For Carlos Arredondo

You were so alone
thinking about your dead son
soon to be wrapped in old glory.
A can of gasoline and a propane torch
and not enough time with Alex.

A poster child of the true cost of war,
we all saw your raw pain and identified.
And felt shame.

I would have your tears extinguish the fire
and lead you directly to hope.

I see you wrapped in the moon.
I see the arms of the world around you.