Footprints in the sands of time

In deepest sleep, one night I dreamed, that on the beach I walked, God was by my side that day and quietly we talked.

Then on the sky my life was flashed, the visions all serene. Two sets of footprints in the sand were there in every scene.

But then I noticed in some scenes of suffering, pain, and strife. Just a single set of footprints at the worst times in my life.

Lord you said you'd be with me in good times and in bad. Why then did you leave me? Just when my life was sad?

My dear child God answered, when your life had pain I knew. The single set of footprints are the times I carried you.

My parents have a copy of this as art in their house. It's been a favorite of mine since I learned to read.