The Shepherd's Heart: Grandma's Pearls of Wisdom

A co-worker of my wife recently gave her a poem that brightened my wife's day. We asked if we could share it. "Grandma" said yes, so here it is.

The poem was titled "Grandma's Pearls of Wisdom" with the heading "To My Dear Granddaughter." While I wish I could note proper attribution, there was no author listed. When she hand-copied the poem to give to my wife, "Grandma" changed the next to the last line from "granddaughter" to "special friend," which meant a lot to my wife.

That said, I felt compelled to share it with you. Given the rudeness that seems to be spreading like wild fire across our land today, this poem offers a great deal of very timely wisdom.

"Grandma's Pearls of Wisdom"

I've traveled paths you've yet to walk
Learned lessons old and new
And now this wisdom of my life
I'm blessed to share with you

Let kindness spread like sunshine
Embrace those who are sad
Respect their dignity, give them joy
And leave them feeling glad

Forgive those who might hurt you
And though you have your pride
Listen closely to their viewpoint
Try to see the other side

Walk softly when you're angry
Try not to take offense
Invoke your sense of humor
Laughter's power is immense

Express what you are feeling
Your beliefs you should uphold
Don't shy away from what is right
Be courageous and be bold

Keep hope right in your pocket
It will guide you day by day
Take it out when it is needed
When it's near, you'll find a way

Remember friends and family
Of which you are a precious part
Love deeply and love truly
Give freely from your heart

The world is far from perfect
There's conflict and there's strife
But you still can make a difference
By how you live your life

And so I'm very blessed to know
The wonders you will do
Because you are my (special friend)
And I believe in you