Diary of a Soldier

Today was like many others,

So many have died,

Supposed to be home long ago, but President Bush lied.

I find my strength within to go out and fight,

I’m sleep deprived, but can’t sleep at night.

Yesterday my brother was here, today he is not,

Can’t give up for I’m all my family’s got.

Rather be at home just being a kid again,

Taking it easy and chilling with friends.

But instead I’m here sacrificing my life for what I don’t know,

Took my orders, deployed to Iraq, I had to go.

Leaving everyone and everything I loved behind,

Flashbacks of that memory playing in my mind.

Now I’m told there will be more battles,

Sitting in my hummer feelings the windows rattle.

Not sure if I’ll make it to see tomorrow,

My heart sinks and fills with sorrow.

Looking at the man beside me,

Hoping again the next day he’ll be.

But until I once again see my family, I remain strong,

And continue to write in the diary of a soldier.

-Maliyah

October 31, 2004

9:41am