Standing Straighter

Something, I cannot fully explain;
but certain and true each time,
on the side of the main street
the parade route into the city
They marched, they march each year
those who came home,
some of our nation’s best
who served that we may remain free

Gathered by their wars,
marching still, even if slower yet;
I find myself
Standing straighter, taller,
my hand on my heart, for them
applauding them, their courage
their willingness to go
into harms’ way, so that we, that I
can live in a land of freedom
So each year I am by the curbside
to honor them still

May 25, 2008
Memorial Day
written at church