Webster's Dictionary defines patriotism as "devotion to one's country." While the concept seems simple enough, putting that devotion into words might be difficult for some.

For 13-year-old Thomas Baker of Ironton, expressing his thoughts by way of the written word just comes naturally. In this instance, the inspiration for his poem, "Patriotism," came from a conflict thousands of miles away that is hitting all too close to home.

"(The poem is about) the war in Iraq and how I felt about that."

Thomas' "Patriotism" poem will be published in the anthology "A Celebration of Young Poets." For finishing in the top ten, Thomas' poem will be printed in its entirety in the book, rather than just a few lines. He will get a copy of the anthology and a $50 savings bond. Thomas wrote "Patriotism" when he was 12.

This is the second time the seventh-grader from Ironton Junior High School finished in the top ten. His earlier winning poem titled "Moonlight," was written in honor of his father who passed away eight years ago.

Thomas' stepfather, Frank Murphy, served in the military for eight-and-a-half years. He was a tank commander during the Persian Gulf War.

"With my husband being a veteran, this poem was more special to him." Cristi Murphy, Thomas' mom, said. "This poem was more special to him, but it was special to me too because we're really patriotic people and we're very proud of him."

His parents aren't the only ones to express pride in the young poet's work.

Thomas recently received a letter from first lady Laura Bush congratulating him on his poem. In it, she expressed gratitude to students like Thomas who eloquently express their love and respect for America.

"Your poem is a fine example of that creativity," she wrote. "Keep up the good work!"

Thomas said the words just flow when he begins a poem and the process is an easy one.

"Usually (it doesn't take) too long after I start working on it," he said. "It can take a few minutes or a few hours, depending."

Murphy said her son was an excellent student who has always been on his school's honor roll and is an all-around good kid. She said she believes it is vitally important to encourage young people like Thomas to make the most of their talent.

"We just try to make sure he gets recognition for the things that he does," Murphy said. "I think it's important for their self-esteem. Kids that are gifted, if they don't get recognition, maybe they'll lose (their confidence). So we try to keep up with him and all of his accomplishments."

Although Thomas said he wasn't quite sure what topic he would tackle next, the first lady offered him encouragement to continue the excellent work he has started.

"We hope you are having a great year in seventh grade, reading many good books and writing more poetry," she wrote.

Patriotism

Patriotism means to me,

Our national anthem, oh say can you see.

Words that describe the pride in our land,

Beautiful vistas set down by God's hand.

Freedom of choice, we all understand,

Our leaders elected are ours to command.

When we choose to vote, we make a demand,

The majority decides the law of the land.

We protect our freedom, the time is at hand,

Defending our nation, our vets understand.

Call up the troops, strike up the band,

Defend our nation, protect our land.

-By T.J. Murphy