The Hearts Of The Heartland

For the Cowboy Up contest

 

Within every state across the nation

Is the backbone of America…

They are the heartlands,

All to often unappreciated

Yet vital to keeping citizens fed.

For it is where so much

Of our resources and nutrients

Are produced to keep us happy and strong.

These heartlands so beautiful by nature

But so harsh to the men and women

Working hard to keep it alive and thriving.

Even more unappreciated then the

Crops and livestock they tend to.

Without fail from sunrise to sunset

They work it to the bone

Not thinking of the costs or sacrifice,

Just doing what they know.

The blood and sweat that drips

From beneath those ten gallon hats

Is a show of pride in producing for a country

That often forgets they exist. 

Reviews

[Jamie S.]

Bravo Dale!!! This piece speaks to my heart. My grandfather was a farmer and I currently take care of a gentlmen who farmed 30 years ago when it was much harder. We should all appreciate them and when we see thier tractors on the roads instead of getting frustrated with them for being in the way just wave and smile. Have you seen the new show on called The Last American Cowboy? Definatly a must see! Thank you for sharing :)

[Phibby Venable]

a wonderful message convey in great style.

[Coyote Poetry]

You are correct. The people who produce our food and basic items must work hard to maintain their life. Here in Michigan. The farms are becoming less. Hard work for small profit. A powerful poem with reason and purpose.
Coyote

[Ferg]

Wow! Great tribute and a wonderful way to highlight and salute the oft-forgotten! Nicely written!

[Georgia Gypsy]

I guess no one stops to think what would happen if we all had to grow our own food, or raise beef, in order to eat. This is a great tribute to the men and women who not only sustain us now...but also to them who settled this nation over the last several centuries!
Hope you win!!!:)

[Ashley.M.E]

this is good

[Dupree]

Wow a fresh take at those who work so hard to make America America. This is a great poem, it has good wording and great form.

[closed account]

very nice!!! Going back to the basic's is a reminder of how good we have it today!!! Good luck I hope you win!!!

[The Analog Kid]

NO FARMS...NO FOOD! Nice tribute to the heartland. These people really are the backbone of our society.

[Ed Hart]

and there are those who will stop and point, and say thus...thank you, again

[Enigmatic Amor]

Nicely put. I love the heartland subject of the piece.

I'll be the 'odd man out' and throw a couple nits your way.

5th line down should end with 'fed' not feed.

The line, "Crops and livestock they tend to." doesn't need the 'to' at the end.

I hope you win the contest! :)