Spring.

These frank, fallen blossoms

Anoint the wounds.  So many.

 

How sad this freedom I cherish

Is born from the cruelest cauldron.

Sadness is lashed to my heart and thought.

Death Scorches Life.

 

We want nothing more than peace

And to end all war, and failed.

Life holds no sanctuary, for this

You made the ultimate sacrifice.

 

Into the flames, the terror and thunder,

You did not shrink from death.

Where you fell and lay is sacred ground,

We pray and say your name to remember.

 

And strike a flame blazing for All Souls,

And bear the hallowed light.

I stand at attention—I will stand a long time,

Beyond patience and indifference,

 

As God is my witness.

The mournful trumpet sounds.

Sadness is lashed to my heart.

Peace is yours by right, now and ever.

 

The trumpet sounds.

Alas, peace is yours.

We salute you.

 

 

Stephen Cipot

Garden City Park