Everyday Patriot

Car door opens and heavy boot hits pavement.
He steps out and stands up straight. The tan camouflage uniform contrasts his ebony skin.
 
Inspiration.

I pick up the worn, spiral-bound notebook from the passenger seat beside me and flip to a blank page.
I put pencil to paper and words come.

As I write, he returns. Dressed in plain clothes - just like any other man - uniform folded and tucked into the duffel bag on his shoulder.

Perhaps if the poem had been finished, I could have crossed the parking lot to meet him, to smile into his tired eyes, to tuck folded paper into his hand - a humble thanks for his service.

But I didn't.
And he went on his way, unaware of the girl watching from a distance, writing of bravery and honor and truth.

Dear Soldier, this one is for you:

   Slow swing, steady step

Easy stride and lifted head

   Camoflauge of green and tan

Sure of purpose, strong of hand

   Dreams and goals of patriot true

May many take hat off to you

   Fight and defend our country brave

Not knowing what rights you may save

   And youth look up with open awe

Aspire to be the man you are

   Atand unashamed in uniform

For it displays all you stand for -

   The flag that waves with colors bright

 Over eagle's wings and future-sight

   Over independence, hope, and dreams

Over second chances and standing free

   Over family values and morals pure

Over innocence and justice sure

   Though gradually we've turned away

From founded goals and dreams once made

   From guidence good men gave to us

We've let it go and turned to lust

   For money and power and glory and fame

We've come up empty and lost the way

   And so we need men such as you

To stand up strong and fight for truth

   To go out brave with head held high

And pave the way for future bright