While you were away at war
I was driving my tricycle, eyes peeled for enemy planes
Above Naldo Street in Jacksonville, Florida
Waiting for da to come home
From Jacksonville Naval Air Station
Where he worked in the commissary.


While you were away at war
People loved and played and worked
At making more money, improving the old golf game
Cutting the grass while
Grousing about gasoline stamps and shortages of
Meat and booze.


While you were away at war
Life dripped on amidst the gold stars on window sills
The blackout curtains unfurled at dusk,
The pith helmeted air raid wardens
Who every now and then looked at the sky–
All to the big band tune of A String of Pearls.


While you were away at war
We slept in peace trying not to pee the bed,
And now that you sleep in peace
You should know that we do not study films
About our lives,
But we embrace yours.


Sean Kevin Fitzpatrick
June 6, 2010