Born For Adversity (Part I) Poem by Dr. Lalita Smith

I was born to overcome adversity, bear and suffer much affliction; be hated, despised and rejected because I chose to allow - His light of mine - to shine.

I was born to be stepped upon, trampled down by sin and degrading acts of un-kindness, in-gratitude, and hatred; to be wounded and deprived to such a magnitude that there are no words to adequately describe the pains I've suffered ~ in His name.

Born to suffer losses beyond my belief; evicted out of homes when peace ceased, never recognizing that those things were for the purpose of giving me eternal release ~ unequivocal blessings from heaven's storehouses ~ already laid up in reserve.

I was born to feed the multitudes, like Joseph in his day; torn apart, cast aside, left for dead in a pit, thoroughly despised ~ but all of it heavens righteous way ~ for me.

The roads paved were long, hard; dusty and dirty; lonely and debasing were the paths chosen by the Father for this petite, frail, black woman who is only clay ~ His clay and the vessel He chose to showcase and place on display ~ as an act of His infinite mercy and love ~ towards all.

So in my pain and agony I cried out 'Savior! ' as daggers pierced my side, fiery arrows of hateful vengeance flew straight towards my heart from comrades, enemies and so-called friends, bearing sharp jagged teeth gnashing away at the love I gave them ~ leaving me wounded, crushed, torn and alone ~ suffering and weeping ~

Yet, in all the anguish of my soul, countless tears that flowed non-stop for weeks ~ from unfathomable depths of grief ~ I laid all my cares for them, burdens, fears and defeat at His nail scarred feet.

I gained power never to run; divine love with which to overcome.