how well have we earned?

how long, though we try,

have we felt each whisper

and burned through each sigh?

and how many suns set

with life still at bay

with rivers so journeyed

and journeyed away?

what of the fair soldier

not waking to dream?

still there as a trooper

but lost to the seams.

what debt that we owe him

enjoyed in sweet breath

can pleasant him forward

this life to the next?

and then, have we earned

and, oh, have we tried

to feel us each whisper

that burns through each sigh?

--graymatter  

written for SSG Chad Arthur Caldwell,  k troop 3/3 ACR.  May he rest in peace.

(Stepped on an IED while assisting Iraqi Police)

*The title "Earn This" is taken from the movie "Saving Private Ryan".