Poetry

Alumnus Spotlight: Cheryl A. Smith

Oak Tree Journal is proud to dedicate a spotlight to an EGCC alum whose work embraces the ideals of our journal and readership—namely creativity, integrity, and expression of ideas. We believe that through fiction, poetry, non-fiction, and art, we can form connections with one another, inspire, educate, and touch the lives of many. Each issue will spotlight an alumnus from Eastern Gateway Community Colleges who embraces our core mission. We are honored to showcase our exemplary alumnus and the richness of their poetry and purpose.

I Made a Vow Unto the Lord

Though the storms of life are raging
And the road seems to be black,
I made a vow unto the Lord; I won’t take it back.
The vow to serve Him and keep his commandments
is only part of the deal,
Living a Holy life is what makes it all so real.
This vow I made is sacred, and requires that I fast
And pray at this very hour,
Because the Lord is waiting at the altar to endow me with overcoming power.
If you think I’m gonna give up easy Satan,
You are dead wrong,
The authority I have is given by God.
And in Him I am made strong.
Now I have the Victory, and my life is on
The right track,
I will continue to keep this vow before the Lord.

My name is Cheryl A. Smith, and I reside in Brooklyn, New York. I grew up in a family of six, me being the 5^th child. I am also a June 2023 Graduate from EGCC, with an Associate of Arts Degree, which I completed in December of 2022. What inspires me to write is my life in real-time, my family, ministry, and the challenges faced in the past and even in the present. Writing helps me cope with daily life and brings joy to my heart as I share my emotions, feelings, and thoughts in written form publicly with others.