While enjoying a Sunday breakfast this past weekend at the “Station 5 Grille” in Natick, Massachusetts, a firefighter/firehouse themed restaurant, I was reminded of this poem from last year. As most of you know by now, I am not really “up” on my files, or my memory for that matter, so I don’t have any real clue as to what I have put out into the blogging world already or not..So it’s rather helter-skelter or willy-nilly if you prefer, as to what I decide to publish day-to-day. But finally, back to the point. This poem is a tribute to firefighters everywhere, they are incredibly brave and dedicated men and woman who put themselves in harms-way for their neighbors and their communities on a daily basis. When the alarm is sounded, they respond. No matter the situation or the site..
If you know a firefighter, thank them. If you see them soliciting for “Jerry’s Kids” throw a little something into the “boot”, and in general, be hopeful you are never in need of their services.
Oh, please let me take just a moment to thank all of you who “click” the like button for something I write, it is very difficult to respond to all of those who do so, therefore, another “Blanky-Thanky” is in order. Also, thanks to all who have offered advice and support, to my report of a lackluster effort on my part as of late.
My hope is for all a thoroughly threat-free Thursday,
Jake.
In tribute to Mike Urban, and firefighters everywhere.
THANKS
HELL’S FIRE
The one and only reason,
that Hell still burns today,
is because the firefighter,
reports the other way.
^
For if God wished to extinguish,
the roaring fires of Hell,
then He’d send in a “Ladder,”
and then He’d sound five bells.
^
They’d put out fast, that fire,
and maybe save some souls.
For, from now until eternity,
they’re forever on the “Rolls!”
^^^
Jack Downing
Sept. 2011
Copyright© Jack Downing, aka Jake @poemsandponderings.wordpress.com. All rights reserved. Contents may not be reprinted or disseminated in any manner without the expressed written consent of the author. JRD 4/19/12
poemsandponderings 
As is my usual routine every day, I sat down with my first cup of coffee of the day & opened my e-mails. Your e-mail was the first one I read. I know why & where those firefighters are standing at attention and Mike’s empty boots there, although many who read this won’t. Another instance of Mike not being forgotten & another instance of your writing ability. Although I don’t comment very often, very often the poems move me – either with deep emotion or with laughter. And you may feel like you’re hitting a brick wall now but to quote Randy Pausch from his book The Last Lecture, “Brick walls are there for a reason. They give us a chance to show how badly we want something.” Keep writing & you’ll get over the brick wall – your audience will wait for you. (I’ll have to visit that restaurant too both with pride & most likely shedding a few tears too.)
Ha, I didn’t recognize the the 1111mu “handle” and I’m saying to myself what a wonderful comment.. Now I know why..It’s from a wonderful person..
That little restaurant by the way, is in the small strip mall perpendicular to Roche Bros. on 135.
And thanks for the encouraging words Mo, the “bricks” are crumbling as we speak, and I remembered a piece concerning bricks that I wrote a while ago, look for it some time this week. I hope everything is well with you and the family..
Did You get to Bobby’s Marathon Bash? It sounded like it was a super time..I hope to see you and the “clan” really soon..
Jake.
Good to know where the restaurant is – will stop in there for sure sometime. Oh yeah, haven’t missed many Marathons. Plenty of food for breakfast cooked by Bob off of Mike’s (now Bob’s) pick-up truck & more food at Jeannie’s cookout afterwards. (You should try to come next year.)
I will, thanks for the invite, but hope to see you before that..