Best Heroes Poems
Over the top lads, for old Blighty! Hold the colours high!
Say a little prayer for me, for this summer day we die.
My brothers from the ripened field and blackened mill, shop floor,
Your brother in a killing field to fight a rich man’s war.
In bloodied mud and shattered wood, fight legions of the brave,
Unwitting youth, you’ll do your duty until you’re in the grave.
A sergeant greets a fresh-faced boy, “welcome to the slaughter!”
Here you die from three diseases, bullet, gas or mortar.
In arms we fight together and in leaden hails we pass,
We die amongst the filth and stench that once was verdant grass.
“In the morning we will remember them” we hear the leaders call,
Those fickle words of history, will not remember us all.
Heroes
When need arises they rise up in every town
No matter the toll it takes, they just carry on,
But not everyone will recognize who they are
For heroes of the town don't have name-tags on.
No one sings their praises in course of their deeds
To make a difference quietly they proceed
As if the music to their song is not yet composed
For lyrics, though written, have not been disclosed.
Don't search far and wide to see this phenomenon
Just look at human actions in their simplest form,
Like a mother who wakes up at stroke of every dawn
To care for her kids since the day they were born.
A father who toils daily to send his kid to college
Waiting to hug his child on the day of graduation,
And a teacher who delivers gladly gift of education
Working for low wages never seeking recognition.
Fighting fires in the neighborhood or in the wild
A fireman saves a child's life but dies before his time,
And a policeman who dies at the scene of a crime
Leaves young family behind at height of his prime.
A doctor who spends all night to save a man's life
When no one is at home to care for his sick wife,
And a brick layer who works in the heat of summer
To construct a pathway for the rest of us to walk over.
A child who didn't know how to use the phone
Saves grandma's life getting through the dial tone,
And a captain in the army dies to save fellow soldiers
While his young family left behind silently smolders.
Heroes everywhere fight challenges that are rife
They reside among us uplifting every walk of life.
November 20, 2017
Placed 1st: Heroes
Sponsor: Silent One
HM: Strand choice V contest by Brian Strand
They read our poems, and more than that,
they leave a word or two.
It isn’t much, yet that’s a thing
some folks here NEVER do.
Some heroes never visit me.
I sure do wish they would,
but I am glad to know at least
to others they are good.
They welcome poets never seen
by simply saying hi
or click to comment on our poems,
not just on that “Reply.”
I know we all have busy lives,
but if we post a poem,
it’s much more fun if we can feel
this is our second home.
The builders of community
are whom I’m writing of.
To those I’ve met and those not yet,
I’m sending you my love!
I just found out I had to choose
three poets and no more.
It pays to study contest rules
not after, but BEFORE.
And so I'll name three friends of mine:
The very first to greet
me and become a truest friend
was Nikko, one so sweet.
Another one to fit the bill
of great community
is Jan. I love her humor and
her sweet sincerity.
So many others do their part
to make this place so great.
My newest friend is CayCay, and
to meet her was my fate.
Three friends, all women, do their part
to build community.
These are the ladies who now bring
sweet sanity to me!
11/10/2015
Since my Poetry Soup Heroes are too many to name, I have named three Community builders that I am currently the most in communication with through Hotmail: Nikko Palmario (who goes by binibining P.iNk), Jan Allison, and CayCay Jennings. For me, friendship is everything. Without good friends here, how can one truly enjoy the experience?
The child stands valorous before the door
With nary a tinge of fear or dread.
Armed with a spatula and a pancake flipper...
She wears a stewing pot on her head.
Her hands are protected by leather gloves
With her Father's boots to guard her feet.
Her swimming goggles are securely placed
And beneath her shirt... a cookie sheet.
With a determined sigh she cracks the door
And peers suspiciously through the night.
She momentarily thought the coming battle
May be best done in the bask of morning light.
But time was short and with each passing hour...
Others would surely die.
So she begins her journey to confront this beast
Who has taken many lives.
She makes her way through the wretched gloom
Giving thought to her parent's fears.
She had never seen them so full of doubt
In all her seven years.
But the time had come to join the fight...
To aid those who gave protection.
And she was well aware of its woeful lair
Where she would fight this damn infection.
A nurse stands wavering from a vengeful night
As another dozen deaths has left her cold.
But she then heard a voice so free of fear...
It brought a peaceful solace to her soul.
'I wonder if you would be so kind
To take this moment and give me some direction.
For I am stout and brave with pluck and daring
And will help defeat this cursed infection.'
The nurse's eyes welled up at such a sight
And a smile reached across her face.
As by her side now stood a child
Who would defend the human race.
So remember this when all is lost
And the best of us lose heart.
A unsung hero will rise to bring us hope
And inspire us all to do our part.
The End
To single out special people on soup is such a hard task
So many people have helped me, so it’s a really big ask
I discovered on soup there is an angel without wings
Her name is FJ Thomas and her praises I’ll gladly sing
A month after I joined soup an e-mail appeared
It said I was a ‘Premium Member’ it was so weird
I contacted soup said a mistake has been made
I’m a Premium Member … but I haven’t paid
They said the donor of my gift didn’t wish to be named
But I had no way to thank them, I felt so ashamed
I wrote a thank you poem so that they would know
Someone made it a favourite – but their name didn’t show
I later learned it was FJ Thomas, but by then she’d left the site
I wanted to make her proud of me, so I tried very hard to write
I’d not written a poem for many years,not since I was at school
Began writing when my hubby got cancer – a disease so cruel
Flo’s gift to a complete stranger meant the whole world to me
Writing became my lifeline I hope I’ve used her gift wisely
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Since joining soup I began to collaborate
You really should try it - it really is great
Teamed up with a guy called Darren Watson
His sense of humour was awesome oh boy we had some fun
I was a complete beginner and Darren encouraged me
Telling me how well I wrote and he loved my creativity
We began to collaborate as Jadazzle United
Our friendship blossomed, we were simply delighted
E mails would fly and my self confidence soared
With Darren around there was no time to be bored
My world was shattered when dad was diagnosed with cancer
Darren was there to comfort me, often with a witty answer
Sadly Darren became ill and our writing came to an end
I spent many many weeks trying to trace my lovely friend
Contact was established with his family and after over a year
I got an e mail from Darren, I was overjoyed to hear
Darren’s positivity for the future gave my heart a lift
Our friendship is so precious just like a priceless gift
We’ve both had ups and downs in our lives recently
We're writing together again and we’re as happy as can be
Contest:- Poetry Soup Heroes
Sponsor Catie Lindsey
My Poetry Soup heros
F J Thomas
Darren Watson
There's a breed of Aussie hero who has served this nation well
and they don a yellow uniform to face the fires of hell.
When day temperatures are soaring and the high winds blow a gust,
and our bushland is ignited it's in them we place our trust.
Yes, you're all somebody's daughter and you're all somebody's son;
you are mothers and you’re fathers. Hard hat heroes everyone.
When their mates are in the hot seat and they need a helping hand,
they will volunteer their services from stations 'cross this land.
Whether country towns or cities or a bush fire brigade;
they will gladly throw their hats in and will offer their mates aide.
Yes, you're all somebody's daughter and you're all somebody's son;
you are mothers and you’re fathers. Hard hat heroes everyone.
Do you owe your home or property, your very lives perhaps,
to the selfless, sincere efforts of these bold fire-fighting chaps?
Or still sadly you lost everything, but proudly can attest
to their fierce determination as each brave soul did their best.
Yes, you're all somebody's daughter and you're all somebody's son;
you are mothers and you’re fathers. Hard hat heroes everyone.
So I ask you all to join me as we stand and raise a glass
to the courage and the spirit of this fire fighting, class;
and I'm sure you'd love to join me as this message we impart,
"You're such true blue hard hat heroes and we thank you from the heart."
Yes, you're all somebody's daughter and you're all somebody's son;
you are mothers and you’re fathers. Hard hat heroes everyone.
The best advice came from my hero
since our very first days on the Soup,
he said to me ....be true to yourself
don't try to blend into the group.
When no one wants to write in rhyme
you told me ....write it anyway,
when no one wants to read rhyme,
you said to me ...write it anyway.
If this is your passion, why let it go
all opinions will be hit and miss,
poetry is not what others want you to do
only Heart and Soul make up the artist.
Did Poe try to follow the rest ...oh no
being unique makes any artist great,
perfection is what it is .....to you
only we can control the hand of fate.
So what if we are being a little archaic
by respecting those who came before,
the elders are remembered for a reason
they opened up the modern poet's door.
Thank you for teaching me to believe
because back then I just didn't see,
the talent, the potential, the poet
... that you somehow saw in me.
I have many Poetry Soup heroes....
but this poem is for Chan Hurst, "Just That Archaic Poet" ....RIP
Written on November 10th, 2015
From the day I was conceived God had for me a plan - He wanted me to get involved to help
my fellow man - I know some were against it but God knows what is best - Since the day He
took me home I've had perfect rest - Heaven is so beautiful - I'm walking streets of gold and
now I'm serving others including saints of old - I know some still have anger about the way I
died but God and I both have seen the many tears you've cried - He is a God of comfort - His
love will never cease - Give your feelings to Him and He will give you peace - As painful as I
know it is please don't hold a grudge - Remember this my loved ones - God alone will judge
Then on that resurrection day when all the dead will rise - The Lord will reunite us together in
the skies - So don't give up dear friends - my memory is alive - Put your trust in the Lord
and I know you will survive.
In Memory Of All Fallen Soldiers, Police and Firefighters
Second Chances
Sometimes in life, we work so hard
to do the best that we can do.
Spend hours perfecting what we think
others will love and cherish too.
With gems created in the arts,
like those of written poetry,
The imagery comes from our soul,
the very depths of you of me.
Sometimes our hope for a reward
in judgment of a finished write,
does not fulfill expected goals—
although selections may be right.
Then comes along a second chance—
contests for 'Screwed' and 'Trashed' on list!
Perhaps a poem of heart and soul
will earn a placement that it missed.
Two heroes here in this great 'Soup'
provide for me that second chance!
New eyes to read, enjoy my thoughts;
perhaps a win, my score enhance.
Broken, your kind and gentle heart
can feel the depth of what I write.
Your sensitivity comes through
to see my words in different light.
And Rob, your love of poetry—
of metaphor and perfect form,
has given me the chance to shine
let meaning of my words perform.
So thank you Rob and Broken Wings,
you offer us that chance to score—
showcase our words and thoughts again.
Your second chances we adore!
Sandra M. Haight
~7th Place~
Contest: PoetrySoup Heroes
Sponsor: Catie Lindsey
Judged: 11/12/2015
My PoetrySoup Heroes:
Broken Wings
Rob Carmack
What now of heroes can I speak
Who raise the mild and loft the meek
Bequeathing glory, love untold
With ne’re a thought their heart unfolds
A spirit bright so kind are they
Their own life’s pain they hide away
Their selfless gifts cast near and far
They’ll hand you moons and cast you stars
In what choice god you do believe
He’s planted in them kindness seeds
With selfless stealth they will achieve
To garnish souls with ruby beads
Intentions oft misunderstood
They only know how to do good
Altruistic warrior hearts
Empathy is their unique art
Incognito these ones remain
Actions speaking louder than fame
Gifted with words to comfort pain
Casting rainbows, banishing rain
Unsung heroes they will remain
Singing their songs without refrain
Broken angels with hidden wings
Healing souls whilst weaving heart strings.
November 26, 2017
Written for “Hero” Contest
Sponsored by: Silent One
I'm only allowed the names of three
so I will write of those that would be for me.
There are so many that this is unfair
but, since that is the rule I must list there:
Carolyn Devonshire who gave me the courage to write
with her words of encouragement on this site.
She always found a "silver lining" in my work,
and never told me that I write like a jerk.
Tho it has been years since I've been around
her help and inspiration never set me aground.
She never left me twisting in the wind alone
as she helped my poorest works to hone.
There is also a Poet Destroyer for whom I have praise
I wish my words to her level I could raise.
Why her "Poet Destroyer" pen name I could never see
unless, of course, you compare mine to her poetry.
Mine is crushed by the words she can write
but I am ever grateful to her for wanting to put mine to flight.
When you have a writer who can put you to shame,
it's only natural that you want to do the same.
CayCay Jennings is my third choice
as she has helped me to "refind" my voice.
I appreciate her critiques of the work I do
all I can give is a big "THANK YOU".
She was one of the first to welcome me back here
and always gave me words of good cheer.
Her suggestions have been given with such grace
sometimes they put a smile on my face.
There is her writing which is also so stellar
as compared to mine, some of which belong in a cellar.
Some of the things she has written down
Have with me, a deeper meaning found.
So these are the three heroes that I must name
but so many more have done the same.
Not only are there poets whose names I could not call
to give them the honors they should have one and all.
Yes, I have heroes here unnamed
because my pen had to be tamed.
But know that I appreciate each and all that you do
Whenever I write, I'm thinking of you.
written: 10/30/15
It’s said that only the good die young.
So many souls with hearts of gold we’ve lost!
How many heroes now have gone unsung?
They’re taken with no mercy. At what cost?
We cannot know the good they would have done.
So many souls with hearts of gold we’ve lost!
They lie in cold hard graves beneath our sun.
If only they had been allowed to bloom.
We cannot know the good they would have done.
How swiftly do they sometimes meet their doom.
And all their loved ones have to show is grief.
If only they had been allowed to bloom!
Each sprout not let to even grow one leaf!
What utter waste! They had so much to give,
and all their loved ones have to show is grief.
Each sprout not let to even grow one leaf.
It’s said that only the good die young.
What utter waste; they had so much to give!
How many heroes now have gone unsung?
Written 5/27/2013
Jamaica is our island’s name,
A land blessed with so much fame.
And for the part that our heroes did play,
We pause to reflect and salute them today.
Nanny of the Maroons was a heroine ,true and brave ,
And fought with all her might not to be a slave.
Marcus Mosiah Garvey made us proud of our Black race,
And everywhere he went there was pride on his face.
Paul Bogle of Stony Gut fought for justice for all,
And the powers that be had no choice but to listen to his call.
Norman Washington Manley defended workers’ rights with passion,
And fought with all his might to change every unjust working condition.
Sir Alexander Bustamante was a stalwart for workers everywhere,
And was the voice of the voiceless and spoke without fear.
George William Gordon stood tall to help the poor with their plight,
And he never backed down or turned away until things were made right.
Sam Sharpe listened and he heard what the planters said,
But he stood tall and bravely said, “No more slavery,I’d rather be dead.”
We have been blessed with a great legacy and we are a proud nation,
And our unsung heroes and heroines continue to rise to the occasion.
We must unite against the common foe and guard against complacency,
We must be resilient like our heroes and safeguard our rich legacy.
A legacy of greatness , hard work and resilience in every community,
A legacy of talent, ambition, skills and self-worth in every nook and cranny.
No retreat! no surrender! we will continue to blaze a trail,
And as the blood of our ancestors runs through our veins, we will prevail!
Not by sight but by great might, we will continue the fight,
As we vow to conquer the common foe and make things right.
And just like our heroes did , we will stand tall with pride and decency,
As we salute our heroes and safeguard our rich, bountiful legacy.
We gave Johnny a gun and a uniform
Trained him to kill, in a regiment conform
Sent him deep into Vietnam jungles warm
With little regard to how we did him harm
So certain we knew what we joined to fight for
We were shipped off to fight an unwinnable war
A war of "containment," unlike those before
Mothers screamed, fathers wept, siblings ached to the core
By parachute dropped to a ghastly death scene
Johnny ached for the life left behind, so serene
His family, fiance did not know what war means
Especially the haunting of lost children's screams
Those of us who survived thought we'd just done our jobs
We returned and were shamed by violent gobs
Of silver-spoon white kids in hate-spewing mobs
Spat-on and welcomed as baby-killer slobs
No heroes welcome would await these young men
No ticker-tape parades were staged for them
Just jeers from crowds, uncaring government
Greeted the lonely Vietnam Veteran
Too classy and noble to demand our fair share
We lay in that shabby old hospital there
In a closet-sized room with no visitors' chair
Understaffed, underfunded, with short-handed care
The "benefits" they found would astound all now
And it leaves one to wonder how our hallowed ground
Would be filled with unnamed graves of men once proud
Before the rows of white crosses we should bow
Our Wailing-Wall stands now in Washington, D.C.
So shiny but black, a telling-tale of the fee
We have paid for our nation, our land of the free
Will you come pay respects? Will you not at last see?
Some veterans still suffer disgraceful neglect
So please explain who more deserves our respect
Let us pause with angelic choirs and genuflect
To show gratitude as on this Wall we reflect
Friends, Dane Ann is among those who served in the army during the Vietnam war and is
now recovering from long-overdue hip surgery performed at an old VA hospital in
Gainesville, Florida. Thank you for your prayers on her behalf. Many thanks
to Tim Ryerson, another Vietnam veteran, for joining me in this write.
I remember the days I was like Dracula
Lonely, and sucking peoples blood!
The life force of my victims,
Now that I've realized my true purpose!
Im kinda like Batman saving society at the darkest times,
No jokers just the riddler!
Solving complex codes
Messages from the unknown,
Mr strange- Mr. weirdo just saved
Gotham from its strange outcomes.
Alien invasion:
The intrusion of friends In my work,
Hard work no pay; just more will
More fire: I go supernova,
Writing for justice
The path of righteousness,
Superman and wonder woman's,
The Flash: the lightning of the heart
The light rod of the right hand,
Knowledge so bright:
It bursts through my eyes,
So I wear sun glasses like Cyclopes,
A freak show,
Welcome to Charles Xavier academy for the special,
A mutant fighting for humanity!
The irony behind the talented and the wicked,
So I never stop practicing even though this comes naturally,
Attracting medals and propelling bullets
I'm Magneto: casting magnetic force fields and blocking all hate speech!
I'm the shine: blasting across the Pleiades
Like Silver Surfer- travelling the cosmos,
Conquering planets like Galactus
Searching for more dreams: those gems!
I'm Thanos I wield the universe,
My imagination: altering reality
From the norm to the impossible
Call me Dr Strange-healing
life through metaphysics and alchemy,
learned sorcery from ancient tablets
Humming runes and invoking shadows,
My many bodies of armor: The Iron Man
A nerd to the folks who don't
understand my study of science;
and a humongous ego
To the people who see my dreams-
I go hulk and I smash the abominations,
Haters and enemies be big in numbers
But I have my friends:
The Avengers cheering me on,
more love and more will power-
kinda like Green Lantern fighting Sinestro
Man the envy! But I'll save the world,
My dreams in this battle of self.