Soldier

Since humankind emerged from wherever,
one unwavering trait does dominate,
that is, the urge to make war whenever,
real or imagined, danger does await.

The wolfish instinct for territory,
despite a sheep’s faith in reason’s veneer,
conquers mankind, and rightly or wrongly,
the skill to kill is what we all revere.

Humanity’s pawn in this primal urge,
willing to give his or her breath for death,
which harvest is no doubt a loved one’s dirge,
are those who live to die in war game’s chess.

Surrender to humanity’s death wish
remains a soldier’s glorious Kaddish.