DEPLOYMENT ANXIETY

I go through the motions, I smile and I speak
I get things accomplished. I plan out my week.
I work and I cook and I clean and I hope.
I scour the news. I am trying to cope.

But at the day's end in the dark of the night,
I listen to silence, heart racing with fright.
My eyes are wide open. I can't sleep at all.
When will I hear from him? When will he call?

Where is my soldier now? Is he in pain?
How will he manage? Can I remain sane?
Will he come back to me? And, is he well?
What if he isn't? My own private hell.

Sleep still escapes me. I'm worried, upset.
I try to keep breathing. I try not to fret.
God, please watch over him. I know you care.
And bring him home safely: my number one prayer.

©Copyright October 12, 2004 by Elisabeth A. Beard

Specialist Bradley Scott Beard was killed in action in Ar Ramadi, Iraq on October 14, 2004