There’s many paths across the field
but all of them are mined
and many guides to steer your feet
but all of them are blind.

Many a compass points the way
but all their needles stick
and many a nurse will tend your wounds
but all of them fall sick.

When wicked folk invade you
to befoul and loot your land
if allies don’t desert you
then united you will stand.

And if it’s stolen from you
must you simply shrug and weep?
Is anything worth having
not worth a fight to keep?

There’s not a thing you own for which
your parents haven’t fought:
and will your children say the same
or will it come to naught?

A life passed in tranquillity –
a blessing, not a right.
If you’ve a mind to live in peace
then have the will to fight.

When darkness falls, the moon shall rise
to soothe away your fright
so may she bless your slumber
to get you through the night.

Tomorrow’s sun will rise in hope
to light you on your way
and sink at last into the west –
if you get through the day.

Clark Nida, September 2023