A Soldier's Goodbye

It’s a scene oft repeated throughout history,
from Greeks sailing away to faraway Troy,
Romans marching off to lands of mystery,
continuing today whenever troops deploy.

A soldier must say goodbye to his loved ones,
be it his parents, his girlfriend, or his mate.
He’ll soon encounter explosions and guns,
with his destiny placed in the hands of Fate.

His loved one hugs him tightly, with tears
streaming: “I love you. Come back to me.”
The soldier acts brave, camouflaging his fears.
Neither knows what the outcome will be.

He must join his unit; his wife says, “Wait!”
She clings, fearing never again seeing him alive.
Reluctantly, he pulls away: “You’ll make me late.
Don’t worry, dear. I promise you that I’ll survive.”

Now all assembled, the warriors set off to war
with hearts heavy, yet ready to answer the call.
Leaving loved ones is something they abhor…
homecoming will be sweet, if they return after all.