I Salute You!

A Soldier’s Wish

“How long have I been here?”

I asked of my dirt-covered hands

that weren’t the only thing of filth.

My head is so heavy

from the fear. From worry. From pain.

Stuck in this rat hole of misery.

Trembling hands touch pocket

to ease this growing anxiousness

and to know my family’s close by.

I cry out, “Please save me!”

only the wind takes it away.

Hushed moans buried in this retched space.

Clock ticking in my head

drags on this war and good-byes.

Blood splatter with dirt coats my comrades.

Still, strangers I sit with

divulging information about precious gems

in case we’re swallowed by enemy.

In our darkest hours,

pray, we feel God’s abandonment,

or is it the country left behind?

If I had but one wish

I’d wish a wish for you my love,

you deserve joy that comes your way.

Unsure how I’ll come home,

Crippled, or in a wooden box,

your faithful words kept me company.

My wish I wish for you.

Find love if our time ends soon,

continue to breathe life into our memories.