Although we always keep in touch I don’t get to see you very much Life circumstance means we live apart But you are constantly in my heart
Your beauty is a flowering rose Your loving nature always shows You excel in everything you do I’m so very proud of you
You’re my Angel sent from above A wonderful daughter, full of love I just want you to really know You’re a Blessing and I love you so
Trina Graves – 22nd March 2015
About This Poem
Tomorrow (11th April 2019) will be my daughter’s 40th birthday. It seems crazy to me how fast the years have flown, especially now that my children are entering their forties and I have a granddaughter in her twenties, with others not far behind!
This short poem I wrote for her card a few years ago, it was written early as she was going away on holiday for a couple of weeks and would be away on her birthday.
Although by other people’s lives, our being apart and not seeing each other much is not comparable, in our family unit it is noticeable because my son has lived with me for the majority of his years and my younger daughter lived with me for several years into her marriage, and then we lived next door to each other for five years. Julie (who the poem is about) left home at just sixteen and apart from coming home for a short time a few years later, has not been living so ‘physically’ close as the others.
I have just completed her card for this year, and although I didn’t plan to write anything I awoke today thinking I must! ’40 Years Of Joy’ was the result and will be another one I will add at a later date.
The greatest blessing of my life Was in becoming a Mother Truly blessed three times in all A Divine Blessing above any other
The greatest treasures bestowed on me Worth more than diamonds and gold Were the lives of my precious children Still my treasures, even as we grow old
The greatest experience I went through Was being pregnant with each one I especially remember the delight I felt Growing stronger with each rising sun
The greatest bliss I ever felt Overpowering and so full of love As I first cuddled each newborn I was connected to Heaven above
The greatest love I never knew Until I experienced it myself Unconditional love for my children The purest and highest wealth
The greatest smile I ever saw Gazing at each baby in my arms The recognizing of their first smile Is one of life’s simple charms
The greatest sound I ever heard Brought smiles of pure delight My babies joyous, infectious giggles Made each day rosy and bright
The greatest words said to me Were spoken with love from their eyes Hearing ‘Mum’ for the very first time A joyous moment, as time flies
The greatest happiness I had Through the years abundantly Were doing things with my children With their faces so full of glee
The greatest responsibility I faced Was one I didn’t fully understand Many years later I discovered The power of a Mother’s guiding hand
The greatest nurturing I gave To my children, when they were small Another thing I was to learn later on was They were nurturing me through it all
The greatest hugs I received From my little ones, filled my heart Happiness expressed through hugs Together again, after being apart
The greatest Christmasses all were The ones with my little children Excitement, traditions, decorations, gifts Family togetherness, all having fun
The greatest gifts given to me Throughout the years, without a doubt Were the simple little handmade ones Or a daisy picked when we were out
The greatest holidays were spent Watching my children play in the sun It didn’t matter where we were Or whatever was or was not done
The greatest lessons I have learned Throughout my life, over the years Were created through being a Mother Though many did bring me to tears
The greatest teachers in my life Were my children as they grew Teaching me what life is all about Much more than school could ever do
The greatest pride for me has been Seeing the parents that they now are Loving, caring, always doing their best All my grandchildren will go far
The greatest time of my life Is each and every day Now blessed with another generation The joys just ‘blow me away’
The greatest memories for me Filled with love and of joy Are with my girls Julie and Emma And Kevin my only boy
The greatest thankfulness I give To my Mother, for she taught me The greatest blessing in our life Is Mothering, for God’s love we see
Trina Graves – 30th March 2019
About This Poem
I thought I’d finished writing my Mother’s Day poems for this year with Mother’s Day and In The Arms Of An Angel, but the following day the title of this one just came to me, and I knew it was about being a mother, so had to be written that day as Mother’s Day in the UK was the following day.
After doing my usual of prayer, asking for guidance and having an inner knowing that the poem was already completed and ‘out there,’ I made a list of the aspects I wanted to cover. As I was writing the poem a few more ideas came to mind, so I made a note of them to add too. The last verse was not on my list, but just flowed and I knew it was the perfect ending.
With my children. bottom pic: grandchildren (ages now 21 to 3)
An Angel is a Spiritual Being A Messenger of God, His Agent Working Divinely with love Around us, or when needed, sent
Some people get to see them Magnificent, powerful, bright With pure white wings of feather A truly life-enhancing sight
But most just know of them Or at least hope they are true For we all need the Divine Love To support and help us through
However, we have an Earth Angel Who has always been around For we are all Spiritual Beings And Divine Love can be found
There is one who’s always loved us With all their open heart Giving their mind, body and Spirit To our existence, right from our start
They nurtured us for many years Building our home, a feathered nest For us to feel at peace, warm and safe Whenever we needed to have a rest
To them we were never ordinary But exceptional, even miraculous Our smallest of achievements They’d shower us in loving fuss
Unconditional Love and forgiveness Flowed from their heart and eyes And when we were little children They were God‘s Agent, all-wise
As babies we knew the truth Being fresh from the Great Above We’d only be placed in the arms Of the strongest and highest love
In The Arms Of An Angel We were held like no other Truly Blessed from the Divine With an Angel as our Mother
Trina Graves – 29th March 2019
About This Poem
As I mentioned in my last post: ‘Mother’s Day’the title and theme of this poem came to me with the line from the song ‘Angel’ by Sarah McLachlan. I was writing down some notes for that poem when the song just came into my head and I instantly knew it was for another poem.
Several years ago I came up with the idea of putting angels wings on photos of my grandchildren. I have used them in several things I’ve made, including quotes for my website and Facebook page. So, it was an obvious idea to add Angel wings to some mother pictures too.
I used these pictures below, and others, for my mum’s card and I also sent the poem to my two daughters with pictures of them with each of their children too.
Four generations: my grandmothers, mother, myself and my two daughters.
Mother’s Day in the UK Is on the fourth Sunday of Lent A day when earlier Christians To their ‘Mother’ church went
Visiting their ‘Mother’ church Where they grew up, long ago A place of ‘Home’ to worship Their thankfulness to bestow
And now Mother’s Day Has developed to become A day to visit home And appreciate, Mum
Honouring our Mothers For all they have done Throughout the years For their daughter or son
If not able to visit Maybe send a little gift Along with a loving card Will always give a lift
For many the day will be Tinged with thoughts, so sad But Mother’s Love is eternal And more likely felt when glad
Our Mother will always be A large part of our heart Here, or on the other side Love unites, to never be apart
Trina Graves – 29th March 2019
About This Poem
Tomorrow (31st March) will be Mother’s Day in the UK. My last post, ‘You Were There,‘ was the poem I wrote for my Mother last year, and as this Mother’s Day was fast approaching, I was beginning to wonder what I could write this time, as I didn’t have any ideas. But then, as has happened many times before, I was writing an answer to a comment from Amira (on that previous post) and the idea for this poem was born!
I didn’t have time to write a poem at that moment, so I quickly made a note. While I was doing this, a line from the song ‘Angel’ by Sarah Mclachlan came into my head, but slightly changed: ‘In the arms of AN angel’ and I instantly knew this was the title and theme of another poem for Mother’s Day. I will add this one next.
My mother in my ‘mother’ church, Dorchester Abbey (2008)
During my childhood: You Were There Nurturing with your loving care Through the ups and downs of it all Picking me up when I would fall Always there to kiss goodnight And cuddle if I woke with a fright Showing me love and trust were the way To practice being, with each new day
As I grew up: You Were There Easing me out into the glare The big wide world dazzled bright But I had your guidance to do what’s right Becoming a mother at a young age Your influence helped in each turning page When I was left with a broken heart With your resilience, I didn’t fall apart
Now I am blessed because: You Are There Living into old age with peace and flair We share stories of life and family Lessons I’ve learned from you are clear to see As individuals, our views are not all the same But our core connection will always remain You taught me to be open to receive The presence of God, because of you, I believe
When the time comes I know: You’ll Be There An unfailing faith we do both share Your physical presence will move on But in no way will you be gone You’ll be living on in peace and love Re-united with those up above I will speak to you in my mind Your reply and love, I’ll always find
My beloved Mother.. You Were There Because you always care A pure love beyond compare From you I learned to share When everything is laid to bare We let go – to God – to be aware
Trina Graves – 10th March 2018 (Mother’s Day)
About This Poem
With Mother’s Day coming up this weekend here in the UK, I thought I’d share the poem I wrote for my mum last year.
These pictures of me with my mum, were taken in the sixties and seventies, up to age sixteen.
No ‘PROOF’ required for us to read Your love was strong at the very start Just one simple photo is all we need For evidence of love from the heart
You didn’t know on that spring day Where your journey together would go But over the years your love found it’s way To survive many challenges and grow
Your family has changed so much over the years In 1958, at the beginning, you were only two Ten years later there was happiness with tears As you brought home your last baby in blue
Babies constantly have you up with the lark But bring countless blessings forever more A daughter Trina, and sons David, Paul and Mark Four children to complete your family core
The years passed by and your children grew Guided by your love all through those days Summer weekends at cricket they all knew Country walks and picnics under sun rays
Cottages, houses, villages, town and estate You’ve moved so many times it seems But wherever it was, Mum was always great At making a home and garden of her dreams
Cruising, touring and even camping too Many holidays were had in the past Las Vegas was Dad’s dream come true Happy memories from them all, will last
One by one your children left the nest and flew To live in their own unique ways Army, student or marriage, but you knew No matter where, the bond always stays
Life moves on and your family has grown Now ten grandchildren add to the score Back through the years, who would have known Great-grandchildren would make seventeen more
Your love and devotion are a guide to us all An inspiration of keeping vows and wedded bliss Through the generations your guidance will fall And it all started with your very first kiss
Trina Graves – 20th March 2015
About This Poem
Although I have written several new poems, I thought I’d add an older one today. Looking at the ones I had, this one stood out to me as it was written for my parents Wedding Anniversary four years ago, and tomorrow will be their 61st.
The reason this poem is called ‘No Proof Required’ is because my parents had a professional photographer for their wedding photographs, but only ever received their ‘proof’ photos. These were properly printed photographs but with the word ‘proof’ embossed several times on each one, given as part of the original fee, but also to approve the printing of the official photographs. My parents always intended to get the proper photos done, but finding the money to pay for them, when other more important things were needed, never materialized before it was too late. So, as an Anniversary present that year, I scanned and edited all of their photos to remove the ‘proof,’ and printed them out.
The number of grandchildren remains the same, but great-grandchildren now numbers twenty-one, and only a couple of weeks ago there was also a new generation started with the birth of their first great-great-grandchild!
Before & after wedding photos (1957) with my parents & brothers (2018)
My Christmas: As A Child When I was a little girl Christmas was so very exciting Counting days and wondering what Santa would bring I loved dolls, books and writing equipment best of all It seems my path was set from when I was so small
A picture of Father Christmas always went up on the wall Two weeks before Christmas Day, Santa watched over us all The picture had been given to my dad when he was a baby Santa wrote in his pocket books who was good or naughty
On Christmas morning nanny (Evelyn) would be with us Watching the opening of presents and just to make a fuss Of her grandchildren who she only had a short time to be with Passing when I was six, in my heart she will always live
Once I had a huge present from my uncle who lived next door Boxes within boxes revealed a present that was so small I don’t remember how old I was, but I loved the cross and chain The excitement and the beautiful gift, happy memories remain
The nativity story always fascinated me, I read it many times At school I was so proud to be the Angel, and given many lines My mother made my robe with wings for me to hold up so high Another year, to a class I was the mother making a mince pie
One of my favourite things to do was singing in the choir Christmas carols, full of joy, I know now, lifted me higher What made it more special was being in Dorchester Abbey A Sacred place with beautiful stained glass windows to see
One year at my fathers work place party, I sat on Santa’s knee Unknowing that under the beard was my own dad, I couldn’t see It was years later after a few tellings that I finally knew the truth I accepted, let go of the fairytale, losing my innocence of youth
In my teenage years we had pop music with the radio on, Top Of The Pops on TV too, dad would burst out into song Slade’s ‘Merry Christmas Everybody,’ we’d all be joining in Mum would be up, and around the room she’d be dancing
My Christmas: As A Mother When I was a young mother, Christmas was so wonderfully magical Although at first my husbands Christmas Eve tradition seemed radical No decorations were put up before the children went to bed The Christmas Fairies came with Santa to do the job instead
The look of amazement on the children’s faces on Christmas morn Made up for the complete lack of sleep from not going to bed till dawn Surprise and delight glowed on little faces when they entered the room Lights and colour everywhere just like a garden in summer’s full bloom
I had my own tradition to bring into my growing family My father had given me Santa’s picture to oversee My children, two weeks before Christmas they began to look The third generation hoping their names were not in the black book
As all other mothers, I wanted my children to have more than me From my one sack, to their sack and presents under the tree New outfits to wear, toys to play, books, puzzles and more There is a warming pleasure in giving to the ones we adore
In early years of their childhood there was no brussel sprout So I could spend more time with them, the traditional dinner we left out When they were older we decided to begin, and they did appreciate The special meal shared together, though sprouts they never ate!
Band Aid’s ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas’ first came out Teaching us how fortunate we were, without a doubt ‘The Power Of Love’ from Frankie Goes To Hollywood Taught a truth, pure and simple, we all understood
Every year there were parties with my husbands family Grandparents, siblings, cousins getting together to see Sharing fun with games and magic tricks into the night Chatting away for hours and setting the world to right
It took a sad occasion to persuade my husband to spend Christmas with my parents, so some support I could lend My gentle nanny (Jennie) passed just before Christmas 93 Being with my mum for that Christmas was so important to me
In 1995 a totally different Christmas time we planned To spend our yuletide together in a hot and far-away land Two children were getting older, almost ready to move on Jamaica, our last holiday together and then they were gone
All the delights of Christmas through my children I lived the days The excitement and high spirits, they sparkled in gorgeous ways When they were younger I told them the story of the baby from above They are my Angels who came and taught me true unconditional love
My Christmas: As A Grandmother Now I am a grandmother, Christmas is plainly simple It’s all about the love we share, but there’s also a pull Now we are not all together, which way do I go? Spending time with everyone, my love I want to show
My parents may not have many more Christmases to share And it really is a time to let those you love know you care But little ones at Christmas bring so much pleasure and joys Their effervescent spirits light up, I can’t resist those girls and boys
Through the generations the same Christmas songs I hear Although it seems they get played earlier each year Marching around the room to Jona Lewie’s ‘Stop The Cavalry’ Children and then grandchildren, it is so enchanting to see
Christmas with my children was the pinnacle of perfection It’s not until they were older that I could see the direction Time plays tricks, the years seem at first to go so slow In the blink of an eye, they’re gone, where did the time go?
Now watching little ones, I see Christmas through their eyes Wishes, dreams, the magic and awe of it all, joy multiplies Passing on traditions, memories planted as love is shown Generations evolve, moving on and making their own
Christmas was never about the presents under a tree But accumulation of love and memories, a sanctuary As generations come and go, Christmas will always be A time to share the love and joys of being with family
Trina Graves – 11th December 2016
About This Poem
In 2016, after writing: Christmas Through The Family and The Heavenly Birth I felt I’d like to write more for Christmas. Many of my poems are written for my family members so I wanted to create a poem for them (and me) to remind us of our Christmases.
Before I started, I wrote a few notes of different memories and the traditions I wanted to include. The poem actually took four days to complete (I started on the 11th) as I kept remembering more to add!
One of the reasons I like to write my poems is because I am sharing my thoughts, beliefs and memories. Most of my family are not interested in poems, so they don’t tend to read them now, but I know that one day (maybe when I am no longer here) they more likely will. When that time comes I hope they will enjoy reading them as much as I enjoyed writing them, and that they will evoke happy memories, or tell them of family stories that they have long forgotten or maybe never knew.
Christmas is the time we celebrate the birth Of the Son of God brought down to our Earth A Pure, Unique Master-Being from Heaven above Sent to guide through all Eternity with Divine Love
His birth is a wondrous story, enchantingly told Mother Mary young and pure, a heart of gold Visited by an Angel with Heavenly praise “The Son of God, you and Joseph shall raise”
Joseph’s character was obviously strong and good Although not the true father, he declared he would Unite with Mary and become the dad To love and support the growing lad
The story unfolds with drama and suspense To Bethlehem they travelled, the journey immense For heavily pregnant Mary, arriving on a donkey Needing a place to give birth, to be a sanctuary
With everywhere full, the only place to stay Was in a stable, with a manger to lay The newborn baby, the Heavenly King Now present on Earth, Enlightenment to bring
A brilliant sign heralded the birth Notable enough for many to seek it’s worth Kings or wisemen, and even shepherds too The Heavenly star shone to guide them through
Each came with praise and a gift to give Knowing the Son of God was here to live A physical life, even from a baby so small Showing a connection to God, available to all
***
Everyone has their own personal belief And I do not wish to cause anyone grief But we all decide how much of this tale is true Our perceptions give us our own unique view
I asked for guidance before beginning to write Asking to share some loving Christmas ‘Light’ What came to me at that moment, for what it’s worth Is the Divine importance of every single human birth
Jesus grew up knowing he was God’s Son No limits were placed, He was the One Sent to Earth to share true Love Divine And through eternity, boundless by time
With no restrictions to cause Him doubt He grew to share God’s Love throughout His life while here upon this Earth All starting with that momentous birth
If the King of Kings can be born in a stable What of other births? We should be able To see the wisdom and Light showing us the way To celebrate the truth of births each and every day
For all mothers are pure with hearts of gold And fathers if present, strong and bold Each one is doing the best they can do Which is all that God asks of you
No matter where the birth will take place The Divine is there, but you won’t see a trace Lowly or regal, it matters not who you are Beings of Love and Light come from afar
They come to witness the transition of a Soul On it’s journey to Earth to learn to be whole In physical form, the journey it takes To become Aware as the Spirit Awakes
For every single baby contains God in their heart Illuminating so brightly right from the start If we placed no limits or doubts in their minds Their genuine Divine Presence in life we would find
Trina Graves – 8th December 2016
About This Poem
In December 2016, after writing my first ever Christmas poem ‘Christmas Through The Family’to be used for my Christmas cards, I had no intention of writing another that year.
A few days later I decided to do my next quote poem (back then I only added my poems to my website: Spiritual Quotes To Live By). I had a list of quotes in my notebook on my desk, so I switched off the computer (no distractions) and got ready to write… but then I could not find the notebook! I searched the desk (there was not a lot on it) but still couldn’t find it, even though I knew I had seen it. ‘Weird’ I thought!
However, knowing from experience that once I prayed and asked for guidance I would receive whatever I needed, I let go of the mystery and went to the kitchen to get a glass of water. On returning to my desk… there was the notebook so clearly in view!!! I laughed and knew that I was not meant to write a quote poem. So, I asked for guidance, now thinking, perhaps something else for Christmas?
I knew then that it would be a poem about the importance of births and would start with the birth of Jesus. But, I was quite surprised that the whole nativity story just flowed out.
To a child Christmas is the most magical time of the year Full of wonder and excitement waiting for Santa and reindeer Counting down each day, with even a tree indoors to decorate Captivating memories through childhood years accumulate Each intense and thrilling Christmas morning finally arrives Bringing presents galore, heaps of fun and maybe a surprise Days of new toys, sweets and other delicious things to eat For Christmas to last forever, they’d wish in a heartbeat
For parents Christmas creates a mixture of things The stress of it all contrasts the abundance of joy it brings Worrying about what to buy and how to pay for it all Disappears when seeing the delight on their child befall With so much to get done, the clock ticks away so fast But how they wish the enchantment of that day would last Because for their own sweet child, anything they’d do To make all their wishes and dreams come true
Young siblings at Christmas share the joys Of the escalating excitement thinking of toys They might receive if Santa thinks they’ve been good Talking into the night, how they wish he would Childhood Christmas days spent with sister or brother Amasses laughter and sharing to re-discover In later years when in family-get-togethers they meet And to another generation their stories repeat
For teens and young adults Christmas is for fun Celebrating with friends, just has to be done It’s a balancing act fitting in family and friends As their time and attention splits then blends The greatest pull can come with blossoming love From their first relationship, as if from Heaven above First love at Christmas brings them a new dimension As the joy of giving to love expands their comprehension
A Grandparent’s Christmas is full of timeless memories Evergreen moments shared with their beloved families Going way back to the times when their children were small It’s only the enduring love and happiness they recall Time’s moved on and now they have grandchildren to treasure Each precious jewel brings more love and the purest pleasure The family continues to expand as the years go by Bliss of Grandparenthood lifts their Soul sky high
All through these stages of Christmas days Life moves on through time, expanding always Change is inevitable, time can not stand still So appreciating these moments is vital to fill Your heart and Soul with joyous memories Of the stages of life spent around Christmas trees Because that is what family at Christmas is for To celebrate, the joy and love you share, above all
Trina Graves – 8th December 2016
About This Poem
I often like to make my close family’s Christmas cards, usually using recent or old family photographs. In 2016 I had gone back to writing more poems, so I thought I’d have a go at writing one for Christmas to use for the card. This poem was the result.
I didn’t plan to write anymore Christmas poems but a strange thing happened a few days later that led to more… (The Heavenly Birth)
Evelyn was the very first With a love so strong and pure A mother’s love is limitless Continuing on forever more
Doreen’s love has been steadfast As girlfriend, fiancee and beloved wife You’ve shared so much over the years With all the ups and downs of life
Trina, your only daughter Has loved you all her days Being together changes over time But the closeness always stays
Love comes in different forms In many ways it is shown It’s what life is all about Through love we all have grown
These three women of your life Will always shower you in love Whether here on this Earth Or from the Heavens above
Trina Graves – 18th October 2017
About This Poem
As you can see from the date of this poem it was written a year ago today. As mentioned above, I wrote it for my dad to go inside his birthday card. Today he is 82 and I have just got home from visiting him and my mum. Yesterday I wrote another poem that sort of continued on from this one called: Three Sons – To Be Proud. I am not sure yet if I will be sharing that one though as there is a lot of personal information about my brothers in it, so I need their permission first.
I used to only occasionally write poems for my parents on their birthdays, anniversary or mother’s/father’s day, but over the years they have come to look forward to what they call my special cards. I always include some sort of family photo arrangement which they always love too.
As you get older you more often reflect The course of your life and you introspect Remembering all the ups and some downs The beautiful sights and wonderful sounds
The focus you chose and decisions you made Became your life and your path was laid Life continues to expand, there’s always more To experience the joy is what you came here for
Reminiscing those carefree days of childhood When all you wanted was to feel good Playing with siblings, friends or by yourself Imagination was your greatest wealth
Childhood memories of the long ago past Fade through time, but the ones that last Are the happy ones spent with mum and dad Sharing time and love, feeling cherished and glad
Picnics, walks or playing board games The simple shared pleasures are what remains In your memory to treasure forever more The love you experienced developed your core
Time progresses and moves on so fast Life brings experiences, the landscapes vast The greatest gift, if blessed, you will know Is being a parent, as the purest love will grow
Creating your own precious unit of family Brings an overwhelming abundance of ecstasy The immense love you feel will always remain Though expressing the depth is hard to explain
Just watching your baby grow, develop and explore Their world around them brought you even more Happiness in all the countless, simple, delightful ways Treasured memories gathered throughout those days
It’s peculiar, but often you will find The simplest moment stuck in your mind Your child running to you with arms open wide Their pure love and elation they couldn’t hide
The years of parenthood continued on Time seemed slow, but soon they were gone Young adults replaced the children you raised Vibrant, onto their own paths they blazed
With parents eyes you developed a different view The world was changed and you understood too Your parents love for you became crystal clear They did their utmost to love and hold you dear
And now your children are parents also Blessings of love forever bloom and grow Watching your child’s parental love and joy Blossom with each additional baby girl and boy
With the old eyes of wisdom, you can now see So clearly the pure contentment of your family These precious little angels sent from up above Grandchildren bring bliss and quintessential love
Trina Graves – 4th January 2016
About This Poem
Sometimes in my dreams I am the mother to my children and grandchildren at the same time, or I’m a child the same age as both generations with my parents as the parents of us all.. but in the crazy world of dreams it all makes perfect sense!
In a similar way the generations do seem to blend together as the years zoom by at an alarming rate. As my grandchildren are now racing toward adulthood (the oldest is 21 at the end of this year and the next 16 in a few weeks) it seems such a short time ago that they were tiny babies as I watched my children become parents but… it hardly seems any more distance in time that they were babies in my arms too! And yet, in a few months even my youngest child will be 36, which was the age that I became a grandmother.
I’m not sure if it’s a sign of being older or a sign of Awakening that time is losing all meaning to me. The days pass by in what seems a few hours, weeks a few days, months seem to be only a couple of weeks long and years only last a few months! It’s akin to sleep where you close your eyes in one moment and open them in what feels like a minute or two later to find many hours have passed – in the blink of an eye!
Does anyone else feel this way?
I think I got a bit side-tracked here, but I suppose it is about looking back over family life! 🙂
Making children do anything Will not achieve your true goal They are unique human beings With their own guiding Soul
They will submit to all your rules As you teach, shape and mold Bending to your whims Mostly doing as they are told
But deep within they know They have a true guiding light Smothered by fitting in It flickers waiting out of sight
So how do you let them learn To follow their own true heart? While still guiding and protecting Right from the very start
It is really all up to you In the way you live each day For even in the nurturing womb They know what you do and say
Do you follow your own heart Always aiming for your best? Through life’s ups and downs Anchored with love, do you rest?
The things you say and do Will of course have an effect But much more is said than words With thoughts and feelings you select
Young children absorb it all With no ability to understand Not all experiences are true You have the upper hand
Teach them by example Follow your own inner guide Be who you came here to be Shine brightly, do not hide
For everyone has their own path In the life they came to live Unique in its twists and turns Guidance by example you can give
Stand strong in your beliefs Hold fast in your integrity Show your love and appreciation Giving thanks for all to see
Trina Graves – 11th January 2018
About This Poem
This was the first poem I wrote using this quote as a title and theme, but after writing it I knew I wanted to write another one. ‘The Best Way To Make Children Good’ focuses on how wanting our children to be happy is something that continues throughout their lives, no matter how old they are, and is a more personal poem.
Quite a few of my poems feature the unknowing lifetime impact parents have on their children, not just with their words and actions, but their thoughts and feelings, because it is the most important thing I wished I’d known when my children were little ones.
The family is a link to our past Building treasured memories to last All through our whole life long As the generations continue on
We are each born into a time Being the next in our family line Our parents very own offspring To them, the future we will bring
Grandparents told us stories of old Sometimes tales, bleak and cold When getting by was truly tough So we realize, we have enough
But they also loved to tell Of times they remember, oh so well With their siblings, mum and dad And the simple happiness they had
Through the years our parents will Tell us their history to instill Their unique guidance, a way to live Wanting all their help to give
Family togetherness through the years Sharing all the joys and the tears Births, deaths, parties, illness, weddings All the diversity that human life brings
Our family history is a part Of who we are deep in our heart Our roots are firmly set in the ground As we branch out in life all around
Either we agree or do not With the guidance that we got Both will set us on our way Steering our life, day by day
Each family member is a link in a chain That through our life will remain An Affinity bracelet we all wear Glistening gold from the love we share
Not all are blessed to cross over The Bridge Of Parenthood, covered in clover Gaining access to the future ahead By their children, they will be lead
Stepping into this miraculous land Changes forever our Affinity band Now it contains a precious jewel Sparking the Light in our heart to rule
The circle of life continues on Our parents, to the ‘Grand’ now belong Our tales are added to the stories told To impressionable minds, setting paths to unfold
Time moves on, our jewels have grown To live their truths, a life of their own Guided by the way we lived each day Their roots are strong, their links a ray
There is another bridge of pure Light That brings a future of complete delight Diamonds with platinum links in our chain Grandchildren are a family’s ultimate gain
Trina Graves – 21st March 2017
About This Poem
I was drawn to adding this poem today because of two events that happened this week that bring focus to the past and the present in my family, and fit perfectly with it too!
The first was a visit to my parents of my mum’s brother, sister-in-law, and one her (3) sisters. My mum will be 80 at the end of this month and doesn’t get to see her brother or sisters very often now, it can be several years in-between visits. She was greatly looking forward to seeing them and they all thoroughly enjoyed spending a few hours together reminiscing over the past. Family history is of course something they share, but they were all surprised to be told stories of previous generations that one or the other knew, but the others did not, even after all those years.
The other event was the announcement of a baby to be born in March that starts the next generation of off-spring; my parents will become great-great-grandparents! News my mum was especially thrilled to hear, as to her (and me) there is no greater blessing to the family than another precious bundle of joy.
This poem was written for my parents 60th Wedding Anniversary earlier this year.
With family and friends around On a March day you were bound Together, young and in love Blessed in church by God above
You vowed to always stay together Through sunshine and stormy weather Life would throw all aspects at you But your love would pull you through
Now sixty years have gone by Speeding time does surely fly And here you are together still After surmounting many a-rocky hill
Standing steadfast where you are From that hill-top you can see far You’ve created a spectacular view With the love that came from you
Generations have blossomed and grown From the love that you have sown Each a blessing, flowering in your light Ever present, ever bright
Scattered around you, each flower grows All different: cosmos, forget-me-not, rose Beautiful blooms growing strong Seeding more as time moves on
Some little buds don’t really know you are there Watching over them because you care But still, you send them your light and love From your vantage point on the hill above
God bless you for all you’ve done Creating the view since your love begun Now rest and enjoy the outstanding view Eternal love and blessings, to you two
Trina Graves – 20th March 2018
About This Poem
As mentioned above, I wrote this for my parents 60th Wedding Anniversary on 22nd March 2018. As with all couples they’ve had their ups and downs throughout the years but have remained steadfast in their love to see them through.
Below is the front of the card I made for them (with the poem inside) showing their four children, nine grandchildren and twenty great-grandchildren. As I am sure with most families, as they grow and expand out into the world the early closeness with grandparents changes as lives move on with another generation. Get-togethers don’t happen as often so great-grandchildren don’t know their great-grandparents as well as they know their grandparents. But, the great-grandparents always love to hear about and see (if only pictures) all of their little blossoms.
Title Quote: When They Placed You In My Arms,
You Slipped Into My Heart. (Unknown)
When they placed you in my arms For the first time after your birth Is my most precious memory Of my life here on this Earth
After endless months of waiting Anxious that all would be well Relief mixed with anticipation As I floated under your spell
My love for you had grown stronger Each day through pregnancy In that moment it exploded Awakening the Core of me
I gazed tenderly into your eyes Then mine watered with a tear The pure bliss of the moment As I embraced you, my dear
The weight of your little body As I held you close and tight Feeling your physical presence Sensing your true Spirit Light
The warmth of your precious form Now tangible at long last Melted time’s candle to me You became my future and my past
The sheer miracle of life I possessed in my arms Blessed always to be Captivated by your charms
When they placed you in my arms You slipped into my heart Through Eternity we are bound Entwined Souls to never part
Trina Graves – 24th February 2017
About This Poem
As I say in this poem (and have mentioned before) this is my most treasured memory and is what I recall whenever I want to feel a strong sense of love and upliftment, it never fails to bring a smile to my face and warmth in my heart.
Thank you for your Mothering, right from the very start You nurtured our family, consistently working from your heart
Thank you for Leading me to become an intuitive mother Using my inner guidance not just the advice of any other
Thank you for all the little things you have ever Said and Done That have made my life so happy, full of delight and lots of fun
Thank you for your Presence, I know at all times you will be there Whenever I need you, it’s heart-warming to know you always care
Thank you for your Guidance all through the many years Your love and support has helped me wipe away the countless tears
Thank you for your Honesty you always taught me right from wrong By your example I learned, and now live with integrity my whole life long
Thank you for your Morality although nothing much was said I grew up choosing to truly be in love, before I share my bed
Thank you for your Positive Attitude, it’s truth has helped me see I reap what I sow in life, my thoughts guide who I will be
Thank you for your Happiness, always showing me a smile Even when clouds are present, you know they will only last awhile
Thank you for Teaching me life’s challenges are often like a test I’ve learned from your example, to always strive to do my best
Thank you for your Wisdom, when things all get too much You say, “Hand it over to God” to feel His guiding touch
Thank you for your Love, given to me unconditionally Someone who consistently radiates that love is who I yearn to be
Thank you for your Knowledge, you may not think I’ve gained this from you But degrees can’t teach the highest lessons, the most important is love, is so true
Thank you for Faith in the presence of God above It’s been a guiding light for me, knowing of this love
Thank you for your Spiritual Essence, it’s helped me find my way You taught me to seek my own path, I live it each and every day
Thank you for your Example to live a life of simple things The joy of family and peace of nature, gives our spirit wings
Thank you for Providing a sanctuary of home, a feathered nest Where all through the years I’ve been welcomed to return to for a rest
Thank you for your Life, though one day physically we will part But I know we are eternally joined, by the love we share in our heart
Thank you for your Blessings that I know are always with me I bless you and know our love unites us, forevermore into infinity
Trina Graves – 14th March 2015
About This Poem
The week before Mothers Day (in 2015) I sat to write a poem for my mum, but after asking for guidance what poured out instead was a poem about being a mother: ‘Those Moments I Treasure.‘ So, a few days later I had another go and this poem was the result. After praying for guidance I knew it would be a ‘Thank You’ poem, so I first wrote a list of all the things I wanted to say thank you for, then I just went with the flow and didn’t put them in any particular order.
I used photographs of me and my mum through the years to add to the poem to make a print for her. (below)
Many people shape our lives Especially during the younger years With us through the blessed joys And there to wipe our tears
Some are as large-as-life Their presence takes centre stage It’s easy to see how their character Is written on our biography page
But some are quiet in nature Their presence ever-serene Life continues on around them As though they’re hardly seen
They may not have much to say But their words are kind and pure Just being in their company Will affect you at your core
They are the ink to our pen Without them we couldn’t write The story of our lives, no words Would show in dark or light
Their flow brings our life to focus Through the years their aura imparts Blessing us with their lighted goodness That moulds and forms our hearts
*************************************
Jennie, my maternal grandmother Was one, a truly gentle Soul Petit in stature, not essence An epitome of the mother role
A mother in time of war I can’t even imagine the fear Daily she must have felt In London with bombs so near
Giving up home and possessions Evacuating, for her daughters sake Many years would pass by before Their own home she could re-make
Times were hard and relentless Death and Illness she had to face But her beloved five children Were cocooned in her warm embrace
Years passed as they all fled her nest Moving on, to create their own family And onward through the generations Her tranquillity shone out so clearly
On the passing of her husband Alfred Frail and alone, the future bleak? She had another lesson to teach us all How to live on? What should you seek?
The blessing of her life was her family And through them she developed strength Staying with grandchildren brought her such joy Her years continued for a much greater length
It’s now been 24 years since she moved To our true home in the Heavens above But what she left behind in many hearts Is her pure and simple, unconditional love
Gentle was Jennie’s nature Pure was Jennie’s Soul: : Jennie taught by example Peace: life’s precious goal
Trina Graves – 24th October 2017
About This Poem
I wrote this poem for my mum’s birthday last year, I made it into a card so that the first part of the poem was on the outside, then when she opened it there was a full length picture of her mum with the rest of the poem about her.
I have written several poems for members of my family and had no intention of sharing most of them, but reading through them I thought some could be suitable to share, this being one.
Jennie with some of her children (my mum is the youngest girl)
If ever you are feeling down Whatever it is that makes you frown Just open your eyes and look about You’ll find something, without a doubt To make you smile and appreciate That the simple things in life are great
A smile, a glance, a hug, a touch From someone that you love so much A flower, a leaf, a blade of grass Nature’s treasures we blindly pass
The serenity of a sleeping child Even if, in the daytime they tend to run wild A newborn baby so complete yet so small You can’t help but wonder the miracle of it all
Trina Graves – 15th November 2001
About This Poem
This was one of my earlier poems, the only thing I can remember about writing it is that it didn’t take very long!
What I can say now though is, back in 2001, I was most certainly blind to the treasures of nature! Yes, I liked trees and flowers and pretty scenes, but I had not developed any sense of the awesomeness of nature that would have me spellbound by a dandelion seed head or a daisy (two of my now favourite small things of nature). Back then it was babies and children that would inspire me.
Until I began my Spiritual Quotes To Live By website I never took nature photographs, all my photos were of my family. If we went for a walk to the woods, the photos would be of the children playing. But, in 2011 because I wanted to start making some photo-quotes I went with some of my grandchildren for a walk to a small woods nearby, intending to take some nature shots too. It was spring time and there was blossom on some of the trees, (I always liked blossom) and as I walked along looking for nature shots it was as if my eyes were opened for the very first time! I was mesmerized by the simplest of things, it was on this first walk that I took a photo of a dandelion seed head that I use as my logo on my site and Facebook page. I was so struck by the perfection of this ‘weed,’ for me it is a simple reminder of that first walk and my eyes being opened to the perfection of nature.
The greatest gift in life, you’ve received today The birth of your precious little one, safely here to stay Entrusted to your gentle, loving care God knows that you are a wonderfully, devoted pair
Your lives will never again be the same Now that you are parents, you have a new aim To love and protect her, to nurture and to care The joys of parenthood are beyond compare
The happiness, joy and love you now feel Will stay with you forever, this love is so real There is nothing in life that can compare to this The birth of your cherished baby, brings you pure bliss
Trina Graves – 20th August 2007
About This Poem
This poem was written eleven years ago today! The years have certainly flown by and the precious little bundle of joy is now almost as tall as both her parents.
My oldest daughter, Julie, always wanted to be a mother. From a young age she looked forward to the time when she’d get married and have children. With that attitude I always thought that she would be the first of my three children to make me a grandmother, but her brother surprised us all by becoming a father at seventeen. Julie of course became a wonderful aunt to her niece. Then five years later her younger sister, Emma, got married and had a daughter too, closely followed by a son. Julie doted on her nieces and nephew, but her relationships, so far, had not been right to settle down and have children. However, it wasn’t too long after this that she met a new man who seemed perfect to her. They moved in together and it wasn’t too long before she became pregnant. Becoming a mother was such a longed for experience I wanted to write something to remember it by.
They are now married and have two other children, Amy (8) and Lowen (3).
Proud parents Julie & Mark with newborn Sophie (2007)
Babies are born into this world As pure Spirits, into our care Most think of them as totally helpless But they are Awake and Aware
It’s true they need to be looked after The physical body takes time to train Unlimited potential lies ahead for them After mastering their body and brain
But these unique and pure Spiritual Beings Are learning and adapting as they grow Throughout pregnancy, birth and early years They assimilate everything you show
We are all essentially Spiritual Beings Therefore words and actions do not convey As much as the energy we constantly radiate Through our thoughts and feelings every day
Our thoughts, beliefs and perception Will build our world, our exclusive reality Children mimic from those around them Familiar traits to become their personality
Surrounded by nurturing, unconditional love Supported with flowing positive praise Encouraged to independently think A child will embody all these ways
Trina Graves – 5th December 2016
About This Poem
Many of my poems are about babies and children because they have been the main focus of my adult life. I had my three children at a young age and became a grandmother at thirty-six, my oldest grandchild is now an adult (21 this year) with others ever fast approaching!
One of the main things I wish I had known all those years ago when my children were born was that they are like sponges, taking in everything around them with no filters. I guess at an unconscious level I knew this because I was always wary of what was going on around them. But I never understood that it wasn’t just my words and actions, but my thoughts and feelings that had an effect on them. It’s all so clear to see now in their adult lives snippets of reflections of how I was back then.
And now in my grandchildren I see them develop as mini versions of their parents and the people that surround them. I always knew that we are influenced by the way we are brought up, but I never realized the extent of how it all programs our minds.
Although, another interesting point is that some people who have had unstable or even terrible upbringings are able to put their focus on achieving everything opposite to their personal experiences. Two wonderful examples of this are Wayne Dyer and Anthony Robbins. Wayne Dyer had an alcoholic father who left his family of three children under four, his mother couldn’t cope so she sent one child and Wayne to a series of foster homes, and the other to live with a grandmother. Wayne chose to perceive this experience as a lesson in self-reliance. Anthony Robbins childhood was abusive and poor, it was an anonymous gift of a food basket on Thanksgiving (when he was still a child) that changed his life, as he then set his focus on being able to help others in the same way.
We Are Being Taken Over… This is NOT a conspiracy theory! You will KNOW this to be true If you read all the way through.
We Are Being Taken Over… They are already here living among us They arrive each and every day There is no stopping them.
They are positioning themselves in all walks of life All races, all cultures, all classes, all abilities They are willing to infiltrate them all.
They don’t have control yet But they will… it’s only a matter of time.
Slowly, but surely they will take over… They will be in control of every village, every town, every city, every country and every nation.
They will be in every profession… Teachers, Shop Workers, Lawyers Nurses, Social Workers, Authors, Doctors, Carers, Bankers, Police… Every single occupation.
They will command and be the governments and armies of every single nation.
Their influence will touch the lives of us all.
They will be the parents of the next generations Instilling their own beliefs and their own way of life On the children of the future.
They are everywhere, waiting for their time. In the years ahead they will take over… No one will be immune to their domination They will have total control. Wherever you go on this planet… They will be there.
Are you concerned about this? Are you worried what will happen? Surely somehow they can be stopped? What if we close our borders?
But they are not arriving in that way They have another means of entry.
This invasion has been going on since humans began We are powerless to stop it.
But, thankfully scientist have recently discovered that we can gain control. They have found out that when these Beings arrive they are not fully programmed. We have the power to install the software that can benefit us all.
It is a mammoth task, but it’s doable, if enough of the right people take their part.
These beings use a type of mind virus to adapt to our world They learn to behave like us humans by memes. They watch our every move, listen to our every word
Copy our mannerisms, actions and habits. They can even tune into our thoughts So we will have to be Aware at all times.
We need to use our hearts and minds to focus on how we want our world to be… Loving, Peaceful, Supportive, Generous, Helpful,
Compassionate, Forgiving – in all its Diversity. Caring and Sharing the abundance of resources available for everyone. Living in Appreciation and Gratitude. Treasuring our planet and every living thing on it. Then we can programme the new arrivals with these qualities.
We will have to be very careful to do our best to live these qualities ourselves
Because their complete core programming takes about six years. It will be very easy at first to nurture them
Showing them only love, compassion and joy. But, as time passes and we have bad days
Getting stressed out about this and that, it becomes harder to stay aware…
They will always mimic our every mood
And install it.
As I said, it is a tremendous task
But it would be worth it… What a wonderful world we could all share in the future. And in our aging years we would be surrounded by loving, caring citizens of Earth. We would be joyously happy to let these new beings take over, everywhere. The future of life on Earth would be safe in their capable, caring hands and hearts.
So, who among us is up for the job?…
Well, actually, they have already chosen you!
Who are these infiltrators? And where do they come from?
They are Pure Beings of Love and Light Sent to Earth to guide us and to teach us to remember who we are…
We are Beings of Love and Light.
They come from God/Source/All-That-Is.
They are…
Our Children.
Trina Graves – July 2016
About This Poem
This poem is based upon the following quote by Rev. James A. Simpson.
“An army is invading our country. It is going to capture and take possession of everything we have, every political office, business, school, college and council. Nothing will be left to us. This army is composed of the babies and youngsters in our homes. They are the future citizens, the future teachers, directors, politicians. What happens to them, the kind of people they will become, will determine the quality of life in this country twenty-thirty years from now. No task is therefore more important than the education and training of these children in honesty, self-discipline, generosity, love and forgiveness.”
When I first read this quote I thought it was very thought provoking in it’s truth. I had previously been reading about how children have no filters in their early years and just absorb everything from those who surround them, so I wanted to bring these together in a poem. I also liked the idea of making it like a Conspiracy Theory of us being taken over, so I did not want to reveal until the very end that it is all about children.
Time: A simple word that evokes so much In the modern world it imprints on all we touch Lives are ruled by the ticking of the clock Conforming to its pace, we heed the tick-tock
It’s a man-made concept all so easily seen When twice a year we have to adjust our routine Changing the clock first forward and then back Why does it continue? Is it sensibility we lack?
Fitting everything in at the allotted time Being late is frowned on, considered a crime Forcing people to be the same as each other Obeying the system, natural alignment we smother
In the times of old, nature ruled the days Governed by the sun’s lightening rays Dawn, mid-day and dusk were the cue To the timing of all they needed to do
It’s funny how the same minute can be long or short Hours, days, even years, it seems time can distort Why is it that the exact same duration Can change? Is there really an explanation?
At embarrassing moments time just stands still As our mind freezes or overdrives to try and fill The awkwardness with maybe something funny to say While we silently wish it would all just go away
As we get older it seems that time goes so fast Speeded up from our childhood days, long in the past When school summer holidays seemed to last forever We played happily all day, no matter the weather
There are things we experience where time goes so slow Dealing with pain, physical or mental, is one we all know It doesn’t even matter if the pain’s not our own It’s excruciating when loved ones suffer and moan
Special occasions with family and friends speed by Enjoying time together, no matter the reason why Moments to treasure in our memory forevermore Love is the key to transcend time’s prison door
Feeling lonely or neglected time drags its feet Sinking deeper with the darkness, sat in our seat Days are endless, stretching into the gloom The pendulum of time heavily digs a tomb
Doing something we love time will rapidly pass We don’t notice the hours go by so fast Engrossed in pursuing our passion of heart Time’s inconsequential from the moment we start
Someone sitting quietly in meditation Can experience time in it’s duration As though an hour is a few minutes, no more As through they’re consciousness they explore
But another can sit the precise same stretch And be tormented with all the thoughts they fetch Bored or anxious and worried about what’s ahead Time’s lethargic pace expands the points they dread
In childbirth time plays an important part Counting the minutes right from the start Hours draw out as the intensity increases But time stills, as the magic moment reaches
With a baby, days and time have no meaning at all Except for the duration between the newborn’s call Getting everything done in between each wail We’re wrapped up in the little one’s timescale
Being a parent time is a total quirk The monotony can really be an irk But looking back, where has the time gone? The years flash by, we wish they’d prolong
The baby days that seemed so endless at the start Are over so fast, now time hits our heart As our children zoom through the years ahead Before we know it, from the nest they have fled
As age takes its toll time can certainly slump Especially if taken the attitude of a grump But those who keep mind and body active Will tinker with time and enthusiastically live
So have you noticed the difference between Time being fast or slow, or how it is seen Our perception alters our focus upon Each moment, making it short or long
All of the spans of time so vast Are caused by negative attitudes cast Upon the focus, the perceptive view Sending time off and all askew
When thinking positive as much as can be Time moves faster, it is so easy to see How living joyously in the moment brings more To enrich our lives and enlighten our core
When aligned with your Source, the real you Living in joy, with love coming through There’s no need to watch the clock on the wall Law of attraction will answer you’re heart’s call
Every instant of time is a pinprick Of eternity’s candle, we are the wick Vital to it’s radiance, expanding perpetually Aligned with Source we are timelessly free
Trina Graves – 8th February 2016
About This Poem
When I sat to write the poem for this quote I knew I wanted to cover how our perception of time is affected by what we are doing and our thoughts. I follow the teachings of Abraham-Hicks so I always do my best to focus on the positive and not give my attention to the negative, so I try not to include negative aspects in my poems unless I feel it is needed and I would only use them sparingly. However, I felt that this poem needed all of the contrasts, so it has many more negative experiences than I would usually include.
Most people agree that time seems to speed up as we get older, but I truly believe that time has actually sped up since we moved into the ‘New Age.’ When I look back to the 70’s/80’s/90’s I can’t believe all the things it was possible to do in one day! And now, my days go by so fast, in comparison it seems as though what was a morning is now a whole day! I know I am older so have slowed down, and as much as possible I spend my day doing what I love to do (which speeds time up) but, as each month passes in what seems not much more than a week, I sometimes wonder, with the ever-increasing speed, what will eventually happen?
However, I know that time is just a concept we need to experience our life here on Earth and in other dimensions it does not exist in the same way or at all. And most importantly the only time I need to be: concerned about, focused on, appreciating, living, being, loving, blessing, enjoying is NOW.
As a little girl I held your hand tightly For the world was a scary place. As the years went by our clasp loosened As I became eager to explore Then the day came that we both let go And I was able to walk alone.
Whatever I have faced in my life I’ve known your hand is always there For me to hold, if I need. The warmth of your love And guidance of your hand Has steered me through the crowd of life To bring me through.
Now as the years pass I hold my hand out to you For I will always be there If you ever need me. Take my hand and together We can walk the rest of the path.
Trina Graves – 21st October 2001
About This Poem
When I was about nine or ten, I wrote a poem for my mum called Mother’s Hand. My mum still has it! So, when I began writing poems (as an adult) I wanted to have a go at re-writing it for her birthday.
I can’t believe it was almost seventeen years ago! And there was me thinking she was getting old reaching sixty-three, but in very few years I will be that age!!! Over the years I have written quite a few poems for my parents as they always love to receive them on special occasions. My mum will be eighty in October, so hopefully I will be up to the challenge of writing her something she will treasure. Now, as each birthday, anniversary and Mother’s/Father’s day comes round I begin to doubt that I can come up with something, but when I ask for guidance, it always comes. 🙂
The basis of everything is vibration In this wonderful world of ours All the people, all physical objects All of nature including its flowers
Everything in life we experience In each and every single day We identify through our senses There truly is no other way
The five basic senses of hearing Sight, taste, touch and smell Are the ones we are taught to use And they do serve us quite well
It’s the vibrational frequencies Our organs transmit to our brain The world around us we distinguish But what does it really contain?
Science in the past has always Used physicality as a proof If you can’t see something’s there How can it be real or the truth?
Today the atom can be viewed To see what there is inside They’ve found just empty space Now the truth just cannot hide
But the most astonishing discovery Science has made in more recent years Is that the observer changes the outcome Everything alters as perception interferes
Science and Spirituality are merging Whichever way you look, you will find It is all about the Energy and Vibration Of how we perceive and are aligned
We all have another sense, the sixth Though many chose to ignore or forget The importance of sensing energy It’s been the most misunderstood yet
We all have this sense to use From the moment of our birth We use the energy around us For all our years on this Earth
Some people can use this sense So much easier than the rest They always trust their intuition Not having to put it to the test
Whatever we may do in this life Begins with a simple thought Created by what’s around us From the vibrations we import
Thoughts usually turn to words As we convey our desires and express Through the way we have learned But, have we really progressed?
A baby understands so much more Than we could ever truly know They are aligned with vibrations That to them so easily flow
If you’ve ever held a baby When you’re in a bad mood You know they’ll pick up on that And either cry or be subdued
All babies come into our world With so much love and wisdom to share They’re pure spirits, aligned with Source And can teach us how to be Aware
Trina Graves – 3rd December 2016
About This Poem
In 2011 I began to blog by writing about the photo-quotes I added to my website and Facebook page, both called Spiritual Quotes To Live By. I actually started it here on WordPress, but after awhile moved it over to my site. For simplicity reasons, I thought it best to start with the first photo I added and work my way through, so that I knew exactly what I’d used. However, when taking a peek ahead to what was coming I would occasionally think ‘What on Earth am I going to write about that one?’ Always wanting to ‘go with the flow’ if I was stuck on what to write.. I didn’t. So there would sometimes be long gaps.
At the end of 2016, because I had began to write many more poems I decided to write a poem for each quote instead. That was before I had looked at what the next quote would be! When I saw this one it was definitely a ‘What can I write?’ moment! But after praying and asking for guidance the words just flowed quite easily and I was really pleased that the poem ended up covering so much with what at first seemed a difficult title!
Born 3 weeks apart, grandsons Tyler & Benjamin (2014)
I promise to always love you. No matter what you will do or say, my love for you will always be unconditional.
I promise to nurture you. Providing you with love, comfort and security to the best of my abilities.
I promise to always protect you. Your safety and well-being will always be on my mind.
I promise to do my best. I am only human and I will make mistakes, but I will always do the best that I can for you.
I promise to always be there for you. Even later, as the years go by and we grow apart, know that you can always turn to me.
I promise to teach you right from wrong. By my actions you will learn.
I promise to guide you. Throughout your life I will act as your guide, either you will want to do the things that I do or say, or you will not want to do them, because I do!
I promise to be your anchor. When life gets you down, I will be there to hold you and support you.
I promise to let you become independent. As the years pass, I will ease you out into the world.
I promise to not use you as a pawn. If my relationship with your other parent changes, I will always do what’s best for you and not bring my feelings into your relationship with them.
I promise to seek help when I need it. We all need support sometimes, to cope with life’s problems.
I promise to let you find your own path to God. I will show you my way, but you will be guided to your own path.
I promise to teach you tolerance. We are all individuals and cannot always agree, but I will teach by my example to be tolerant.
I promise to teach you empathy for people & animals. By always considering other’s feelings, you will not cause any unnecessary harm.
I promise to teach you the things of real value. Love, Peace, Joy. There are so many simple things in life to enjoy.
I promise to teach you to cherish our planet. By example, you will learn to care for our environment.
Trina Graves – August 2002
About This Poem
Although I had my doubts about the negativity in the Christian religion I was brought up in, when my first child was born I had only just turned 18 and didn’t like to go against the norm, so she was Christened at the age of six months. However, by the time my son came along eight months later I decided to opt out of this family tradition, so he and my next daughter were not Christened.
Moving on to the new millennium, my youngest daughter got married in early 2002 to a man who had been brought up as a Jehovah’s Witness. While dating she did attend some of their services to see if it was something she would wish to join, but soon realized it was definitely not for her! As she was not in the religion they married in a Registry Office. While pregnant with her first child it was obvious this baby was not going to be Christened and we talked about a Naming Ceremony.
Also at that time, my other daughter had been living with a Muslim for a few years, but was not taking on his religion. Different faiths were combining in my family, so I began to think of writing words for a Naming Ceremony. I liked the idea of parents making vows to the precious little Soul new to the world.
I wrote these vows in August 2002, Lucy (my second grandchild) was born at the end of that year, she never had a Naming Ceremony so the vows were not used. But, as always, I kept them for future use.
I always felt it was interesting how different religions were being brought more into my awareness. As a young teenager I was a fan of the Osmonds and because of this took an interest in their religion (Mormons) which also led me to choose Religious Education as an exam subject at school. Now I can see it was all setting me on a path to lead me to where I am now!
Teach Only Love To those closest to you Family is a learning core Of bringing love through
Teach Only Love To friends both far and near Love is the strongest connection Give it to all, who you hold dear
Teach Only Love To all the children you meet The future of our world Lies always at their feet
Teach Only Love To each stranger passing by Just a friendly greeting and smile Can uplift a spirit so high
Teach Only Love To all your colleagues at work Kindness will soothe and ease Even those who seem to irk
Teach Only Love To all those who’ve done wrong Forgiveness and compassion Will guide their steps along
Teach Only Love To all animals of land, sea and air No matter what the type Creatures of God deserve your care
Teach Only Love To trees, plants and flowers Nurturing nature enhances life Bringing many blessing showers
Teach Only Love To all landscapes of planet Earth Appreciate all the aspects And know its true worth
Teach Only Love In your ideas of cosmic life One day we will all meet And it is love we want, not strife
Teach Only Love For the law of attraction will bring Your thoughts and beliefs to manifest Creating your world and everything
Teach Only Love It is by example you go far In teaching the love of God For that is truly what you are
Trina Graves – 24th July 2018
About This Poem
As you can see I wrote this poem yesterday, I have been meaning to write a ‘quote’ poem for a very long time now, so yesterday I decided to get on with it! I had a short-list of quotes to choose from and two jumped out at me, both from A Course In Miracles: Teach Only Love For That Is What You Are & You Are The Light Of The World (I will post this tomorrow).
I wrote the poems in my usual way, this one first, and thought of posting it yesterday, but I didn’t have a picture made to go with it, so rather than rush to do this, I chose to leave it till today. So, this morning I began to think of what I could write about for this poem, but I had no idea!
With that on my mind I began to check through my emails, and one was of a post by Amira, a Haiku poem called Space, on reading, I thought of what great timing this was (law of attraction) as my poem had a verse about cosmic life and it has been on my mind to write some poems soon on this topic. I wrote a comment telling Amira I believe we are not alone and went on about Lightworkers, forgetting this linked also to my second poem!
Before ‘meeting’ Amira, and starting this blog, I was hesitant to be open about my thoughts on some topics, and to share poems such asInsight because I know many people would not believe such things. But, since we began this sharing connection, and with all the encouraging comments I have received (onAmira’s blog) it has been far easier for me to be open with the stories of my poems and to just follow my intuition and write anything!
It is so fascinating how we can meet some people and instantly know there is a connection that will develop into more, and even change our lives. This hasn’t happened for a while for me, but I certainly felt this with Amira from the very first email we exchanged! Who knows where our connection will lead?!!! Bless you Amira.
Two of my granddaughters, perfect photo for this poem!
We want our children to be good Do as told, and as they should We give rules and we instil Our beliefs, their minds we fill With all the ways that we know how To live as best, in these times now
From the moment of their birth And for all their days on Earth Our one hope above the rest Through all joys and times of test Is that they will be happy every day No matter what will come their way
We all wish them lives of love Some wish alignment with above We all want them to be healthy Some wish them to be wealthy But all these are not true worth Without happiness and mirth
Making them happy seems the way To please them each and every day Giving all we can to their joy Buying each a brand new toy Not having much time to spend On making a living we do depend
The cycle of life continues on Before too long the child is gone Now an adult the world will see But your child they’ll always be Still you long for joy and happiness Their life to be full of purest bliss
However, you know life will impart Many arrows deep into their heart Each one’s shadow will hit you too Because they are a part of you You give your love and support Wishing more you could have taught
If I knew then, what I know now So different I’d be, I would allow My Inner Guidance to show the way To all I think, and do, and say My children I know I guide By my ‘Being,’ I cannot hide
Back then, I know I did my best So I can lay my past to rest Now time moves on, flashes by I have more to give, I can but try Showing other generations a way My words of truth I yearn to display
We cannot make them be Open your mind and you’ll see Everything we are, they will take And with that, they will make Our attitude and feeling core Will open their life-path door
Children are the greatest treasures Our lives continuing measures Of all we are and will achieve Growing on from what we believe How we live, what we are What guides us, near and far Our hopes, our loves, our goal How much we follow our Soul
The greatest gift we can give To our children is to live Always guided by our Light Our Inner Knowing shining bright Giving it strength by positive thought It is by example children are taught Be their map for a life of joy For every precious girl and boy
Trina Graves – 11th January 2018
About This Poem
I write poems using inspirational quotes for my website: Spiritual Quotes To Live By. After praying for guidance I write what flows, but sometimes once the poem is finished, I know I need to write another one using the same quote. This was one of those times.
The full quote from Oscar Wilde is: The Best Way To Make Children Good Is To Make Them Happy. I have cut it short for this poem just to differentiate between the two.
The first poem (to be added) focuses more on how children learn by example but also have their own inner guidance. I felt I needed to write more to include how wanting our children to be happy is something that continues throughout their, and our, lives. – Even my parents, still say all they want is for their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren to be happy. – I also wanted to write a more personal poem.
As we grow older and look back at our children’s childhoods it is so easy to see the mistakes we’ve made and to wish we could have done things differently, but to have inner peace we have to accept that we did the best with what we knew at that time.
I share some of my poems with others in my family, especially if I write a personal one for them, but most are not on the same wavelength, yet! Which is one of the reasons I write, someday they may see and know that they were my inspiration.
A baby contains an inherent, infinite Light That shines so brightly from it’s Soul Vividly luminous with Source Energy We’re captivated, adoring beyond control
Time advances, the baby becomes a child The Divine illumination begins to dim Their link to Source has been shadowed By the negativity they have taken in
As the child goes out into the big-wide world School and society’s control gets a strong-hold ‘Bright Sparks’ may seem to be encouraged But they too, must fit into the defined mould
Adolescence then adulthood urges onwards By now most Inner Lights have been blocked Conforming to everyone, but not their own desires Keeps the door to their Soul firmly locked
But remember, there is nothing wrong about this We planned our whole journey right from the start By learning to follow our own Inner Guidance in life We would retrieve the Light through our heart
One of life’s immense joys is parenthood Overwhelming gifts this path can bring Unconditional love its purest treasure Lifting the Spirit, the Soul will truly sing
Whatever path we choose to take No one else will be on the same It’s so important to remember this When focusing on your child’s aim
The Light inside them is also a compass It can guide them their whole life through Teaching them to choose right from wrong Inner Guidance is always clear in what to do
Their Light Compass will always be there If ever they have any troubles or doubt What to do about it, which path to take Their Inspiring Light will always shine out
Learning to use and trust their intuition Connecting to their own Source Energy Light Is the greatest blessing you can ever give them And by example is the only way to teach it right
Trina Graves – 5th December 2016
About This Poem
Sometimes I come across a quote that I just know I need to make into a poem. I write it down in my notepad that I keep just for my poems. – I prefer to hand-write in pencil first of all, I have tried typing straight away but it just doesn’t feel right! – I also keep a list on the front inside cover of any titles or ideas that come to me, this happens most often upon first waking. Anyway, this quote from Wayne Dyer was one that I knew would be a poem.
With this title the poem was obviously going to be about letting children use their own intuition, to be connected to their own inner light rather than follow the guidance of others, even though it is thought to be in their best interest.
After praying and asking for guidance my thoughts drifted to how babies are so mesmerizing as if we are under their spell and I realized it is because they exude Source, they are pure beings of light. But then why does that change? Why do we enter this world as the true beings we are but then become so much less? I hope this poem sheds some light on this and show that the only way to teach them to follow their own compass it to follow our own.
With each new day as I awoke Like a spark I’d remember you were here A smile would warm my face and heart Those moments I treasure, so clear
I counted the weeks as they passed by Your presence I felt growing strong My joy and excitement thinking of you Those moments I treasure my life long
You wriggled and kicked more powerfully each month My body stretching as it nurtured your growth Blossoming too was my complete devotion to you Those moments I treasure, unconditional love my oath
Then the moment arrived for us to meet face-to-face Time stood still with a tangible sense of awe The miracle of pregnancy and birth is a blessing in life Those moments I treasure forever more
Now the years have passed and you are grown But my memory of pure Bliss can still bring a tear When you were first place in my arms That moment I treasure most dear
You are: my Joy, my Precious, my Beloved, my Life I’ve loved you unconditionally right from the start Though life separates us, our love continues and unites Our moments I treasure – Eternally you are part of my heart
Trina Graves – 10th March 2015
About This Poem
For all the special occasions I often write poems for my parents and put them in home-made cards using photographs of the family, they love this and with each one I do it seems they are more over-joyed. So, just before Mother’s Day in 2015, I sat to write a poem for my mum. However, after praying for guidance this poem was the result!
I was taken back, many years, to the excited feeling as I awoke and suddenly remembered I was pregnant, I loved being pregnant so this was a delight each morning. So, I just had to put that into words and then the rest of the poem followed on.
I gave my two daughters a print of the poem on a photo of me holding them as babies for Mother’s Day, as they are mother’s too.
Dear Mummy and Daddy, No matter what happens between us, during my childhood I will love you unconditionally.
You are my guide, my support, my lifetime anchor… for whatever becomes of me depends on our time together.
From you I will learn what love is. I will learn to be confident or shy, giving or selfish, loving or cruel. I will learn what is right and wrong, who I should respect and whether I should love and respect myself.
As I come into this world, into your tender care, I am a pure, clean sponge. I will soak up every look, every touch, every thought, every word, every feeling and they will mould me into the person that I will become.
So in the days, weeks, months and years ahead – please remember that – every thought, feeling, word, touch, and look… I will absorb.
If you treat me with love, caring, respect, tolerance, forgiveness and understanding – even when I do things wrong – then I will grow up into a kind, considerate, confident, loving, responsible, happy child and adult.
But if you treat me with intolerance, uncaring, harshness, words of anger and neglect… I will be… sad.
Trina Graves – 22nd December 1997
About This Poem
This was my first poem, apart from the words I wrote in 1993 (see: About This Blog). I wrote it the day my first grandchild was born on 22nd December 1997. I sat to write some words for the congratulations card to my son and his girlfriend, but instead these words just flowed out. I never gave it to them, but just filed it away!
Back then I had not heard of the Law Of Attraction, so I was amazed many years later when I pulled it out and found I had been writing about it so long before. Also, in the past few years I have been reading the work of people like scientist Bruce Lipton who now teach that children do indeed absorb everything, with no filters, for the first six years.
