[Raven6]

With Memorial Day here, I've been a bit blue... Father's day is just around the corner and, between the two holidays it just hits me pretty hard to be without my dad, a WWII Submarine sailor. So... I see what is going on in our country and am saddened and angered at the same time. We are the ones responsible for correcting the problems... We have to do it soon, or we won't be able to correct them. The ink is still wet on this one... Just finished it.

The Gift They Gave Us

They fought and struggled to deliver it.
Some fell along the way.
Some silently recall their journey.
Some lay in silent graves.

We live our lives concerned with time,
Or what we have or haven’t got.
We’ve left their gift to wither away,
Since their hardships we forgot.

But I see the fields of stones and flags,
And a tear comes to my eye.
I hear their voice, they call to me.
They ask the question “Why?”

My son holds my hand and asks me,
“Daddy why are you so sad?”
I swallow hard and say “I’m okay”,
While I straighten the flag for my dad.

I stand up and realize,
The gift, it must be passed on.
I know I must restore it, though,
Before I leave it to my son.

I hear my dad – his voice is loud.
He says “You know what must be done!
Step up and make me proud my boy,
Give FREEDOM to your son!”

Raven6 © 2011

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So there it is for this month...

Regards,
Raven6

[oldteen]

Thank you, and your Dad, for your service to this great nation.

I see what is going on in our country and am saddened and angered at the same time.

I believe that describes the feelings of many.

Beautiful poem, thank you!

[Diver Dave]

Great poem, Raven6.

My father-in-law was also a WWII submariner. He passed away in March 2010. We miss him greatly but we have very fond memories of him which will never be forgotten but shared with family and friends.

Salute to your father.

[MEG33]

Amen to your thoughts and your touching poem, Raven.
I am grateful for your father’s service to our country.