WaywardSelectedPoems: Tribute to 9/11 First Responders

New Day

The rising sun that lights the sea

And warms each mile so gradually

Lies hidden from our mortal sight

But none the less dispels the night.

Like this, God’s Word with brilliant force

Though few at first, discern the source

Has burst upon the sea of men

And lit the future once again.

How many will proclaim his signs

When the truth shines bright from the noon day sky?

But blessed are they, whose faith’s first sworn,

In these still, dark hours of earliest morn.

c. James P. West 2010

9/11 First Responders

For those who run toward danger

Who see beyond their eyes

Whose consummating goodness

Their rugged look belies

Whose children want to picnic

Whose lovers want to sing

Yet nothing save this moment

To face this awful thing.

For those who run toward danger

To save their fellow man

Nobility, grace, honor

And heartache for our land.

James P. West, (2001)