This poem is to celebrate all my survivor friends who have made a difference in my life and have touched the lives of so many out there with their compassionate and caring nature. This goes out to the Rising Above Magazine staff, my wonderful staff made up of 8 beautiful individuals; to my brother Michael who has always been there for me and is my best friend; to Delilah who is not only my brother's girlfriend but also a close friend of mine and one of the sweetest people I know; to Rebecca who I see as my honorary mom; to my friend Sarea who is a very gentle soul; and to all those who have shined their light in my life and helped me to achieve my dreams by believing in me. I just want to say that I love you guys and each of you holds a special place in my heart. So many times, you are the ones who give me the inspiration and motivation to keep going. In you I see so much beauty and grace. You are truly a blessing to all those who are fortunate enough to know you and have you in their lives. I consider myself to be blessed to know such beautiful individuals filled with such love and compassion for others


The Most Precious Gift by Jenna Kandyce Linch

I found myself thinking about the greatest gift one could find
Then your name just happened to enter my mind.
In my life you are the angel sent from above
Showing me the real meaning of love.

Thinking about you, a smile crossed my face
You've touched my heart in many ways with your beauty and grace.
At one point I was close to the brink of defeat
But by chance we had the opportunity to meet.

I can't even begin to tell you how much you've made a difference
There is light and hope in your very presence.
Do you realize how many you inspire
With a compassionate heart, of helping others you never tire.

Broken wings you know how to heal
Your emotions you're not afraid to feel.
Imperfection in others is something you don't see
Looking beyond, you focus on the inner beauty.

Caring and understanding, you refuse to judge based on the past
Instead you work to give hope that people have a future that can last.
When it comes down to it, you're willing to make self sacrifices
Always standing steadfast, you won't back down to peer pressure that entices.

You give people something to believe in
Sending the message that victory in their lives they can win.
Because of you faith once lost gets restored
Is it any wonder by so many you're adored.

Honor and courage through your veins flow
It's determination and strength that in your story show.
Your values you hold close to your heart
Nothing can tear your virtues apart.

To the suffering which goes on you are not blind
Ways to put back the broken pieces you find.
On your own mission of mercy you ask for nothing in return
From you lessons to never give up we can learn.

With love you replace the hate
Taking people's hands, you walk with them through destiny's gate.
You're the comforter in times of sorrow
The guardian angel who helps trapped souls face tomorrow.

Your compassionate nature has no boundaries
Many hurting hearts your love frees.
Expectations for others you don't hold
Gently you bring you the stories in people that have gone untold.

In my life you are truly a hero
You've taught me things I didn't know.
Just like a rose our friendship continues to grow and bloom
Deep within my heart for you there will always be room.

So many reasons why I admire and respect you I could give
Perhaps the most important is you gave me a reason to live.
For the best gift I could keep searching the world through and through
But I all ready found the most precious gift and it's you.




'The Most Precious Gift' Copyright © Jenna Kandyce Linch