I never promised you a rose garden.

Even though that is what people want to believe.

For when you accepted my love;

Your flesh will indeed bleed.

 

In this world you shall receive trouble

But your spirit will receive double

 

Of a portion that no man has ever seen

Nor ear has ever heard

I never promised you a rose garden or land full of herbs.

 

Never said your heart would not hurt or your feelings would be singed

Never said you wouldn’t experience loneliness from deep within.

Never said the world would love the things you do;

Never said the world wouldn’t try to kill you.

 

For my sake you shall suffer it all and flesh will feel the sting

But the Spirit man shall rise, for it can take anything.

And as the time draws near, pray without ceasing and stay strong

for the days shall be shortened and the nights will get long.

 

I never promised you a rose garden – so do not skip thru this life thinking so

I only promised the comforting of my spirit for your soul.

Copyright Sheila Jackson