Have you noticed how most holidays of late have lost their original intent?
We take the day off, have a grand old time, but neglect to observe what they meant.
Of course we all know Christmas is just one of those days of which I do speak,
But it’s Memorial Day that I wish to explore; it’s this day’s true value I seek.
I am Corporal Allen Stall; I am all those you will never know,
I am those who lived and died far away, because I went where others did not go.
Yes, you can call me corporal, but that really isn’t quite true,
I am all those who gave all that they could; I am the one who did pay what was due.
I am the guy who doesn’t live next door; I am the one who will never pass by,
I am the one the whole world has forgot; I am the one that no one saw die.
I am the reason you can sleep every night while holding that special one near,
I am the one who has given you that peace to enjoy “the now and the here.”
Can you imagine what went through my head when I knew it was the end of “my day”?
Not the pain as I fell, not the light that grew dim, but the “goodbyes” I never would say.
Together as one, the thousands of us who answered that proverbial call,
Gave you the blessings you now so enjoy: your family, your life, this spring and last fall.
What is it then that I expect of you? The answer is not all that deep,
Not sorrow, not sympathy, not anger or hate, just a few promises I ask you to keep.
Each day you must laugh as I would have laughed; each day a heart try to mend,
Your life you must live in wonder and joy, with awe from beginning to end.
You must go to the places where I would have gone; see the glory as the sun starts to wake,
Taste the foods; take a chance; feel the wind on your face, and all for this soldier’s sake.
Hug the kids I never had, sing the songs I never heard, touch a heart that I never knew,
Be my life if you would, my soul, ears and eyes; be my voice that is known to so few.
When that spring day rolls around, while “Old Glory” stands proud and all your memories start to awaken,
Pause more than a minute to remember why all those lives were so early taken.
What you have was not free; I just hope that you see; it’s a gift I wish I had too,
I’d do it all again for that peace you enjoy. Just remember, my “might have beens” all live in you.
Bob Harms
Durango
