Legacy Spoken
by Michael Romani

This then is my beautiful land
For which I would and did give
More than some might understand
This is the love for which I live
It is that which is everything
To which I pledge and of which I sing

I work hard for this life of mine
Even for the dull things that no longer shine
Driven by love and at times, my belief
For those moments of happiness, despite the grief
I proudly stand before you, free and American
My dignity in tact as only a freeman can

No matter how steep the price, I will pay
For those I love to be free - as they are today
Though this entire world might burn with madness
I have given and will give my all to avoid this sadness
I wish no others any sort of bitter, tragic malice
And I am not accountable to those who are jealous

This then is my beautiful land
For which I would and did give
More than some might understand
This is the love for which I live
It is that which is everything
To which I pledge and of which I sing

A country is the sum of its history
All of its stories bequeath its legacy
I will not cling to the shadows of undeserved shame
While I, like my countrymen, am accountable
I am proud of my ancestors and hold them no blame
For each of them did their best and as they were able

Some hatefully ask for a ransom; I will give you fight
Standing strong in faith through any dark night
We did not ask for this restless, endless war
But, we will fight until we win or are no more
Over terror's agents and darkness, we will have victory
... And if it costs my life? Then this I give as legacy...

(c) June 24, 2017  Michael Romani
All Rights Reserved