Today, on the anniversary of the Boston Marathon bombing, I wanted to re-post a poem I wrote last year in response to that event. It was inspired by Fred Rogers, a man whose spirit will always live in my imagination's beautiful neighborhood.
In the Wake of More Senseless Tragedy
Look for the helpers,
healers
carers;
arms-open,
heart-holding,
warm smile-wearers.
Seek out the heroes,
the
everyday joes
with offers of food,
a bed,
warm clothes,
Follow their lead,
harness your power—
spread
kindness and love
in your own finest hour.
Be who you are,
fan your flame at the source;
and ask,
“What can I do to change future’s course?”
© 2013 Michelle Heidenrich Barnes. All rights reserved.
What a lovely poem, Michelle! I do so love that the message that came through all the tragedies was Mr. Rogers'.
ReplyDeleteI heard a wonderful interview on NPR with a doctor who was on scene and managed to use his belt as a tourniquet to help one of the wounded. He spoke about recently going to buy a new belt and explained that the primary consideration as to which one he would buy was that it would make a good tourniquet. He's going to make sure he's ready to be a helper again
I remember seeing this by Mr. Rogers, Michelle, and you've translated it into a poem quite beautifully. It's a sad day to have to commemorate such a tragedy, but to those who stepped in to help, as so many do, we must notice. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteTouching and true, Michelle. I know so many more heros in life than villains. A beautiful poem that does help.
ReplyDeleteJanet F.
I love quoting Mr. Rogers -- it seems as though he has an appropriate quote for almost any situation.
ReplyDelete"in your own finest hour" -- nicely put, Michelle!