Coming Back Home

Calloused by the do-or-die hero's walk on the perilous road Over hazard's hill stumbling in soldier's shoes of regret and sorrow Merciless these wars of tired tyrants, this trailhead I have followed I should bury these warrior's relics and take a train to tomorrow Never looking back at my haggard patriot's duty, so torn apart Go steady, stay strong with freed courage, as my heart's grief Beats with the journeyed promise of going home unwary to relive All of my memories there flooding to sing its lost and loving song Catching 'God Speed' for my soul's simple sanctuary Knowing these backroads lead to that certainty where I belong Home Over hazard's hill of regret and sorrow it waits in restful arbors Marigolds and carnations embroider a calm and placid peace Evermore scented in deep-rooted winds leading to my safe harbor February 16, 2021 Coming Back Home Poetry Contest Sponsored by John Hamilton