Nineteen Years


A soldier huddles against an ancient wall
waiting for the chill of the desert night to end.
Waiting for the morning call to war.

A gun clutched by his side.
Head bent. Hands clasped,
grasping for his faith with an open heart.
Seeking courage.
Seeking strength to do his part.

Nineteen years of age.
A short path of life
has brought him to this place and time.
Youth curtailed.
Derailed by the sins
of man and the act of war.

Tomorrow will bring a battle.
Tomorrow will bring the day’s dawning
and perhaps the ending of his years
sending him into the arms of God.

Duty! Honor! Instilled firmly in his mind.
To country, to a country not his own
with his comrades and yet alone.
Fear! Fear surrounding.
Filling the heavy night air.
Filling the man’s soul with a need to pray.

Nineteen years. A short path of life.

Remarkably written from the perpective of a young soldier. Your standards have risen beyond bounds.

OK - I realise we should be accustomed to femail soldiers but poetically speaking, I believe the soldier will remain male for a very long time. Could open up a whole new discussion? Women have always played essential roles when nations and the world is in crisis. Roles that have dealt suffering, equal and above at times, to the dreadful experiences of soldiers on the front line.

Hi Rusty!
THank you for your comments on my poetry.
My husband served in the military, so for fifteen years, my personal and social life was the military.
I have had many female friends who served, and I know for a fact women have a great deal to contribute and should certainly have the opportunity to do so. My husband has supervised many females and will agree with me and he will also tell you some individuals will work harder than the men to "prove" themselves and to be accepted.
I don't personally feel women should serve in a combat situation. Although we have come a long way in women's rights, there is no denying most men have a natural instinct to protect women. In combat that may be detrimental to everyone.
I also feel when there is a draft women should be included in the draft. If we as women want equal rights, then we should be willing to accept all responsibilities as the men do including serving our country. I believe the military builds character giving a young person opportunities to become independent minded and to view the world as something more than their own small backyard. Well, enough of that. I have a habit of getting on the band wagon when it comes to this subject. Thanks again Rusty.
I hope you and everyone else on WS have a blessed New Year.
Suzanne