Heart

 
Not just a heart, it’s everything that matters
What drives us on, relentless and unique.
It doesn’t break, it holds, and then it shatters.
 
“Sign here” the shiny-suit man glibly flatters
To tear your dreams apart just as you peak.
Not just a heart, it’s everything that matters.

When loved ones leave your self-belief in tatters,
When all the strength of giving leaves you weak,
It doesn’t break, it holds, and then it shatters.
 
In the family room, the doctor merely chatters
His message lands when night air chills the cheek.
Not just a heart, it’s everything that matters.
 
The children’s blood across bombed ruins spatters.
If tears could help them walk and let them speak!
It doesn’t break, it holds, and then it shatters.
 
Upon the beach each wave one lifeless batters
Yet still they board the boats and dare to seek.
Not just a heart, it’s everything that matters
It doesn’t break, it holds, and then it shatters.

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Stephen A. Linstead 
Picture Nick Victor

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