Saplings

(in awe of young carers, this one was 16)

consider Riley half grown 

who sports broad shoulders

matched by a strong resolve

.

who says his once peaceful home

was his own small sanctuary until

it became his daily entrapment

.

where he selflessly cares for

his blind and disabled mother

during tedious lockdown loneliness

.

not forgetting both his old grans

whom he runs errands for

though he dares not take the bus

.

preferring to walk as he fears

picking up the virus and passing it 

unknowingly to those he loves most

.

you do not hear him complain

he recognises there are other young

carers far worse off than he

.

a child with compassion is Riley

and other children like him

caring for members of family

.

in extraordinary circumstances

pause a moment to reflect on

unwavering devotion in hard times

.

Reviews

[Dylan Macadham]

I love this sweet tribute to young Riley! There's lots more going on the minds and hearts of kids than meets the eye. ...Reminds me of when my ex-wife and I broke up and my then-8-yr-old son, Paul, would, for weeks afterwards, walk to my new apartment after school to make sure I was ok :)

[Chris Shaw]

Young people often get a bad time, but then there are plenty like Riley who prove they can rise to the occasion and go beyond it. Your young son loved and missed his Dad. I bet those visits meant the world to you. Many thanks, this was a lockdown write Dylan.

Chris

[Yashika]

I relished reading this. There are so many people trying their best not to catch the virus for the sake of their loved ones. I find it relatable in a way. I've been taking care of my grandmother this whole time. With my parents still going to work in this pandemic, it has become quite difficult for everyone to avoid the virus; because who knows where it may be?

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you for your review. Well done you, for taking care of your grandmother in challenging times. I know there are lots of young people acting as carers. Kudos to them all. Shows such a caring spirit.

Chris

[Tepo]

Enjoying catching up on your writing
For this one I'll simply say
I get it
And ta for sharing it

[Chris Shaw]

Abd I will say ta for your visit. Much appreciated.

Chris

[Coyote Poetry]

All of us must do more. Riley is being a good person. We need more of them in our world. Thank you dear Chris for sharing the wonderful words and your thoughts.
Coyote

[Chris Shaw]

A truly inspirational young man is Riley. Had to put him in a poem. Thank you Coyote for reading and commenting. Take care.

Chris

[Coyote Poetry]

I live in a good place. We check on the handicap people. I try to stop by the people who cannot walk or drive. Old wise saying. Take a town to raise child and take a town to ensure all is well. You are welcome dear Chris.

[Sami Khalil]

Selfless acts are worthy of praise and applause especially from the youngsters who are influenced and influencing as they grow in wisdom and experience. I can a special person in Riley and in your words of praise. An excellent tribute.

[Chris Shaw]

Many thanks Sami for your lovely review. Riley I heard on local radio. I was in awe of him. Had to put him in a poem. Really appreciate you checking in.

Chris

[Sami Khalil]

All wonderful. You are welcome...

[Joanne McFall]

The use of saplings is a very interesting metaphor for young (er) people. Such lovely imagery depicting simple and humble actions.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Joanne. You are appreciated.

Chris

[Robert Trakofler]

I love him... but surely he does not lack for love I just wrote about the merits of peach pits and here you are writing about saplings:) I cant wait to hear about all of the fine things that sapling will sprout we need more sprouts like that one in this world they are a treasure

[Chris Shaw]

Ah the saplings will grow into fine trees. I have high hopes for them. Thank you Bunny for checking in to read about young Riley. What a credit he is to his family.

Chris

[.]

This compassion is the real glow in this very trying time! When human values are degrading day by day, then a caring compassionate heart can establish faith on life. A real tribute to a real hero... Thank you for sharing this beautiful poem

[Chris Shaw]

Dear Sima, a huge thank you and so good to see you back after your break. Hope all is well with you. Sending love across the pond. This young man so deserving of praise. I listened to him on local radio.

Chris

[.]

Yes, I am doing good, was very busy for some days... So took a break. Hope you are fine and healthy.... Yes every single person who is doing something for society deserves applaud! This continuous dark days made us sick in every ways, so a loving heart is a kind of ray of hope in these days! Pls take very good care of yourself... ❤❤

[Chris Shaw]

We have had our second vaccines. We consider ourselves so very fortunate when vaccines are in short supply. The whole world needs them and I hope they will be rolled out soonest. We are easing out of lockdown here but my heart bleeds for other parts of the world where there is high density population and no social distancing. It is a recipe fir disaster. Let's hope we can contain this monster soon. More dark days ahead, I fear.

[.]

I fear that as well.... Let's pray for the better days...

[Betty Hermelee]

This is an amazing person, completely selfless as you mention, and someone who is kind and caring, not thinking of himself in these harsh conditions, but his blind mother and his grandparents; making sure he does not contaminate himself, for fear of spreading disease to them; very cautious, strong and capable.
A prince of a man! Thanks for sharing Chris,
Truly,B

[Chris Shaw]

He deserves some recognition Betty. A fine example for his peers and others. Many thank yous for checking in. Love your new avatar BTW.

Chris

[Dave]

What a beautiful tribute to Riley. It is so nice to hear about a young person who is so caring for those so much older than himself. You obviously are very proud of him.
Take care - Dave

[Chris Shaw]

Listened to him on the radio Dave, he is deserving of some praise. Many thanks for your visit. Keep well and happy.

Chris