The Images Group

Every since I can remember I have always wanted to help people.  For me it was very important for my feelings, fears, hopes, dreams even fantasies to be expressed.  I have seen and been through much and as such life has taught me a lot. I wanted to give something that would help someone, become a gift, a blessing to someone or maybe guide someone to make a decision that would make his or her life better.

The gift I would like to give to my readers is the Gift of Expression. 

Long ago I did not have the peace in my life I needed to see my love of writing through. Most of the poems I consider to be signs of the time's. The poems you read are based upon events in my life. I started writing when I was about 15 inspired by a teacher who encouraged me to see it through.

For many years I stopped writing but then about 7 years ago my life came to center stage with change and a new beginning. My trails have brought me to a place where I want to share my innermost views and sharing them with you has been a pleasure and a blessing .

Tributes

Through you I know all things are possible.  I pray everyday I continue to see things your way. Through the rough times and good times you have blessed me with wisdom and courage. You have given me the know how to survive and the ability to serve you. I want to thank you for hearing my prayers and clearing my tears for bringing sunshine in the rain. For instilling in me the power to reach out and help others and be a good mother. I know that you are present even though I can't see you.

To my son (Victor)
For years mommy has wondered when things and life would change but you have brought the sunshine in the rain. You are truly a gift. Had we not gone through what we went through we would not have learned and grown so much together. Even though there was a disability present it has never stopped you from doing your best and working hard to progress.

Your struggles and pain have been the driving  force behind your determination to exceed expectations.  You have a love and passion regarding higher education that is rare. You have scored many awards and achievements in your high school years. You beat the odds sweetie!  

I am so proud of you and I want you to follow your dreams. You have always told me "Mom College is where I am going to flourish".  One of the greatest gifts of all is for a parent to watch their children grow up and live their lives in happiness. You have been my rock and my support. Thank you for supporting me with my writing and all that I am. Now mommy will live her dreams after so many years fear kept her silent. I have no idea what I am going to do when your all grown up and gone away.
 

To my Mother:  Some time has passed since we last spoke. I wanted to thank you for your support on my ventures.  Mom, growing up you have always told me to strive for nothing less but the best for yourself. You have always encouraged me, embraced me and empowered me to be better to fight for what’s right and to love myself first and foremost. You always said finish what you start and don't start what you can't finish. "Well, I am finishing it out mom". You have so many accommodations and accomplishments of your own. I am proud of you Mom. I love you!
 
Burnie: The Best Man (Grand Pop Burnie): What can I say? We have come a long way but you hung in there.  You have been the best dad that a girl could ask for. You have always supported, loved and been there for me. Thank you for traveling so many miles with me! Most Importantly thanks for giving my mother what she needed in friend and husband.
 
To my Bro and Sis:  Life changes have caused the distance between us to be great in our travels over the years.  As our lives have taken many turns and we have all went into different directions, its still important you know how much I love and miss you guys. You have always tried to protect and support me. You have always lent me a helping hand even when the demand was high. I know times were rough over the last few years but we did it.

Through the tears and fears we fought it though. We have learned so much from each other. It’s hard to believe that over the last few years  you guys have been over in the Middle East so far away. We have lost so much time together. I am proud of you both as well as inspired. You invoke the phrase "Courage Under Fire". You have served your country with dignity , honor and respect. We love you!

To my extended family and loved ones: I want to thank you for your love, advice and support through the hard times and the laughter in the good times. Over the years with life changes we have lost touch. There is so much I want to share and tell you. Not a day goes by you have not crossed my mind.  Most importantly your faith and belief in me has not gone unnoticed.

Old Friend: You are one of the highlights of my life. You have given me inspiration for over 15 years to teach, write and express myself.  Long ago you took a shy girl and instilled in her the belief that who she was as a person was ok and that she would reach her goal someday. It was by chance we crossed each others path after so many years but I knew it was always met to be that I would see you again.  In the words of  Phyllis  Hyman, "My Heart Welcomes You Back Home Again".

Love you all!

Tammy Terrell