Poems By Bill Kaschub

The Dream Lives On

The politics of classes fill the stories in the news
No matter if we’re right or wrong, we still cling to our views
As for responsibility, there’s none but to ourselves
We’re victimized by this or that, our suffering we sell.
And should we choose immoral life, a servant to our lust,
The consequences fall on what’s created, not on us.

There’s much to be ashamed of, and so much that we should dread
But look again before you just give up and hang your head
For also in this land of ours are most amazing things
Like duty, pride and heritage, and the bounty that they bring
So don’t lose sight of Glory, what’s she’s seen and what she’s won,
Because dreams become reality, and the American dream lives on.

© Bill Kaschub, March 2006

She’s seen much war, much blood, many tears
And yet she still waves to allay all our fears.
She’s been torn and burned and been spat upon too
But her colors stay bright, that old red, white and blue.

And over the years there’s been many who’ve died
For the things that she stands for; for freedom and pride.
Some died in her service, and didn’t think twice
They lived lives of duty, they paid the great price.

There also have been those whose blood has been shed
Not due to their duty or oaths they had said
But simply because of the place of their birth.
By those who can’t understand what that is worth.

And yet through it all, through the grief and the pain
She’s waved tall and strong, though she’s tattered and stained.
So don’t be confused, there’s still reason to brag
For in good times or bad, she’s still a grand, grand old flag.

© Bill Kaschub, June 2005