Death Or Die Poem by Loretta Shively

Crying on a broken chair.
Dying without proper care.
Buying rags for underwear.
Lying just to get a share.
Sighing for the rations rare.
Trying hard to not despair.

Aching fingers soon to crack.
Breaking pain shoots through my back.
Making do inside this shack.
Waking to a future black.
Raking dirt to find a snack.
Taking shelter from attack.

Laying down beside my son.
Praying soon this war is won.
Saying "Lord, thy will be done."
Staying hidden on the run.
Paying for the sword and gun.
Playing make-believe for fun.

Hoping for a better day.
Coping only if I pray.
Groping for the words to say.
Scoping plans to get away.
Sloping cliffs down at the bay.
Roping lifelines, feel the spray.

Shrinking from the waters tossed.
Thinking of the roads we crossed.
Linking arms we feel the frost.
Blinking eyes will soon be glossed;
Sinking in the waters, lost...
Stinking war ain't worth the cost!