Surrounded with love All through the years In times of great joy And moments of tears
Throughout it all Love is always there In the family bond You came here to share
Brought up with love Aged many years apart The strength of family Ingrained in the heart
Drifting apart in time As families move on Starting new generations In the heart to belong
And era sadly ends Parents leave the Earth Roots ripped out of sight Held strong since birth
Still surrounded with love From their new dimension It’s more easy to feel When feeling no tension
Times together dwindle As the years pass so fast Children, grand and great Bring echoes of the past
Memories of youth Funny stories to tell As the mind grows old It’s uplifting to dwell
And then one-by-one Comes the time to go Uniting with loved ones Leaving blessings to grow
14th October 2021 – Trina Graves
About This Poem
I wrote this poem for my father’s 85th birthday last year. He is the oldest of three boys and was eight years old when his first brother was born, the other brother came along three years later. Their mother died when they were young adults, but their father lived many more years.
The middle brother moved abroad to live many years ago, so they didn’t very often get together. In more recent years different illness affected all three, and last year this brother died, which is the reason I wrote this poem for my dad.
On looking for a photograph to use for his birthday card I came across the pictures below, and with the same pose, so many years apart, the poem grew from there.
The garden is created Beautiful in simplicity With the purest of flowers And a baby, sapling tree
The temporary gardeners Nurture with great care Developing the garden With the love they share
But busy with life Tasks to do, no end Some weeds will grow They can’t always tend
The tree is always growing Rooting deep in the Earth It’s core strength develops To branch out in self-worth
Seasons come and go Years pass quickly by The gardeners relinquish For the owner to try
With supervision at first The owner will learn Where to place attention And what is of concern
Much advice is given And many seeds added too By visitors to the garden As they walk through
Tended often, or not at all The garden will always grow Flowers planted or self-seeded Some develop fast, others slow
Most owners don’t weed at all For many, many years Until they come to realize It’s developed all their fears
Venturing into their garden Overgrown, some parts dense Thistles, vines, thorns, weeds The scale of the task.. immense!
Pulling on one single vine Can reach far and wide It was strangling many plants They would have all died
An abundance of thistles Prickly bushes causing injury Overpowering all simple flowers No light of day could they see
Starting in a corner Pulling weeds, just a few Brings a sense of relief Clarity begins to seep through
Working in the garden Clearing, no longer a chore The owner now perceives Simple beauty known before
Maybe clearing a path Adding a seat in the sun Enjoying the peace Meditation begun
Opening the garden To the Spiritual Reality Communion with God Ever there to simply be
Trina Graves – 18th August 2020
About This Poem
Although this poem was never intended to be about this year, I do feel that it is relevant as we have all had – and are still having – time to ‘tend our gardens’ in the physical, mental and spiritual aspects, with the shutting down of our old way of life.
Many of my poems have been about, or mention, how a baby and child are shaped by the experiences and vibrations that surround them in the vitally important first seven years. ( Assimilation )
How our lives are shaped from our childhood was one of my first interests as I began my Spiritual path, and it has continued to be an important aspect for me to write on. As I am sure many older people would agree, – if I knew then (when I had young children to nurture) what I know now, I would certainly have done many things differently.
So, now I share my words in the hope that they will fall into the hands of any parents to ponder, and maybe make some changes that will enrich their children’s lives, and their own in the process.
I believe it is also important to know that it is never too late to tend to our own gardens, clearing away the weeds that have developed over the years. And, remember that the sweetest fragrance comes for the flowers of forgiveness, gratitude and love. Our parents (or caregivers) were tending our early gardens with the seeds sown in their own gardens.
Right now keeping positive, as much as possible, is a priority for everyone. Being stressed suppresses the immune system, and with the revelations that are now coming forth it will be very easy to caught up in the high drama of it all. With this in mind, I have compiled a page of links to my poems that are relevant at this time:
You Blessed my life 40 years ago today Your presence has brought Much more than words can say
A precious daughter to Love Unconditionally and cherish You changed my world So on this day, I wish…
Your life be overflowing Abundantly with Love And any negativity You calmly rise above
Each day to be filled With the beauty all around And by always seeking joy Your Soul Path will be found
The strength and courage To do what you must And peace of mind In God’s hands to trust
Good health to live And do all you want to Please remember always To look after YOU!
For an empty well Can give no water Everything you give You need, my daughter
40 years of joy and Love I give thanks for today I Love you, then, now, forever A part of my Heart you will stay
As a baby you filled me with awe As a child you filled me with delight And as an adult with pride and admiration But most especially, throughout all the years … with LOVE
Trina Graves – 10th April 2019
About This Poem
As stated, this was written for my daughters 40th last year. Yesterday my son also reached this milestone! With only fourteen months between them they grew up close together, I especially loved watching them explore their world together as little ones.
They are now parents themselves, my daughter has three children (daughters 12 & 10, son 5) and my son has a daughter (22). The years have gone by so very fast and now the world is changing so much too! I do believe greater things are ahead of us, once collectively we are able to see how much has been going on for so long that has held us back from being our true selves.
My youngest will turn forty at the very beginning of 2023, she has four children (daughter 17, sons 16, 8, 6) I truly hope and envision by then we will be through the worst that needs to surface for our planetary healing, and we will be creating our New Earth of Love, Compassion, Joy and Peace for all. Then by the time my grandchildren start reaching this age (2037) our world will be totally unrecognisable from the dense duality we now live in.
My three treasures in 1984 (I have this picture by my screen to keep me uplifted)
I knew that I wanted to write another poem of this moment and the title came to me one morning on waking, this happens to me often, so I know it’s one to follow through. I knew what I wanted to portray, but didn’t feel the urge to write it straight away. In 2019 I came across the channellings of Kryon by Lee Carroll and these have brought me a much greater understanding, but also wonderful confirmations of many of my life experiences that I thought I might never know the truth of until I moved out of this physical world. This title and knowing I had of that precious moment of life was confirmed to me by many Kryon teachings that I came across after receiving the title and acknowledging my inner knowing.
Today is Mother’s Day in many parts of our world, and is like no other we have ever experienced. In the UK our Mother’s Day was on 22nd March (the day before we went into official lockdown) and we were advised not to visit our Mothers, so most did not.
I had planned to add a different poem this weekend as my belief of this time is not the one portrayed in mainstream media, however on waking this morning I knew that this one was the right choice for today.
God Bless all Mothers worldwide and Happy Mother’s Day to those who celebrate today.
Now You Know The beauty of your Soul Life will never break you Your essence remains whole Now… You Know
Now You Know Love is who you are Unconditional and eternal Radiant as the brightest star Now… You Know
Now You Know The Light is a part of you Source Energy, God Shines in all you do Now… You Know
Now You Know Life is about having fun Creating and expanding Forever learning from day one Now… You Know
Now You Know Everything is a reflection Of thoughts and beliefs Mirroring your attention Now… You Know
Now You Know You create your reality You hold all the power To be who you want to be Now… You Know
Now You Know You are singularly unique No one will ever be the same In mind, or in physique Now… You Know
Now You Know You are One in Unity With all life, your Soul A Source Spark eternally Now… You Know
Now You Know We are never apart Separation is an illusion We’re always together at heart Now… You Know
Now You Know The love I feel for you At entry and exit to life It overpowers to guide me through Now… You Know
Now You Know Life is eternal, on the other side We choose to stay, or be re-born To go for another enlightening ride Now… You Know
Now You Know Transitioning between the two At birth and death, a doorway We all pass our way through And There… We All Know
Trina Graves – 1st August 2019
About This Poem
The title of this poem just popped into my head one day, so I wrote it down with a note that it would be a sympathy poem.
I was reminded of how I received a message from my grandmother at Spiritualist church (she died when I was six), With the description of her and what was said, I had no doubt that it was her, but what stuck in my mind most was her saying that when she was alive she would never have set foot in a Spiritualist Church, but now she was so happy to be able to speak to me at one!
When I was writing the poem, I was about half way through when I realized it was not just about someone who has died, but also about babies at birth too.
I believe all babies come with this inner-knowing, so fresh from Source it is the reason they shine so bright and we are so intoxicated by them. In our dense world, and with all of the negative programming that has continued throughout the ages, the majority of children loose their inner-knowing as they grow up. Although, of course, it can be re-awakened at anytime.
I also believe that we are now in a time where children are able to hold onto these truths. Many of the arrivals so far have been given the ‘labels’ of crystal, indigo or rainbow children, but I believe the majority of babies will soon be able to sustain their Light throughout childhood and into adulthood.
The Father of today Is free to take his role In any direction he wants He can set his own goal
Fathers of the past Were shackled to society Having to always fit in Blinkered from other ways to be
Not allowed at the birth No sharing of the nurturing Only some playing allowed But all the money to bring
Slowly change crept in Allowing Father participation Opening the floodgates of truth Love: the heart’s revelation
Taking an active role Feeding, changing and cuddling Fully supporting a newborn Soul Opens the heart to truly sing
Continuing to learn together Through the years never truly apart Helps balance the dual energies Spiritual growth will impart
Trina Graves – 11th June 2019
About This Poem
After writing ‘Father: The Changing Role’I knew I wanted to write another poem about Fathers to also depict how the change has worked to bring more balance to the male energy. We all contain both male and female energy, but in the past the male energy has been way too dominant in many men. I believe becoming a father is a chance to experience a love that can break the cycle of the past and attune to a new way of being.
Much Love, Light & Blessings to all the Father’s everywhere: in physical, in Spirit and especially those who take on the nurturing role of father to those children who were not born to them.
I have included this poem in The Great Awakening as it is a positive indication of how men have changed over the years, depicting the on-going Awakening that has been slowly progressing through time.
Each generation brings change To all the roles of family As each new unit forms Different ways are clear to see
We are moulded by the experiences Shaped in our early childhood Our parents views of their roles Became the truth we understood
Different families merge In life, their ways and goals May differ, so children change Their perception to new roles
Also, over time societies grip Has loosened its stranglehold Now more people are fully aware They don’t have to fit to the mould
In my grandfathers generation Men had to be hard and strong Physically and emotionally Showing emotion deemed to be wrong
Financially supporting their family Through all the trouble and strife War an ever-present reality Burying emotion was a fact of life
And now three generations later The change and growth is clear to see My son and nephews, many fathers Demonstrating devotion to their family
Expressing words of love to their children Cuddling and kissing even into adulthood It’s beautiful to see and know The role of father has changed for the good
The two generations in-between My father and brothers are a part Of this great change I perceive As love worked to open their heart
Through the years it continues on Working it’s way in both directions The younger and older generations Continue to grow in love perceptions
Trina Graves – 11th June 2019
About This Poem
With Father’s Day approaching I wanted to write something new for the day. It’s easy for me to write a poem for Mothers as I have the experience of being one, but obviously I do not know what it is like to be a Father! I can only write from the perspective of the father relationships that I know of in my family.
My son has the most beautiful relationship I know of for a father and daughter. His relationship with her mother didn’t last more than a few months into her life, but he was able to regularly have his daughter stay over. Interestingly, this was due to the lack of contact her mother had with her father who had left when she was little, so she wanted her daughter to have a father in her life.
My granddaughter is now in her twenties and lives quite far away, but she always comes to stay with her dad several times during the year. It is so wonderful to see how close they are: talking about anything and everything, and doing things together. Obviously, as she gets older and hopefully begins a family of her own she won’t have as much time for her dad, but I know the bond they share will always be there, no matter what.
I am adding this poem to ‘The Great Awakening’ collection as it brings to focus the changes of Fatherhood over the years. Most men (who are present in their children’s lives )have adapted to take on a larger and more demonstratively Loving role. This is a wonderful step forward in creating our New Earth of Love & Light.
However, I believe the role of Mother has been very manipulated over the past few generations to make women feel that having children is a burden and a Mother cannot be satisfied with just raising her family and not ‘working’ at a job. Part of the psy-op has been to make people more materialistic, so to be able to afford the items, holidays etc.. both parents ‘need’ to work to be able to afford everything, therefore, placing babies and young children in daycare becomes a necessity.
Manipulating ideas sprang forth such as the children are learning to socialise and Mothers can have some ‘quality’ time with their children in the evenings before bed. But, in reality the babies and young children are missing out on the vitally important early years of development when they absorb everything they experience as their ‘truth’ that will shape their entire life. These babies/children are being brought up by various people who can no way match the Loving vibrations they receive from their parents. They are being adapted to live in a society where they have to fit into the mold, follow the rules and not go against anything they are told to do… perfect citizens for the New World Order!
I believe part of The Great Awakening is in parents learning of and acknowledging the vital role they play in their children’s lives. Those early years are so precious and all should be done to ensure their children are experiencing each and every day absorbing the Highest Vibration of living.
A Father’s role for his daughter Is so important and crucial too She constantly learns so much from him He is a guide, her whole life through
I was Blessed with you as my Father God knew the grander, greater plan Bringing us together for this life For this role, there could be no other man
The early years were a testing time As your family developed and grew I was also beginning to learn, many Lessons in love and life from you
You’d grown up in another era of time When men demonstrating love was frowned upon Of course love was felt, but it was not shown to all Unchallenged, these family concepts can linger on
There were times that I felt a bit awkward I didn’t show my love and affection for you But now I know, this was just a life challenge Now achieved, Love has not limits, it’s true
There are some things we don’t agree upon But as I grew up, you would listen to me Not judging or pushing your own opinions You’ve given me strength to be who I want to be
Life brought us closer together for many years Working in the office of your family business G&G The values I learnt from spending time with you Were also there for anyone else, who chose to see
Leadership, Loyalty, Strength, Courage, Compassion Hard-Working, you gave much more than just a wage Sharing: Achievements, Celebrations, Possessions Caring for all, you taught lessons that never age
Another valuable life experience you have shown Is how to rise up after you’ve taken a fall Life has knocked you down on the ground many times But you always get up, carry on and succeed to do more
Your Positive attitude is a wonderful thing You’re always friendly to everyone around Giving help to anyone who needs it always Your generous support, so many have found
I have discovered that life is supposed to be fun It is the essential way to live and be free From you I could have learned this many years ago Sport has always been your fun-time, it’s plain to see
Coffee shops and crosswords became a thing While together we waited for mum to mend Missing her presence, these passed the time Once home, mum carried on with the trend
And now that I am living just down the road Again we get to share some more precious time Drinking coffee and putting the world to right Sharing and caring makes everything fine
Please know that I will always be there for you Our Love is Eternal, so it will never end Thank you for everything you do.. You are My precious Father, My Support, My Friend
Trina Graves – June 2015 (Fathers Day)
About This Poem
With Father’s Day coming up at the weekend, I am sharing one of my personal family poems, but I still hope it can be enjoyed by others. It starts off mentioning a Father’s Role for his daughter because I am the only daughter, with three brothers. My Father also had no sister’s only two brothers, so a young female in his family was a new experience for him.
As you can see this was written for my father four years ago. Unfortunately, I no longer live ‘just down the road’ but I visit as often as I can. I know both my parents miss not having me living so close, but they know if they ever need me I will be there.
This week I have written two more ‘Father’ poems – Father: The Changing Role and Today’s Father. I will add them both over the weekend.
We all love to hear stories It’s why we read and watch TV. But not many understand that The greatest stories are of family. Relationships with people Is what life is all about. The closest ones, our family Shape us, without a doubt.
Family is so important It develops our core inside. Our childhood, growing up Imprints our lives, far and wide. How our parents coped with life Their attitudes to it all, Did they show their love? Where did their loyalties fall?
Most people don’t ever realise The constant voice in their head, Formed from childhood experiences All they saw, and what was said. So understanding our parents What happened in their early years, Can give us true inner wisdom And wipe away any un-needed tears.
Remembering we all do our best In the only way we know how, Each generation taking on echoes From the previous, right up to now. The only way to find things out Is talking while they are here, Relationships grow in love With empathy everything’s clear.
………………………………………………………..
For many years now, we’ve shared When I visit, our family news Who’s done what, why and when Are they happy or in the blues? After doing the circle of family Alive and present today, We often move to those passed And their stories of ‘yesterday.’
Also the times of your younger days The lessons you’ve lived and learned, Experiences, the good and the bad The pages of life you’ve turned. Knowing of your life stories Helps me in so many ways Understanding of the past Brings clarity to all my days.
Becoming Great-Great-Grandparents Just a few short weeks ago, A fifth generation begins The clock of time’s evidence on show, But how will this new generation Know of your part of their world? Unless they are told the stories The past generation’s lives unfurled.
Family history needs to be shared Not just for memories sake, But for all the treasures they hold From our past, our lives we make. Each generation feeds the next Not just on physical food and love, But all of their experiences mould And fit, to enfold like a glove.
Trina Graves – 21st March 2019
About This Poem
As I’ve mentioned before, my parents now look forward to receiving a poem from me on their special occasions, so with their anniversary approaching I began to think of what I could write about. I had no ideas, so I decided to look through some old photographs to get inspired (usually works!) However, before I delved into the photographs folder on my computer, I was drawn towards a folder labelled ‘My Family.’ I thought it was just another back up copy of all the family documents I had scanned over the years, but I was surprised to find it contained only one document, a diary note made in May 2018. Intrigued by coming across this I opened it to read, and discovered it was about how important it is to tell children and grandchildren the family stories that make up their family history. There was also a quote:
The history of any private family, however humble, could it be fully related for five or six generations, would illustrate the state and progress of society better than the most elaborate dissertation. (Robert Southey 1774 – 1843)
With such an amazing sign to give me guidance, especially as my parents had just become great-great-grandparents (fifth generation) it was obvious what my poem would be.
For my parents I made the poem into a booklet which also included a poem for each of their parents telling stories from their lives. I haven’t included them here for personal reasons and due to the extreme length.
The photograph below of three generations was taken for my parents 30th Wedding Anniversary in 1988. When I looked for a photo to use for this post I thought one from the photo-shoot we had that day was a perfect choice. At first I didn’t use this photo as it includes my ex-husband and my brothers ex-wives, so I began with a photo of my parents with their grandchildren. But, as I was almost finished I had a re-think and decided to use one that shows the three generations at that time, as this is a part of my family history!
I am stood behind my father, with one brother to the left and the other two far right. My three children are stood beside my mother and the other children belong to my older brother (far right) and his ex-wife (holding baby) who was my best friend at school, they had one more son after this date. All three brothers are now happily re-married and the 8 children between by older brother and I now have 20 children between them! The little girl on the far left recently became a grandmother, bringing in the fifth generation.
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.
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 workplace 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 we planned To spend our yuletide together, in a hot 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 we hear Although it seems they get to be 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 your children is the pinnacle of perfection It’s not until they are older that you can 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?
Watching the 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 is not about the presents under a pretty tree It’s accumulating Love and memories, in your sanctuary As generations come and go, Christmas will always be A time to share the Love and Joys of being with your 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.
This poem highlights why the dark have focused much of their attention on children. Children are the adults of our future and by programming them from childhood it is a very easy and simple step to manipulate them to be compliant as adults.
The educational system teaches children by filling their minds with facts and figures (not needed by the greater majority for their adulthood), that there are only right or wrong answers (no questioning of perception etc..) that passing exams is the only way to be successful (there are numerous definitions of success) and especially to be compliant to people of ‘authority’ (we should be able to question all people of ‘authority’ as to their intentions, morals etc…)
At the moment much is coming to Light of the terrible mutilation of children from the adgenda of teaching children that if they are not happy it’s because they are living the wrong gender. Very young children are being subjected to drag queens, inappropriate sex education, using pro-nouns for identity etc.. while their minds are extremely impressionable. Until about seven years of age, children accept everything as real and a truth to them, they have not started to develop a questioning mind, everything goes directly to their sub-conscious mind as their ‘truth.’
What is happening to our children at this moment in time is atrocious, however, it is a part of The Great Awakening because if there is anything that will stir up people to take a stand, it is in protecting their precious children. As the Light overpowers the dark, we will create a New Earth where the last verse of my poem will be dominant.
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.
Inspirational Poems 