I would like to dedicate this book To everyone who reads these pages And finds something they relate to- Something that touches your heart. Many of life's lessons are painful But trial and error preclude wisdom and are a necessary part of growth. The road to happiness isn't marked on a map it is found within us if we keep our feet on the path and hope in our hearts there's always the chance for a better tomorrow. I guess I remain the optimist. These poems were originally written as I found inspiration I have tried to group them under general themes. I hope you may gain an insight, find a verse that validates your journey- that you enjoy reading them. Thanks to all of you who encouraged me to keep writing To pursue my dream of getting published, For those of you who believed. Thomas Martin Krause