Of War and Valor
by Michael Doyle

The things of this world come in complexity.
What some face causes others frayed anxiety.
When we versify in earnest, we find the truth.
It can be as frustrating as an elder as it was in youth.

It was this way for me week among friends 
Who hold counter-opinions frayed at their ends
About deeply contested issues brought to light
And as for myself, I'd rather hike than fight

What in war, we too often confront and see
Is not that which it is that we want desperately.
There is very little love and too much brutality
And yet, both of these are the way of humanity.

Idealism speaks of citizen soldiers and sacrifice.
The truth is that doing one's duty manages to suffice.
It gets more complex in the hues of a divided nation.
Sometimes, these quandaries defy reasonable explanations.

It is suggested that it is sweet and fitting to die 
For the well-being of others, and I choke on my reply.
If this were really true, the generals should go first
If this valor leaves them dry-mouthed and with thirst.

Go ahead, then, good general, please show us how it's done.
As you go into battle for glory, tell us when it's won.
Let the scales of justice define moral integrity 
And let this be cone with the strictest impartiality.

For with the fall of virtue will come our fragility.
Otherwise, decay, betrayal, and hubris will burden our humility.
There, in the fallow battlefield, lays a tragic wasteland.
Where when death comes, no one is truly fit to command.

(c) April 26, 2025   Michael Doyle
All Rights Reserved