I Live To Be Better Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

I have been blessed to have a wonderful life.
In spite of the many challenges and disappointments,
God has had me face to test my faith.
Strength to have was over time developed.
Giving up to consider never crossed my mind.
God has blessed me with curiosity.
As if I sought obstacles.
To rid and seek more of them to find.
And I still pray all the time.
With an asking of God,
If my adventurous spirit had been His joke.
Because I would feel,
God intentionally wanted to provoke me.
Just to hear me cuss.
And then when I did,
It seemed I would become bestowed...
With overflowing peace of mind.
I have found as I age,
Expressing my gratefulness and appreciation.
Even in illnesses and emotional devastation.
God was there to lift me up off my knees.
To do this to test me more.
Since I was the one praying faithfully,
Each day to have that done.
Telling God...
My efforts to endeavor,
I only do to have God pleased.
Yet,
God knows those tests...
I would select if I had to choose.
The ones easier to quicker do.

God may be laughing.
But I ain't.
God knows my desire to remain respectful.
But there have been times,
I heard the thunder.
And continue to cuss I didn't run.
Because I knew God would strike me with lightning.
And there I stood daring and prepared.
Oh so thankful I am.
To know God already knows,
I am His creation and just a reflection...
Of a work in progress moving towards proving,
I live to be better.
Not perfect.
Just better.