Knowing looks and open books of tragedy and despair

Buildings charred and broken and some not even there

Lifetimes’ memories disappear, ones you can’t replace

The journey to recovery, one some cannot bear to face

But spirit is burning just as bright as the all-consuming fire

Average people become heroes driven by strong desire

To band together selflessly, be they woman, child or man

To preserve, protect community in whatever way they can

Friendships formed; legends made that will last forever

Oh, may they heal and appreciate what was done together

May these tales of kinship be told all around the land

So that all people appreciate and, in some way, understand

Flames replaced by ashes but one flame’s still burning bright

It’s the soul of a community that warms your heart at night

So many ordinary people, doing extraordinary deeds

Who answer a call to arms when their community in need

To the Hill’s folk whose toughness replicates their own terrain

It’s impossible for us all to know or truly feel your pain

But to have witnessed from afar, all the courage on display

We sort of know with all our help - tomorrow can be a better day

John Mason 030221