Memorializing Liberty

Memorial Day about remembering 
Not to honor all who served
Honoring the valiant who gave their lives 
But is that all our heroes deserve

This day is for remembrance of them
But would they want celebration paused
These gallant their fortunes lived
Sacrifice not for a selfish cause 

This day deserves solemnity 
But did our heroes fight for despair 
Their sacrifice meant to provide opportunity 
Liberties bought for all to share

Perhaps the long period of peace
Burying youth we did not remember 
Led to putting flowers on all family graves 
No heroes to Valhalla did enter 

Some will always confuse the meaning 
Memorialize veterans and family dead
Heroes served inner peace to us
Appreciate every gift we’ve been fed

Having served with heroes no license
To determine for which liberties were paid
The smiling warriors I remember
Are celebrating from above this day

JBentley-28May2023