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During the early 40's, I was just a teenage child
I kept close track of Europe's news, and patriotism ran wild
My family like others lived with ration books and stamps
We saved them up 'til they became war bonds which helped out camps
We sang our songs of liberty and noticed with a chill
So many friends had left to fight on some forgotten hill
And when we finally won our peace, I felt that was the end -
That there would be no wars again, on whom could we depend?
Too soon there was Korea and then came Vietnam
We lost so many servicemen and watched evil men go down
Another mideast war is on it's way
With troops risking lives for our USA
God keep them safe and be their guide
Let them return to loving families who share their pride.
I'm seventy-three and I'd like to think that when this war is done
That peace will reign so that our kids have their wondrous day in the sun.
Anne

That time of year has come again
Of hurrying gals and rushing men
And people seem to feel once more
That life is full; worth living for
It's true that folks seem nicer when
They see the snowfall, hear a hymn
Watch kids faces light with glee
As Daddy trims the Christmas Tree.
And yet they're sober, thinking too
Of poor and helpless people who
Don't have the blessings that we share
With our beloveds; just a prayer
So whether this holiday's mine or yours
I share with you the joy that pours
From all good hearts this time of year
I wish you Merry Christmas and happy cheer.
Anne

So you wish to spark your imagination?
Just turn your thoughts to this generation
Of older people who wish to stay young
Of youngsters who continually seek songs yet unsung
Of love and of wars, both claimed and both sent
Of poor folks who cannot eat well or pay rent
Of Whites and of Yellows, of Blacks and of Reds
Who seem to be somehow just losing their heads?
For every step in which they seem to gain
They fall back three filled with anguish and pain
Our Country is young with so much for it going
The Years that we face can be vital and growing
Cast aside grievances and such pettiness
Life is too SHORT to create such a MESS
This land's a great one; it was from the beginning
We're always seeking new horizons and winning
The only message here is that Youth must make mistakes
But by the time we're older we should have what it takes
We reflect a giant shadow for our Youth to follow
Have faith, give love, and then their lives will never be hollow.
Anne