Fighting Memories

This soldier with his little weapon rips open the few memories that don’t sadden me,
The memories of a time when I didn’t feel guilty about laughing
His defined brow and unmovable poker face bring back memories that makes me choke
His empty eyes plant seeds in my lungs that grow vines around my ribcage.
When I look at his funny black hat it reminds me of a laugh which once climbed my throat
The soldier used to have a partner but we gave it away to an unbearably mournful man
Some soldiers bring hope
My soldier brings memories