Four Sustaining Influences Of My Life

Everyone has something that has
Influenced their lives and their
Perspectives.  Some good, some
Bad.  Some of which we're unaware.

I've had four sustaining influences
In my life.  And I treasure every
One.  Without them, I wouldn't
Be who I am today.  They molded me.

First is God Almighty.  Without His
Constant and unconditional love
And support through good times and
Bad, I wouldn't be here--that I'm sure of.

The second and third ones are my
Mother and Grandmother.  They
Gave me love, and nurtured me and
Taught me right from wrong--and to be a lady.

The fourth influence is music.  Doesn't
Matter if it's pop, country, folk, or gospel.
Every time I hear a song from my youth,
I remember people, places, and times quite well.

I remember how I was feeling when I
First heard the song.  I'd play records
On my player in my room, or listen to the radio
On our old console.  Music soothed my hurts.

All these influences will stay with me
Always.  They are part of my being.
They understand and they know
Exactly how I am feeling.