The old soldier

Just words.

                                  The old soldier

Some of us had learn. The simple things are so damn sweet. The laughter of children, holding hands with love one's and dancing in the dark with a pretty lady.

My father told me. Please don't follow my path. Damn war kill all the kindness we have. We lose more than we shall gain. I followed my father's footsteps. Now I know.

The days of piss and vinegar youth, spend with good friends. The best days. Soldiers days, long conversation, drinking songs and celebrating victories and  sharing losses.

Sister told me. Your face had change. War had killed your kindness. You left us and you didn't come back. I drink alone in the dark tavern on the days of remembering faces killed in the useless war. I look in the mirror and I see. Old eyes, who had seen too much. I buy two drinks, one for me and one for a miss friend. I raise the glass high and say. To friends here and gone.

The funny part is. I hear the my friend telling me. John, "Man-up and quit crying. Tell my children, I love them and be a good Grandfather for me. Things done are finished. We were soldiers, we fought in faraway wars and we stood tall. Payment due for me and you are alive. No-more tears for me. Live life hard, for me and for you.

Old soldiers don't cry no-more. He raised his friend whiskey to the sky. He whispered. Save a seat for me in heaven. We will talk again one day my friend.

                          Coyote

Author's Note

Just words.

Reviews

[Chris Shaw]

As we grow older we reflect on what has gone before. I think tears flow more freely in old age. War brings horror, all that killing and misery. How difficult it must be to live with those memories. Your lines always a pleasure to read Coyote.

Chris

[Coyote Poetry]

Thank you Chris. We must remember the people who were kind to us.

[emptyinkwell]

"The days of piss and vinegar youth". Probably my favorite line in the poem. Fun way to show the light in such a dark poem.

[Coyote Poetry]

Thank you my friend for reading and the comment. I do appreciate.

[Diana]

"He raised his friend whiskey to the sky. He whispered. Save a seat for me in heaven. We will talk again one day my friend."- Love the poignancy of these lines. Always a joy to read your poetry...

[Coyote Poetry]

Thank you Diana. I appreciate the comment.

[Neville]

These words just sent a shiver up and down my spine, so they did... and just for the record, these fine words are more than decent, they are strong purposeful words and though full of sorrow, there is a lesson of truth woven throughout them... I shall be sure to raise my glass this evening John....... N

[Coyote Poetry]

Thank you Neville. Donald Neal Davis would appreciate.

[Neville]

Then consider it done, my friend.. I lost a very dear friend to a roadside device (an old milk churn) many years ago when I served in the Royal Air Force.. his name was Steven Orr and I often think of him.... cheers.. N

[Dhara_Ditzy Kat]

I read this poem as a unique tribute to the soldiers of war. Their regrets, joys, memories, passions and pains. Great words here Coyote. I appreciate very much.

[Coyote Poetry]

Thank you Dhara. I appreciate the comment my friend.

[Dhara_Ditzy Kat]

You are welcome Coyote!