by Cpl. Robert L. Cook
Jan. 42~Sept. 45
I think that I
Can thank the war
For giving me legs
That have carried me far.
The miles and miles
That I have trod
Have given me strength,
And I thank God
For the shape
That I am now.
I do not need
A cane or chair,
I can walk to
Get me there.
Why I can even
Touch the floor
With a little effort
And nothing more.
My hands can type
And they can bend,
I pull my zippers
To the end.
My glasses, they
Are not new
But I see well,
Much like you.
So just as long
As I can move
And smell fresh air
And bacon too,
Then I will not
Lie down
And die.
I'll tell the world
That I'm alive!
* * *
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.
