Dark and Light

by Cheryl Merrick

Fearfully scuttering in the dark,

I saw only pain and imperfection

leading relentlessly down into

frustration and suffering.

Til, He interceded

Bringing peace, hope, and joy into my life,

Helping me to see His gifts of love

as He lights my path home

Specters

by Cheryl Merrick

Alone in my dusky room,
beaten down by the whisperings
of specters from the past,
I sink lower and lower into the cushions of my chair.
"You made the wrong decision."
"You did the wrong thing."
"You are incompetent."
"You are a selfish, bad person."

Like a blanket guilt, shame, and depression
begin to smother me,

Not Alone

by Cheryl Merrick

To the cry
“It is too hard!”
Comes the reply
“Just try.
You do not have to do it alone.
I am here
and will help you.”