So I Could Be Free

I sit outside on my patio watching my children play in the yard.
They haven’t a care in the world and run with abandon.  
Someone's father died so I could be free.

I can believe whatever religion I choose.
I can also choose not to believe.
Someone's grandfather died so I could be free.

I wear shorts when it's hot and a bathing suit in the summer.
My daughter will never have to cover her face if she doesn't want to.
Someone's mother died so I could be free.

I changed my career three times
before quitting my job to stay home with my kids.
Someone's sister died so I could be free.

I never served in the military.
I never wore the uniform of my country.
Someone's brother died so I could be free.

Someone made the choice.
Someone donned the uniform.
Someone chose country over self.
Someone knew the risks and still served.
Someone fought with the intent of returning home.
Someone did not want to be martyred.
Someone wanted to march in the parade.
Someone hoped to escape the playing of Taps and the 21-gun salute.

We barbeque.
We march.
We wear red, white, and blue.
We enjoy the start of summer.
We love our three-day weekend.
We need to remember.
Someone died so we could be free.