Rumors of War

("Creation Myth - Anthropomorphic Nebula Merit Badge” #65, 2016, original oil) Rumors of War War, war, rumors of war, Whispered on the winds Screamed from the rooftops. Who does it benefit, What is it good for? I can tell you this as someone Who has known it in a million lifetimes Hand to hand, across trenches, Behind ramparts and within Tanks and Hellfire missiles, It’s not the soldiers, or generals Nor even their countries Who ever come out on top. It is simply humanity Willing to sacrifice one band for another So the germ can spread, Steeled in conflict, hardened by fire Purified in the sacrifice Like a virgin on the crest Of a mighty pyramid. And when it comes to us Where will we be? Cheering in the crowd Or running for the hills, Or perhaps hiding in the sewers Laying low Waiting for the perfect shot. (11/27/24)