Sacrifice
As I look at the pictures of my unborn son,
I can’t help but feel guilty that I’ll miss his birth.
We have two other children, this is our last one.
I love them all equally, for everything they’re worth.
I’m in the military and have always been prepared
For the chance to serve my country and do my job.
I’ve never left my family, so we’re a little scared.
As we say our goodbyes, we try hard not to sob.
I grab my bags and gear, board the plane, and fly away.
It’s a very long flight, which gives me time to ponder.
As I sit here and think of all the things I wanted to say,
I remember, “Absence makes the heart grow fonder.”
Nobody likes the idea of going off to fight in a war,
But that’s the nature of the world in times like this.
There’s always going to be a good cause to fight for,
Like banding together against bad people that exist.
We battle all day against an enemy that’s got nothing to lose,
Who shoot at us with anger, not caring who they kill.
We fight for everything that’s good because we choose
To help rid the world of evil men and their murderous will.
I’ve missed my family and thought of them every day.
I’ve carried their pictures with me no matter where I’d go.
As I lie here dying, I pray for my wife who’s so far away.
I think about my unborn son and a father he’ll never know.
It’s been years since I’ve passed away and I miss my wife.
From above, I’ve watched my son grow into a fine young man.
He placed a plaque at my grave that was the motto of my life.
This is what he wrote; may it help others to understand.
A Soldier’s duty is to protect the innocent and their rights.
Lady Liberty is our backbone and strength, we fight for her.
*”Whether you agree or disagree with the wars we fight,
Since you can use your freedom to protest, thank a Soldier.”
*Anonymous quote
Copyright © PJ Scheidel | Year Posted 2017
Post Comments
Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.
Please
Login
to post a comment