From Beneath The Surface

About the Book

The third chapter of the Holy Bible’s book of Ecclesiastes begins “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven . . .” (KJV).

This book is but a mere sample of observations made during various times the author experienced or an effort to capture a “state of being” or mood and express it through poetry—as a christian. Being one who has made many mistakes (but acknowledging the Lord in all ways so that God can direct her path), “From Beneath The Surface” begins with an attempt to state the author’s understanding of what Christianity is to her. One of the first few poems admits “I Don’t Know” with regard to where to begin as a christian witness while continuing to seek the Lord’s purpose for her life. “First View” gives a brief glimpse of the author’s humble beginnings. All poems in between the covers (from “Fear” to “Givin’ Up”) attempts to convey thoughts experienced while “passing through” situations while outside of God’s will (“He Felt That Way One Day”, “Romantic Fool Unleashed”, etc.)—having gotten off track (“Reality Attack”)—as well as inside of God’s will. Praying to God with “Lord These People Need Help”; understanding comes through “Love Anyway”; then a few philosophical words shared through such poems as “Room For All” and “Grains of Sand”. The author ends with the poem “Keep the Faith Alive!” which confirms that no matter what lies ahead, with faith in God, the Lord will see you through.

Here’s written proof that even a person with a “messed-up” life can witness for the Lord when called to do so. Having experienced hurt, abuse, anguish, pain, heartache, deception, discrimination, rejection, etc. (just like everyone else has), after prayerfully reading the Holy Bible, the author has grown to understand that love (in a godly manner—with patience, kindness, endurance, steadfastness, etc.) is what the christian is supposed to do as Christ’s representative. Regardless of the situation or circumstance, one’s belief, faith and love of God should shine through because “With God, all things are possible”. Please note that although this compilation was first copyrighted in May 1990, all works were written prior to 1988 and additional material has been added reflective through current situation.

With a goal of putting something positive back into her community—without stepping on or using others to do so, Karen utilizes God-given talent and ability to interpret her life’s situation. (One could say these works touch on existentialism—a philosophy centered upon the analysis of one’s existence in the world—with regard to the author’s relationship with God at different times in her life.) Hopefully, this book will be a good representation.

“From Beneath The Surface” is a book written from Karen’s heart, with her hand and in love—based on her life’s experiences. As you share, please keep this in mind—nothing contained herein is intended to offend any person, place or thing. Hopefully, inspiration to learn and grow in God’s Word, the Holy Bible, will be ignited, lighting the pathway for Jesus’ love to come into your heart, guiding you through your life’s journey. Read your Holy Bible today, then go out and live the Word! God bless you!

In christian love and devotion,

Karen Maddox DBA Faith Unlimited Enterprises
P.O. Box 3963
Louisville, KY 40201-3963

About the Author

Learning at an early age “life is not fair” all the time, the author explores situations experienced. Just here, not knowing, working to earn income for shelter, food, clothes, help others along the way, etc., then dealing with unexpected twists and turns—overwhelming at times. The author touches on these knowing that God blessed some to govern, maintain order, keep the peace, protect, administer, etc. and interact with American Citizens in order to have a balance. Based on education (before first class began recited pledge of allegiance and practiced good citizenship, honor roll throughout high school) received, when freedoms to believe in God and express praise, joy and love—in the pursuit of happiness—all are supposed to be protected in the United States. This simple person doesn’t understand how laws can be passed to remove the 10 commandments, remove prayer from school, businesses and public places—to the point of taking the Christ out of Christmas. The author’s bloodline consists of Native American Indian, black and white, she is female—several elements that are rejected, suppressed, oppressed and depressed by society many times with no basis for mistreatment. This makes exercising freedom of choice unavailable--killing equal rights for all—as it should be in America. Understanding through taxes, the people support those who serve in government. People are not supposed to be treated as “cash cows” and controlled when budgets overrun reflecting secret extravagant raises to those supposing to represent the people. Just as rapists, murderers, thieves, deceivers and hate groups are not supposed to inflict their will on others, nor should corruption exist. Justice should prevail for all people. The author believes God loves all and with repentance, forgiveness can make the crooked places straight. The choice to use pencil and paper, physical books, art, music, years of experience and simplicity should be equally respected along with use of computer/electronic technology, paperless methods, math, science, higher levels of education and sophistication.

While a child, told a descendant of black kings and of Indian genealogy, specific heritage is unknown—with focus on survival time never taken to research. However, having experienced the result of years of division, governmental “divide and conquer” wiping out one culture; believers of God; or any other group is not the answer. Accepting people as they are, recognizing “government for the people and by the people” really means all American citizens—working together, reaching out to those in need and making sure love is the basis—is the author’s opinion of a better way. Of course, as a Christian, “In God we trust” is what all Americans should do but since all do not believe, laws should not be manipulated otherwise. The golden rule “Treat others as you want to be treated or love others as yourself” should be practiced by all. “Keep it simple” has been the best method for all to equally enjoy the rights and freedoms this country has for all citizens—poor and rich alike. Since it is not for the author to fully know the state of current existence, she’ll stick to following Jesus through prayerfully reading the Holy Bible, practicing its principles and expressing it all with art, poetry and minding her own business, Faith Unlimited Enterprises.