Memorial Day

Look at the tears...listen to the cries--if you can
Of the hearts of fathers and mothers forever denied
The love and company...the sweet smile and warm "hello"
And the hugs and kisses of their beloved sons and daughters.
Can you dare impress upon your heart, a question mark...
That they are hurting, and hurting to death because of
The misery of having to live the twilight of their years
Without them there for them, other than their memories?
How dare you celebrate their passing with parades,
Balloons and barbecues?
It is not Fourth of July, which you celebrate because
You must and should. On Memorial Day, you commemorate,
Not celebrate! And commemorate and venerate you do...
The memories of the men and women who died in wars...many,
Many wars, so you can be who you are today--free! Truly free!
Let us all pray (not sing, shout, dance and drink--
Merrily), for those that gave the ultimate sacrifice--
In service and in honor--with their lives. And--let us
All in "mournful thanksgiving" be truly grateful and
Really, really be glad--we are here!!!