Prepared

by Cheryl Merrick

She remembers
     her feelings as a child,
     and now makes efforts
     to help the class feel secure.

Remembering the challenges
     of raising her son,
     the older woman
     wisely counsels her friend.

Prepared to Retire

by Cheryl Merrick

Home more simple
Allergens removed
Housework delegated
Details eliminated
Home and Garage in order
Office and Library set up
Fitness program begun
Time made for writing

FixIt Fellow business assigned
Web sites established
Tools and uniforms acquired
Business cards printed
Truck signs painted
Contact made
Prepared to Retire

Prepared for This Time

by Cheryl Merrick

Through years of debilitating illness
with no relief in sight,
Through learning to work
together in marriage,
and by nurturing our children
through their challenges,
My heart has been softened
and my understanding increased.;

Til now I stand,
Tempered and stretched,
Tested and taught,
Prepared to lead
in paths of righteousness.

8/31/08

Prepared for this Work

by Cheryl Merrick

At the threshold of missionary service
I’m poised.
Wondering if I can do this work,
the confirming thought,
“You have been prepared for this”,
fills my mind with peace.

Remembering all the hours
I have struggled with writing articles
for the Ensign and the Stake* newspaper,
I see how my talents
have been honed.

Canning

by Cheryl Merrick

Like nourishing fruit waiting in jars,
I prepare thoughts and insights
through study and prayer,
ever increasing my understanding
through reflection.

Suddenly, the moment arrives
when the famished appear
needing counsel and teaching.

So with seeming ease,
the fruit is set before them,
the many hours of careful “canning”
never acknowledged.