I Am The Flag

I Am The Flag

by Linda Ellis, © 2003

I do not shine; I do not sparkle…
my colors — only three,
yet I hang silently above the children
who pledge their allegiance to me.

I’ve been trampled; I’ve been torn
through enemies’ fruitless endeavors,
for they may burn my threads to ashes
and I will still live on forever.

My shadow has fallen upon the battlefield
and guided the footsteps of the brave
and its silhouette waves gracefully
over many a hero’s grave.

I’ve been called the Stars and Stripes,
sometimes known as Old Glory
and I do not have to speak a word
to tell this country’s story.

I have solemnly flown at funerals
and I have felt the vibration
of the fighter jets above me
flying in missing man formation.

Patriots stand at attention
at the sight of my red, white and blue
and seasoned veterans shed a silent tear
when I am carried into view.

I have heard the most courageous
confess their prayers and their fears
at every battle of every war
for more than two-hundred years.

I’ve stood proudly in the view
of a wounded soldier’s stare,
as an image to remind him
of why he was lying there.

Only I can honor and remember
those who have passed
by offering collective respect
when I am raised at half-mast.

I’ve been draped over coffins,
I’ve been planted on the moon
I’ve been ripped apart in pieces
to wrap an injured soldier’s wound.

I represent freedom,
I represent pride
in me, the spirit of America
is proudly exemplified.

I am grand, yet I am humble;
I need not boast or brag
for I silently command respect
as a proud American flag.

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