Joyce Johnson-Merryweather Orem, Utah

I have always enjoyed writing but majored in Social Work. Six years ago I entered a poetry contest and won. Since than I have submitted my poetry in contests and have won many awards, honors, and money, including four semifinalist awards at International Poet's Symposium in Washington, DC. I never thought of publishing, until I won the 1995 International Society of Poet's Finalist Award which was a publishing contract! My book, "Award Winning Poetry" sold all copies; I ordered one thousand more. My pen name -Joyce Johnson-Merryweather. Born to E.M. and Rosella Jolley. Married Clarence R. Johnson. After his death, I married Max B. Merryweather; our combined children, grandchildren and great grand children are our jewels.

QUESTIONS FOR A NEW BORN Babies come to earth, Created with body and soul. I look into a newborn's eyes and my emotions get out of control. What comforts from heaven did they forsake? What adjustment to earth life will they make? What wondrous earth journey will they take?

MYSTERIES OF MOTHER EARTH Who spins her on her axis? Who knows if she might stop? Who knows if she might quake or spew? Who knows if she might stop? Our mighty earth holds secrets No one can understand Is she a concept of a God And formed by His own hand? Was earth's origin a gas That gathered years of dust; Or is shone of many worlds? What theory can we trust? Do you listen for earth's secrets On quiet summer nights? When stars are twinkling brightly, Do you see her secret lights? From whence did all the people come To live upon earth's face? Why are they so different In color, size, and race? Are we divine creations Or does nature hold the key? Did someone send us hear to live? What is our destiny? What is the purpose of earth life So many want to know. The earth's our home for a short span' Then, where do our spirits go? The hope of all mankind has been That death is not the end. Will there be life again for all; Sometime, somewhere, what then? Do you ever get the feeling, As you ponder earth's great power; That earth's creator knows the law And governs every hour. Technology has changed our world; New-age answers we now find, Yet, Earth's mysteries are still hidden From the ever-searching mind.

All poems Copyright © 1997 Joyce Johnson-Merryweather. All rights reserved.