Paul F. McCann

SOMETHING ABOUT THE FOURTH OF JULY

Sometimes a soldier has to kill.

Far from the USA a soldier sees things in a different way.
He walks through troubled streets, littered with dead bodies and as he
buries the innocent victims he remembers tomorrow the fourth of July.

Far from home a soldier feels proud of the flag being flown.
Independence Day has come and a soldier is reminded about those who have
trespassed against the land of liberty and he remembers why he’s there.

Sometimes a soldier asks himself why.

Far from his family a soldier remembers how things used to be, when he celebrated
with everyone the joy of being alive in a land where each person’s dignity
was respected and guarded because that’s the American way.

Sometimes a solider has to dream.

Far from the truth, a soldier comforts himself in something overproof.
It’s the fourth of July and fireworks light up the sky with strange effects
that leave flashing streaks to gaze at in wonder, as the day comes to an end.

When the day is over and it’s time to get up, the fight goes on
For there are still those who close their eyes and dream of a world where
we can live together in peace. They are a symbol of hope for all the human race.

Something’s a soldier must defend.