Unjust Reward

Staggering into an emergency room

his Jacket frayed and torn

a tired old vet asks for help

but receiving only scorns 

"I'm sorry sir you'll have to wait

 please fill out all these forms"

A bleeding gash above his brow

as tears ran down his face

an injury occurred just moments ago

for being in the wrong place

"I'm sorry sir you'll have to wait

your forms are incomplete"

Seemed like hours were passing by

still standing on his feet

his face was losing color

and was growing very weak

"I'm sorry sir you'll have to wait

 please try and find a seat"

He came to rest upon the floor

curled up like a ball

minute hands were racing 

his name still hadn't been called

"I'm Sorry sir you'll have to move

please try and find a seat"

Not responding to her yell

a man beside him said

"because of your neglect and rudeness

this man laying here is dead"

"The old patches on his jacket

make him out to be

a hero who fought for freedom

and gave to make us free"

© Chuck Preston 1 ~ 2002