after Tim O’Brien
Honoring veterans with just one day
Falls woefully short, a mere flicker
Of acknowledgement, while far away
Soldiers are still dying day after
Day. Weeks become months, then years,
Wars begat more conflict and violence,
More shedding of innocent blood as fear
Spawns vicious cycles of vengeance.
A soldier carries these things home.
The brave have regrets and nightmares.
For those who’ve drawn swords, hear our prayers,
O Lord: let them know they are not alone.
Let your Spirit speak the promises of peace,
Of life after death, of joy after grief.
