Salute the Soldier
Charged with a fiery spirit, full of valour,
To protect the nation from rival force,
Volunteered to join the armed troops
Knowing well all risks, sans remorse.
Plucked away from hearth and kin,
Often had to dwell in lands unknown.
For daring and diligence, laurels he had won,
Ever confronting foes, lived a life forlorn.
Lay in ambush in dingy trench,
Crossed swords with formidable might,
Starved to death in enemy camps,
Fought with verve for country’s right.
All through service, knew no rest.
Ease and comfort, he had none.
To drill and discipline, he was wed.
Life’s winsome pleasures, he did shun.
Bravely bared his manly breast,
Before triggered guns and flying bullets.
Shed out drops of sweat and blood,
To save the nation from rival blasts.
Now back home, wounded and hurt,
Life is limping without hope.
The sky is dark, not a ray of light near.
No one around to serve as prop.
Winds blow fierce striking fear,
He struggles to make both ends meet.
Through long and lonely roads, he walks.
All he sees is the stark grimace of defeat.
Even his close family turns a cold face.
So painful it is that all seem to ignore.
A hollow emptiness now fills his space.
Who would care a cripple back from war?
Back from warfront, he still lives in a minefield.
Look into his heart robbed off love and worth
Shouldn’t we alleviate his sense of pain and fear
And help him live in dignity until his death?
Copyright ©
Valsa George
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