Football cleats engraved footprints

in the damp, green grass

the air cool, birds chirping in every ear.

He’s built like a tower.

Wide, strong, tall,

hovering over all the opponents 

tackling the bodies full of shield and sweat

doing whatever it takes to protect

his family.

But now, he has a new uniform.

Bulky, black, fireproof,

topped with a shielded helmet

guarding him from the scorching heat

coming from red and orange flames

gracing cement and brick building.

He hovers down,

crawling into the tightest spaces

filled with gray smoke

carrying human bodies

across his broad shoulders

saving yet another life.

Humble, brave, nurturing,

protecting everyone he sees.

My brother, my hero, everyone’s hero.