Aug. 8, 2025

If Only You Could See Me

If Only You Could See Me

A poem by Roberto Alfaro (Retired Police Officer). If Only You Could See Me…

During the quiet moments of my day

When I think about the job I choose as a police officer

And the tough challenges I face every single day
 
You see, I've walked this beat for many years, 
Faced silent screams and hidden tears, 
Seen things that most would never dare, 
Dark truths too heavy just to share.
 
Each day’s a test, a brand-new fight, 
facing danger at every site. 
As I risk it all to guard the peace, 
Praying each shift will safely cease.
Through chaos, fear, and endless strain, 
It’s faith and grit that help sustain. 
And while I serve with heart and pride, 
My family waits just steps outside.
 
They watch the clock, they say a prayer, 
Hoping I’ll soon be standing there. 
For every call, each siren’s wail, 
Could be the one where courage fails.
 
So walk a mile inside these boots, 
Where instincts bloom and fear takes root. 
Where split decisions shape our fate, 
And time won’t pause or hesitate.
 
For when pulses race and breath runs thin, 
You think of home, your next of kin. 
And though the risk is always near, 
You push ahead, and suppress the fear.
 
We’re not made of steel or flame, 
No capes, no masks, no quest for fame. 
Just flesh and bone, with hearts that strive 
To keep this world a bit more safer and save lives.
 
So if you see us passing by, 
With weary steps and watchful eye, 
Just know beneath that badge and vest, 
Beats a soul that’s doing its very best.
 
And if you ever stop to pray, 
Include us in your thoughts that day. 
For all we do, and all we see— 
We do it for your family, we do it for us… and we do it for me.
 
May God continue to bless all our police officers both active and retired now… and always!!! 

 

Written by, Officer Roberto Alfaro (Ret.)

Hartford Connecticut Police Department

Quinnipiac University Department of Public Safety

 

 

Roberto Alfaro

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