In The Vale Poem by Danny Speicher

In the midst of my sleeplessness and confusion
And through my infinite nocturnal thoughts and dreams
Strong, there stands a figure keeping my stance upright
Hands hold me when life is tougher than once it seemed

And, though all my thoughts seem so real and so scary
Like premonitions... An end of the world of sorts
I know that these thoughts are just that; thoughts, for now
God wants me to live each day, no fears to distort

Oh, and through this time, now, of personal struggle
Where things seem to be the darkest they've ever been
Even still there is a flicker within my soul
And a great torch, He still gives to thsoe He calls kin

And, so as I struggle, I watch the world spin on
I see the birds fly high, I hear the children laugh
And I have peace that tomorrow will be better
As I, now, learn to let Him guide me with His staff

And, though, right now, I walk throug this valley of death
I will not fear the evil that gathers around
For, God, my Shepherd, He is with me, in the vale
And, HIs staff will keep me secure and homeward-bound

((June 21st,2005))