FanStory.com - As Each Flag Wavesby adewpearl
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a modified reflective quatern - see author's notes
Quaterns: Observations on Life
: As Each Flag Waves by adewpearl



As each flag waves I see a face,
determined gaze, so resolute,
far from a mother's fond embrace,
a child no more, a proud salute.

And if I listen through the breeze,
as each flag waves I hear a voice
that travels from across the seas
to say, "I made the patriot's choice."

I have no way to understand
what grips the heart as death takes hold.
As each flag waves I touch the hand
of one whose last thoughts stay untold.

No matter what the war or cause,
the price is paid in human loss.
I pray for all mankind because
as each flag waves, I count the cost.




Recognized

Author Notes
In a traditional quatern, the first line of the first verse becomes the second line of the second verse, then the third line of the third verse and the last line of the final verse. The exact line is repeated. In this modified quatern, the repeated line is slightly changed each time. If you prefer not to call it a quatern at all, that is fine by me.
Each Memorial Day I visit our local cemetery where my parents and many other loved ones are buried - it is quite moving to see all the American flags on the graves of veterans, including my dad, who served proudly in World War II.

     

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