by Pat Severin

I’ve learned to never
underestimate the power
of a smile
that’s given unabashedly,
not just once in a while.

I’ve learned that life is twice as sweet
with someone dear to share it.
I’ve learned a smile on your face
Will help you grin and bear it.

I’ve learned that if you’re positive
with joy upon your face,
good things will surely come your way
more love, more life, more grace.

I’ve learned that life is way too short,
so we can’t waste a minute,
and time that’s spent with little ones
is better with them in it.

I’ve learned that age makes for a life
that’s gained a bit of insight,
that sleep can be elusive
whether 9 o’clock or midnight.

I’ve learned that we should never stop
discovering new things.
We never know what lies ahead
or what tomorrow brings.

I’ve learned that I had best be still
to know the Lord’s direction,
And if I’m open I will feel
His urging toward perfection.

I’ve learned that aging is a fact
so we should just embrace it.
Though you might like to slow it down,
we really can’t erase it.

I’ve learned no matter what your age
there’s much that you can do
to make the world a better place
and God will see you through.

I’ve learned that even if you’re sure
you can’t learn something new,
you’d be surprised to learn you can
become a brand-new you.

I’ve learned that if you’re blessed with friends
your life is blessed indeed,
and there’s no better feeling than…
to help someone in need.

I’ve learned to give forgiveness,
even when it’s hard to grant,
is better than to hold a grudge
and tell yourself you can’t.

I’ve learned that when your heart forgives
you’ll finally be free,
for if resentment’s harbored,
its affects hurt only me.

I’ve learned that pets can open up
the tightest closed-off heart.
Their love is unconditional,
complete, not just in part.

I’ve learned a pet can teach us
just what selfless loves about,
a lesson that’s important for
the world to figure out. 

I’ve learned that prayer and praise
should be a part of every day,
that conversations with the Lord
are truly not one way.             

I’ve learned we all have something that…
we’re dealing with each day.
So be supportive, lend a hand,
and always, always pray…

For patience, understanding, too,
With sensitivity.
Be empathetic, show you care
with authenticity. 

Pat Severin is a retired Christian school teacher who serves her Lord in many ways. These have included school, church and teen ministries and her current personal ministry of creating cards that include her original poems of encouragement. These she sends out weekly to those going through difficult life struggles. 

In addition to her Christian poetry contributions to the Agape Review, she has been published in the Clay Jar Review, Thewayback2ourselves, and Pure in Heart Stories, which features Christian poetry and stories for children. She has been published in many of the Southern Arizona Press Anthologies, in the book called I Chose You: Imperfectly Perfect Rescue Dogs and their Humans and will be featured in the upcoming book, Chicken Soup for the Soul: Lessons I Learned from My Dog. Pat is a member of SCBWI, the Society of Children’s Book writers and Illustrators.