by Cpl. Robert L. Cook
Jan. 42~Sept. 45
I have lived
Some eighty years,
I don't know
How I did it.
I had my time,
I used it well,
Upon my deeds
I do not dwell,
I put them
All behind me.
I fought a war
As others did
And I returned
To do my bit.
I worked to keep
My nation free,
Upheld the cause
Of liberty.
Now I have come
To that place
Where I begin
To think
Of all the things
I could have done;
I'm sure there are
Many more than one.
So, please forgive me
Of my sins,
Allow my years
To dwindle down
Until I am part
Of earth and ground,
And no longer
Am I driven.
* * *
About the author: Robert Cook served with Reg. Weapons Co.(2d-2d) from 1942~44, at Guadalcanal
and Tarawa, during a 33-month overseas tour.
