Poetry Unraveled

A Flag of Memories

Have you ever looked up to the sky and wondered where you were?
How many miles you traveled on a single prayer?
Asked God to lead you home across a barren land and through an ambush of crossfire?
Have you ever felt consumed by Gunsmoke?
Smelt blood dripping across your brow as it drapes your vision with scarlet?
Not knowing if it belonged to you or another.
Fought tooth and nail for a country that may or may not support your sacrifice?
Counted each and every second as you grip onto the hope of seeing your family's smiles?
Remembered your mother's homemade casseroles and wished  you could travel back in time to when she forced you to eat your veggies?
Thinking...
Oh how you would eat those crispy greens with such pleasure right now....
Have you ever carried your best friend through thick, thorny brush as you played dodge ball with grenades?
Fallen asleep on a bed of cold, sodden earth to the serenade of death and havoc?
This is a soldier's life.
They breathe in fear and breathe out bravery for us.
So as you drink your warm, vanilla laced cup of joe... remember.
Light a candle for those in darkness.
Spare a prayer for those who have passed.
Fly your flag in remembrance of those who have battled for our gain.
For this country.
For their people.
Remember those who have and still serve.
Take a moment for our heroes.
They are what keep us strong and safe in this land paved with freedom.