Memorial Day

A formal parade,
Solemn and steady;
A duet of trumpets,
Strong and sweet;
A blast of rifles,
Stark and strident.

A lazy morning,
Still and sleepy;
A bar and grill,
Strong and spicy;
A gathering of friends,
Smiling and sunny.

A day of remembrance:
A day off work:
A ritual for lost:
A welcome for summer.

A starkly flipping coin –
The remnants of the fight:
The reason for fighting.