And I Wonder Why Comments

(cont.) During World War II, three types of exemption could be granted: (1) unconditional; (2) conditional on the undertaking of specified civil work; (3) exemption only from combatant duties.'

'In Great Britain a noncombatant corps was established during World War I, but many conscientious objectors refused to belong to it. (cont.)

(cont.) I volunteered for and was accepted for 'alternate civilian service' in lieu of military service. Then I worked (as a civilian) in a U.S. civilian hospital for two years 50+ miles distant from my parents' home (a requirement) . There I helped nurses to care for patients. bri : )

(cont.) Due to a satisfactory 'background' and letters of recommendation from some people who wrote letters vouching for my sincerity, I was given the desired classification, thus avoiding service in the military (cont.)

Koffi et al, In 1969 I was preparing to be accepted as a 'CO' by my 'draft board', the local group who would consider my quest to be classified by the military as a 'Conscientious Objector'***. (cont.)

Icont.) 4th (last) stanza: So on we worked, and waited for the light, And went without the meat, and cursed the bread; And Richard Cory, one calm summer night, Went home and put a bullet through his head.

(cont.) 3 -And he was rich—yes, richer than a king— And admirably schooled in every grace: In fine, we thought that he was everything To make us wish that we were in his place. (cont.)

2 -And he was always quietly arrayed, And he was always human when he talked; But still he fluttered pulses when he said, 'Good-morning, ' and he glittered when he walked.

1 - Whenever Richard Cory went down town, We people on the pavement looked at him: He was a gentleman from sole to crown, Clean favored, and imperially slim' (cont.)

RICHARD CORY POEM (in 4 stanzas) : (cont.)

1 -

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Languages: English, Spanish Hours: Available 24 hours

Call 988 for help. Do it (or not) . Maybe suicide IS best for SOME people, though it may harm those left 'behind'. : ) bri

I think 988 is a telephone number (like 911, in the US) for people to seek counseling etc. when they feel suicidal or maybe know one who is suicidal Thanks.

It is sad, because it is happening every day. Another Richard Cory has pressed the trigger again.

Do not let the darkest moment of your life extinguish the light of hope in you.

I had not heard of the poe Richard Cory. Now that I have gone through it, I understand your Poem better. Hope a day comes when there is no military and no more Richardvll

2) but, they succeed in fleecing the citizens by higher taxes, in the name of patriotism. The common man is befooled by them. I live for a day, when all the borders vanish and the Indian philosophy of "Vasudhaiva Kudumbakam" is promoted

I HOPE READERS TAKE YOUR ADVICE FROM YOUR Poet's Notes! ! !

OK, I've just read your poem again, and I'm wondering: 'Why didn't I give it FIVE STARS? ? ' I'll now send it to my FAVORITES, if I can, as I cannot change the # of stars I gave it.