Soldier 101

A sonnet in honour of all the soldiers

Disturbing feelings haunt me with all might
My thoughts are lost and have not been my own
I wake up from my dreadful dreams at night
Since I have come back from the warriors' zone

It just takes certain noises, words or scents
An unexpected touch might be enough
To send me back through time to past events
Grim memories grab me tightly by the scruff

My head starts spinning and my fists they clench
I muster all my strength to keep me sane
I use techniques that are supposed to quench
The thoughts that trail my trauma ridden brain

You thank me for my service and move on
I feel like you all want me to be gone

Author's Note

I hope you all had a good Anzac Day and used the occasion to reflect, and commemorate the men and women who served in any war or conflict, including of course the Gallipoli Campaign.