The Oath That Made a Man

Yeah. Eyes crusty, so dusty, dreams in the gutter.

No light ahead, just shadows that stutter. Phone buzz, my brother said,

Yo, no discussion. Army's the move, next thing up for construction.

Heart pounding, steps heavy, my fears in a trance. Walked to the

recruiter, this my one last chance. Swore it in, my shaky hand

made the plan. That was the moment boy became a man.

No medals yet, but I wear my scars proud. Whispers in my soul,

now I scream them out loud. Boots on the ground, left my youth