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This Broom Is My Rifle

~ A Running Joke from Israel's War for Independence, 1948 ~ I'm a brave soldier, I defend my land This broom is my rifle, I guard this sand I fight for the right to live and not die To breathe fresh air, under clear blue skies I'm a brave soldier, I defend my land This broom is my rifle, I guard this san-- The bushes near me stir. Now I'm scared! Halt! Halt, I demand! Who goes there? FRIEND OR FOE? FRIEND OR FOE? WHO IS IT THAT GO-- The bushes part! There goes my heart... Out comes -- Moshe?! OMG, Moshe, I almost shot you with my 'rifle' Not to worry, Avi. I'm an 'armored tank' ~ Thank the good Lord I'm not homicidal! ____________________________________ Note: Israel was so short on weapons in the War of Independence (1948-49) that soldiers were actually using hammers, although I don't think they ever used brooms... Beware of 'armored tanks' now! lol.

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Sara Etgen-Baker

Date: 10/21/2023 4:20:00 AM

thanks for an informative read and a suspenseful poem. I remember my folks telling me a little about the 1948-49 War of Independence. Many folks of my generation and those after weren't informed or have forgotten. So sad that independence is an ongoing battle for Israel and perhaps even the world with the current political climate. Anyway, I ramble. I enjoyed your creation. Have a pleasant day, Sara

Shirley Hawkins

Date: 10/19/2023 9:59:00 PM

A magic broom would be an ideal weapon, it could sweep away much of the ugliness that is in the world today without hurting anyone. WHOOOOSH!