The Fire
The tinder sparks then spreads the flame
Until it’s glowing proud again.
Then one by one they gather round,
Bringing chairs and sitting down
To share a smoke by fire’s light,
Alive and well for one more night.
With quiet voices, carried low,
They share the stories that they all know
Of men – of friends – who’ve left behind
Just memories, to pass the time
‘Til word comes down, a mission’s up.
They douse the flame with half-full cups
And watch the embers die.