I Didn’t Go

From the moonlit hills or the valleys low,
Or the mountains high or the pearl white snow,
From freshly brewed coffee, the fabric of home,
Or a cool glass of water, flowers in loam.

I didn’t go –

From the desert sands or the inlet coves,
Or fish filled streams or Saturday night shows,
From setting sun sitting, sky all aglow,
From the circus big top, children in tow.

Others left to serve –

Of their own free will or Uncle Sam’s call,
Left family and friends, for them to stand tall,
From the flower of youth their energy spent,
Minds filled with glory, off to serve they went.

Though placid I stood, I knew that I should
Join family before in a new brotherhood,
Both in peace and in war, to serve a cause,
People in uniform still give me pause.

Did I miss my chance to become a man?
Did I miss my chance a hero to stand?
Resigned to the heart, my regret seems to be,
Still I smile and nod to vet caps I see.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m grateful for my life,
A career fulfilled and a loving wife,
Beautiful children and joyous friends,
Comforts of home, hugs and kisses no end.

I may not understand why I didn’t go,
But that’s ok, as a man I know
I have lived with honor and honored them,
Stood hand over heart and sang all the hymns.

Volunteer or draftee, you answered the call,
Thank you for serving, for giving your all,
In service to country, with flag colors bright,
Snapping smartly above in darkness and light.