A Time to Believe
by B. J Morbitzer
To believe is to know that
everyday is a new beginning.
Is to trust that miracles happen,
and dreams really do come true.To believe is to see angels
dancing among the clouds.
To know the wonder of a stardust sky
and the wisdom of the man in the moon.To believe is to know the value of a nurturing heart,
the innocence of a child’s eyes
and the beauty of an aging hand,
for it is through their teachings, we learn to love.To believe is to find the strength
and courage that lies within us,
when it is time to pick up
the pieces and begin again.To believe is to know
we are never alone,
that life is a gift
and this is our time to cherish it.To believe is to know
that wonderful surprises are just
waiting to happen,
and all our hopes and dreams are within reach.
“If only we believe.”
Summary of A Time to Believe
- The Essence of “A Time to Believe”: B.J. Morbitzer’s poem, “A Time to Believe,” is a beautiful exploration of hope and optimism. Though the exact date of its composition isn’t widely documented, this inspirational piece resonates with readers by reminding them of the power of positive thinking and self belief. It is a gentle encouragement to embrace wonder and find strength within ourselves.
- Hope as a Central Theme: The poem centers on the idea that believing—truly believing—unlocks a brighter perspective on life. It begins by asserting that each new day presents an opportunity, and that miracles are not just possible but expected if we maintain faith. Morbitzer extends this belief beyond the tangible, suggesting that beauty and wisdom can be found in the natural world— in stardust skies and the imagined wisdom of the moon. The poem doesn’t just advocate for blind faith, but for an active embrace of the good within ourselves and the world around us.
- Key Themes in “A Time to Believe”: At its core, “A Time to Believe” champions hope, self belief, and courage. It subtly argues that while life inevitably presents challenges, our ability to overcome them lies in our willingness to maintain a positive outlook. The poem suggests that strength isn’t something we find but something that resides within us, waiting to be acknowledged and utilized. It is a powerful reminder that even in moments of hardship, we possess the capacity for resilience and renewal.
In-Depth Analysis of “A Time to Believe”
The Power of Anaphora and Parallel Structure
The poem expertly utilizes anaphora, the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses. Notice how nearly every stanza begins with “To believe is to…”. This is not merely a stylistic choice. It functions as a rhythmic anchor, drawing the reader into the poem’s central idea. This repetition does not feel redundant because each clause then expands upon a different facet of what it means to believe. For example, “To believe is to know that everyday is a new beginning” establishes the core idea, while “To believe is to see angels dancing among the clouds” expands that idea into a realm of imagination and wonder. The parallel structure— “To believe is to…” followed by a statement— creates a sense of balance and reinforces the poem’s message. Consider the line, “To believe is to know the value of a nurturing heart,” which contrasts beautifully with “To believe is to find the strength and courage that lies within us.” These lines, while different in subject, are structurally identical, demonstrating the poem’s elegant construction.
Imagery and Sensory Details
Morbitzer’s poem thrives on evocative imagery. The lines aren’t just abstract concepts; they paint pictures in the reader’s mind. “To believe is to see angels dancing among the clouds” is a particularly strong example. This image conjures a sense of lightness, joy, and the ethereal. The “stardust sky” and the “wisdom of the man in the moon” appeal to our sense of wonder and invite us to connect with the vastness of the universe. Even more grounded images, such as “the innocence of a child’s eyes” and “the beauty of an aging hand,” are powerful because they tap into universal human experiences. These sensory details help to make the poem’s message more relatable and emotionally resonant. We don’t just understand the value of a nurturing heart; we feel it through the imagery.
Symbolism and Metaphorical Language
Throughout the poem, Morbitzer employs symbolism to deepen the meaning. Angels, for instance, can be interpreted as symbols of hope, guidance, and divine intervention. The “stardust sky” might represent the boundless potential of the universe and our place within it. More subtly, the “aging hand” isn’t simply a description of a physical attribute; it symbolizes wisdom, experience, and the passing of time. The very act of believing can be seen as a metaphor for embracing a positive mindset and unlocking our inner potential. The poem doesn’t offer a simplistic view of belief; rather, it presents it as a transformative force that can shape our perceptions and experiences.
Analyzing the Closing Lines
The poem culminates with the lines, “And all our hopes and dreams are within reach. “If only we believe.”” This is not merely a restatement of the central theme, but a call to action. The conditional phrase, “If only we believe,” acknowledges that belief isn’t always easy, but it is essential for achieving our goals. The poem does not promise that believing will automatically solve all our problems, but that it will empower us to pursue our dreams with courage and conviction. The placement of this phrase at the very end leaves a lasting impression on the reader, prompting them to reflect on their own beliefs and their potential for positive change.
Poetic Devices in “A Time to Believe”
Free Verse and Rhythm
While the poem doesn’t adhere to a strict rhyme scheme or metrical pattern, it is not entirely devoid of rhythm. The consistent use of anaphora and the carefully crafted phrasing create a natural cadence that flows smoothly from line to line. This is an example of free verse, a poetic form that prioritizes natural speech rhythms and expressive language over traditional formal constraints. The lack of rigid structure allows the poem’s message to take center stage, unburdened by the need to conform to arbitrary rules.
Stanza Structure and Quatrains
The poem is divided into six stanzas, each consisting of four lines—a structure known as a quatrain. While the quatrain isn’t inherently significant in terms of meaning, it provides a sense of order and balance to the poem. The consistent stanza length helps to create a cohesive and visually appealing structure, making the poem easier to read and comprehend.
Quotes for Inspiration
The following lines from “A Time to Believe” are particularly well suited for motivational speeches, personal reflections, or educational settings:
“To believe is to know that
everyday is a new beginning.
Is to trust that miracles happen,
and dreams really do come true.”
This excerpt encapsulates the poem’s central message of hope and optimism, reminding us that anything is possible if we maintain a positive outlook.