Soldier

The most abominable aspect of war is its necessity. To where are you marching, soldier, Is it to some dreadful foreign war? Why must you leave your home again, As you’ve done so many times before? Where this morn does the turbulence crest That sends you marching into the night? Who this day shall become your enemy That tomorrow you must fight? Soldier, why is the world in conflict, How does your integrity stand? Is the world so tarnished by its disparities That war is of demand? Why do you sacrifice your hopes and dreams? Why for others must you bleed? Why do you cast your lot into the wind For that which others need? O’ to where are you marching, soldier, With your youthful pace? Why do you transcend the words of God To maintain his touch of grace? O’ where does your legion take you? Upon whom will your convictions tread? Why does the world keep with death and ruin For any peace that lies ahead? O’ what will become of tomorrow, soldier, Will it become no more than today? Will tomorrow bring once more the dusky hues That takes you faraway? O’ to where are you marching, soldier, Is it truly to a needful war, Or are you just marching to the inveterate dirge That has been heard so many times before?