myself. “Why me? Why do I have to be burdened with this horrible thing called Tourette Syndrome?”
Tourette’s is not fatal, although I did think at various times, how much easier it would be just to pack up my bags, and hitchhike to a land of peace and joy; a spirit land with no pain or suffering, no noises or tics, twitching or shouting. It was all Psych-Illogical to me until 1970, when I accepted Christ the Lord into my life and began a journey to salvation, hope, peace, joy, and redemption.
I have been through many struggles, trials and tribulations. In them I always end up remembering that the Lord does not allow me to go through anything I cannot handle: with each trial He offers me a way of escape, so I can bear it. (1 Corinthians 10:13)
As I look at all the events I have been through, I can see what an awesome adventure of Love, Forgiveness and Living with Tourette’s it has been. These writings are little glimpses into my life: some of these poems were written during times of distress, some brought comfort to my soul and uplifted my spirit.
It is my hope and prayer that this book inspires you to be the men and women that God desires us to become. That we learn compassion for those who are struggling, without judgment. That we extend mercy and grace, not only to others but also to ourselves. In doing so, we transcend our frail humanity and embrace the wonderful Joy that is Christ.
And so, it begins . . .
Poetry is the expression of a man; it is the extension of his soul
—Gregory J Nashif
Carried on the Wind
“Holy Spirit dwell inside me,
fill me with your pure desire.”
I raise my hands in worship praising,
with the tongues of holy fire.
Holy Spirit let your peace prevail
upon this earth so dark with hate;
allow your love and word avail,
with your spirit this holy fate.
All prophets of this world ignite!
Spirit aflame the heart and mind!
Pierce with the sword of truth and might
and slay the souls of all mankind.
The Lord is faithful by all measure,
reaching the world face to face.
For His wisdom is our treasure,
which inspires His Holy Grace.
Which inspires His Holy Grace
Anthem
How Great is God and His creation!
His Works performed among every nation,
He has given us life upon this earth;
And in our hearts His eternal birth.
How Great is God!
His Spirit moved upon the waters deep,
He spoke the word and the light did weep;
By his hands the worlds were framed,
And through his Son the world was tamed.
How Great is God!
Every star, He calls by name,
He knows the number of the same.
He knows our hearts and our minds,
He frees the one whose thoughts are blind.
How Great is God!
How Great is God and His creation!
His Works performed among every nation.
He has given us life upon this earth;
And in our hearts His eternal birth.
How Great is God!
Jesus healed the sick and raised the dead,
Through his Father’s will his blood was shed.
Breathing, at the last, with forceful breath;
He died, He arose, He conquered Death.
How Great is God.
As I bow my head in prayer,
I know my God and feel his care.
There is one last sigh for my soul;
I live by faith and now I know,
How Great is God.
Part the First
Living with Tourette Syndrome
Tourette Syndrome
noun.
a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent involuntary movements, including multiple neck jerks and sometimes vocal tics, as grunts, barks, or words, especially obscenities.
Discovered by French neurologist George Gilles de la Tourette in 1885
Also called Tourette’s disease.
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
My Life
It has been an interesting life, living with Tourette’s at times has been a strange adventure; sometimes like a merry-go-round, like a circle with no beginning and no end. Other times it is a roller coaster ride, or an unfinished jigsaw puzzle with its pieces scattered; and me trying with all my heart to pick them up one by one and make them fit into a clear picture.
I’ll live with these ticks all my life.
I cannot escape the hardship and strife
this twitch and shout bring to me every day.
Is there any peace coming my way?
I never get used to people’s stares,
The laughing, the mocking; nobody cares.
My body is tired and so torn apart
Tears fall from what is left of my heart.
Is there a hope I can find
