©1997 Susan Noyes Anderson

image by Jannes Jacobs on Unsplash

How valiant is the tree that grows
majestic in the land…
the tree that fights to set down roots
so deep that it will stand
against the bitter storm,
the fiercest wind or driving rain,
against the freezing winter
or the dusty, barren plain.
Her branches spread out far and wide.
Inside their sheltering nest,
how many living things find haven
and a place to rest
from earthly cares and dangers,
from hunters that would prey
on innocence and ignorance and those
who’ve lost their way.

©2025 Susan Noyes Anderson

image by Haitham on Unsplash

Each life refines a heart divine.
Our spirit gifts abound.
As God’s own children, we belong
where light and love are found.

©1983 Susan Noyes Anderson

Image by Alin Una on Unsplash

A man and woman love, they mate,
and from that union, they create
a temple for God’s spirit child
entrusted to their care.

©2025 Susan Noyes Anderson

image from Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

No strangers to the rocky plains were these.
The rugged mountains tore no virgin feet
on this (their last) descent, made bittersweet
by absent souls, carried in memories.

©2010 Susan Noyes Anderson

image by Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

In Eden, one tree stood above the rest.
Its fruit, though sweet and luscious, was forbidden.
The serpent held out knowledge as a prize,
beguiling Eve with nuance, gently hidden.

©2015 Susan Noyes Anderson

My fate belongs to me alone,
compelled by neither king nor throne.
I choose the pathway I will trod,
a freedom granted me by God.

©2025 Susan Noyes Anderson

image by Corina Ardele on Unsplash

Reaching for light,
blooms bright against the
coming of the night,
we stand as one and shun
the close of day.

©1995 Susan Noyes Anderson

Image by Peter Steiner on Unsplash

When I was a girl, I had dreams … I saw rainbows.
The earth was my playground, the sky my balloon,
and Jesus was with me in all of creation.
The wonder of childhood is gone all too soon.