I Believe
I refuse to give up the faith or the hope,
The belief that love and compassion still exist.
I want to step back and take a deep breath,
Draw strength as I feel the early morning mist.

I still believe in the purity and innocence of birth,
That we can change the world if we keep trying.
I believe that there are more good people than bad,
That it's our conscience that keeps us crying.

I have faith that the pure of heart will prevail,
That we might not abolish evil but we'll slow it down.
I want to do what I can to make the world a better place,
Maybe I can start right here in my own home town.

I believe that we are strong, yet humble,
We are pillars of strength but weak when we feel pain.
I believe that a higher power exists and watches us,
That life isn't about how much we can gain.

I believe these things because I need to believe them,
I need to feel like I understand what I'm standing my ground for.
I need to know that I'm leaving a legacy behind me,
A legacy of love, dedication, and freedom to those who enter my door.

Dianna Doles Petry
2003
Music playing is: Salute To The Armed Forces
                by John Philip Sousa