We are all influenced by the world around us. That which is near and that which seems to be at a distance. These influences impact us physically, emotionally and spiritually. When any of these areas are affected in an extreme way it gets our attention. Our way of thinking, our direction, and relationships may be altered in keeping with our conscience. When we seek and attain the approval of our conscience we are at peace. The selection of poems and reflections in this book are born of personal experience or observation. When I attended literature classes in college the subject of poetry was sometimes frustrating. Frustration brought about by trying to unearth what purpose the poet had in mind. In our class discussions I discovered each member of the group had a unique interpretation of his/her own. In the end the professor would reveal the idea the poet had intended. I believe a poet's purpose is successfully served when the reader is motivated enough to draw something personally meaningful from the work; even though that which is drawn may not be the essence of the work. It is my hope that those who read this book and earnestly reflect will find worthwhile meaning unique to themselves.