I believe we are all cowards

I believe we are all cowards at heart
That none would set a fire just to run into it
Yet some will do so to help others.
I believe that heroes are made
Of doubts and fears, and dreams
And an undiscovered courage.
A courage that will walk to school
With “that kid”
Smile at, or even talk to,
That woman who sits alone on the bench.
I believe that heroes are shaped
By the hands of fate, the whim of fortune
That heroic deeds are easily overlooked
For heroes tend not to be aware of their heroism.
I cherish the heroism of a baby’s first steps
The courage of parents to let them go
The unsteady steps of the elderly
The unsure speech of an immigrant
The first handshake of a dubious friendship
The courage to admit our cowardice and move past it.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2023

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Wolf Avatar
December 4, 2023 at 10:36 AM
Yup. I think so too, John. Circumstances tend to define us more than our 'inner foundational beings,' esp. these days.
One Avatar
December 4, 2023 at 2:58 AM
cowards and hypocrites, always good to see your unique take on words... poetry can get a bit monotone at times...
Empress Avatar
December 3, 2023 at 7:41 PM
Im too cowardly to light a fire too. Yeap i agree hah! How profound is this, and so wise. Love it
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace