Young Poet's Dialect

Recently, I was asked to review a poet's writing,
to share my thoughts and encouragement
to a lad who had a tough start in life,
and share my love of the written word. 

I read the young hand's scribble
excited by the teen's dialect,
so familiar to my own longings...tho' vastly different.

Similar of me 35 years ago
when I, too, was sad and angry,
blaming others and unaware of how to gain control.

Different than me today, and even 17 years ago
when God cast my evil-affliction away
and led me where He wanted me to go...

...into the arms and heart of one whose love and commitment
will never be comparable to God-Himself,
but in-and-of-himself, a spouse who is devoted and forever kind.

I was asked to read a young poet's writing
and while I read, I frowned in recognition.
In the note I wrote back to the babe seeking praise,
I gave it! I meant it! I hope it encourages him to heal!

To be praised and to heal...we all deserve it.