Notes About The Poem

For Edward Ibeh's 

 'Pick-A-Title, Vol 40 - ' Poetry Contest

Nov. 24, 2023            #3 title chosen Seek Shelter

Seek Shelter

Pain rains down on us sometimes.
That rain goes on and on and on.
You may feel as if you’re on a boat
filling up with water. It might sink
in waters of despair.

But friends, there are people in this world-
people who truly want to help us.
They carry umbrellas of compassion
and with their buckets of aid,
they’ll bail you out of trouble
as much as they are able.

Such selfless people can be found
at shelters for the homeless or
at safe houses for victims of domestic abuse.
Some man hot-lines for suicidal people.
There are ministers of churches
who also want to offer their help.
Organizations exist in which 
groups are formed according to 
the particular trial faced by each group.
In these groups, people can hear stories
similar to their own, and share their own woes.
Talking sometimes is all people need.

Sometimes the winds of hopelessness
blow stronger than people can handle.
Before wind storms turn into tsunamis,
we should seek out those willing to offer 
us a harbor of safety.

If friends or loved ones happen to be
unfortunately absent in your life,
seek shelter where you can.
Help is everywhere as long as there exist
people with compassion.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2023

Poem

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Kerr Avatar
March 13, 2026 at 8:36 AM
If ever the word congratulations was justifiable this is the occasion, Andrea. You have composed a compassionate work that reflects a harrowing reality tempered by the existence of those willing to alleviate such realities. Beyond superb, Howard
One Avatar
December 17, 2023 at 3:24 AM
This was a lovely poem Andrea...Congratulations on your placement in the contest..
Alex Avatar
December 16, 2023 at 7:18 PM
"But friends, there are people in this world- people who truly want to help us. They carry umbrellas of compassion and with their buckets of aid, they’ll bail you out of trouble as much as they are able" - Granting great hope to live on. Congratulations!
Empress Avatar
December 16, 2023 at 7:25 AM
Dear Andrea back to congratulate you on your well deserved win, i remember reading this before.. loved this
Lamoureux Avatar
December 16, 2023 at 6:04 AM
This is lovely and true. Sometimes it’s hard to seek shelter when we feel it’s a sign of weakness. Sometimes we might even feel we are not worthy. Congratulations on your win Andrea.
Ibeh Avatar
December 16, 2023 at 4:34 AM
Emotive, powerful piece, Andrea. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this. Congratulations on your win in my contest!
Fowler Avatar
November 27, 2023 at 7:53 AM
Ah, compassion. One of my favorite virtues. And hats off to those who actively practice it...they have helped so many lost souls. :)
Dietrich Avatar
November 27, 2023 at 3:32 PM
So true!
Legros Kelley Avatar
November 26, 2023 at 7:50 PM
Such a hope filled poem to reach out to the world Andrea, thank you for writing this, it may help those who read it, my prayer and hope. I lost my dear cousin to his deep depression; my heart still mourns his loss deeply, and it will for the rest of my life. I hope that people will reach out if they are hurting. Your poem is beautiful Andrea. May God bless all those who care for others hurt and needs.
Dietrich Avatar
November 27, 2023 at 3:30 PM
Thanks so much, BJ
Hind Avatar
November 26, 2023 at 5:14 PM
Very true! You must be one of those people... :)
Dietrich Avatar
November 27, 2023 at 3:31 PM
I am nice but I don't go out of my way to help people. I am always busy going to and fro running errands!!
Pandit Avatar
November 25, 2023 at 6:23 AM
Endearing sentiments you convey, Andrea. Your compassionate thoughts resonate throughout this poem.
Dietrich Avatar
November 27, 2023 at 3:33 PM
Thanks, VIjay
Empress Avatar
November 25, 2023 at 6:16 AM
People with compassion yes, such precious souls, this poem is wrapped with light and hope, for all those that may sometimes me engulfed in despair. I love the way you’ve written so many lines in this dear Andrea especially “ They carry umbrellas of compassion“ “ winds of hopelessness“ and that last stanza, beautiful message passed on. I know so many that struggle and suffer in silence. Words like these truly can give hope . Bless your heart . Sending you light always
Dietrich Avatar
November 27, 2023 at 3:33 PM
Thanks, dear.
One Avatar
November 25, 2023 at 1:44 AM
I dont think I have done this form.. I really like your longer poems.. you do them so well.. Love this verse, Sometimes the winds of hopelessness blow stronger than people can handle. Before wind storms turn into tsunamis, we should seek out those willing to offer us a harbor of safety... Wise words in your poem..
Dietrich Avatar
November 27, 2023 at 3:34 PM
Thanks, these long poems are actually easier for me than rhymes.
Rolland Avatar
November 25, 2023 at 12:50 AM
i really love compassion and empathy, Thanks poet,( Andrea) for the precious and beautiful message, God bless you have a sweet sunday
Dietrich Avatar
November 27, 2023 at 3:32 PM
Thank you
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