Born with such great possibilities, into a family that cared.
Nurtured in love and devotion, that the whole family shared.
I was told I had such promise, told my future was bright.
I grew strong and straight, surrounded by the gospel's light.
I thrived in the gospel, I took Christ's teachings to heart.
My dream was to be a missionary, with Christ's message to impart.
I believed in my salvation, thinking I couldn't be tempted.
I learned through the wiles of Satan, no one is exempted.

I can't recall when it happened, or what led me astray.
How I reached that day in my life, where I just turned away.
I abandoned my parents, I went off the deep end.
My hopes and my dreams, I cast off into the wind.
I remember my parents were crying, as I went out the door.
I broke their hearts when I  said they were needed no more.
I liked saying I still had a testimony, but it hung by a thread.
I gave Satan an opening and he squirmed his way into my head.

For thirty five years like a fool, I played a fools game.
How does one abandon everyone they loved and not think it's insane.
I no longer believed I was redeemable, I truly felt lost.
I was beginning to realize I was going to pay a high cost.
That's when my Savior found me, and guided me back to the flock.
I learned there was still hope for me and time left on the clock.
The Atonement's for everyone, wanting to return to the path.
Still time to earn my Salvation, time to avoid certain wrath.
Christ has reentered my being, my soul soul now feels secure.
I know that Christ's love for me is eternal and held dear.
Elder D.L. Crockett --8/25/24