The Sacrifice They Made Poem by Maurice Harris

While you are in the midst of revelry,
Take pause, to pay tribute to the bravery
And honor possessed, by those, for whom this day is set aside;
Do this not out of coerced obligation, but out of pride,
In the knowledge that it is the sacrifice they made
That allows you to lay the plans you have laid-
For cookouts, pool parties, and gatherings with friends;
It is people like them today, whose courage defends
The liberties we have, which most take for granted.
Men and women of honor, who ensure we still reap the freedom He planted-
His gift for His children, where allegiance is assumed,
Where defense of same ensures its presence is never presumed.
I implore you, each and all, remember always the sacrifice they made,
So that we may live a life of freedom, ever-obliged, yet unafraid!