For Josh

He told them he was joining the army
to protect his Homeland.
How could they say no.
Times were peaceful.
They looked at him
in awe of his bravery
and did what any
good parents would do.
They professed their
love, admiration and support.
They sent him off
with his name sewn
onto the back of
his boxer shorts.
He left knowing
without a doubt
that his family
loves him,
that they are with him,
and they will miss him
horribly.
Then a war broke out.
Now he stands on enemy land.
The echo of his
family's love
remains impenetrable
and unwavering amidst
the shouts of war.
While his parents
wait desperately
to hear news of his safety,
yearning for their enemy to
"...love their children more than they hate us." (Golda Meir)

Sally