Laura Heiman

Topic: Reminiscence and Intergenerational Connection

This poem was created after conducting an interview with my grandfather and was intended to

capture a mere snapshot of his life. The interview itself seemed suspended in time, and I

believe that poetry can bring readers into a suspension of time and reflection for a few

moments. This poem serves as an ode of appreciation for my grandpa and his willingness to

share himself with me. It also underscores the importance of honoring the ways we are invited

to walk alongside others and connect with others as they show us how. This interview gave me

a deeper appreciation for the grandiosity of the life my grandpa has lived, as well as a deeper

appreciation for the wholehearted sharing of this life with so many along the way.

That’s Life

A Poem for my Grandpa

Started his life in a simpler time

Went trappin’ to make a nickel and dime

Cared little for school but mom helped him out

Enlisted, school was important, no doubt

Took his exam, not much for shootin’ guns

Had class in DC, but made time for fun

World Series in New York, don’t know who won

shipped across the sea, service then begun

Landed abroad, a soldier from Kansas

Cold German winters were hard to dismiss

Rebuilding towns and bridges, house calls made

Burgers from strangers, a kindness repaid

Advanced in ranks, made some minor repairs

Therefore, he knew there was someone upstairs

Low and behold he got to return home

To the Kansas plains, the prairies and brome

Miracles and hardship, goodness and strife

Reflecting on it all, he said “that’s life”

Tarah Hardy