When I read the 'winners kiss' I wondered who would be kissing you? Wife in appreciation? Or the winning of a contest here?

Writing from the heart is usually the best. People can fell the extra emotion when it's from the heart. Otherwise, it can sound and feel a bit flat. I think you do quite well.

As for grinding until your blue??? I would hope not. We should be supportive in our corrections and advice. Not destroy your hope and aspirations. We're supposed to encourage and uplift each other. I bet you don't destroy other writers when you do reviews.

I loved your poem. And to think it was your first one here. I'm impressed.