Although I ran from God for 30+ years, little did I know that God hadn't forsaken me ("He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus." - Philippians 1:6). In my 20's I lived for God with one foot still "in the world." However, over time these "I knock at the door" moments kept happening in my life at such a rate that I just couldn't ignore Him anymore. After rededicating 100% of my life to Him, I felt the urge to start writing. I had dabbled in poetry before, but those works were simply designed to get a laugh, and often vulgar. But in Christ, all that changed. So I asked God through the Holy Spirit, to impress upon my heart all that I pen. It's my hope to show, through poetry, how the bible instructs we were meant to live our lives per scripture.The result was these FREQUENTLY re-edited poems. Poems influenced by just how far our nation has turned from God. It seems we can't vote Him out of enough, fast enough. These poems also include bible references to the scriptures that influenced what was put on paper. As many of these poems were inspired by my family, I am dedicating this book to all of them, and would like to do it by name. First, to my late parents Joseph Sr. and Laura. They instilled in me the character I attempt to honor each day. To my siblings Joe Jr., Robert, Mel, Laurelle, Rachel, and Laila, they were all instrumental in the way my life merged back towards God. Also, my son Grant, my "reason," and the best mom he could have, Diane Wilkison. I wish all of my family luck trying to determine who inspired what."