Grateful for Peace

I am grateful for peace.

I have heard about violence, but I do not know hurt

I have read about asylum, but I do not know fleeing

I have learned about slash and burn, but I do not know hunger

I have pulled a trigger, but I do not know the burden of killing

I have registered, but I do not know the draft

I have seen the trenches, but I do not know the despair

I have shivered at terror, but I do not know crippling fear

I have pondered death, but I have not faced the sickle

I have been taught about war, but I do not know it

I have heard about courage, but I do not know gallantry and valor

I have lived in peacetime, and I know periods of no other

Words do not suffice, but I thank all the sisters and brothers

Whom fought with arms in hopes to nurture the future

One of peace, which blooms to this very hour

- Memorial Day 2023