Calling all poets! Corrections1’s poetry column highlights some of the inspirational, moving and funny poems authored by our readers.
This poem is by Maya Mason, a juvenile correctional officer at the Anoka County Juvenile Centers and founder of the facility’s peer support team, who writes: “This poem was inspired by the many coworkers who have trauma that is so hard to pinpoint, but impacts them every day.”
Email your original writing submission for consideration to editor@corrections1.com.
Close Call
“It’s no big deal. It turned out okay.”
A sentiment I’ve heard many a day.
And maybe they’re right, don’t know why I’m so shook.
After all, we did everything by the book.
It was a close call
Narrow escape
Heartstopper
Near miss
Maybe just good luck
Juveniles safe.
COs safe.
The youth are in bed.
No blood was shed.
So why is this on my mind?
Why do I feel guilty, anxious, unkind?
Three months still on my mind.
Why do I feel guilty, anxious, unkind?
Six months still on my mind.
Why do I feel guilty, anxious, unkind?
… Still on my mind.
Why do I feel guilty, anxious, unkind?