Change

Change

A Poem by KeelyJane

Dirty and disheveled

No shoes on his feet

Tired and famished

No food to eat

His pockets empty

His last penny spent

All that remains

A hole and some lint

All he owns in a basket

A box for a bed

A story written in a notebook

This is what it read:

"I was sixteen when I left

Nearly twenty two when I returned

My left arm completely gone

My right severely burned

I wasn't just a boy

I was so much more

I was a soldier

An asset to a war

I gave my all

I nearly gave my life

I survived the struggle

Now I struggle to survive

I was dealt a bad hand

The system had four aces

I went all in

And came out among the faceless faces"

As I finished reading

I thought it somewhat strange

For all that I owe this man

Why does he only ask for change?

© 2013 KeelyJane


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Featured Review

It is so sad that so many return vets and hero's end up on the street.
your last two lines were very powerful.

My older brother served in the Marines during Vietnam and I served in the army during a short period of peace this country has seen.

I thank you for this wonderful, thought provoking poem.
Well done.

Trace

Posted 10 Years Ago


1 of 1 people found this review constructive.




Reviews

Wow! Such a thought provoking and hard hitting observation that hangs out to dry the politicians who let kids risk their lives but abandon them when it suits them.

Posted 11 Years Ago


1 of 1 people found this review constructive.

I heard. 40% of homeless were Soldiers. Many from the Vietnam war. The poem tells a true story. War can screw-up a mind. Some men can't heal from the action of war and bad deeds. Thank you for sharing the outstanding poetry.
Coyote

Posted 11 Years Ago


1 of 1 people found this review constructive.

Thank you for exposing your heart in this writing.

Posted 11 Years Ago


1 of 1 people found this review constructive.

Powerfull ! Very thought provoking. I think most people confront these situations in their lifes, of having to stare the fact of homelessness in the face and probably the only thought that goes through the mind is..... thank god it isn't me, or ..lazy doff ! I have gotten to know a couple of them and their stories also, and yes,.....your very poignant thought ...why are they only asking for change ? Powerful statement !

Posted 11 Years Ago


"Very sad, but honest, current and captivating poem." I have a big respect for those soldiers who fight for the country. I am saddened to know, if... in reality they are neglected. Beautiful piece! thanks for sharing.

Posted 11 Years Ago


Very interesting write..you are spot on with this..so many KIDS are sent away to war and no kid should be expected to see... hear.. and smell the horror's of death at that age

Posted 11 Years Ago


Maybe the most truthful poems about human nature that I have ever read. Love it the style is great the vision you paint is clear. Love the word choices. Great read. Touched my heart with its truth and honesty.

Posted 11 Years Ago


1 of 1 people found this review constructive.

the ending is perfect...and this is such a sad truth, so many veterans are among the street people, simply abandoned...

this moved me greatly.

jacob

Posted 11 Years Ago


2 of 2 people found this review constructive.

"And came out among the faceless faces"
This line stood out for me the most.
Great poem, thanks for sharing.

Posted 11 Years Ago


Perfect and precise telling of the unfortunate plight of so many soldiers. My father is a Vietnam vet and suffers from manic depression...he could have easily been this man. Thank you for writing this with such compassionate beauty.

Posted 11 Years Ago



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6486 Views
48 Reviews
Rating
Shelved in 6 Libraries
Added on February 18, 2013
Last Updated on February 19, 2013

Author

KeelyJane
KeelyJane

Albuquerque, NM



About
I'm just a girl with a lifetime of experiences. I've taken from those experiences what can be put into words and poetically put them together to share with all of you. These are my contributions. .. more..

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