Face of a S/Hero

Medical Workers. CBS News Collage

A bruised face
usually
signals
abuse.
Inflicted wounds
aimed to
injure
and to shame.
The descending arch
hanging
from an eye;
the scrape
across the nose;
cheeks streaked
with bloody
slashes
through
one’s skin.
Who knew
these would
one day be
symbols
of the brave?
The s/heroes
on the frontlines
enduring pain.
The ones who
face death
every
single
day
so we might
see our loved ones
once again.