A simple wish

Happy birthday, Cheryl!

Let me extend this simple wish:
That all your birthdays may be bright;
That, as you follow in Christ's way,
You'll walk always in the light
Of His grace and mercy and love;
And may He ever perfect you
Into the very essence of womanhood,
That He'll be first in all you do.

But should life go awry,
And all your hopes and dreams lie shattered,
May you be assured - remind yourself -
That it's relationships that matter:
Yours to Christ, and His to you,
Your heart to man outflowing -
Your sustenance shall be His peace,
The Christ within you, growing.

Now forge on, girl, along life's way;
Step by step step lively!
Walk on, upward, toward that Light
Which shineth e'er more brightly;
Have no fear, and heed no care:
No harm will dare befall thee
Until that day He calls you There -
That best, that brightest Birthday.

Though unimaginably, I used to be the inspiration of your poems, I do not have the calibre to pen this one. Nonetheless, it represents my heartfelt wishes for you, as a sister and as a friend. Thanks for being with me at my weakest, laugh with me when I am happiest, and for all that you are to me... Thank God for you... Miss you and love you heaps... Always.