A Personal War

Her arms shake as she lifts Shredded white cloth Strained by the burden She carries on her back Only to realize Surrendering for greed Is better than giving in To fear forever A single tear hovers Her strength to fight Is dwindling with each Step forward towards A line that carries Penalties to which She must face Her limbs Bruised and bleeding From running afar A stained path Guides the enemy For an artless retrieval At a volitional stance She begs not For nourishment Though her heart remains Useless and empty His tears dress her wounds Covering her chest With the flag She used to wear Cradling her body They sleep Awakening to A war that has ended