To Those

By AC

To those who find peace in times of war;
Who find love within their hearts
even in times when it may feel
like there is nothing more than hatred in this world;
Who find wisdom among blinding confusion;
Who find the True Value of this life
before finding the value of a coin;

To those who smile when they should be crying;
Who look up when they are down;
Who find gain when everything’s been lost;
For those who feel the joy bubbling inside
and forget about the pain that haunts us every night;

For you, don’t you ever even try to give up,
keep moving forward and never look back,
because when the true heroes of humanity are counted,
you my friend, you are one.

About this poem: There is good in all of us. Some of us just have to dig a little deeper for it. But everyone is capable of being and doing good, no capes or tight pants needed.

 

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98 Comments

  1. Syd on March 30, 2020 at 1:06 PM

    To those who smile when they should be crying;
    Who look up when they are down;
    Who find gain when everything’s been lost;
    For those who feel the joy bubbling inside
    and forget about the pain that haunts us every night;

    This stanza really stood out to me. I love the idea that there is good in all of us. And I think some of the bravest people are those who persevere no matter how hard life gets. They truly are heroes. You have a beautiful way with words and I truly enjoyed this poem a lot. Thank you for being brave and sharing your voice with me.

  2. Troy on March 30, 2020 at 4:22 PM

    AC,

    This poem is one of those poems that I come across and just begin to smile. The message is absolutely beautiful as I’ve had a few specific moments in my life where I’ve been feeling totally down about some event that occurred in my life but meanwhile one of my loved ones (who was going through a similar thing) was full of life and energy in the face of that event. At first it annoyed me, as I began thinking “how can you be so happy right now?!?” but then I began to realize the effect they were having on me. They didn’t know it but their optimism was what truly helped me get through those moments. Their courage and joy in the face of misery allowed them to not only help themselves, but also those around them. This poem is an amazing portrayal of that feeling of love I felt as, when I begin to look around myself at those who always seem to be smiling, I can’t help but agree with you when you say that these people are indeed heroes. It was almost as if their courage became my courage.

    Please continue to write more poems as you seem to have a gift in finding feelings tucked away in me that, before today, I didn’t even know I needed to stop and think about.

  3. Emily on March 30, 2020 at 8:10 PM

    A really personal poem that offers a window into the dimension of hope and love that lies within all of us. Beautiful and timeless; compassionate and boundless. Great choice of theme, I love it.

  4. Alex on March 30, 2020 at 9:22 PM

    This is a beautiful poem. Especially now when so many people in the United States are in quarantine because of the pandemic and will be for who knows how long, it is great to recognize the people who are staying positive despite the chaos. These are the people that keep society together. The best part is that you don’t have to be a total optimist to achieve this – the people who find a way to turn a bad situation into a good one by finding new avenues to work and help others are the backbone of our society and are the ones supporting us the most right now. AC, it is wonderful that you recognize how important this quality is in a person. I hope you can take that wisdom with you throughout your life.

  5. Karin Hoffecker on March 31, 2020 at 1:51 PM

    This is a beautiful poem. Some wonderful lines: “Who find the True Value of this life/before finding the value of a coin;” and “forget about the pain that haunts us/every night.”

    I especially like the turn at the end. The shift to the “you” is a nice touch. It brings the more personal to the poem. This coming after the previous stanzas more general “they.”

    I would like to know about this “true hero of humanity.” Maybe some more specific details about how the “you” never gives up, keeps moving forward and never looks back. This would add some punch to the poem.

    Of course, these are just suggestions. The poem is strong the way it is. Well done!

  6. Bahareh on March 31, 2020 at 8:38 PM

    “For you, don’t you ever even try to give up” – thank you for this reminder. It’s so important. I also loved the lines “who find love within their hearts/ even in times when it may feel/ like there is nothing more than hatred in this world”. There really IS a lot of hate in this world, and I truly believe love can overcome hate. It reminds me of Dr. King’s message. “There is good in all of us” TRUE! This poem is well written and I am honored to have read it.

  7. Noor Elhage on March 31, 2020 at 10:06 PM

    While we’re going through one of the scariest, most unassuming times in history, this poem was the exact reminder that I needed. In times of darkness, we must seek the light. This was beautiful, thank you.

  8. Sarah on April 1, 2020 at 1:51 AM

    AC,

    I am feeling INSPIRED. And lifted up. And there is a smile on my face. Your word choice in the first two stanzas created a choice for the audience, that we could be the ones to choose to look up when we are down, and so on – that creation of choice was so powerful! The poem became almost a “call to action” at its conclusion! Thank you for sharing this!

    Much love.

  9. Ian Goza on April 1, 2020 at 10:58 AM

    I find great comfort in your poem. It is inspiring to see you emphasize that there is good in everyone. I encourage you to keep exploring this theme of humanity. I look forward to reading more of your work.

  10. Mollie Jayne Larson on April 1, 2020 at 1:35 PM

    AC,
    Thank you for this beautiful peace. In todays world it is so hard to be positive, to be able to find the tiniest fraction of light when all you can feel is the darkness that surrounds us. You are a light and it shines through your work. Never lose hope, because you my friend, are also a hero. Please continue to share your positivity through your work, it is truly contagious.

  11. Candy Lin on April 1, 2020 at 2:16 PM

    Really nicely written poem.

  12. Haley on April 1, 2020 at 3:45 PM

    This poem is a great source of hope. A reminder to keep going even when times get tough that I definitely needed to hear. You are one of those heroes you mention; inspiring others to be the good in the world proves that you are part of it.

  13. Lynette Tapia on April 2, 2020 at 12:36 AM

    I found this poem to be astoundingly powerful as every line you wrote held honesty and wisdom. For me, this piece was a testament to the meaning of life, especially with the line “Who find the Truth Value of this life/ before find the value of a coin.” That quote served as a reminder to me of the reason why I honor my faith, family, and friendships above anything else. Another fantastic aspect of this poem was the theme of hope that was heavily conveyed- “To those who find peace in times of war.” The message of seeing the light at the end of the tunnel is a universal lesson that is relevant due to the hardships everyone must encounter in life. However, as you stated, we must fight to persevere through difficult times instead of allowing the trials and tribulations of life consume us. Overall, I found your poem to be beautiful, hopeful, encouraging, wise, and truthful. Great work.

  14. Tyler on April 2, 2020 at 11:24 AM

    AC, I find the words you have spoken to be very true and wise. We often find ourselves chasing money or getting lost in our past mistakes or present predicaments. We sometimes lose sight of what values truly bring us joy, and we may at times lose our strength to continue moving forward when faced with challenges. However, those who continue to find the good in things, and those who share this good with others so that they too may do the same one day, are the true heroes in our world. Thank you for sharing your wisdom in this piece!

  15. Sean on April 2, 2020 at 12:18 PM

    AC,
    I found this poem to be really inspiring and hopeful. We live in a world where so many horrible things happen everyday and where society makes crucial mistakes that hamper process and cause so much suffering. And yet, each human being has the potential to make a positive difference in the world and to make it a better place. We are all essentially good and although some of us lose that along the way, keeping that basic fact about humanity in mind will help us all.
    I thought that your poem was very well written and inspiring. It reminds me of some of the poetic creeds that were the foundation of this nation. I think if we keep in mind the closing words of your poem, that all of us have the ability to be one of the true heroes of humanity, the world would be a much better place.

  16. Oscar T. on April 2, 2020 at 12:58 PM

    I found your poem very expressive of the greatest lesson in life: that despite all the blackness in the night sky, the stars are what counts. We are alive and have consciousness to find happiness in the world, not to let our sufferings get in the way. I also appreciate the way you included a variety of feelings that virtually all of us have felt at some time; it makes it a poem that is relatable.

  17. Sarah on April 2, 2020 at 7:21 PM

    I really enjoyed reading this poem and it connected to me very personally. I have struggled throughout my life and some things have really affected me to the point I just want to sit down and cry. I really admire how motivating the line “For you, don’t you ever even try to give up” is. It really makes me feel like there are others out there who struggle, but find something positive in the world.

  18. Shea Keenan on April 3, 2020 at 2:28 AM

    I really like you’re line near the top when you mention the True Value of life. It’s so easy to become lost and frustrated, especially when there aren’t many options available to us.
    I’ve talked to others who feel that pain before going to bed, and I’ve felt it myself. Being happy all day and miserable or scared by night is daunting, which is why I like how inspiring this poem is. Especially those last two lines, those are bars.

  19. Xenia de Luna on April 3, 2020 at 2:52 AM

    Wow, this poem really made an impact on me, a strong one!
    Although I cannot recall what happened to you, I can tell you how your comment made me feel- strong, vulnerable, but willing to fight like a lion and to keep on pushing through.
    We need more of the people who smile through their pain, stand up for the weak and turn their mistakes into life lessons and I’m pretty damn sure you’ll succeed on that!
    This poem reminded me that you got to keep on fighting in order for the good things to come to you and that’s what I’ll be doing with more intent from now on. Thank you, for real, thank you for your inspiring words!

  20. Gianna on April 3, 2020 at 2:47 PM

    AC,
    This was a beautiful poem!
    I feel like this is a poem that can be very personal yet can speak to everyone. Your words were something that I needed today, and that many of us need to hear. I agree with you, there is good in all of us.
    Thank you so much for sharing! I appreciate your words.

  21. eirini on April 4, 2020 at 4:01 AM

    There are no words to describe how truly beautiful this poem is! I love the way it makes you want to be a better, stronger person, and encourages you that it is indeed possible.I think this poem is extraordinary! It gives you hope and self confidence, it helps you really embrace yourself.

    note: Keep writing because this poem shows that you’re so very talented. ?

  22. Jose on April 4, 2020 at 3:24 PM

    AC,

    This was a great poem. I’m a psychology student from The College of New Jersey, and I just wanted to tell you to keep doing what you´re doing. Keep on inspiring us through your poetry. I can relate to this poem because as a psychology student, I have been learning a lot about positive psychology. This is the idea that optimism and positive attitudes contribute to the success of a human. I strongly believe this and from your poem, I know you do too. There is always light at the end of the tunnel, and I want to say that you should keep on pushing forward because that is the only thing we can do. Never live in the past, or in the future. Always think about the present, and ask yourself, ¨How can I be better as a person right now.¨ Keep going and continue to write poems, because in my opinion, writing out what you feel is a form of therapy that helps a lot. I personally do this and when I do, I always end up feeling much better. I wish you the best!

    Jose

  23. Toni on April 4, 2020 at 4:16 PM

    I found this piece extremely powerful, and while the message is simple it is often times forgotten. It’s so important to recognize that staying positive and spreading it with others strengthens and unifies people. Reading this, I remember that my actions can potentially make others’ perspective brighter and more hopeful, and to be gracious of others’ efforts to support me.

  24. Megan Alpert on April 5, 2020 at 5:38 PM

    Dear AC,
    Reading your poem, I immediately felt a sense of peace. I love how in the first stanza you make it clear exactly who this poem is for, and how we all depend on them. I also like the use of the word “us” in the last line of the second stanza. I see this as an acknowledgement that pain is universal. The whole poem seems to say that you can find good things even in the middle of deep pain and that by doing so, you’re not just helping yourself, but all of humanity. I also like that the joy is “bubbling.” It’s a nice metaphor. Thank you for this poem!

    Megan

  25. Christina Mosley on April 6, 2020 at 8:11 AM

    This poem is phenomenal. It is very thought invoking and engages the reader from the very beginning. The message behind the poem is one in which I wish all human-kind could see and grasp. I very much enjoyed reading this, thank you.

  26. Fateema Farzana on April 6, 2020 at 11:39 AM

    The context behind this poem is as well as the way hope has been expressed in here are so strong. Those who always look for a ray of hope even when the world around them is tearing apart should be our motivation. The last 2 lines can give hope to its readers and make them feel valuable. Loved it!

  27. Sam Allen on April 6, 2020 at 8:30 PM

    This is very powerful. I love the message of courage and wholeness you describe. We must find peace with the world and ourselves when times are tough. Your poem is very inspiring and I really enjoyed reading this. Please continue to share your poetry.

  28. Athena on April 6, 2020 at 8:53 PM

    Dear AC, thank you for this wonderful poem. In times like these it can be hard to remember the good, just when I found myself beginning to doubt I came across your poem and it has turned my day around. You really speak the truth, we all are battling some inner demons but we can’t let that take us off the path we are destined for, there is good in everyone; no babies are born evil. Thank you for your compassion and for keeping your head up. The world needs more people like you in it.

  29. Nicole on April 6, 2020 at 10:56 PM

    Especially during this time, your poem is so important for people all over the world. Your poem explores two big themes: to look for the good in others and to find the positives in every situation. You examine the world from a unique perspective, which allows for readers to look at their surroundings differently and celebrate the small victories.

  30. Laura on April 7, 2020 at 12:21 PM

    I thought your poem was beautiful. I really connected to the line “To those who smile when they should be crying” because it made me realize how powerful the human mind can be. Sometimes we find ourselves numbing out to all of the pain that goes on around us and we put on a facade for others so that they don’t see how we truly feel. It’s a defense mechanism to protect us from feeling vulnerable and to prevent others from judging or being concerned. We downplay our emotions so that we can get through the difficult times in life. I find myself doing that a lot lately because I’m too afraid to let other people in to help me when I need it, it makes me feel like I’m not strong enough, but reading your poem helped me realize what other people have told me, that asking for help and showing emotion can really be strength rather than something to be ashamed of. The true heros are the people who are brave enough to let themselves be seen by others, even in times of weakness. Thank you for sharing your words with the world.

  31. J on April 7, 2020 at 5:23 PM

    Thank you for writing this, with all this corona virus stuff around it’s important to stay positive and leave a good impact on people. This poem reminds me to keep pushing forward and stay positive.

  32. Nadia on April 7, 2020 at 11:06 PM

    Dear AC,
    This poem is very encouraging during … a lot of uncertain surrounding us. I’m not sure what pushes people to move forward, and not give up but like you. I also look up to them and hope to learn how to be like them.

  33. Natasha G. on April 8, 2020 at 4:18 PM

    Your poem is extremely inspiring, life has many ups and downs. This poem helped me realize that there is always light in darkness and that you should always move forward. Everyone can and should look out for eachother and find love and positivity within themselves.

  34. bella on April 9, 2020 at 8:50 PM

    I found this poem to be extremely inspiring, I believe every single person should read this and live by its message. The message of being able to have a positive outlook in life is so huge, because as a whole that can make humanity such a better place. I found that really profound in the line “because when the true heroes of humanity are counted, you my friend are one.”. I really felt like I related to this poem, as I know people who have this light even in the darkest of times and who inspire me to be more positive and up-lifting. Thank you for sharing this, it is beautiful and I love it!

  35. Emily Ustun on April 10, 2020 at 1:57 PM

    This poem inspired me to take the time to list the reasons why I should be grateful for my life. Grateful for my health, my family, my friends, the food in my fridge and much more. Thank you for giving those the space to find the good within themselves and their lives

  36. Kayelynn on April 13, 2020 at 1:07 PM

    Dear AC,

    Thank you so much for the kind message! Reading this, especially during challenging times like right now, put a much-needed smile on my face. Your writing style is to-the-point and flows really well, all while promoting a positive message of perseverance. I look forward to reading more poems/works from you in the future!

  37. Alyson on April 14, 2020 at 1:49 PM

    This is amazing, I love this message. There is good in all of us and I personally think it is so important to find that good in everyone. You did a beautiful job verbalizing what so many can’t. Stay strong and keep spreading your goodness with the world 🙂

  38. Donovan on April 14, 2020 at 3:30 PM

    This was very inspiring AC, very pure. Donovan

  39. Tim Yeung on April 16, 2020 at 1:14 AM

    The poem is very motivating, it hits really hard and its super interesting. I like the repetition of the word ‘Who” it definitely gives strength to what follows after.

  40. Molly Reed on April 16, 2020 at 5:13 PM

    AC, your poem is beautiful. It takes a lot to see the good in everything with the world right now. I am inspired by your mindset and feel motivated to look at situations now with a better mindset. In your “about this poem” you said something incredibly important. We can all be and do good things. I look forward to seeing all the amazing things you do for this world and thank you for the much needed boost in positivity.

    MR

  41. Alejandra Martinez on April 17, 2020 at 1:36 PM

    I can relate to this poem a lot. I have had my highs and my lows. This poem gives good encouragement for everyone. I strongly believe your last sentence; “About this poem”. It’s a great reminder to carry with you everyday.

  42. stillplacemd on April 17, 2020 at 4:06 PM

    May hope continue to grow in you and may you continue writing poetry.Thank you for sharing your gift.

  43. Logan Lehman on April 17, 2020 at 9:25 PM

    AC,

    I think that this is something I really needed to see today. Your poem gave me hope and reminded me of how important it is to focus on the things that matter, even when it’s hard. Thank you for writing this.

  44. Jayla Brown on April 18, 2020 at 6:36 PM

    This should be a speech for a movie! I love how you highlight different situations and people. Everybody has some type of good in them, no matter how “evil” they may seem. Your poem proves that everyone is human.

  45. Maranda Estwick on April 19, 2020 at 1:47 AM

    This was very beautiful and full of so much wisdom. I like the line “Who find the True Value of this life
    before finding the value of a coin.” Living in a capitalist country, we become so obsessed with finding every way to make money that we lose sight of trying to find what we feel is our purpose. I feel like making your life materialistic makes you become disassociated with the non-tangible joys of life. I also like the line “who find gain when everything’s been lost.” This is a big thing i’m working on for myself and it is also really important for everyone right now during this pandemic. It is a really powerful mindset to have because when you learn to always look at the things still in your control or the positive aspects of a situation you will be happier, more productive and just be able to navigate life better because your focused on what you still have or what is yet to come instead of dwelling on what has already happened.

  46. Ryan Hoang on April 19, 2020 at 12:22 PM

    I love the positive message that is portrayed through this writing!

  47. OJ on April 19, 2020 at 12:26 PM

    AC,
    I was really able to relate to this poem. I can tell you’ve been through a lot, and I have too. This poem really shows the importance of being able to see something positive even when things are bad. But I loved how you turned that lesson you’ve clearly learned into a letter to others. Keep writing!

  48. Tiona Lancaster on April 19, 2020 at 11:59 PM

    I really connected with this piece. I truly believe in the saying “not all heroes wear capes”, and I think it’s admirable of you to acknowledge this as well because you never know who needs to hear it. I hope that you are giving this same amount of encouragement to yourself, because you deserve it too.

  49. renata stankowska on April 21, 2020 at 12:59 PM

    That was really powerful. Thank you for speaking to your reader and making me dig a little deeper myself. It is the hardest moments in life when I feel like a lot of lose sight of ourselves and the good that we have. Whether we made a mistake or a mistake was done upon us… you couldn’t be more right that we can never give up. Every day that we wake up is a blessing and we must not forget that our “goodness” ends when hard times begin… thank you for your wonderful words. I may not know you but I can feel the strength within you.

  50. Gabriela on April 21, 2020 at 11:13 PM

    AC,
    I love the message of this poem. My favorite line is those “Who find the True Value of this life before finding the value of a coin”. I find this encouraging and convicting, I’m prone to being materialistic and worrying about money and possessions. This reminds though that there’s so much more to life than stuff. I like how this poem combines sincerity and reality (the pain that haunts us every night) with hope (don’t you ever even try to give up). Also I love your note at the end, everyone really is capable of good. Thanks for the encouragement, keep up the good work!

  51. Sanjana on April 21, 2020 at 11:35 PM

    AC,
    This poem is so powerful! It was inspiring and made me feel absolutely happy. It leaves us with positivity as you talk about continuing to persist through difficult times and how being imperfect doesn’t mean there’s no good in you. Even when you are overwhelmed with obstacles and you feel like you cannot move forward, know that we can survive through them all. This poem does a great job of reminding us to never give up. Thank you for sharing this and keep on writing poems. Great Job!

  52. Chelsey on April 22, 2020 at 7:46 PM

    The message of this poem is so wholesome. Being good does not take much, but means so much for those who found it. Your word choice makes this piece really expressive and meaningful by packing so much emotion and descriptors into each line. It’s refreshing to have such an inspirational and positive poem. Thank you, AC!

  53. Emily on April 23, 2020 at 2:26 PM

    I love the overall positivity of this poem. The first 4 lines really spoke to me, because I agree that it is important to love and find peace when we are in a time where there is unfortunately a lot of hatred. I think the ending is so powerful, “because when the true heroes of humanity are counted, you my friend, are one”, and this inspires people to stay positive and help others.

  54. Zachary Davis on April 23, 2020 at 2:28 PM

    AC-

    I really enjoyed reading this poem. I think you have nailed it on the head with what is trying to be said. I think it is quite remarkable to have this mindset and being able to continue to stay positive. The last stanza or verse really, I believe, tied everything up in this poem so well. It is a simple idea of never give up, but the way you were able to express certain situations and different thoughts “to those” of different backgrounds makes this poem very strong. Well done, don’t give up and continue to move forward!

    Zak

  55. Hannah on April 23, 2020 at 2:30 PM

    This poem is so clever! The lines are very relatable and depict how we can act in different situations really well. Each example you gave really spoke to what you were trying to say! When the end addresses the reader rather than talk about just anyone in general, it really makes the poem come together and to see the meaning behind it.

  56. Beth Ellinport on April 23, 2020 at 2:31 PM

    Wow. These words need to be heard all over our world. They are very inspiring, and something I hold a lot of value in. You are only as beautiful as your actions and attitude. And you have seemed to figure it out. I hope you listen to these words as they are very impactful. Thank you for your words. I will remember them.

  57. Tori on April 23, 2020 at 2:34 PM

    I felt a very strong connection to this post, especially with all that has been happening recently with COVID 19. It is easy for people to put their heads down and see the bad aspects of this situation, but it is much harder to focus on the good. Some situations including this pandemic are out of our control, but we can always control how we react to these hard times.

  58. Allie Nornes on April 23, 2020 at 2:36 PM

    Wow this poem is awesome! As someone who has faced adversity and struggles with mental health, this poem really resonated with me. The line “to those who smile when they should be crying” really stood out to me because I know that many of us, myself included, often put on a brave face and act like everything is okay and that we are okay because we don’t want to burden other people with our problems. Thank you for sharing this, your words really encouraged me.

  59. Haley on April 23, 2020 at 2:40 PM

    Wow, this poem is so incredibly inspirational. This is one of the principles that I try to lead my life with–recognizing that there is goodness in everyone and everyone is deserving of love. I especially like the lines:

    “Who find the True Value of this life
    before finding the value of a coin;”

    It shows that the value of life can’t be counted by money, but it is counted by loving yourself and the people around you.

  60. Tamaki on April 23, 2020 at 2:42 PM

    Thank you for writing this poem. This encouraged me to be better and also enjoy this chaotic time with people I love. I appreciate you for spreading your love and positivity!

  61. Madi Coyne on April 23, 2020 at 2:43 PM

    Your ability to convey emotions into words is stunning. On God you almost had me in tears. I’m an emotional wreck to begin with but that’s not the point lmao. The point is, you have a real talent for this work, and you have a true grasp on what it means to be a good/wholesome person. I really hope that you implement this narrative into your own life (if you haven’t already) so that you can go back into the world and change it with your voice. I believe in you <3

  62. Ellen on April 23, 2020 at 2:43 PM

    AC, your poem really touches me. I like that you reached out and wrote to the “true heroes of humanity.”
    “To those who smile when they should be crying;
    Who look up when they are down;
    Who find gain when everything’s been lost”

  63. Maria Pareja on April 23, 2020 at 2:47 PM

    AC,
    Wow! This was so powerful and encouraging to me. I want to thank you for sharing your thoughts and perspective with me and the rest of the world. This poem is such a light in a world that at times can seem like it’s covered in darkness. Your last line literally gave me chills. Please keep writing, as I know it is going to inspire so many people. I also hope that you continue to be a light just as your writing, and you continue to find the love, happiness, and hope that you reference in your poem.

  64. Sharon on April 23, 2020 at 5:41 PM

    Hello AC,
    I completely agree that no matter what is going on to not look back. I have a saying that I live by which is that everything happens for a reason, so you just have to keep moving forward. Everyone makes mistakes, but that doesn’t mean they are bad people. Keep your head up, things will be okay trust me.

    Stay Safe.

  65. Sydney on April 23, 2020 at 8:48 PM

    AC,

    I’m not sure what to say other than this poem made me feel human—all of the pain and love and hope and despair wrapped up in one. It made me think of what it means to be alive and to love a world that won’t always love you back—not because it’s easy but because it’s what’s right. Thank you.

    (Ps. The poem’s description “no capes or tight pants needed” is solid gold.)

    —Sydney

  66. Keli on April 23, 2020 at 10:18 PM

    To those who find peace in times of war;
    Who find love within their hearts
    even in times when it may feel
    like there is nothing more than hatred in this world;

    Your poem has such a powerful opening. In those moments when everything around you seems swallowed up by anger and things that drag you down, it is heroic to bring to the surface love for the people around you, for yourself, and the beauty that exists in the world. Thank you for writing!

  67. Ryan Cedeno on April 23, 2020 at 10:45 PM

    This is truly a great poem. I really enjoyed reading about your perspective on topics such as finding the value of life vs finding the value of a coin. Everyone definitely has it in them to fight through adversity and I think you did a great job in a way of trying to praise the people who do this.

  68. Matthew Wootten on April 24, 2020 at 11:09 AM

    “when the true heroes of humanity are counted / you my friend, you are one” is such a powerful phrase. Thank you for spreading your message of goodwill.

  69. Natalie Silberman on April 24, 2020 at 3:22 PM

    I love your poem! The optimism behind every line really shines through and it shows how you just want good for the world. Keep up the good work because this poem was really inspiring.

  70. Emily on April 24, 2020 at 6:21 PM

    This is really beautiful, AC. “For this who feel the joy bubbling inside and forget about the pain that haunts us every night” is especially profound. Holding onto the light moments is a daring act in a world full of darkness. Thank you for being one of those sources of light!

  71. Amyla Bryant on April 24, 2020 at 7:48 PM

    I like the message for this poem. about anyone can be a super hero and everyone is capable of doing good things regardless of what they have done.

  72. Danae on April 26, 2020 at 12:40 PM

    Thank you so much for this. These words give me hope and inspiration, and the strength to go on and change.

  73. Yesica Benitez on April 27, 2020 at 1:40 PM

    AC,

    I found your poem to be very empowering, I love how you used multiple examples of where strength is portrayed (like looking up when you are down). I love how motivational your poem is and it encourages those who are fighting hard to move forward with a positive mindset. Writing this poem also makes you a hero, because you encourage others! Thank you for being a hero!

  74. Jocelyn Matos on April 28, 2020 at 11:34 AM

    I found this helpful as I am secretly cramming in all the class work I am falling behind on. I currently have straight A’s but no one knows that I am a complete and utter mess. I take pride in making a break through in college while I am pregnant with two kids. I have taken exams two days after giving birth and came out successful. I struggle at home but I come to school and I smile and participate as if I don’t have any problems. I am subjected by the mistakes I have made at home and not the things I did right! I believed you when you said I am a hero because I am someone’s hero, my children. I might not understand why life has panned out this way but I enjoy the fight! At school, I am everything I ever wanted to be.

  75. Caroline K. on May 1, 2020 at 11:51 AM

    I connected with the last paragraph of your poem. It gives an aspiring message to those who may be struggling or feel that their efforts are not recognized. I believe this poem gives hope to many.

  76. Caroline Esmond on May 1, 2020 at 11:56 AM

    This poem is beautiful! Anyone can relate to this, and it is inspiring to know that no matter how much “bad” is in this world, goodness will always prevail. Lifting yourself and others allows that goodness to come forward! This is exactly what our world needs, thank you.

  77. Kali Benvenuto on May 1, 2020 at 11:59 AM

    I really like how this poem values those who see the light in times of darkness. We all face our own obstacles, but it’s the individuals who see the light at the end of the tunnel and remain calm that we go to during these times to help us overcome whatever challenge we may be facing.

  78. Cassie Scandalios on May 1, 2020 at 12:00 PM

    This poem is so inspiring. I hope to be the person you describe in your writing and approach all of life’s challenges in this way. My hope is that you have this outlook on life and strive to be positive in all things you do. I also believe that there is good in all of us and that greatness comes easier for some of us and not for others. We all could to dig a little deeper for it, but we are all capable as I believe you are as well. I wish you the best of luck and hope you find the greatness you are striving for.

  79. Tori on May 1, 2020 at 12:01 PM

    This is such an important message that you are sharing! I completely agree with you and I think that this poem is so motivating. It is very important to take the good out of everything that comes your way and make light of all situations. Some times may be harder than others, but if you really dig to think forward and not dwell it will only benefit you.

  80. Sarah Adams on May 1, 2020 at 12:01 PM

    To AC, Wow! It sounds like you have an amazing perspective on life. In times of loneliness and solitude you truly have a gift to keep your mind in the right place. Your words have a lot of meaning to me as I had a hard time in school where I truly thought i would fail not only myself but also my loved ones. Thank you for your words. You sounds like you have a strong will. Continue to think about how to make your mind stronger because you will be powerful with that mindset.
    Sincerely,
    S

  81. Ioanna M on May 1, 2020 at 12:09 PM

    Dear AC,
    This poem was beautiful and opened my eyes to the different possibilities surrounding different circumstances. I always thought there were two kinds of people in this world. Those who see the glass as half full and those who see the glass as half empty. What I now realize is that you cannot categorize people so easily. We are all human and we all have moments where we get to our lowest points. When life keeps hitting us with curve balls and we feel like you can’t catch a break. What matters though is realizing the tough situation you are in and actively deciding to make the most of it. I thank you for your poem because it does give me hope. Hope that kindness and love will prevail and save humanity. Hope that everyone can see that they have good in themselves, but then to show that good to others.

  82. lauren maline on May 1, 2020 at 12:12 PM

    This gave me chills. Such a beautiful message & very well written. My favorite lines are “Who find the True Value of this life/ before finding the value of a coin” and “Who look up when they are down; Who find gain when everything’s been lost.” The fact that you, as a thinker, a writer, and a human being, can recognize these powers in other people shows that you yourself are a true hero of humanity. Absolutely love this poem. Keep looking up and finding gain. Looking forward to reading more of your work!

  83. Isobel on May 1, 2020 at 12:16 PM

    AC,
    I love the positivity of this poem! The line “Who find True Value of this life before finding the value of a coin” stuck with me as I am home in quarantine. This poem reminded me to focus on the positives in my life and to find the good in everyone.

  84. Jenny Ulehla on May 1, 2020 at 12:18 PM

    You my friend are one. Never give up. Keep writing.

  85. Anna P. on May 4, 2020 at 8:54 AM

    AC, I love the rhythm of this poem. It reads like a song. I was able to find a beat in reading it aloud that made it even more comforting, in addition to the general theme of the poem that I found very comforting and uplifting. Thank you for writing it.

  86. Patti on May 5, 2020 at 11:39 AM

    I really loved the message you conveyed in this poem. I think this poem was extremely well written especially how you started each verse with “to those” and then transitioned to “for you”, I think that was a really creative decision. I also felt so inspired by the message in your poem I think it is honest and meaningful and I wish more people could read it. Thanks for allowing me to be inspired by your poem.

  87. Link on May 7, 2020 at 9:23 AM

    This is such a beautiful, uplifting, and encouraging poem. Everyone goes through pain in their lives and it’s hard to work through it, to be a better person. We need encouragement to do so, and this poem is encouragement enough and shows that you are one of the people making direct change to uplift someone and help them reach their potential to grow. You are a hero.

  88. Diana on May 8, 2020 at 10:28 AM

    I really like the inspirational and uplifting tone in your writing. Life has been hard with the pandemic and some days its difficult to keep my head and count my blessings for what I do have. This poem makes me want to keep going and keep pushing and do what I can for those around me. Life keeps moving and even when there is hardship, there’s beauty, hope, and joy to be found in life. I hope you keep on pushing too.

  89. N on May 9, 2020 at 2:26 PM

    This is beautiful. I am completely capativated by the usage of words being used as well as the ending for being a hero is not one that consists of a cape.

  90. Ray Ryan on May 10, 2020 at 3:35 AM

    I really like what this is about, seeing the bright-side when there is darkness and recognizing one doesn’t be super to be a hero. It’s a very inspiring poem and I like the message you’re sending to never give up and I wieh you the best and hope you never give up!!!

  91. carlos guzman on May 10, 2020 at 4:43 AM

    Hello AC,

    First, I want to start off by saying, your poem is very inspirational! I really liked how you mentioned “…because when the true heroes of humanity are counted, you my friend, are one” in your poem. This quote was the icing on the cake, and it persuades us you believe we can be a hero, no superpower of costume needed. To be a hero is to stand strong and to persevere in the toughest of times.

    This poem speaks to the heart of the true hero, on which never looks back and is free of stress. To be a hero, you must have peace of mind in order to bring peace to others. Clarity and transparency are essential to manifest honesty! Also, I really liked when you mentioned “who find gain when everything’ been lost” this is a powerful statement because it explains how heros are nonmaterialistic and don’t need tangible things to credit their happiness. They’re happy with the person they are and that is enough to any hero!

    Thank you for sharing and I wish you nothing but the best!

    -carlos g.

  92. Christine T. on May 13, 2020 at 11:24 PM

    Dear AC,

    Thank you for sharing such a beautiful poem. I really resonate with the message that there is “good” that can be found in all of us, regardless of any past actions or behaviors that a person may have engaged in. I think many times people write off individuals that come from less-than-ideal backgrounds as thoroughly “bad” people, when the world is rarely that black and white. Everybody is capable of turning their lives around and waking up each day deciding to choose to be a better person towards those around them and society as a whole. As you said with your line where you talk about those “Who find love within their hearts, even in times when it may feel, like there is nothing more than hatred in this world,” the world can seem extremely dark and it is easy to feel discouraged when you look at many of the atrocities going on, both globally and in our own communities–however, there is much to be said about staying positive and trying to find the beauty in small things every single day. Like you, I believe that keeping this type of outlook while also moving forward with our lives and helping out in the ways that we can is how we will meaningfully progress both individually and in a more broad, societal way.

    Again, thank you for sharing!

    Best,
    Christine T.

  93. Koryana Boyle on June 25, 2020 at 8:05 PM

    I love the hope you give through this poem! You talk about so many different ways a person can persist and you acknowledge the amount of strength it takes. I also believe that we are all just doing the best we can to the best of our abilities.

  94. L on June 30, 2020 at 8:49 PM

    I have a tendency to get trapped in my own negativity, so I completely agree the people in this world who are perpetually optimistic are just absolute gifts. I know I would not be in the place I am in today without the kind of people who are willing to look at the glass as half full. The first line of your second stanza is so powerful and I can think of a few people in my life who exemplify it.

  95. Kylie on April 6, 2021 at 12:47 PM

    I love the hope and positivity in this piece. I think it’s really easy, especially right now, to feel sort of hopeless and to stop believing in the innate goodness of people. Your poem does an excellent job of pushing back against the apathy and lack of recognition of our common humanity that you see in a lot of discourse. I applaud you for maintaining such a positive outlook and remaining steadfastly grounded in your own innate goodness and humanity. Keep up the great work!!

  96. CA on April 22, 2021 at 9:03 PM

    AC,

    Your piece is very relevant especially in times like now when hope can get lost. There have been moments when I felt like giving up on something but then I think about the future. I know my future self would not be proud of me, so that is what makes me persevere. This poem is very powerful and can make people see the good sides of things. Thank you for sharing this piece.

    CA

  97. cm on May 2, 2021 at 4:51 PM

    Hello AC – I am in an English class called Writing and Community where we try to interact with the community outside of the university to enhance out learning and help those around us achieve their mission. I really enjoyed reading your poem. I found it very uplifting and inspiring, and simply reading it put me in a better mood. I appreciate the message you have for those to find a way to be happy even when the world seems to be working against them. These are the good people in the world, and I believe they deserve good things in return. I think your poem is beautifully written, and I hope you continue to express yourself and your emotions through poetry. I wish you plenty of good luck and happiness in the future!

  98. Ayzhiana Basallo on May 17, 2021 at 12:36 AM

    I loved reading your poem. It was truly inspiring and motivating. We are not perfect and it is just nice to know that there is always something brighter ahead.

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