3 Little Things

Respect.
One word. One governing action.

Behave.
One word. One action that is to be done.

Watch out for them.
A phrase. A string of actions.

“Son, behave for Mommy."
A Father’s voice cuts through the
haze of sadness and anger.

“Son, respect the one’s who wear the uniform. Your Pa is one.”
Another voice, a teacher’s this time,
cuts through the haze of depression
and the lashing out at all who wear the uniform.

“Watch out for them.”
A command from the last breath.
A voice cutting through the
a cloud of loss and anger.

“Son, behave for Mommy.
Boy, respect everyone you meet.
Watch out for them all.”
A Father’s final commands before he leaves,
to never walk amongst them again.