Calling all poets! Corrections1’s poetry column highlights inspirational, moving and funny poems authored by our readers.
“I wrote this poem as a new officer to show the understanding of togetherness and sense of welcoming I felt from my fellow officers, as well as to show those who may not understand how correctional officers often feel,” writes Ofc. R. Littlefield. “Many may not fully understand the things we deal with, and those who do, know that we are all in it together, which is a great feeling. I wanted to emphasize the fact that we are never alone and share my thoughts on the corrections community.”
Email your original writing submission for consideration to editor@corrections1.com.
Through the Gate
Through the gate we go, five days a week
Away from our home and off the street
To the place composed of metal, steel and stone
With the ones who never let us walk alone
Through the gate, each day, always put to the test
Many leave with burdens weighing on their chest
With fate unknown and much unforeseen
Senses must be heightened and always keen
Through the gate, hours on end, day by day
Receiving the ones our brothers and sisters in blue send our way
All those who stand behind the thin silver line
Are also ones I can call family of mine
Through the gate, each shift, passes many in gray
Those who I think of each night when I pray
The same people, who in any mix
Will hold to the saying, “I got your six”
Though we never walk alone
On the street there are some who are always prone
To disagree with, and even may hate
The ones who stand together, through the gate