American Phoenix

A youthful phoenix; bird of ancient lore:
A mythic being conceived of fiery seed,
Gestating spark in womb of peace and war,
Born into wars and struggles to be free.

Two hundred twenty eight rotations turned
Around the Sun since her first blessed breath;
Each failure punished by her body burned,
Yet e’er reincarnates from flaming death.

From forth her deadly ash she grows anew,
Eternally rebirthed to guard and shield
The masses safely nestled deep into
Her sanguine wings; faith in her power sealed.

Now flames of burning bush lick at her feet,
The blaze a presage of certain defeat.