Mistakes of the Conscience
by Michael Doyle

Sometimes secrets spill out over drink.
This is especially true when we overthink.
Guilt makes us say we're better than that.
But we're only human, as a matter of fact.

At first, even the iconic, troubled German Jew
Whispered to himself, wondering what was true.
But there was only so much a patriot could take,
Before he realized looking away was a huge mistake.

There is only so much running a good man can do.
When you are raised upright, it's especially true.
The time comes when a man is ready to fight.
It's easier when it's obvious the fight is right.

His parents had forced him to flee into the night.
Even if only one, he would know America's light.
Still, he had made his pledge in the darkness
That he would be back to fight against the harshness.

And return he had toward the end of that war,
Remembering the promise he alone knew more,
Landing on Omaha Beach on Eisenhower's D-Day,
This dignified German Jew fought for the American way.

There is only so much running a good man can do.
When you are raised upright, it's especially true.
The time comes when a man is ready to fight.
It's easier when it's obvious the fight is right.

What sort of men finalize solutions by endless death?
What kind of pride can be had in extinguishing the breath
Of millions whose only guilt was simply to be living?
How could there be found the ability to be forgiving?

Confronting the truth matters more than most know.
Having integrity and honor is more than just a show.
Tears filled the eyes of the young man of dignity,
He had sworn an oath upon his people's nobility.

There is only so much running a good man can do.
When you are raised upright, it's especially true.
The time comes when a man is ready to fight.
It's easier when it's obvious the fight is right.

(c) May 6, 2026   Michael Doyle
All Rights Reserved