Hopeville

Everything feels like anywhere else.

But in Hopeville, there is Bible study.

The church is amazing, dating back to 1882,

Yet its sound carries clear and true.

There are summer cookouts,

Burgers and hot dogs every Friday,

Simple things, taken as they come.

Other times, the world’s best bratwurst mit sauerkraut,

And more homemade burgers

At R & J’s house.

There are snowballs piled high,

As many as you can eat.

Pies in autumn.

And somehow, the best ice cream

Even in winter,

As if time itself is kind.

Not far beyond,

The Star-Spangled Banner still flies

For those who stood, who bled, who fell.

And because of them,

The bell of freedom still rings,

Echoing distant thunder.

And in that quiet ringing,

We gather, we share, we live—

The American way.

All of it because there is love in Hopeville.

The more you give,

The more you receive in return.

Author’s Note

A reflection on small-town grace, community, and the quiet strength of the American spirit.