Tohoku -- When Worlds Have Altered

On an early spring day, washed brilliant with clover
In the land of the sun, and sweet cherry blossom
A tremble, a rumble, that rattled the earth
Cracking open the spring day, like the devil's own plaything 
Plates of dispute, on the edge of destruction
Beneath the sea’s surface…anger's wrath lies in waiting…

It came with no warning, …a mighty surge of horror
A tower of strength, to this tiny island flower
The harsh call of nature, came boldly from the shore
Relentless, the shaking, battering to the core
And altered the earth with a shattering shrill
Spilling despair, in a pillage of flurry 
Killing the helpless,     yet… leaving the courage

O’ land, of gentle people, wearing dignity’s expression
Those from afar, watched on with compassion
We gasped, then we cried, yet are awed with impressions
How hands helping hands, and courage ensued
Kind hearts, claimed the bruised, and calmed the confused 
You banded together…helping each another, 
Balance of elders, will hold you forever..
Grace under fire…. with honor we brand you
You raise up the spirit with hands of the valiant
Respect you have earned and honor you wear
The sun keeps on rising…..and will shine ever more
Copyright © | Year Posted 2011

Poem

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Horne Avatar
May 21, 2011 at 12:23 PM
Many congrats on both your wins, Carrie : )
Mehta Avatar
May 21, 2011 at 12:29 AM
Many Congrats Carrie on big coveted win in Debbie's contest. Luv & best wishes - Hitendra Mehta
Dietrich Avatar
May 20, 2011 at 10:12 PM
Yes, they have the sun on their flag,don't they? Such an appropriate symbol to use at the end of this awesome poem, Carrie .Congrats on your win!
Crisci Avatar
May 20, 2011 at 10:00 AM
Big congratulations, Carrie on your magnificent win in Debbie Gucci's contest, " Tribute To Japan " Your poem is a tribute to the gentle people of Japan. Emotions, feelings, despair and hope echo with grace and courage to bring this beautiful land to its former glory. You have succeeded in telling a tragic story with mastery, compassion, admiration and honor. Enjoy another well-deserved victory. God loves you...:)! Hugs, Andrew.
Buckeridge Avatar
May 20, 2011 at 3:30 AM
A beautiful piece, many congrats to you Carrie x
Mannan Avatar
May 19, 2011 at 8:48 PM
This is beautiful Carrie. I loved the line, O' land.... Many congrats.
Long Avatar
May 19, 2011 at 12:39 PM
congrats on this fine win. cory
Brown Avatar
May 19, 2011 at 12:34 PM
Congratulations on your well deserved win in Debbie Guzzi's contest Carrie. Love, Carol
K. Avatar
May 19, 2011 at 9:10 AM
Coming back here to congratulate you, dear Carrie ^_^ -- that sun definitely rises-- I actually saw an amazing sunset today (ok oops why am I talking about sunsets?? it's just that the sun was red when I saw it so it reminded me of Japan)-- and that is so wonderful that kids over there are also making the paper cranes, made me smile that you remembered me, thank you-- hopefully I can send my cranes by the end of the year (aack slowpoke me??) --hugs :) & super congrats again :)
Soulfire Avatar
May 19, 2011 at 8:38 AM
This is so well written, Carrie. Congrats to you on your win. Cheers, ~Soulfire~
Horne Avatar
May 19, 2011 at 6:01 AM
Many congrats to you : )
Mehta Avatar
May 19, 2011 at 5:58 AM
Congratulations on the win in the contest of debbie, Carrie
Sweetheart Avatar
May 19, 2011 at 5:23 AM
Congrats Carrie on another great win in the Japan contest .. enjoy luv..
K. Avatar
May 6, 2011 at 11:57 AM
Whenever I read about or see photos of the quake (more of the resilience and strength of the Japanese) I get goosebumps-- your moving poem is a wonderful testament of that Carrie! I just felt this one and can't help but just be awed by the Japanese-- they are truly a nation to admire and to give our wholehearted support-- the Sun will always rise, such a fitting name for their beautiful country... & thank you for your heartwarming comments in both my poems, you got me teary eyed soupmail :) hugs
Brown Avatar
May 6, 2011 at 8:19 AM
It was a pleasure to read your poetry this morning Carrie. Have a wonderful weekend filled with good health, love, and inspiration to continue your poetry. Love, Carol
Parker Avatar
May 5, 2011 at 4:34 PM
In stanza one your descriptions are so surreal. You paint the blithe island scene with such somnolent strokes. I think stanza one is brilliantly crafted. Enjoyed the emotive and empathetic strains in the final stanzas.
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