In China today, it is Singles Day, which is kind of like Black Friday. While I think about something to buy, I want to also reflect on Veteran’s Day in the US.

Cold November winds blow
through stone laid row on row.

Trees beginning to white with frost
over the graves of men twice lost.
Once to war’s shrill blades
and again when memory fades.

I wear a poppy blood red
thinking of our home’s poor dead
and send up a thankful cry
for those who in far fields lie.

Last line is a little weak, but still works. Special thanks today to my brother John and my father, who came back. So many did not. A prayer goes out to their families.