Long Defeat

 

Long Defeat

(Sam Farrugia)

 

“It’ll be over by Christmas”, the soldiers used to say

But Dad, we never used to celebrate Christmas, did we?

Some wars don’t end, some battles can’t be won

All we can do is rise with the sun

And face the shadows, one more time

Muster what strength we have, fight another day

 

It’s OK Dad, I understand why you do what you do

Time made me hear everything you could never say

It’s a fearful thing, living under this cold sky

Every morning the sun opens its eye

It’s a long race when you’re running scared

We might finish last, but we’ve got to see this thing through

 

Don’t worry Dad, you won’t always have to fight

Someday soon you’ll say your last goodnight

Your eyes will be opened,

and pure light will banish all darkness from that eternal land

But before you go, reach out and touch my hand

And I’ll step in and box with the shadows here below

They’ll assume it’s you as they deliver each blow

Cheer me on from beyond the stars, I’ve got many miles to go.