June 6, 1999

Fifty-five Years Later

fifty-five years ago

men were dying

       I live

scenes beyond reality

heroes on both sides

men and women

to final conflict called

       I breathe

my freedom from oppression

began in blood

amid the sounds of chaos

and waves lapping sand

       I love

odd juxtaposition

peace amongst the carnage

foreshadowing

the peace these strangers bought

       I thank God

fifty-five years ago

men were dying