The Parade

A parade of poor souls

Smothering in deadly blankets of yellow gas 

Damaged lungs filling with fluid.

They drowned in atrocities. 

A parade of poor souls 

Rambling through the depths of hell 

Eyes blistered and bandaged. 

They were blinded by barbarity. 

A parade of poor souls 

Sacrificing their youth 

Hearts shaken by the eerie silence of no man's land. 

They loved and were loved. 

They still lie in Flanders fields. 

A parade of school children 

Delighting in their freedom 

Hearts buoyant with gratitude. 

They place poppies of appreciation. 

A parade of school children 

Marking the moment the larks take flight 

Eyes raised to the heavens. 

They are inspired by their lightness.

A parade of school children 

Reading the names of the bravest souls 

Sonorous voices fill the field.

They commemorate the sacrifices of the fallen. 

And lay poppies in Flanders fields.