ABPA - Australian Bush Poets Association

Savouring the now … Maureen Clifford © The #ScribblyBarkPoet



Life is full of heroes –
we see them every day,
Though doubtful that we know it –
for there’s nothing on display.
They are ordinary Mums and Dads
who show some extra care
for their communities and neighbours.
Count your blessings they are there.

There’s Jim, a part time firie
with our own bush fire brigade.
and Jenny, now a senior
who doggie coats has made
to keep the furbies in the pound
warm on cold winter nights.
She has no furbies of her own,
but knits to see them right.

There’s John and Lucy, busy folks
with their family of seven.
Heartbroken when their eldest died
and went away to heaven.
They now are foster parents
taking kids in from the street -
just two ordinary people
but they’re both a joy to meet.

And Tim – now he’s a young bloke -
a bit of a tearaway
but good hearted – and he loves his gran
and visits her most days
in the nursing home where she resides.
He doesn’t stay for long …
but he always brings her flowers or books.
His commitment is strong.

I doubt they think they’re special
though I’m sure we know they are.
They respect other folk’s boundaries
but spread care near and far.
Though none are flush with cash to spare
they’ve riches beyond measure.
For they willingly spend of their time
and love – that is their treasure.

If we can put a spin on life
and share some optimism –
along with smiles and kindness
life’s a garden – not a prison.
Speak truth kindly and calmly
and stand for what is right
let cruelty not go unremarked.
Prepare to bark not bite.

Savour the now, it’s all we have.
Nothing is guaranteed
Tomorrow is not given -
we all want to succeed.
Respect what you are given.
Give thanks, have faith, be kind
Let’s make our world a better place
through all our strengths combined.

9.1.2025

Ah yes, Maureen, it is so true that there are a great many unsung heroes out there doing what are often quite ordinary, yet wonderful things, and you have selected some excellent examples here in your poem. Your last two stanzas are also full of truth. "Give thanks, have faith, be kind" - our world would indeed be a better place if everyone in it would adhere to such sentiments. A lovely, positive poem to kick start the New Year!

Thank you Catherine for your lovely comment - I know from it that my intended message got through .

Hi Maureen
My one is a bit along similar lines.
The unsung heroes out there doing what needs to be done without question.
Most of course are unknown to most of us, but they're there, and we should be grateful for it.

Terry

Well done Maureen, I totally agree with Catherine and Terry's comments.
In a world these days that seems increasingly governed by selfishness, we see these selfless heroes doing what they do, without the fanfare, just getting on with it!
Enjoyed the read thank you.
Ron.
ps. Thank you also for your kind, profound words on my other post.

So well said, Maureen - they walk among us every day and pop up when we least expect it.

Cheers
Shelley