This day, Memorial Day, stand tall and proud.
Though given freely, death would not have been their choice;
They chose the only path they knew—remain unbowed.
So now their markers speak, their silence is their voice.
For in our daily lives, we do not think of price;
But know we will not stoop to living on our knees.
This goes beyond daily routines, nothing concise,
But paying our respect means more than just to please.
To those who gave their lives defending liberty;
To those who served who now have passed away;
To those with grievous wounds, whose lives are now not free;
We truly honor them, on this Memorial Day.
Give solemn thought to why this gesture serves a need.
For it is us, the living, who have much to gain
By paying tribute and respect, but more, indeed,
© Richard Williams