Korea

Over there lies my buddy, death he did dread
Last night he slumped over with a hole in his head
He was big, Rough and strong. so full of life
But I had best make a note,so they can tell his wife

He had guts, that man. sure he was wild
But he was also the father of a beautiful child
I'm so scared all alone, in this hole full of mud
I still have my prayer book but it's covered with blood

They call this the mop up war, it'll be over soon
Please Jesus end it, before the Monsoon
I know there's a reason for my being here
I glance at my buddy and I can't shed a tear

In just a few short months, my world's become unreal
This body and face shows Ive aged a great deal
This war will end,I know this is truth
But I will never regain, my years of lost youth.

m.c.d. 1959

"Gifts"

If you walk the Boreen, to the field on the hill
'Tis there you'll find that time stands still
The only sounds from over the wall
Seem to test ones hearing, or not at all

No one to talk to, No one to see
No need for impressions, just let yourself free
Enjoy the blessings of being alone
And admire the walls, put together with stone

You can feel the wind sweeping by in silence
No beginning, No end, No measure, No guidance
"Twill rain". they said. "Stay close to your car"
"Or better still, take a drink at the bar"

Being this close to heaven they cannot see
The Gifts that surround them, "Let the rain fall on me"
m.c.d. 2/16/2006