So the story behind this poem is exponentially longer than the poem itself.  In five short stanzas I have summarized the journey from teenager in worshipful love with her first boyfriend, jilted teenager dumped inexplicably by said boyfriend, reminiscing of conversations about faith with that boyfriend, invitation to church by new love interest (and future husband, unbeknownst to said girl either at the time of the invitation OR at the time of the writing of this poem!), to newfound faith in a loving creator God.

My faith journey is obviously still ongoing, and surely will be until the day I die.  This is the beginning of my transformation though – all in a few words.

I BELIEVE

I believe that my life is complete.
I believe that the one who kisses me is all that I need.
He and my music, my family and friends.
I believe that my life needs nothing but air.

I feel there is no justification for his departure.
I feel so small reaching out to him from the concrete porch.
My voice rings through the trees. His name echoes off a thousand leaves.
I feel alone. Empty. 

I recall on conversation that we had in our happier days.
I recall his version of the end.
I cried, screamed and told him never to speak those words again.
I recall the feeling of fear bouncing in my stomach.

Why did you as me to come that day?
How did you know what I needed?
You are a true friend for that one simple question. Invitation.
An invitation to my life.

I believe that my life is complete.
I believe that the One who loves me is all that I need.
He, the One who created us all.
I believe that my life is complete.

Katie Swisher (née Kermeen)
September 28, 1999