MEMORIAL DAY

       I’d rather not remember all those wars
       Nor soldiers killing soldiers in combat
       And somehow justify the use of force
       Or celebrate insanity like that.

       What’s worth commemorating is not hate
       And fear and horrid, vengeful violence,
       But something peaceful and serenely great—
       For love, not anger, is our best defense.

       Or so said Jesus and sages of all times
       Arrived at higher consciousness, serene
       And sane, evolved past violence and crimes,
       Innocent of motives that demean.

            What I shall work to practice and to praise
           Is what is worth remembering all our days.

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