by Byron D. Howell

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It seems we dream them up when times get mean -
create them in our hearts and minds on cue.
We tack the hero label site unseen -
then gasp when they fall short as heroes do.
It's so convenient putting every hope
within one man or woman when we can.
It makes it so the rest of us can cope
with petty things, some other pointless plan.
When heroes fail us we hem and haw.
We ache to nail each to some high cross.
Life's balance is thrown off. Life's natural law -
has not a place for heroes or - their loss.
Our need for heroes, primitive and dire;
a fool to fall so devils may - conspire.

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