I am your hope, child,
I am your friend.

ADW 1992