I am reading a very good book by Christmas Carol Kauffman called "For One Moment". This poem is from this book and it really got through to me. This poem was not written, but was copied down by a woman whose life was filled with betrayal and heartache. Her husband left her for another woman taking their two boys with him. She never saw the younger one again. The oldest was not able to come see her for many years. This son, Herbe, joined the nazi party and was gone for a few more years. Her life was full of loneliness. Her daughter was her only comfort and even she eventually married and moved away. She lived with hurt and bitterness for many years until very close to the end of her life. I won't tell any more, because you really should read it for yourself.

"It matters not if cherished friends
On whom I leaned in vain
Have wounded me by word and deed
And left me with great pain.
What matters is, can I forgive
Again and yet again?
It's not have they been true,but,
Lord, have I been true to them?

"'Twill matter not when evening comes
How rough the road I've trod
If only I have walked with Him
And led some soul to God.
For when I wake to be like Him
Who saved me by His grace
Earth's pain will vanish when I catch
One glimpse of His dear face.'"
-Author unknown