I DREAMED A DREAM IN VIET NAM

Oh ---- what secrets have been weaved from the monastery within my mind.
I see great things of colors ---- for everyone
Soft against the sky.
Hallways of eternities have broken nights
to advance to the very gates of hell.
I have been to the prison door too many times.
Miracle and mystery of truth, where will I find you?
How great is the heart ----
when it gives all that it possesses in a riot of emotions,
when the beast rages ----
between a blizzard of tears and the rhythm of my soul screaming,
when one crushes love to ride the pain of ecstasy.
The bloodstain from my hands ---- cannot be washed away.
My eyes are bleeding.
Kneeling ---- my tears fall naked beneath my essence.
In my mind are the legions ---- I have seen left behind.
Let this season in hell disappear ---- if only for a moment in time.
''This moment in time.''
Let me forget the fire-storm of nightmares.
Touch my hand ---- from another time and place I forgot.
Dance with me.
Hug me in the silence of your reverence.

©Copyright 2003 by Rick Ryckman

Author‘s Note: For all the nurses who should never be forgotten