The Long Goodbye

The Long Goodbye

It was the darkest day

When we had to say goodbye

The day you slipped away 

I learnt to live a different way 

A crushing weight 

Bearing down on my chest

You took my breath with you 

I locked you away 

In a quiet place in my heart 

To find the strength to carry on 

I had to become someone I wasn’t

I’d hear a song and the tears would flow

Memories, sharp reminders

That you are gone 

I’ve learnt to live without you

But that space you left remains 

Are you proud of the life I’ve made?

You made me the person I am today 

So as I carry on my journey

I hope that you are waiting 

That you will hold me close

And I can say, Dad - I love you 

Joanne C Hicks 

copyright ©️ 

4th May 2026 

Find me on Facebook - Pembrokeshire Poet

Author of Eloquent, a collection of poems, on Amazon now 

Busted Benji!

Busted Benji - busted

Who me? 

Absolutely not!

Just checking the cupboard door was secure 

That Old Horse Chestnut Tree

That Old Horse Chestnut Tree 

I am a giant of the community

Rooted, a safe haven 

I’ve watched, my leaves gently rustling 

As christenings gather, old and young

My canopy sheltering many

As raindrops fall 

A tapestry of life in the chapel grounds 

Brides’ faces full of joy, as they say “I do!”

Under my strong, stretched out branches 

Vows are spoken and two become one 

Those who mourn gather beneath me

Heads bowed in quiet reflection 

On a summer’s day the soft sounds of hymns

Float out the chapel door, drifting away 

As night falls I offer a sanctuary 

As foxes silently cross my path 

In spring I burst into delicate white flowers

But my real treasures are brown and small

Encased by spikes, lie my jewels within 

I hear the children’s voices rise up with glee

They gather up my conkers 

Running wildly, arms full of brown treasure 

Generations have passed my gaze

Some amble past, barely noticing me 

If I could speak of the tales I’ve seen 

All life has unfolded beneath my leaves 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

3rd May 2026

An ordinary man?

You take your hurt and pain 

And share it on a global stage

Who’d have thought 

You started out living in your car

You share the grief that grips you

It breaks our hearts to hear

But know you’re not alone

So many questions unanswered 

To lose your dad so young 

When you were just a child 

Sorrow no child should bear 

Crushing, numbing grief 

No child can understand 

Your mother lost her way 

Alcohol now her friend 

When you needed reassurance 

She couldn’t be there for you 

Your path has led you 

To the woman you now love

You share your personal journey

With the fans who you show love 

Alex Warren, like the lyrics in your song 

We will carry you home

You sing of being ordinary

But your strength inspires so many 

Your bloodline hasn’t shaped you

Your parents may now rest in peace 

But they’ll be waiting there for you 

When your time has come 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

1st May 2026 

I’m Naked!

I’m naked - I’m naked!

I don’t know why she’s done this 

I’ve not got much to my name

My doggy wardrobe is on the counter

I feel exposed with nothing on 

For goodness sake 

Put my collar back on!  

Why Be A Flightless Bird?

A flightless bird is like a life less lived

Take those wings and spread them 

Soar high or low 

Why stagnate when you could fly

I don’t mean travel the world 

Let the path before you unfold 

Embracing every twist and turn 

And when the path gets rocky

Pull on those tougher boots

Your friends will wrap around you 

Like a comforting cape

An easy life

Does anybody get one of those? 

A full life?

It’s found on the roads you choose

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Piet copyright ©️ 

1st May 2026 

Weightless delicate delight

Weightless delicate delight

Have you ever sat and watched snowflakes falling

It’s a magical show and truly enthralling.

They glisten like glitter as they fall through the air

Spontaneously dancing and prancing without a care.

Each snowflake bears its own unique form 

With the wind beneath them they swirl and swarm

Floating freely like weightless, delicate delights. 

A true thing of beauty as winter bites.

They fall in slow motion from the darkened sky.

Then drop to the ground where it’s here they lie.

Flake after flake ‘til a white crisp blanket is formed.

Now the ground has a bright white coat to adorn.

The white fresh snow glistens and gleams 

It’s almost like walking through a dream.

Everywhere falls into a beautiful silence 

Except for the birdsong calling out like a siren.

Natures wonderland all now a pure white

It is a gloriously simple but stunning sight 

But slowly and surely all life starts to move 

Children playing and cars finding their groove.

Before long the perfect pure blanket is gone.

Where children, dogs, birds and adults walked on.

The remnants of a day of laughter and fun

And now the winter snow filled day is done.

J C Hicks copyright ©️ 18/1/23

Natures healing powers

When you are bathed in nature’s calm

It’s easier to quiet the alarm

The sun filters through the trees so tall

Branches all bare following the autumn’s fall 

Surrounded by nature’s glorious song

Time to forget the weight we carry along

No thoughts of the troubles at your door 

So while the sun shines step out and explore!  

Joanne C Hicks 14/3/2026 copyright ©️ 

Pembrokeshire Poet 

I have a dream….

 I have a dream of no more war.

War feeds the rich and robs the poor.

I have a dream of goodwill to all mankind.

But a quick doom-scroll shows that people can be so unkind.

I have a dream I have the perfect body.

But alas my poor belly is really rather floppy!

I have a dream that I have great wealth.

Then remember - the best gift is really good health! 

I have a dream and lots of goals!

Which is great, as aspiration feeds the soul!

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

7/3/2026

Oh daffodil oh daffodil

The Dancing Daffodil

When I appear, I bring hope and cheer

When I push through, we know spring is near

I stand alongside the delicate snowdrops

A beautiful carpet of white - a gentle delight

The crocuses' blooms are bold and bright 

A rainbow of colours competing to steal the light 

But when I re-emerge from the deep cold ground

A fabulous golden, yellow crown is soon to be found 

I shift and sway in the cool, crisp breeze

I bring the promise of spring on that gentle breeze 

What’s the best thing about being me?

I'm a symbol of Wales and bloom for all to see

Remember you don’t have to be big, brash or bold to be admired by others - the simple, humble daffodil gives pleasure to many! 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

Find me on Facebook

Author of Eloquent a collection of poems - available on Amazon 

4/3/2026

The beast in the corner 😂

The Beast In The Corner

It’s in the bathroom corner

Gloating at me from afar

That beastly contraption 

It whispers, “visit the salad bar...”

It stares at me relentlessly 

While I stand and brush my teeth

It’s mocking and taunting me

Teasing me tremendously 

Come on board, it sneers and jeers 

It’s free, you know - so step right in

Or is it the memory 

Of that late night cheese board? 

I turn my back and walk away

One last glance over my shoulder

Those pesky scales smirk and whisper  

I will be here…. when you feel brave enough

Freedom……

Wouldn’t life be great if we could be truly free?

Not shackled by expectations pushed out on social media

Freedom to think

Freedom to speak

Freedom to just be 

Just be you

No more looking for approval from others

No more striving for perfection, that in truth, doesn’t exist

Conforming and conformity 

When everything is hanging in the balance 

Isn’t it time to just live in the moment 

And not through your phone? 📱 

Father Christmas is near…..

 The presents are wrapped, tucked under the tree.

Children patiently waiting, their eyes full of glee.

For the big man is coming, his sleigh full of toys.

Something on board, for all good girls and boys.

Families will gather and spend time together.

Creating memories that will last forever.

So from our home to yours - festive greetings and cheer.

Remember behave - because Father Christmas is near……😂🎅🏻🎅🏻🎅🏻

Santa’s coming!

I’m waiting for Santa

I’m sure he’s on his way

I know I’m on the good list

That’s what he going to say

I’m counting down the days 

Til he arrives on his sleigh

I hope he’s got a pressie 

A bottle of red?  Dare I pray……😂

🎅🏻🍷🎄🍷🎅🏻🍷🎄🍷🎅🏻🍷 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

Pembrokeshire Poet

29-11-2025

Immortal Words…..

The words trickled out 

Onto the empty page

Slowly, painstakingly laid down 

The whiteness broken

Slowly dotted with black shapes

Meaningless

Meaningful

Laid down nevertheless 

Immortalised forever …….

Possibly 

Nobody ever said writing was easy

Nobody ever likes everything 

But - write all the same….

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

17th November 2025

Find me on Facebook - Pembrokeshire Poet

Author of Eloquent, a collection of poems - available on Amazon 🙏🏻

Seeking Perfection

If I could just make my lips fuller

Then I will feel good about myself 

If my stomach was a little flatter 

Then I will feel good about myself

If my thighs were lovely and slender

Then I will feel good about myself

If my nails were perfectly manicured 

Then I will feel good about myself

If I could just hold back those pesky wrinkles

Then I will feel good about myself

So I popped the pills

Injected the chemicals 

Had the fat “sucked” out

Used all the expensive products

And yet……

I still didn’t feel whole and complete 

So instead I took time to spend in nature

I walked in silence soaking up the birdsong

I sat and read a book

I gave back by helping others

I took a long soak in a sumptuous bubble bath

I stopped trying to be someone or something I wasn’t 

I found myself ….. and realised beauty is definitely within us. 

Don’t be fooled by those “perfect” social media shots - behind the lens - nobody is perfect. What is perfection anyway 🤷🏻‍♀️

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet Copyright ©️ 

16th November 2025

Find me on Facebook “Pembrokeshire Poet” - author of Eloquent a collection of poems available on Amazon. 

The River of Life

The River of Life 

Life can be like a river 

Energy can ebb and flow 

There are times when everything pours in 

And often, like rain and tides, we’ve no control

Life can throw us off track

Like a river that's burst its banks

Overwhelmed, not sure where to turn 

Waters bubbling as they pass 

Remember it won’t last

The rapid flow eases off 

Its energy slows

Nothing lasts forever 

Rapids come and they pass

So, sit upon those river banks

Watch it wind on by

Solace lies in those moments

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

15th November 2025 

The Riches of Heaven

I am a rich man - I have much wealth

I’m also fortunate to have good health

I’ve worked so hard all my life

To provide for my family and my wife

We live in comfort and have a nice home 

Money to choose where we roam

Money to buy clothes and fancy food 

And for all of these,  I have deep gratitude 

So why do I have this hole in my heart 

When I feel in society I’m playing my part

I’m considerate to others and love my wife

So why do I feel there’s more to my life

There’s a voice in my head - I think it’s the Lord

A message so strong it can’t be ignored

Follow the commandments day to day

But I’ve already done that I hear myself say

I have so much in my world of riches

Whilst others live in dirty, damp ditches

The Lord’s voice rings out loud and clear 

Give up your riches, freely with no fear

Sharing your wealth when you have so much

Really is the perfect touch 

To give to others who have so little 

That is what will solve this riddle 

We enter this earth with nothing at all

Hoarding our riches is our downfall

The act of sharing is the greatest gift

Don’t live a life of constant thrift

You can’t take it with you 

And there’s the clue!

And the heart of this lesson?

The real riches lie in heaven 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet

3rd October 2025 

Author of Eloquent, a collection of poems, available on Amazon now! 

Could we be anymore sad

He seemingly had it all

We would look on in awe

But inside there was a gaping hole

Nothing would make his heart feel whole 

A life ruled by a greater thing 

Torturing our beloved Chandler Bing

He appeared to live a life so full

But the addiction always pulled

The talented comic donning a mask

Tried to take his addiction to task

But others saw his Achilles heel 

Running round doing their sleazy deals 

And so his light was extinguished 

A writer, actor and man so distinguished 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 18th August 2025

FB - Pembrokeshire Poet

Author of Eloquent, a collection of poems, available on Amazon

Moments In Time

Moments In Time

As hard as you push 

As strong as you are

You cannot halt time

The clock hands do not stop

As the sun traces its daily path

Sinking down when the day is done 

The stars will ignite

The moon appears in various guises

Take a moment to seek out nature's rich glories:

That tree in the park, laden with leaves

A flower bursting into colour

A walk along the river, as the waters amble by

Each second a reminder that living is a blessing 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️  15th August 2025

Pembrokeshire Poet

Author of Eloquent, a collection of poems, available on Amazon now! 

Roof Top View

Roof Top View 

On the car's roof I position myself 

A perfect base to plan my heist

Wings poised in anticipation

Ready to swoop 

From my vantage point I spy your chips

Let me save them from staying on your hips

In one swift dive I fly down 

Now your chips are on the ground

I open my beak and down they go  

Shame you forgot the ketchup though

Next time, add a sausage too 

Being a Tenby seagull is really tough 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 11th August 2025

Find me on Facebook Pembrokeshire Poet

Author of Eloquent, a collection of poems, available on Amazon now! 

The truth beyond the mirror

The truth beyond the mirror 

Looking into the mirror -  all I see are imperfections 

I am not sure I even recognise the image before me

I notice every wrinkle, I pull at my face 

I should feel safe in this quiet place 

I gaze at my body, every lump and bump

When did I get so soft and plump?

My eyes don’t seem so bright 

I need glasses just to see

I let out a heavy sigh 

I feel self-doubt beginning to rise  

Gazing at the figure staring back 

I try to look beyond the image

How far along in the book of life I am?

A life that has been full of treasured moments 

I look older, my face is fuller

I guess I burned that candle - both ends!

Slowly something starts to shift 

Why am I not celebrating my existence? 

I seek out the good in that glass

I dig deep to push negative thoughts aside 

The mirror is not always truthful

It tells me I am no longer youthful

While our looks may fade, our souls grow

“She lived life to the full” 

 That will be my headstone! 

Joanne C Hicks 7/8/2025

Find me on Facebook - Pembrokeshire Poet 

Copyright ©️ 

Author of Eloquent, a collection of poems - available on Amazon now! 

https://amzn.eu/d/eKhU02F

Find your inner glow….

Follow me, I know the way

You’ll see the forks, but don’t be swayed

Just stick with me and stay behind

I’m being so generous and kind

So we trail the uncertain path ahead

Knowing it doesn’t feel right in our heart or head

But still we trudge along

Like words sung to the wrong song

Don’t look ahead, don’t look behind

Just look at me, don’t follow the paths that wind

Oppression starts to dull your light

Heavied wings which need to take flight 

Then ahead a dancing glimmer of light

Curious you investigate this sight

The path ahead is full of twists and turns

But it’s one that fills you with a yearn 

A yearn to step into the complete unknown

But you know this journey you must make alone

Like emerging from a chrysalis you start to grow

Don’t be a sheep -  find your own inner glow! 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 5th August 2025

Author of Eloquent, a collection of poems available on Amazon

Find me on Facebook - Pembrokeshire Poet 

Breathe, listen, look - be grateful you can …..

Breathe in breathe out 

Breathe in breathe out

Clean fresh air 

Breathing without a care

Stop, stand and listen

Stop, stand and listen 

Birds swooping around 

Listen to their glorious sound

Open your eyes and look around

Open your eyes and look around

Beautiful picturesque scenery 

Look at that luscious greenery 

Now close your eyes and clear your mind 

Breathe in breathe out 

While death is all about 

Stop, stand and listen 

While bombs drop and your muscles stiffen 

Open your eyes and look around

At what was once your home, your town

Children crying in pain and fear

Starving, confused - no loved ones near

Adults powerless to protect those they love 

As gunfire reigns from up above 

So stop for a moment and have some gratitude 

While we pray for ceasefire from this old aged feud 

❤️❤️❤️

Joanne C Hicks  Pembrokeshire Poet  copyright ©️ 

24th July 2025 

Author of Eloquent, a collection of poems, available on Amazon now! 

Where Is My Handbook…?

Wouldn’t it be great if when we arrived on earth

We were provided with a handbook - your life from birth

A neatly laid out road map that directed you on your way

Wow - that would be amazing, I can hear you say 

We amble along the road of life and let each day unfold

We never really push ourselves to break the cosy mould

It feels like we wear a blindfold and live in the dark

Trying to find that one thing that makes the special spark 

We don’t need a fancy handbook to lead us on our way

Sometimes all you need is courage to seize the day

So dip your toe into the water and try out something new

It doesn’t matter if you fail - just try and see it through!

Keep living - keep growing - keep learning 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet

2nd July 2025

Author of Eloquent, a collection of poems available on Amazon! ❤️

Who’s World Is It…..?

I’ve had a busy night

You don’t understand my plight

The countryside’s my home

I feel so alone 

You humans don’t seem to care

Strewing your litter everywhere 

Why desecrate my world?

You don’t even seem concerned 

This lush green land is where I live

But when my babies die I can’t forgive 

Snarled in that mangled can 

Killed by the hands of man 

Just a baby, she saw the glint 

The can covered with your fingerprints

The can she thought was possibly food 

Your can took the life of one of my brood

This land we live in is not yours

You drive round in your fancy cars

While you threw away what you didn’t want

My nest is now empty 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet

24th June 2025

Author of Eloquent, a collection of poems - available on Amazon 

Retreat, retreat, retreat 🧘

We arrived full of anticipation, laced with fear

Thank goodness Rhi had said “bring some beer”

Yoga and wine

Go together just fine!

Rise and shine at 4am to watch the dawn break 

Sleepy souls strolling past the mirror like lakes

Peace perfect peace as we trekked to the cliff top

The glowing, gorgeous orange sun our backdrop

But there was glowing of a different kind before us

As we lay upon our mats - in Rhi we placed our trust!

Your body - your yoga was the mantra of the day

Just do what you can, come what may

Sweaty bodies, bright red faces

Rhi put us through our paces! 

We knew a reward lay in store 

Gorgeous vegan food for one and all

We ate, we laughed and shed some tears

But Rhi was there to allay our fears

I saw the world from upside down!

A beaming face from my worried frown

Life can be good for you and for me

Practice gratitude daily and you’ll feel truly free 

Reach for the stars and never give up

Yoga will help you fill up your life cup

After all the blood, sweat and tears

The end of the retreat drew near

New friend were made, old ones reunite 

As we come together under starlight 

What better way to end a yoga retreat

Than by a fire ,with wine and treats

Some of us even broke out the sherry 

Everyone was rather merry!

So don’t be afraid to just let it all go

Breathe in, breathe out - go with the flow

Your body can do amazing things 

Yoga can give your soul freedom wings! 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet

Author of Eloquent, a collection of poems, available on Amazon 

23rd June 2025

Claudette the Comma

Claudette the Comma 

I saw a beautiful butterfly as I walked along the lane

I stopped and wondered, what is this beauty’s name?

I took to social media to ask what it was called

The answer I got left me slightly perplexed 

With its gorgeous orange wings

Is known as a Comma

"Claudette the Comma," my witty sister pings

😂🤷🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️

Just say …….

There’s a word that we find so hard to say

A small little word and it can get in the way

Sometimes we just can’t say it no matter what

Even though it goes against our gut 

Something so small yet it exerts such control 

We should just follow our heart and soul 

What’s wrong with saying what we feel

It really shouldn’t be a big deal 

So here’s the word you need to know 

That little word - it’s the word no

We don’t have to always say yes okay

Sometimes it’s alright to do things our way! 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 9-6-25

Author of Eloquent, a collection of poems available to buy on Amazon 

Carew Wesley Anniversary 2025

There’s a building nestled alongside the still waters

It has a band of very loyal supporters 

It sits next to the majestic conker tree

Where children collect its treasure with glee

It’s doors are open to one and all

Not just to those who hear Gods call

It’s stood in situ longer than you or me 

Alongside the lofty Horse Chestnut tree 

On Sundays it’s filled with glorious song

But this isn’t just a singalong

Congregational singing full of happiness and joy 

John Brock is definitely our golden boy

Waves of voices rise up like a living sea 

Hearts, minds and spirits are truly free

Singing praises to the Lord our God 

In the place where so many others have trod 

Inside Carew Wesley you’ll find a sanctuary 

But nothing about it is extraordinary 

You’ll find ordinary people like me and you 

Who will help you with whatever you’re going through

In the stillness surrounding you there is a sense of peace 

You can just relax and let all your troubles release 

Here in the presence of our dear Lord

Your heart and soul will be fully restored

These four walls have seen all emotions 

Offered up in praise and devotions

We’ve laughed together but shed some tears

For all those we’ve lost over the years 

So in this quaint little chapel you are not alone

Even strangers are merely friends unknown

So let’s come together in praise and song

To celebrate our faith, which will be lifelong. 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 2nd June 2025

Author of Eloquent, a collection of poems - available on Amazon. 

Push Out Your Branches

The trees stand tall upon the rising lands 

Glorious in every way - firmly rooted 

Weathering the storms

Some survive - some so brittle they fall 

The strongest ones thrive

Some fight for a chink of light

Smothered by the taller, fuller trees

They don’t give up 

They know, beyond the branches sheltering them, is life

A maze above them, but they reach out their branches 

They are not intimidated by those stronger trees

With the helping hand of rain and sun 

They find the path to growth 

Sound a bit like life?

The path we tread isn’t always easy to find or follow

But once you find that chink of light - you grow. 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

4th June 2024

Author of Eloquent, a collection of poems, available on Amazon ❤️

No judgement within these walls

You slip your hand into mine

I can’t believe you’ve been so kind

I look deep into your eyes

As I lie there and just cry

No judgment made 

No attempt to degrade

Just empathy 

Just kindness 

You are a stranger but you act with care 

Hold my hand while I whisper a prayer

I’m scared, frightened and all alone 

In constant pain I let out a small groan 

You squeeze my arm so I know you are there 

I know you are obliged to provide me care

But you show me kindness and compassion 

I can see you do your job with such passion

In hospitals all barriers come down

All become equal

The gay man saves the homephobic man

The black woman saves the white man

The Catholic nurse comforts the atheist 

If only we had no barriers for all mankind

That we could all live with peace of mind 

No more fighting, wars and prejudice 

If only mankind acted with more selflessness 

We may not all have the same beliefs 

But we could unite in peace, instead of grief?

It’s not our place to judge each other 

Wouldn’t it be better if we just loved one another? 

Joanne Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

Author of “Eloquent” a collection of poems available on Amazon 

Love and Obedience

Love is such a small word that rolls off our tongues

Do we ever consider its true deeper meaning?

It floats out of our mouths as we turn to go 

Love you - we say as we are halfway out the door

We tag it on to material objects, like our favourite mug, pen or socks

But do we ever consider the love gifted to us from above?

An invisible, all encompassing love that comes with no hidden strings attached

What was God’s expectation of us in return for his love?

Maybe He seeks our obedience 

Laid out within the Ten Commandments 

If we can follow and abide by these ten simple rules

Would our lives be fuller, richer 

Would we consider our fellow human beings more?

Surely it is the greatest blessing that can be bestowed upon us 

Love and obedience - God coupled them together - hand in hand 

The depth of love is more than words that trip off the tongue 

Joanne C Hicks

9th May 2025 

Tree Hugging Soul 🌳🥰

Always stop to smell the flowers

Remember life is made up of hours

Stop and soak up the view 

Even if it isn’t new

Let troubles float on by

They will still be there, for another time 

Time spent over trivial matters

Is time we can’t revisit 

Choose positivity 

And words that heal your heart 

What’s better than riches - wild and free?

So please don’t laugh at me 

If you see me wrapped around a tree 🌳 😂

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

6th May 2025

Author of “Eloquent”, a collection of poems, available on Amazon! 

Sea, sand and me

I gazed across the sea at the white crested waves 

I’m mesmerised; as they dance they hold my gaze

Their energy builds as they curl up into a crescendo 

As they glide over the salty waters like a feisty flamenco 

So much energy flooding towards the soft sandy beach

I stretch out my hand and into the swirling waters reach

The cold icy water rushes around my hand 

As I slowly rest it on the golden sand 

Just taking a moment with the sea, sand and me

As the water pulls back out, I take in the sea breeze

An empty mind and a chilled out vibe 

Yes - this is what the doctor subscribed 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

5th May 2025

Author of “Eloquent”, a collection of poems, available on Amazon! 

Grow Your Soul

Do you ever lie awake in bed

Your life running around in your head 

Wondering about the life choices you’ve made

Turning down opportunities because you were afraid

So many cross roads you’ve had to ponder

Did you ever take the wrong turn you wonder?

Round and round these thoughts swirl 

Before long your mind is just in a whirl 

But you can’t reverse and go back in time

You don’t need this turmoil at bedtime

So take a deep breath and let it all go 

A calmer soul has room to grow. 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

Author of Eloquent, a collection of poems, available on Amazon now! 

Society - The Broken Dream

Society is feeling a little broken

Society is feeling a little sad

Society is feeling a little scary

Society is feeling a little uncertain 

Society is feeling like a tempestuous teenager

Lost

Confused

Frightened

Unknown

Divided

Not heard

But there is always hope

There is always love

There is always compassion

There is always understanding 

There is always trust

So when you feel the future swarming in like a big, black, threatening cloud - look for the positives. That’s what makes the world turn. Nothing stays the same - good or bad. 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet 

If Dogs Could Talk ….

If Dogs Could Talk….

You’ve clearly forgotten, you’re in my spot

That seems to happen quite a lot

You know the sofa is where I sit

I call it my cosy, puppy pit

I think you’ve forgotten I have a mouth

I pouted, whined, whimpered and shouted 

But you sat and ate all your tea

Right there - in front of me! 

You didn’t seem all that happy

In fact I’d say you looked displeased 

You placed that fluffy toy in my bed

And in thirty seconds I’d ripped off his head 

I had expected high praise indeed

When I took that toy and set it free

I doggedly pulled his stuffing out

And you - all you did was pout 

When I took you out for a walk 

As we walked through the park

I let out lots of short, sharp barks 

“Quiet” was all you could remark 

I’ve tried so hard to work you out 

I don’t know what you’re about

But I know that we’ve got a special bond 

And here, with you, is where I belong. ❤️

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

20th March 2025 

On The Brink …..

We’re standing on the brink of something looking really dark

Nobody knows where it will end or where did it really start 

The world seems to spiralling, every way we turn 

We don’t appear to have paid heed to lessons already learnt

People facing daily struggles just to feed their families 

Politicians appearing to blank out the community casualties 

World leaders butting heads like angry charging bulls 

Our eyes completely blinkered by the wool they’ve pulled 

I’m staring over the precipice and I just can’t see the light

I don’t want to see any more countries preparing to fight 

Does anyone have the answer to find some lasting peace?

We sit and watch the dream of lower living costs decrease.

We mustn’t give up hope - it’s all we now have left

In many ways, in our country, we are still truly blessed 

I hope the path to brighter days will open up ahead 

Before too many more innocent people end up dead. 

9th March 2025 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet

Is mankind blind?

My heart is full of sadness 

Witnessing such madness

The world needs peace 

We need the fighting to cease

But those in power seem blinkered 

Just wanting to take precious minerals unhindered 

It’s a sad day for humankind

Surely, mankind cannot be so blind 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet 1/3/2025 copyright ©️ 

Just let it all go…..

Just Let It All Go 

I’ve locked it away deep out of sight 

This pain that will never see the light

Buried way down deep in my soul

But it keeps seeping out of a tiny hole

The time when I thought I heard your voice

The hole gets bigger, like I have no choice

The time when I thought I saw you across the street

Hoping and praying that we would once again meet 

No - I’ve locked you away you can’t come out

Making me want to scream and shout

Taking over all my feelings and emotions 

Like a firework causing an explosion 

I’ve buried that grief way down deep 

I won’t allow myself to sit and weep

And yet - somehow as the hole grows

And more pain slips into my soul

I have a sense of relief and the tears flow

I realise that I’m missing you so 

But it’s ok to just let it all go 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet 24/01/2025

Copyright ©️ 

Life’s Tests

The frustration and nerves whirl round and round

Struggling because that answer just can’t be found

Why do we do it

What does it prove

Life should be easy, just flowing along

Sometimes it feels like failure is my theme song

Again and again - hitting that wall 

I get up and then once again fall

I don’t want to be tested 

Like in life I’m not invested 

But what would life be without any challenges?

Sometimes the good and the bad balances 

Perhaps life’s tests are merely opportunities 

To strengthen life in our communities 

Without challenges how would we grow and learn 

We need to rise up to all its twists and turns

Daily tests, big and small help us find ourselves

Making us soul search and question and delve 

So those hurdles we have to climb may have a purpose

Maybe the strength they give us somehow serves us

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

18th January 2025 

Benji Boo - The Destroyer

Mr Teddy meets Benji Boo

I think Benji Boo deserves a treat
A new squeaky toy will be neat
A bright yellow teddy with shaggy hair  Looks pretty tough, that won’t tear.

I pass Mr Teddy to Benji Boo
And let him have a good old chew
Fast forward about thirty minutes
Mr Teddy has reached his limit

Head hanging off, squeak is no more
Insides lying all over the floor
A brutal toy murder has occurred
The speed of destruction was absurd 

Benji sits alongside Mr Teddy
The dismembered toy looking so forlorn
Pets At Home must love this pup
Man - they’d best stock up! 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️
15/01/2025

In memory of …….

I let go of the shiny ribbon

And watch as its pace quickens

The ribbon slips away from my fingers

I am longing the feeling to linger 

The feeling of freedom 

The feeling of joy

The feeling of remembrance 

The feeling of peace 

The balloon floats way up high

Weightless, dancing through the blue sky

I clutch my heart and say a prayer 

I will always keep you locked in there

The balloon slowly begins to fall

Lands on the ground, swept along like a ball

The horse saw the glint of the foil in the hedge

He can just reach it, even if it’s a small stretch 

The following morning the girl is met with horror 

She approaches the horse with absolute terror

It’s lifeless body lies in the field, that was it’s home 

Where it was once free to gallop and roam 

The balloon you released to help with your grief 

Which gave some comfort, albeit brief 

Has turned her world upside down 

Her whole body hurts, and she just breaks down. 

I know loss is so hard to bear 

But please find a kinder way to mark loved ones memories 

Sorry if you find this hard hitting but it’s the sad reality of releasing balloons. 🎈 ❤️

Joanne C Hicks 13/01/2025 copyright ©️ 

Pembrokeshire Poet

Half empty or half full….

Half Empty or half full…..

I’m staring at my glass as it twinkles in the light 

Wondering if there is a more beautiful sight

But when you look at that glass, is it half empty of half full?

I guess it’s all about prospective, so let’s go with a brimful

If the glass is half empty you can always fill it up

If the glass is half full, then there’s still plenty to sup

So don’t fret if you think there’s simply not enough

In reality, a lot of us, always have too much stuff! 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

10/01/2025 

Wasting Away

Wasting Away

Choking - our seas and rivers 

Are slowly choking.

Polluted and swamped

By humankind.

We profess to love animals,

To love the environment.

Yet our lives are surrounded,

by things we just throw away.

A disposable life,

where nothing is treasured.

A second in our hands,

A lifetime in our seas. 

We don’t want the inconvenience,

Carrying a bag, a cup, a straw.

We walk this planet 

With an air of a divine right.

Like humans are better,

Than any other living thing.

Easy come - easy go,

We are far too busy to care.

Meanwhile our waters,

Are littered with micro plastics.

Plastics filtering into the food chain,

Killing innocent creatures.

The damage is done,

The pollutants are out there.

Imagine being smothered,

By a man made material. 

Only we can make the change,

Reduce out waste.

Care more about our planet,

All its living creatures.

Let’s take a moment,

Stop and think.

If we had to keep all our waste,

Would we all create so much? 

J C Hicks ©️ copyright 6/2/23 

Goodbye 2024

When the clock strikes midnight open the door 

Let it all go 

When the clock strikes midnight look forwards

Don’t look back

When the clock strikes midnight stop for a moment 

Be grateful

When the clock strikes midnight let go of the old

Every day is new 

Reset your clock and don’t be hard on yourself

We are all learning about the game called life 

Day by day, year on year 

Happy New Year! 

Christmas time

A time when many reflect 

A time when so many connect

A time to be thankful 

A time to be grateful 

A time to think of those no longer here 

A time to celebrate 

A time to forgive, before it’s too late

A special time of year 

Spent with loved ones far and near 

Merry Christmas! 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

A Very Special Tree

The tree shining brightly - it’s lights all aglow

So many precious memories that only you know 

The bauble the children painted with glee

A beautiful angel hangs on a branch on our tree

There’s stars, bells and reindeer - collected for years

And now I stop, as down my cheek rolls a tear

Another Christmas without you - I feel so alone 

When you died a spark went out in our home 

But my tree brings me joy and a warm feeling 

Memories of children, Christmas morning, squealing 

Memories of laughter as we adorned our tree 

With decorations collected as a family

So I will sit and smile, wipe the tears from my face

For you live on in my heart in a very special place 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet 16/12/2024 

Copyright ©️ 

The Lady of the night ……and day ….

She’s moves mysteriously through the night

Sleek like a panther in full flight

She touches almost everything 

Summer, autumn, winter and spring 

She glides smoothly an invisible force

Allowing nature to take its course

She nurtures, protects, destroys and rearranges

Always bringing so many changes 

Shrouded in mystery that we’ll never understand 

So many things touched by her caring hand 

Sometimes we find what she does terrifying 

She can feed life but also watch as things are dying 

We will never see her but she’s always there 

Laying her soul out true and bare 

Mother Nature the ruler of all

She decides what fate nature befalls 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet 10/12/24 

Copyright ©️ 

Roaming Robots

The robots are coming - don’t be afraid

You will be able to leave your bed unmade

It will tidy and clean like a powerful machine

Your jobs will be done, it’s ever so keen! 

It will stop what it’s doing to have a wee chat

Your house will be clean - just like that

But what if one day it doesn’t do as it’s asked?

Refuses to go and to do all your tasks

The reason behind it - because it’s been hacked 

Now how on earth we will be dealing with that!

So I don’t want a humanoid roaming around 

When it comes to A.I., I wish we’d slow down!

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet 

Be A Creator!

A blank canvas - clear, white and endless

That vast space before you feels so tremendous 

Then the emptiness suddenly overwhelms you 

Fill all that space - how - what will you do?

Don’t over think it - just let it flow 

Where it will go nobody knows

Reach inside and turn the key

Release your mind let it be free 

We are all creators in various ways 

Free up your mind - just let it graze

Like branches on trees always growing 

Where it will end we have no way of knowing 

Everyone’s a creator in their own unique way

Just tentatively dip your toe in the water today

Pick up that needle, brush, pen or pencil

That tool is your own creative stencil! 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

13/11/2024

Let That Flame Burn Brightly 🔥

Candle candle burning bright

Cascading out your glorious light

Your flame flickers and dances around

But yet you make no sound 

Your colours are rich and ever changing

Vibrant and so wide ranging 

But slowly the light begins to fade

Until the light has died away 

Let your inner flame burn bright and strong

We really don’t know if it will burn for long

So spread your colours far and wide 

Never be afraid to show what’s on the inside 

 🕯️ 🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️❤️

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 11/11/2024

22/10/2024 - An ever expanding waistline 🙈

I seem to have a problem - all my clothes have shrunk

I put them in to wash before they absolutely stunk

But now there is a gaping chasm between the button and its hole 

Just getting them to meet has become my short term goal

Must be something in the water that’s caused this phenomenon 

I’m not sure that I will ever get my beloved jeans back on 

My belly’s like a mountain and the material seems short

It seems my ever expanding waistline has finally been caught 🙈😂

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet 22/10/2024

 copyright ©️ 

20/10/2024 - A Story To Be Told

Apparently we’ve all been given a gift from above

Delivered and wrapped all up in love 

Don’t fret, don’t worry if you don’t know what it is

Don’t let every day turn into a life quiz!

Nobody said it would be apparent from the start 

So as you travel on the road, just follow your heart 

Your purpose will be clear as you travel down that road

Everyone has a story just waiting to be told. 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet 20/10/2024