Aftermath
Blowing out the light of another had the same effect on mine
For nothing could deter my mind away from that gruesome thought
Coming home brought me closer to what I wished to leave behind
Funny how something can worth less than what it actually cost
I was sickened by the act I had committed
Though the deed was done with the purest intent
My return home added to my disgust though I refused to admit it
To the smiling faces who thought me to be Godsent
My loved ones was overjoyed that all was well with me
A thankful gleam in their eyes as they led me to the house
But all I could seem to think about was that other family
Lighting hundreds of candles for the one I had helped burn out
It was at that celebration held in honor of me that night
That I finally found what I sought upon going to war
To see people praising me for what they concluded was right
Is the very reason we will never achieve what we so dilligently fight for
We are convinced threats to our safety lies in foreign countries
Which is by far a misguided assumption in itself
For in order to rid the world of terrorism in its entirety
Is to collectively discard the half of one's own self
It was a harsh realization as a matter of fact
And one that I hoped had not come so late
But there was no way I could ever give back
The very thing my duty left me feeling inclined to take
My epiphony weighed every bit of heavy on the mind
So I bowed my head to the floor stained with dirt
And I silently prayed that the healing powers of time
Would someday mend the hearts of those I knew I had hurt
I asked forgiveness for the lot of the world
For my unjust actions and my many sins
But specifically from that little boy or little girl
Who wishes daily for their parent to come home again
A tear slid down my wind whipped cheek
At knowing that the satisfaction I so long ago sought
Would not grant my consciene the peace it so desperately need
A lesson that took ages to prepare but in a heartbeat was taught
My soul had grown weary of the evening and it showed on my face
So I bid farewell to the guest as I took my leave
And I went where war was more suitable to take place
To my empty house where I was left only with my memories
Copyright © Inkstain Thepoet | Year Posted 2010
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