Reverence

(I wrote this poem ten years ago for brothers Shaun and Brandon Lowenthal, both serving in our nation's military and sons of lifelong friends Frank and Sandy Lowenthal. This is in their honor.)

Out in the desert the brave soldier’s serving;

His life’s on the line every day.

He’s searching for landmines or guarding the post

Or keeping the enemy at bay.

Back home in white buildings are leaders discussing

The pros and the cons of the deal.

The goals in white buildings are in the abstract;

But out in the desert, they’re real.

The aim may be worthy, the plans may be right,

There may be good reasons for strife;

But leaders must ask if the cause for the war

Is as valued as this soldier’s life.

Politicians make choices and risk disapproval

When making their calls from the bench.

They’re praised or condemned for the way that they vote,

But the Hero is out in the trench.

 

Remember the Soldier when 

     judging the merits

Of waging the vigilant fight.

His is the life that should be 

     in the balance when

Weighing if this war was right.