Marion M. Burkett

I stand in the courtyard

of a school where children

line in individual classes

where small delicate hands

lay lovingly and patriotically

across their chest.

They stand as I do in awe

Of the magnificent flag

As it dances majestically in the breeze

They repeat as one voice,

"I Pledge Alliance"

These children say those words

In reverence as they learn

the true meaning behind those words.

They are afraid of the recent events

They all wonder but in silence

"How long will it take before

we are destroyed?

Will I live to be old?"

"I Pledge Alliance to the Flag

To the UNITED States of America"

They say loud and proud

"One Nation, Under God"

Their eyes sparkle, and speak louder

“Land of the free and home of the brave” I stand in the courtyard

of a school where children

line in individual classes

where small delicate hands

lay lovingly and patriotically

across their chest. I silently say a prayer

To our God

That our generation wants To disappear. "Heavenly Father

Allow these children, our

new generation to correct the wrongs,

bring back morality, kindness

and the ideals for which this country

was based."

Then as the Flag whips with a

Loud crack in the wind

as if to snap to attention.

I hear

"God Bless America!"

mmb © 6/29/02