I Sit at His Grave

a poem about my brother Mike who passed away 11 years ago

 

He was only about ten years older

Yet to me he was always a man

I looked up to him with wonder

And try to remember all that I can,

 

I just don’t remember much before

The day that he had to leave

He joined the Marines, and was going away

And I missed him more than I could believe,

 

That night they took him to the plane

And I had to wait in the car

I didn’t know what Vietnam was

Or why he chose to go to war,

 

My mother cried, and cried some more

And I did too I guess

She knew what lay in store for him

For she had brothers that served with the rest,

 

He served his Country with Honor

And had the scars to prove it

They patched him up and he went back

Yes, in him there was no quit,

 

He saw things, that no man should

And of most he would not say

Only that it was Hell on Earth

And he prayed for a better day,

 

When he finally came home to our family

I was so happy to have him there

But he seemed so filled with trouble and strife

And at times it was hard to bear,

 

He carried with him those scars of war

Both visible and within

Oh, they took their toll on his health and soul

As they slowly savaged him,

 

When I got the call that he had passed away

I cried like when he left before

And I knew I would always remember him

As that Marine that went off to war,

 

Now I sit at his grave and reminisce

Of the day he took me to church on his bike

I place a flag, and think of my Brother

And all the soldiers, that stood for something,,,, like Mike.

Author's Note

I miss my big brother.

Reviews

[JayceeC]

This is a beautiful tribute to your brother, and to other Marines and military who suffered through the ravages of war, and come back with so many many scars that are invisible. Both my Dad and Father-in-law served and Dad could not talk about his missions, but my Father-in-law would not. It takes a toll on both the soldier and his family. This is a great time for remembrance of those who served. Jan

[Trace]

Thank you so very much for the wonderful comments and compliments on my writing.

Trace

[Kelly Scheppers]

I too have a brother named Mike, who served in the Army, and fortunately for me, came home. I have two brothers, and they are all I have left of my family. I am certain my world would come to a halt if I were to ever lose them, let alone losing them to war.

The sacrifices of these men and women are immeasurable...as is the greatfulness of those of us who try to go on and make them proud. This poem should make YOU proud!

You have indeed made Mike proud...and his country, and this poet! My best to you and your's this holiday weekend, Trace!

[Trace]

Thank you so very much my dear friend.
It is a blessing that we can use our talents in writing to express feelings and emotions
That we can share with others. ... and hopefully give comfort with our words.

Have a safe and memorable weekend.

HUGGS. Trace

[MsJewel]

((((Tracey))))) I can't even begin to imagine what it feels like to lose a brother...Your poem is filled with love and compassion. You have a beautiful soul my sweet friend - too lovely to ever feel sad. I'm so sorry for your loss. I hope as you remember him, you try to remember the happy times that will leave you with a smile.

Hugs, Julie

[Trace]

Same as losing a Father or Mother, or lover. I know your heart breaks at this time of year at the loss of your loved ones.

and my heart goes out to you dear friend.

Trace