we speak of coexisting
but how do we coexist
when the weavers of
the security cloaks
are too nearsighted
to anchor down
the unraveling hemline
of the soldiers' trust?

we speak of a new world pattern,
but how can freedom's
cloth be weaved
if those who are fitted
for wear and tear
are improperly labeled,
one war fits all?

we speak of healing
but how can we heal
when those who distribute
affliction have never born
the stretch marks of a
still-born promise?

© 2004, cynth’ya lewis reed.
All rights reserved


"Surviving means facing rehab, loss of their limbs"
(Quoted from the story link below). Iraq veterans coping with blast injuries