* Weathering The Storm Poem by Paul Holmes

A Red Poppy basking in the radiant sun
Sees deer and rabbits hastily run;
They sense a storm in the breeze
And race for shelter under mighty Oak trees.

Sure enough the clouds do burst
And human complexions look their worst;
The anger of the clouds in the skies
Is reflected in the mood in their eyes,
And sighs are breathed once again
As Man and animal feel the force of the rain.

Spare a thought for that Poppy in the field
No roof or umbrella gives it a shield,
And yet, there it so boldly remains
Facing the full fury of summer’s rains.

Even so, it still stays intact –
Bowed, but unbroken, from that tempestuous act.
A hidden strength belies what is seen
On the surface of this pitiful scene.

Wonder you may, if it will raise
Its lovely head for more summer days
Will it regain its former glory,
And live to tell of a success story?

With humankind it’s much the same –
We face ferocious storms, never tame.
Economic hardships and failing health
Overtake many, with lion-like stealth.

We stand our ground, unable to flee –
Shaken to the root by adversity,
And yet, although we bend, we do not break,
We continue faithful, for the Lord's sake.

Daily our hope, spurs us on,
Making our courage, ever strong;
No fretful frowns wrinkle a forehead,
Our faith gives the foot, a confidant tread.

It’s practically a miracle to see
Someone standing strong, with tenacity;
Although he may appear weak and frail,
A surprising strength tells the tale.

Faith grows stronger, all the more
As each onslaught we so endure,
And our hope grows brighter, each day,
As skies turn blue, that once were grey.

In time, like that Poppy after the storm,
We lift our faces, and hearts feel warm;
Stronger and dignified, proudly standing tall
We’re a beacon of bravery to one and to all.