This monument to souls long since dust
Of wars swept clean by rain and rust
A place of rest now for us, worn yet alive
The rosemary-tinged air no longer thick with memories of loss
A sole poppy, a stubborn red tear
A flush of green and white, steadfast mourners and a reminder of continued life
This cocoon, a quiet spot
The world is at peace, at least in this small nest.

 ----------

Photo of Ithaca War Memorial, where this was written (September 16 2015).