Open Poetry #7 |
Empathy |
hsystems Member
since 2000-03-28
Posts 319Murray, UT, USA |
Author's Note: My mother worked with the physically and mentally handicapped, for 19 years. When she retired, I wrote this poem for her - putting myself in the place of one of the handicapped individuals she had helped, and trying to tell her the things that they would say, if they could. Empathy I felt out of place and alone in the world, And you found me a place in the sun. You knew that my mind and my body were weak; But, you taught my strong spirit to run. When others had left me to fend for myself, You lovingly stayed by my side. And, when mocking fingers were pointed my way, You helped me to stand up with pride. You gave me new faith in my fond hopes and dreams, And helped me to make them come true. For all that I have, and all that I am, I'm grateful, forever, to you. -Troy J. Hoecherl- © Troy J Hoecherl All Rights Reserved Beautiful, Thought-Provoking Poetry http://www.h-systems.net/p1.htm |
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© Copyright 2000 Troy Hoecherl - All Rights Reserved | |||
Poet deVine
Administrator
Member Seraphic
since 1999-05-26
Posts 22612Hurricane Alley |
Troy, this is a wonderful tribute to your mother and other caregivers throughout the world. |
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Temptress
Moderator
Member Rara Avis
since 1999-06-15
Posts 7136Mobile, AL |
Beautiful. Nothing can deter a poet, for he is actuated by pure love. Who can predict his comings and goings? "Thoreau" |
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PhaerieChild Senior Member
since 1999-08-30
Posts 1787Aloha, Oregon |
Beautful! Wonderful! Bravo!! All caregivers should be so blessed by a tribute such as this. I bet your Mom loved it and cherishes it. Poetry~ Words falling on paper, painting a dream. Shawna R. Holder Boise, Idaho |
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hsystems Member
since 2000-03-28
Posts 319Murray, UT, USA |
PdV - well, they certainly deserve a tribute! It takes an awful lot of patience and love to work with the handicapped...and my Mom did it on a purely volunteer basis, through her church. Glad you enjoyed! Temptress - thank you so much! WildChild - thanks for your kind words! My Mom does love and cherish it! I framed it for her, and she has it hanging on her living room wall. Thanks for all of your wonderful comments! Troy Beautiful, Thought-Provoking Poetry http://www.h-systems.net/p1.htm |
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Rosemary J. Gwaltney Senior Member
since 1999-08-26
Posts 997northern mountains, Idaho |
I loved this - I love the love your mother gave, and also the love you gave her, in your recognition of her gift. And I love the way you put yourself into the shoes of someone less fortunate, to express it. This is unique and a treasure! Far too few people care about their fellow-people who are different in any way. |
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Lone Wolf Member Ascendant
since 2000-03-16
Posts 5842Lansing, MI USA |
Troy, Love this!! Writing from the heart there, my friend. A loving and touching tribute to your mother. I like the perspective of those she helped. Sounds like a special person!!! Friends are friend forever if the Lord's the Lord of them and a friend will not say never cause the welcome will not end. --Michael W. Smith |
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Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049California |
What a perfect title...It is obvious that your mother gave some of her caring ways to you...wonderful poem! |
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netswan Senior Member
since 2000-03-28
Posts 1369Washington |
Troy - this is truly a great work of art, and so touching -- what a wonderful tribute to your mother and those that loved her loving hands. Hugs, my friend, netswan |
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hsystems Member
since 2000-03-28
Posts 319Murray, UT, USA |
Thank you all for your kind words! They really brighten my day! RJG - My Mom has a heart of gold! Empathy is her favorite word, and she lives it! Lone Wolf - hey, girl! Thanks for the kind words! Yes, my Mom is the best! Martie - thank you! And, yes - Mom passed on her tender heart to all 5 of her children, and I am grateful for that. Tender hearts get bruised more often, but there is nothing quite like the feeling of overflowing love that they can feel! Teresa - thanks, buddy! You always give me a smile! {{{HUGS}}} back, my friend! Again, thank you all for your kindness! Troy Beautiful, Thought-Provoking Poetry http://www.h-systems.net/p1.htm |
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hoot_owl_rn Member Patricius
since 1999-07-05
Posts 10750Glen Hope, PA USA |
Troy...working as a nurse, I know full well the meaning of the word and you have described it beautifully. God bless both you and your mother. A lovely piece of work you have here |
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hsystems Member
since 2000-03-28
Posts 319Murray, UT, USA |
Ruth - thank you so much for your kind words! You are one of my favorite poets here, and your praise means a lot to me! God bless you and your loved ones, as well! Troy Beautiful, Thought-Provoking Poetry http://www.h-systems.net/p1.htm |
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tracie66 Member Elite
since 2000-01-18
Posts 4713Australia |
Troy~ A beautiful tribute to your mums dedication, it takes a very special and understading person to do such a job, someone who looks beyond it being a task but something that they love to do and what rewards your mum would have recieved because the handicapped have the most delightful and golden of hearts as too your mum Tracie~ Keep all the windows of your mind open Anne Rooks |
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Butterflies_dont_cry Member Elite
since 2000-03-06
Posts 3733Michigan |
Troy* what a beautiful mother you have to have evoked this from you, and what a great son she has to inspire this in you. You spoke such depths of love and respect for her and yes I think you captured what her students probably have felt...you gave them voice. Thank you for sharing your gift. |
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