7If you have a love for poetry and for encouragement, this book is for you. It is a sweet, funny and creative combination of poetry and encouragement centered on Christian values and the Word of God. During the most painful times of my life, I would write. Poems like "The Whispered Cry" and "He Has a Plan", "Closer than You Think", "The World is His" and "Arise" would unfold. At times of heartache, joy, listlessness- my journeys with the Lord were expressed in a poetic form as an outlet of healing and growth. These poems encourage my heart, my soul and mind that were generated from the tales of my life. I hope these poems touch you with the sweet touch of joy, laughter and tender encouragement. Be Encouraged! Vangela Alicia Beard was born at Yale Hospital in New Haven, Connecticut. Raised in North Philadelphia, I learned the importance of community and neighborly awareness. At the age of 17 years of age, I accepted the LORD Jesus Christ as my personal Savior. Encouragement came in many forms of my life and one form is my smile. My gap-toothed smile has been an anchor of comfort during the most tumultuous times. Creative writing has always been a wonderfully delightful form of encouragement and healing. Currently, I am a Controller at my beloved church-Deliverance Evangelistic Church in Philadelphia, PA. I've been lovingly married for four years and counting to hubby Orlando "Keith" Beard and step-mom to Keshawn Beard. I am also a puppeteer and love puppetry and hope to reach an audience that love to laugh, smile and be encouragingly entertained. In a world that need a "pick me up" -my goal is to encourage and edify people -both young and seasoned (not old) with the love of JESUS.